City Editor Connor here. With weather this nice and the spring flowers blooming, there’s no better time of year for a picnic in Lakeland. But what’s a picnic without all the essentials (plus some treats)? That’s why I headed to Publix GreenWise Market — a specialty grocery store whose organic goods + house-made eats make it the perfect place to plan a spring picnic menu.
What we tried
First, I stopped by the POURS section to grab a made-to-order craft soda. With a grocery basket in one hand and my Black Raspberry Mojito Soda in the other, I was off in search of the perfect picnic bites.
I met with the store’s wine expert, Joanna, who helped me pick out the essentials, like fresh-cut fruit and bottled tea, but who also suggested some unique finds that took my picnic to the next level.
What not to miss
No matter your picnic menu, the EATS section has everything you need (think: freshly-made sushi, pizza, salad, and Lakeland’s beloved “Pub Subs”). I grabbed some desserts and a charcuterie box to share. In FINDS, Joanna suggested a delicious and affordable bottle of wine.
What we’re still talking about
The employees offer excellent service, even remembering customers by name. Everyone was friendly and recommended the best products for me. They even sent me on my way with paper goods for my picnic at (where else?) Bonnet Springs Park. It was a dreamy afternoon for a picnic — and let’s just say we were the talk of the park when we pulled out our basket.
How you can experience this
Check the forecast for a sunny day and then stop by Publix GreenWise Market for your picnic essentials, bites to go, and other grocery items. Need help? Ask the team for recommendations to kick your picnics up a notch this spring.
Things to know if you go
- Experience: Shopping at Publix GreenWise Market
- Website: greenwisemarket.com
- Address: 4747 S. Florida Ave.
- Hours: Sunday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
- Social: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube *
