Eating vegan and vegetarian hasn’t always been easy, but in Lakeland, it’s a piece of (vegan) cake.
Our local food scene is as vibrant as ever, so it’s no surprise there are a slew of local chefs serving up fresh, vegetarian bites across town. From vegetarian barbecue to scrumptious vegan tacos, here are 17 vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Lakeland.
4 Rivers Smokehouse, 4729 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | Try the vegan burnt ends next time you get a cravin’ for barbecue.
Anthony’s Health Hut, 5329 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | Smoothies, soups, and sandwiches have been on the menu for 30+ years at this counter-service spot in south Lakeland.
Ato Poke, 640 E. Main St., Lakeland | Sushi burritos and bowls are the main attraction at this spot located in The Joinery in downtown Lakeland. Order the fried tofu for your protein and choose your fillings for a vegan lunch.

The vegan double chocolate muffin from Born & Bread Bakehouse is worth waiting in line.
Photo by @thelkldvegan
Born & Bread Bakehouse, 1113 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | Open only on Saturdays and Wednesdays, this Lakeland staple is known for having a line out the door — and for good reason. Stop by for vegan bakes like the double chocolate muffin.
Black & Brew Coffee House and Bistro, locations vary | This Lakeland staple offers vegetarian options like the Herbivore sandwich across its three locations.
Cafe Zuppina, 4417 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | This Mediterranean restaurant offers vegan eats like the vegan patties platter and vegetarian options like the veggie moussaka.
Cob & Pen, 1221 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | The menu here changes often, so ask your server about vegan and vegetarian options at this iconic Lakeland eatery.
Cult Legume, locations vary | Find this pop-up eatery around town for plant-based eats in biodegradable packaging.
Curry Mango, 6625 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | This Indian restaurant’s menu has specific sections for vegetarian and vegan entrees.
Fresh Kitchen, 4520 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | Build your own bowl at this Tampa-based eatery’s first Lakeland location — vegan-friendly options are labeled on the menu.
Good Thyme, 1037 Dixieland Mall Ln., Lakeland | This Dixieland spot marks its vegetarian (VG) and vegan (VE) eats right on the menu — we recommend the Stir Fry, a gluten-free, VG + VE menu item with rice noodles, veggies, and ginger.
The Juice Box, 4295 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | Bowls, smoothies, sandwiches, and of course, juice and juice shots are up for grabs — we recommend the vegan eggs and rice breakfast bowl for an early bite.
Mimi’s Italian Ice, 3120 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | All of Mimi’s Italian ice flavors are gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
Sabu, 640 E. Main St., Lakeland | Vegetarian menu items at this ramen spot located in The Joinery include veggie miso ramen and the cucumbers + miso snack plate.
SoFresh, 4756 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | Look for the vegetarian (Vg) and vegan (V) icons next to each menu item to plan your perfect order.
Sweet Cup Cafe, 1401 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland | This Mexican eatery owned and operated by two sisters offers vegan and vegetarian options.

The BBQ Tempeh Bowl includes tempeh ribs, coleslaw, potatoes, and a corn muffin.
Photo by @thelkldvegan
Vegetation Cafe & Kitchen, 1439 E. Gary Rd., Lakeland | Grab a seat or take your food to go from this 100% vegan cafe and meal-prep service — the menu rotates weekly, so check online to see what’s up for grabs at the counter.