For richer or pour over, Lakeland’s coffee shops are what keep us going in the morning. In fact, you can find a java joint in most neighborhoods in town.
Swan City has no shortage of masterful baristas, aromatic roasts, and foamy lattes. But if you’re having trouble deciding on a spot, gather some brews clues with our guide to some of the best coffee shops in Lakeland.
Pro tip: If you need to refine your order, review the different kinds of coffee before stepping up to the counter.
Specialty drinks
Hillcrest Coffee, 119 Hillcrest St. | Listen to live music while you sip your coffee at this locally owned shop nestled inside a 1925 bungalow. We recommend a seasonal latte — you can even order a pumpkin spice latte year-round.
Mitchell’s Coffee House, 235 N. Kentucky Ave. | Founded by the Harvey family in 1998, Mitchell’s is a Lakeland institution known for its sweets and ever-changing coffee menu.
Pressed, 213 E. Bay St. | We’re always im-pressed by the drinks at this combination bookstore + coffee shop. Head here for a flavorful coffee inspired by classic literature and new releases.
Best bites
Black & Brew Coffee House and Bistro, locations vary | This spot offers locally sourced coffee + fresh, seasonal food (we love the strawberry praline salad). Pro tip: You can order ahead for drive-thru pickup at the Southside location.
Divicious Deli & Coffee Shop, 128 E. Main St. | Great for those on the go, this New York-style coffee shop offers Lakeland friendliness over the counter. They boast new iced coffee flavors every week, like chocolate-covered Oreo, rose, and snickerdoodle.
Jona-Bells, 3135 Knights Station Rd. | This new cafe offers more than coffee. Order an açai bowl with your favorite ingredients, a fresh salad, or a bakery item.
Saigon Bistro, 1554 Town Center Dr. W. | If you haven’t tried iced Vietnamese coffee here, you’re missing out. This drink is served with sweetened condensed milk, making for a sweet and creamy delight after a meal.
Sweet Cup Cafe, 1401 Lakeland Hills Blvd. | This colorful cafe is open for a quick breakfast or lunch. We also love to sip a latte, cappuccino, or cafe con leche on the patio.
Vegetation Cafe, 1439 E. Gary Rd. | This 100% plant-based cafe is a great choice when you want to grab a delicious + nutritious baked good or made-to-order meal along with your coffee.
On-the-go joe
Andrew’s Coffee, 3601 S. Florida Ave. | Speed is the name of the game at this newly rebranded drive-thru shop formerly known as happyfastdelicious. All the coffees and seltzers are completely customizable, with unique flavors like cookie butter, yuzu, or huckleberry. Order online to have your drink ready to go as soon as you arrive.
Jude Coffee, locations vary | This couple-owned mobile coffee cart makes drinks on the go, so keep your eyes on their social media to find upcoming pop-ups. You can also book the cart for weddings, local events, and parties.
Morning Grind, 130 Lake Hollingsworth Dr. | Grab a pick-me-up before or after your walk around Lake Hollingsworth from this student-run coffee cart on Florida Southern’s campus, just outside of the Becker Business Building. Pro tip: The cart is only open during the school year, but absence makes the heart grow fonder, right?
Perfect for a date
Amonie Jo’s, 401 S. Florida Ave. | If you’re needing the perfect spot for meeting up with a pal, Amonie Jo’s has you covered. This colorful cafe combines good vibes + delicious coffee to create the ultimate spot for a chit-chat or study date.
Ax-Caliber, 204 E. Orange St., Ste. 102 | You probably know this spot for its ax-throwing lanes, but did you know it also serves up drinks from its coffee house? Get caffeinated with a coffee flight before challenging your date to an ax-throwing competition.
Kitty Cat Lounge, 946 E. Orange St. | Place your order before heading into the cat room to visit with adoptable kitties. Just here for the hangs? Take a seat in the cozy, midcentury-inspired space and play a board game together over your drinks.
Purrology Cafe, 5343 S. Florida Ave. | This cafe will have you feline the love. Take the pressure off of your first date by sipping coffee surrounded by cats. Pro tip: If you find one you connect with, they’re all available for adoption.
Patriot Coffee employees roasting a batch of beans.
Photo courtesy of @patriotcoffeeroasters
Roasts to boast
Concord Coffee, 1037 S. Florida Ave., Ste. 135 | Did you know you can take your hand-crafted coffee to go and watch Concord’s beans being roasted right across the way? Pick up a bag or get them delivered directly to your door with this subscription service.
Ethos Coffee Roasters, 132 Lake Beulah Dr. | If you’re looking for ethically sourced beans, look no further than Ethos. Bonus: Ethos does not have a roasted coffee inventory, meaning each bag is as fresh as possible. Find the Ethos booth at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market.
Patriot Coffee, 1117 S. Florida Ave., Ste. 105 | Find these beans brewed at establishments like Born and Bread Bakehouse or Black & Brew. If you’ve become your own favorite barista, you can order online from this veteran-owned coffee roaster.
Be the barista
Shop our favorite coffee essentials to turn your house into our city’s next great coffee destination.
- It all starts with the beans — for the best coffee (and tea), skip the big brands and shop this collection of coffee from local roasters. For a whole bean coffee, try Methodical Coffee’s Pink Lady, while these Loveland Coffee K-Cups are a great Keurig option.
- For a French Press that lasts, avoid breakable glass options and opt for stainless steel — this Secura French Press is highly rated and comes in multiple colors.
- Bloom pourovers like a pro with elegant gooseneck design of the COSORI Electric Gooseneck Kettle.
- These double walled glass espresso cups will set your home cafe apart.
- Hide coffee stains under espresso makers with this absorbent drying mat that sucks up coffee drops like magic.
- For the sleekest coffee accessories imaginable, shop the Fellow collection for coffee bean grinders, kettles, and carafes.
- Ready to go all in? The Breville Barista Espresso Machine is a best-selling espresso machine that makes coffee shop-worthy lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso at home.
