Restaurants

Born & Bread made the shortlist for the Outstanding Bakery category, becoming the first in the Lakeland area to be recognized by the prestigious James Beard Awards.
With a Victorian vibe and shaved snow desserts, Vampire Penguin could become your newest downtown haunt.
We hear readers’ hopes for future Lakeland eateries all the time. Now, we’re compiling them all into a restaurant wishlist to see which foodie dreams come true.
Dining in Lakeland is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
What were the top things you ate, drank, and did in 2025? We’re sharing editor and reader picks for you to try in the new year.
Here’s a list of local restaurants open on Thanksgiving.
Whether you’re an annual customer or looking for the first time, check out these pies you can bring to Thanksgiving made fresh by local bakers.
Find a parking spot and walk to each of your favorite restaurants in the Shoppes at Lake Miriam Crossing plaza on South Florida Avenue.
Deciding where to eat is hard — these local food halls are making it easier with plenty of options all in the same place.
From coffee to baked goods to cocktails, there’s a pumpkin spice or fall-flavored treat for everyone in Lakeland to enjoy this fall.
Take a bite of Lakeland’s past at these restaurants that have stood the test of time.
More from LALtoday
Do you remember your first Lakeland concert? Did your favorite musician make a major impact? Share your concert memories with us for a chance to be featured.
What did Lakeland look like in 1926? We’re firing up the time machine for a 100-year trip to the past.
We’ve got the ultimate list of Lakeland events you don’t want to miss out on each year. Mark your calendar for these community celebrations.
Learn how artists Gillian Fazio and Katerina Santos plan to drench Lakeland in color through its first-ever mural festival, and how small businesses + muralists can get in on the artistic action.
Prep for the convention with events, guests, and exhibitions we wouldn’t miss.
From improving quality of life to wins for local businesses, find out how Lakeland measured up in last year’s rankings.
Avelo Airlines announced plans for two additional aircraft at its Lakeland International Airport base, as well as more flights on its schedule.
Create the city you want to live in by applying to serve in these volunteer roles.
Airbnb released its travel trends predictions for the year — here’s how you can take part, starting in Lakeland.
Has anyone seen Frosty? He was around here somewhere...