Find Mister Fish near the Lakeland Public Library on Lake Morton. | Photo by LALtoday
Lakeland might be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get a taste of coastal summer like our waterfront sister cities (we’re looking at you, TBAYtoday).
Swim over to these 27 places where you can find fresh seafood right here in Swan City, including a few that readers think are worth the short drive.
Casual dining
Country Chicken ‘n Fish
Nearly 2,000 Google reviews recommend this drive-thru and walk-up shack’s seafood, chicken + homemade pound cake.
Mister Fish
This carry-out Lakeland staple has been serving up its famous Mister Fish sandwiches since 1968.
Seafood connoisseur or not, there’s something on the menu for you at Maritime.
Photo by LALtoday
Dine-in
Bay Street Bistro
Order the escargot before enjoying a variety of seafood options, including fresh-caught wild salmon, Chilean sea bass, and sea scallops.
Fire Spot
Put a Korean spin on your seafood at this hot pot place — reference our guide if you’re new to the experience.
Maritime
Located in Bowen Yard, Chef Jason Boniface — who also leads the kitchen at Cob & Pen — has created a menu here inspired by classic coastal cuisine, specializing in cold-water oysters + fresh seafood.
Get your chopsticks ready because we’re on a roll.
New Moon Sushi
We ordered (and loved) the Orlando and Philly rolls, plus a teriyaki salmon box. If you want another suggestion, Instagram user @cashley1 recommends the Hana roll.
Sushi Masa Make sure to wear your stretchy pants — this south Lakeland spot offers all-you-can-eat sushi at both lunch and dinner.
Tsunami Sushi For a truly Lakeland experience, take a stroll in Munn Park after enjoying a fresh bite from owner Vinh Nguyen’s Japanese-style restaurant.
Homeschool Workshops | Times vary | Florida Children’s Museum | $18+ | Drop off homeschooled students ages 4-10 for an engaging learning experience about learning from mistakes.
Health Screening with BayCare | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Lakeland Public Library | Free | Receive a complimentary blood pressure screening from BayCare + take home educational materials.
Jukebox Bingo | 6:30 p.m. | Keel Farms, Plant City | Free+ | Gather your crew and listen out for the songs on your bingo card — prizes are on the line.
Tuesday, May 13
Small Business Expo | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Ax-Caliber | Free | Small biz owners can network with fellow entrepreneurs while receiving support + resources in all aspects of business ownership.
Lakeland Music Club | 10-11:30 a.m. | United Women’s Club of Lakeland | Free | This seasonal performance series closes out with the winners of the club’s high school scholarships.
Wednesday, May 14
From Pond Scum to Power | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Bonnet Springs Park Nature Center | Free | AECOM and the City of Lakeland will show off breakthrough technologies that can transform algae into renewable fuel.
Mom’s Night Out | 7 p.m. | Stage Room Lakeland | $5 | This one’s for the moms — join Zumba with Liv for a high-energy class, followed by a self-care station + raffles.
Thursday, May 15
Season 12 Cheer Team Evaluations | Thursday, May 15, Saturday, May 17, Monday, May 19 | Times vary | Lakeland Xpress Athletics | $20+ | Kids ages 4-18 can dance, jump, and fly into tryouts for this gym’s all-star + recreational competition cheerleading teams.
Friday, May 16
Call HER Gathering | 8:30 a.m. | Pressed Books & Coffee | Free+ | Connect with other women over coffee for a discussion on what it means to care for your soul in every stage of life.
Construction is set to begin today on phase one of the Western Trunk Gravity Sewer Line upgrade. If you’re traveling in southwest Lakeland’s Forrest Park + Lotus Avenue areas, expect to be redirected as crews install the new lines. A construction timeline is TBA.
Number
~9,000. That’s how many students will earn a diploma from PCPS high schools this spring. See the full schedule of upcoming ceremonies, plus ticket + livestream information. Pro tip: With most ceremonies being held at the RP Funding Center, plan your days accordingly with these suggestions. (LkldNow)
Edu
While we’ve got PCPS on the brain, nominations are open for its District Advisory Council. Members are charged with providing insight and feedback to PCPS leadership on the district’s strategic plan, serving as a key connection point between schools and the community. Apply before Sunday, June 1.
Ranked
No. 1. That’s where Florida ranks among US states with the most spoiled dogs, with owners more likely to engage in dog-friendly activities, order special treats for their pups, and spend extra money on health + wellness. And really, can we blame them? Lakeland is a pet’s paradise, after all. (Forbes)
Cause
A group of educators has banded together to create Southwest Station, a food pantry and clothes closet on the Southwest Middle School campus to help families in need. Donations are being accepted for both large and small-scale items, including a trailer, washers + dryers, shelf-stable food, and bus cards. (LkldNow)
Lakelander
Meet the Black Widow — but not the Avenger. Lakelander Jessica Borga earned the moniker after winning the women’s featherweight bare-knuckle boxing world championship with a 26-second knockout. Now, Borga uses her experience to help domestic violence victims through her nonprofit, The Widows Web. (WFTS)
Mansion Monday
Picture this: You start your day with a cup of coffee, overlooking your olive tree-lined driveway. You spend your afternoon swimming in your saltwater pool, then end the day hosting a dinner party in your outdoor kitchen. Sound like a dream? This southwest Lakeland estate could make it a reality.
Try This
Step inside our day at Southeastern University’s College of Natural & Health Sciences, and see how it could set you up for a future in the sciences. Apply now to get access to cutting-edge tech and education that goes beyond the classroom.*
Edu
Big changes are happening at Lakes Church Academy, and there are still spots available for the 2025-26 school year. Take a virtual tour of what’s coming + enroll.*
Coming Soon
Did this catch your eye? That’s because locals (like you) are excited about new happenings in the city. Spread the word about your business, services, big news, or event coming soon to Lakeland.
Drink
Maximize hydration and relaxation when you try Antivdote’s THC-infused electrolytes. They’re third party tested + come in three delicious flavors. Use code 6AMCITY20 for 20% off your order.†*
A cotton wrap dress that boasts an elegant halter neckline and chic wrapping at the waist. We love it for summer grill outs, casual afternoons by the beach, and warm weather weekend hangouts.
On Saturday, my husband and I toasted to six months of marriage with a special date night at Scarpa’s Italian, and did it ever live up to the hype. Whether you have a special occasion to celebrate or are looking to get out “just because,” our date night guide is always a great place to start.
Answered
Answered
Around how many people attend Mayfaire by-the-Lake each year?
Not every answer can be a masterpiece. The correct answer was 15,000, guessed by 33% of respondents.
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