Cheap eats: Lakeland restaurants that won’t break the bank

When money’s tight, these eateries are easy on the wallet.

Screen Shot 2020-01-10 at 4.07.05 PM

Cuban Sandwich | Photo by @diviciousdeli

This list has been updated as of 5/26/20.

You don’t need a ton of cash to dine like royalty. Lakeland has plenty of restaurants that are famous for their incredible food + low prices. From breakfast power bowls and burger specials at mom-and-pop eateries to authentic international cuisine and fresh foods, you’ll find Swan City satisfying your appetite.

Check out these places to enjoy Lakeland on the cheap. ⬇️

Black & Brew, 205 E. Main St. + 100 Lake Morton Dr.

There’s bound to be no regrets when starting your day with a $4-$6 breakfast sandwich, quiche, bowl or pastry at this coffee house and bistro. As for lunch + dinner, soothe your soul with some soup or toast. #ProTip: Keep in mind that both locations have slightly different menus.

Cozy Oaks Restaurant, 1201 E. Orange St.

The place to go for breakfast, lunch, or brunch, and fill up on the Western Omelet with a side of hashbrowns without emptying your wallet. #ProTip: Students get a 10% discount with a valid student ID.

Divicious Deli and Coffee Shop, 128 E. Main St.

Word on the street: You can’t go wrong with their Cuban Sandwich. Trust us on this one.

Fat Jack’s, 2940 S. Florida Ave.

The cozy hole-in-the-wall scene where you want to be a regular. #TryThis: Reuben Sandwich (because we don’t care who you are – it’s never too early for sauerkraut).

Good Thyme, 1037 Dixieland Mall Ln

Rumor has it that the Fried Chicken Biscuit and Power Bowl are too good to resist.

La Michoacana, 1725 W. Memorial Blvd.

Tacos, tacos + tacos – for under $2 each. Need we say more? (Their tostadas are kind of insane. And also, we hear their quesadillas are stellar + filling.)

Mega Mercado, 2009 George Jenkins Blvd.

This one-stop shop is the place to grab a solid, authentic meal, buy your groceries, and satisfy your sweet tooth with traditional Mexican paletas (popsicles) or pastries.

Mister Fish, 715 E. Palmetto St.

This Lakeland classic has all things fish and seafood. #ProTip: Make sure to add on hush puppies.

Mitchell’s Coffee House, 235 N. Kentucky Ave.

Stay in the single digits with their breakfast burritos, croissants, salads, sandmitches, and more.

Palace Pizza, 114 S. Kentucky Ave.

If you’re looking to stick within a $5 budget, a slice of pizza with a fountain beverage will do the trick.

S & L Restaurant, 2915 S. Combee Rd.

Experience sandwich and burger specials the S & L way.

The Brunch Box, 735 E. Memorial Blvd.

If you’re lookin’ for good home cookin’ and bacon that just won’t quit, look no further. #TryThis: Two words – Brownie. Sundae.

More from LALtoday
We hear readers’ hopes for future Lakeland eateries all the time. Now, we’re compiling them all into a restaurant wishlist to see which foodie dreams come true.
From improving quality of life to wins for local businesses, find out how Lakeland measured up in last year’s rankings.
Avelo Airlines announced plans for two additional aircraft at its Lakeland International Airport base, as well as more flights on its schedule.
Create the city you want to live in by applying to serve in these volunteer roles.
Airbnb released its travel trends predictions for the year — here’s how you can take part, starting in Lakeland.
Has anyone seen Frosty? He was around here somewhere...
From lifting weights and personal training to dance fitness and spin classes — we’ve rounded up 25+ gyms and fitness offerings around Swan City.
We compiled all of the feedback from our Giving Campaign to learn what readers love most and want to see more of in our newsletters. Here’s a peek at what they said.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Here’s the deal — the thrift and vintage shopping scene is stellar in Swan City.