Hungry for something new? The Lakeland and Winter Haven area of Central Florida boasts a tantalizing culinary scene that is sure to satisfy your foodie soul. From laid-back lakeside dining spots to creative upscale eateries, our eclectic selection of independent restaurants, bars and breweries delivers big-city taste without the crowds.
You may also be interested in our Breweries and Coffee Shops, or Nightlife options.
Scarpa’s Italian is a family style restaurant serving unforgettable dishes made fresh daily and prepared to order. It's the #1 Italian restaurant in Lakeland, based on TripAdvisor reviews.
Phone: 863-937-8940
Address: 1831 E Edgewood Dr
Lakeland, FL 33803
Enjoy a sunset dinner when you dine at Harborside Restaurant in Winter Haven. Located on Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes, Harborside serves fresh seafood, steak, pasta and more.
Email: info@harborsidefl.com
Phone: 863-293-7070
Address: 2435 7th St SW
Winter Haven, FL 33880
As the #1 rated restaurant in Lakeland according to TripAdvisor, Cafe Zuppina is a local favorite. Enjoy a variety of Turkish and Mediterranean foods with fresh, organic ingredients. Vegan friendly.
Email: cafezuppina@live.com
Phone: 863-644-5144
Address: 4417 Florida Ave S
Lakeland, FL 33813
This old-Florida barbecue shack, once featured in Garden & Gun Magazine, has been family owned and operated since 1947. It is a local favorite and is open September – June.
Email: Essoc11@aol.com
Phone: 863-967-3085
Address: 441 Dixie Hwy
Auburndale, FL 33823
Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille in Downtown Lakeland offers a variety of authentic New Orleans inspired dishes, great appetizers and a daily happy hour from 2:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Phone: 863-686-2228
Address: 101 N Kentucky Ave
Lakeland, FL 33801
Bring your appetite when you visit Lakeside Village in Lakeland. Abuelo’s serves up large portions and original family Mexican recipes in a large, family-friendly atmosphere.
Phone: 863-686-7500
Address: 3700 Lakeside Village Blvd
Lakeland, FL 33803
Local favorite, Harry’s Old Place, is always a huge hit with visitors. Choose from an array of fresh seafood and steak dishes with Florida flare in this eclectic lakeside restaurant.
Phone: 863-324-0301
Address: 3751 Cypress Gardens Rd
Winter Haven, FL 33884
Small, locally owned bistro near Lake Morton and Polk Museum of Art offers seasonal craft food and cocktails, including small plates, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options, and unique desserts.
Phone: 863-937-9314
Address: 733 E Palmetto St
Lakeland, FL 33801
Small, local favorite serving fresh seafood, including fish, alligator, Apalachicola oysters, craw fish and frog legs. Early Bird menu available and daily specials are offered Monday – Thursday.
Phone: 863-956-5055
Address: 660 E Alfred St
Lake Alfred, FL 33850
Enjoy a friendly, eclectic Key West atmosphere when you dine at Crazy Fish in Lake Wales. Fresh, never frozen award-winning fare is available for lunch and dinner.
Phone: 863-676-6361
Address: 802 Henry St
Lake Wales, FL 33853
Streamsong Resort features six restaurants, including casual and fine dining experiences. The resort is 20-miles south of Lakeland and is home to three award-winning golf courses.
Phone: 888-294-6322
Address: Streamsong Dr
Bowling Green, FL 33834