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.
Cheers from Hillcrest Coffee, one of Swan City’s coziest coffee shops. | Photo by LALtoday
Photo by LALtoday
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.
You can accompany your coffee with some fresh food + pastries at Black & Brew.
Photo by LALtoday
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.
When you need a quicker than quick pick-me-up, Andrew’s Coffee has you covered.
Photo by LALtoday
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?
This coffee spot features a colorful interior that perfectly matches its flavorful menu.
Photo by LALtoday
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.