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.
Every good day starts with coffee.
Photo by @lakelandbites
Best bites
Black & Brew Coffee House and Bistro, various locations | We’ll rave about this coffee shop until we’re brew in the face. Enjoy its locally sourced coffee + fresh 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.
On-the-go joe
happyfastdelicious, 3601 S. Florida Ave. | As the name suggests, speed is the name of the game at this drive-thru shop. 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, various locations | 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.
Perfect for a 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.
Cafe Zuppina, 4417 S. Florida Ave. | Let the conversation linger as you enjoy Turkish coffee, a traditional brew made with imported coffee and cardamom. It pairs perfectly with The Market’s bakery items — we recommend the baklava.
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.
Unfiltered Lakeland, 801 E. Main St. | Sit together in the eclectic ambiance of this coffee shop or find a seat under the string lights on the patio — the cafe stays open late in case you don’t want the night to end.
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.
