For food that hits the spot and views that take your breath away, head to Sora at LAL. | Photo by LALtoday
No matter your tastes, you’re sure to find a new restaurant in Lakeland that speaks to you. More than 30 opened this year alone, with these bringing the most buzz to Lakeland’s foodie scene.
Restaurant requests
When readers shared local dining requests in the past, we noticed a few common threads: fine dining, a new airport restaurant, and, very specifically, Chicken Salad Chick.
All three wishes came true this year. Hakucho brought an upscale Japanese pub atmosphere downtown, Sora Eatery is serving quick bites + runway views at LAL, and Chicken Salad Chick finally opened in Lakeland — readers rejoice.
Staying caffeinated
Feeling jittery? Coffee openings bookended 2025. Market on Kentucky opened with an iced coffee bar in January, and a new mobile cafe called Pressed25 just opened in Dixieland this month.
Inside scoop
Ice cream parlors had a moment this year. Bright Ice in particular made waves, namely for its prime date night location next to two other new spots: By the Chef Pizza + The Wine Garden.
Last chance: What’s the best thing you tried this year?
Reader Chris G. said, “Exploring Bonnet Springs Park with my young grandchildren.” What about you? It’s the final day to share your favorite things you ate, drank, and did this year for a chance to be featured in LALtoday.
The School of Music at SEU aims to provide students with a classical, contemporary, and comprehensive education through experiential learning. | Photos by LALtoday
We recently attended SEU’s annual Christmas Concert, showcasing favorite holiday tunes and a year of hard work by students + faculty. You can see what you missed on our Instagram, but don’t worry: there’s more where that came from.
In Monday’s meeting, city commissioners rejected a proposal that would raise stormwater fees for both residents + businesses to cover $69 million in water projects. The proposal will be reworked with more stakeholder feedback before coming before the commission again. (WTSP)
Development
Commissioners also voted to terminate an agreement with Onicx Group to build a mixed-use development downtown on Oak Street. The project would have included apartments, retail space, and public parking, but Onicx had not met deadlines since the deal was approved in 2022. (LkldNow)
Number
$54 million. That’s how much GiveWell Community Foundation granted to 600 nonprofits in its 2024-2025 fiscal year. Check out its latest annual report to follow the money to organizations making a difference, like Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine + Peace River Center.
Sports
Swan City, meet Swansea City AFC — an English Football League team based in Wales. This Friday, Dec. 19, Swan Brewing will host a free watch party of the team’s match against Ryan Reynolds-owned Wrexham AFC. Join the pre-party at 1:30 p.m. before kickoff at 3 p.m.
Award
Catapult’s Lakeland Entrepreneur Awards are coming up in January, and nominations for the People’s Choice Award are now open. Submit a well-deserving entrepreneur who’s making an impact on Lakeland by Sunday, Dec. 21.
Answered
What’s the current average home value in Lakeland? According to Zillow, it’s hovering around $310,000 — this downtown condo comes in just above that price tag.
Health
Going to the emergency room can be a little scary, especially for kids. Lakeland Regional Health has Polk County’s only dedicated Children’s Emergency Department. The Children’s Emergency Department provides the same expert care as its nationally ranked ER, but with a focus on keeping kids comfortable and safe. Learn more.*
Did you know? Break-ins happen every 30 seconds, on average. Homes with security systems are three times less likely to be targeted. Protect your home, business, and peace of mind — before something goes wrong.*
Number
540,000+. That’s how many people trust this life-changing hearing aid. Its virtually invisible design delivers sharper speech and reduced noise for effortless hearing. Try it yourself with a 45-day no-risk trial and experience clearer conversations today.*
When it comes to local data, Lakeland is all over the map. | Screenshot via Google Maps
Calling all cartographers. Did you know the City of Lakeland won a Special Achievement in GIS Award in 2020 for its work to connect with citizens through geographic information system technology? Find your way around town with maps like these.
Parks Finder
Lakeland is home to 70+ unique recreation areas. Find one near you with this map that includes the days, hours, and closure details of each park.
Public Wifi Locations
Did you know that the city offers 30+ free Wifi spots all around town? Find one indoors or outdoors and connect to the “SurfLakeland” network.
Our favorite way to stay warm in the winter? With a little added heat. We love this heated vest that provides up to 12 hours of continuous heat with a battery that doubles as a power bank. We pair it with these top-rated rechargeable hand warmers on extra chilly days.
Do you have a favorite local burger spot? The owner of Mariyah’s Smash Burgers is on a 30-day mission to become Lakeland’s go-to. Follow along on social media to see the ins + outs of running the food truck, and find it in person at 306 W. Memorial Blvd. I also need to try the lemonade that followers rave about in the comments.
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