Lakeland’s fresh food markets

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Photo by Tina Sargeant

This list has been updated as of 5/27/20.

Every self-declared “foodie” has traveled to the epic land of Epcot for their International Food and Wine Festival, making their way around the world sampling the best, most authentic foods. But did you know that we have several international and ethnic grocery stores right here in Lakeland? From Asian to Latin flavors, the Lakeland community es muy rico! Check out some of our favorites.

Cafe Zuppina Market | 📍4417 S. Florida Ave. | This restaurant serves up fresh Turkish and Mediterranean eats, and its market offers coffee, Italian gelato, and an assortment of international goods.

Anthony’s Health Hut | 📍5329 S. Florida Ave. | A health store in Lakeland for 38 years, they offer a tasty chicken salad sandwich, made with Vegenaise on Ezekiel bread, accompanied by a carrot juice or frozen yogurt.

Mega Mercado | 📍2009 George Jenkins Blvd. | This magical one-stop shop is the place to grab a solid, authentic meal (at their restaurant next door), grab your groceries, and satisfy your sweet tooth with one of their traditional Mexican paletas (popsicles) or pastries.

Garden Bistro | 📍702 E. Orange St. | For homemade soups and sandwiches to-go, fresh cakes and pies, this is a great stop for a quick takeout lunch. Come fall, the carrot ginger soup pretty much trumps pumpkin-anything.

Oponay Farms | 📍5129 Hancock Lake Rd. | This family-owned farm offers a variety of fruits and vegetables for visitors to shop for. If you’re looking for an activity, visitors can pick blueberries and peaches.

Gigi’s Oriental Market | 📍1751 E. Edgewood Dr. | All kimchi aficionados, welcome to your mecca. Find a variety of kimchi to top off your rice bowls, or to accompany your breakfast of avocado + scrambled eggs (an odd favorite of mine).

La Michoacana | 📍1725 W. Memorial Blvd. | Tacos, tacos + tacos. Need I say more? (Their tostadas are kind of insane. And also, I hear their quesadillas are stellar + filling.)

Jerusalem Mediterranean Market | 📍2068 E. Edgewood Dr. | Whether you’re on the hunt for fresh pita bread, baklava or tabbouleh, this shop has you covered.

Lakeland Seafood Market | 📍320 W. Memorial Blvd. | We’re thinking fish tacos for dinner tonight. You in?

There are few things quite as comforting after a long day’s work than knowing there’s a hearty, homemade meal waiting for you. Particularly when you don’t have to cook or clean.

Let us know your go-to spots for homemade takeout.

- Kristin

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