The Lakelander - Issue 92

PALACE PIZZA | GREATER LAKELAND RESTAURANT GUIDE | GAMEDAY SPREAD

CLASS IS NOW IN SESSION

When it comes to comfortable furniture or bedroom sets for those late night study sessions, we are your homework headquarters. Let us help you create study-friendly spaces that promote productivity and keep your students focused on work. And by the way - we also carry laptops and tablets. Take a look at what “&more” has to offer!

521 Hughes Rd. (863) 967-6602

a a

Auburndale 521 Hughes Rd. (863) 967-6602

Bartow 1350 N. Broadway (US 98) (863) 533-1611

a a

a a

Eagle Lake 1515 Hwy. 17 N. (863) 294-7749

Bartow 1350 N. Broadway (US 98) (863) 533-1611

a a

a a

Eagle Lake

1515 Hwy. 17 N. (863) 294-7749

Frostproof 500 N. Scenic Hwy. (863) 635-2645

a a

a a

Frostproof 500 N. Scenic Hwy. (863) 635-2645

Ft. Meade 1401 Hwy. 17 N. (863) 285-9757

a a

a a Ft. Meade 1401 Hwy. 17 N. (863) 285-9757

a a

Haines City 35495 Hwy. 27 (863) 422-3144

a a

Haines City 35495 Hwy. 27 (863) 422-3144

a a

Lakeland - Christina 6100 S. Florida Ave. (863) 646-2921

a a

Lakeland - Christina 6100 S. Florida Ave. (863) 646-2921

a a

Lakeland - Combee 1225 N. Combee Rd. (863) 665-3111

a a

Lakeland - Combee 1225 N. Combee Rd. (863) 665-3111

a a

Lakeland - Lake Gibson 6625 US 98 North (863) 858-3866

a a

Lakeland - Lake Gibson 6625 US 98 North (863) 858-3866

a a

Lakeland - North 1409 N. Florida Ave. (863) 682-8107

a a

Lakeland - North 1409 N. Florida Ave. (863) 682-8107

a a

Lake Wales 126 Hwy. 60 W. (863) 676-6515

a a

Lake Wales 126 Hwy. 60 W. (863) 676-6515

a a

Winter Haven North 1399 6th St. NW (863) 251-2039

Winter Haven North 1399 6th St. NW (863) 251-2039

badcock.com/electronics

badcock.com/electronics

30

Authentically Italian, Certifiably Lakeland

The Moriello family dishes on what has led to its success as one of downtown’s most successful establishments for more than two decades

42

Good Pairings for Great Times

Relax, because Cigar Life has you covered with aromatic and flavorful matches of cigars and beer to provide the perfect backdrop for great conversations and fun times.

Gameday Party that Never Ends

There’s no party quite like the one that has been happening in the Beacon Hill neighborhood for almost 15 years. Be inspired by the food and camaraderie, and use the recipes to up your gameday spreads.

Restaurant Directory of Greater Lakeland

So. Much. Mouthwatering. Food. Find local favorites, as well as upand-coming spots to satisfy cravings and make memories.

14 MASTHEAD

16 EDITOR’S NOTE

18 THE BUZZ

20 CONTRIBUTORS

22 METRO

30 AUTHENTICALLY ITALIAN, CERTIFIABLY LAKELAND

42 GOOD PAIRINGS FOR GREAT TIMES

52 GAMEDAY PARTY THAT NEVER ENDS

64 RESTAURANT DIRECTORY OF GREATER LAKELAND

98 HISTORY

PUBLISHER

Curt Patterson

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER OPERATIONS

Jason Jacobs

EDITOR, CONTENT STRATEGIST

RJ Walters

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jonathan Sierra

VP, FINANCE

Deb Patterson

GENERAL COUNSEL

Ted W. Weeks IV

ADVERTISING

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Curt Patterson | 863.409.2449

ADVERTISING SALES

Isaac Vargas | 407.619.3508

Jason Jacobs | 863.606.8785

EDITORIAL

DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCER

Jordan Randall

CONTRIBUTORS

Adam Spafford

Jenna MacFarlane

Kayanni Walters

CREATIVE

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Briana Chenot

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jordan Randall

Jonathan Sierra

Dan Austin

Madisen Elizabeth

CIRCULATION

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Jason Jacobs

DISTRIBUTION

David Heideman

THE TASTES OF HOME

corn nuggets at Reececliff and Coca Cola cake at Mitchell’s Coffee House.

It offers fun new(er) options such as Food+Beer, Oksumi Ramen, Ax-Caliber, LoveBird, and Biscuits and Benedicts.

And you don’t have to leave town for an elevated dining experience; just head to places like Nineteen61, WACO Kitchen, Bay Street Bistro or Frescos.

a world where you’re accustomed to trying to get a ketchup stain out of your shorts before you walk back into the office or clicking through your phone to find the cheapest deal the quickest, there’s so much more to explore—and appreciate—right here in Lakeland.

We sifted through hundreds of restaurants and food spots (gas stations, anyone?) and had the pleasure of connecting with dozens of them in the process of creating this issue.

Collectively we realized that sometimes the underdog and overcomer stories of local restaurant owners are as rich as the food, we became fans of newer establishments that are creating wonderful customer experiences, and we learned there should probably be a limit on how much boba tea one consumes in a week.

Lakeland provides nostalgia that beckons back to our small-town feel: garlic knots at Palace Pizza downtown,

Our palates and our budgets for eating out are all different, but one truth remains—good food served by dedicated locals makes for great memories.

We witnessed firsthand the compassion and commitment of so many owners and managers who are like extended family to staff, and it reminded us that food is about more than economics and nutrition.

We heard about community initiatives local restaurants were spearheading or assisting with, and enjoyed the huge grins that come over restaurant staff when one of the “regulars” comes through the door.

And we experienced the passion, sometimes bordering on perfectionism, that is instilled in people who have journeyed from idea to innovation to business to lifelong pursuit. It’s a grind, it’s often a rollercoaster financially, and many restaurateurs discourage their family from following in their footsteps.

But there’s something special that still takes place at times when we put our phones in our pockets, order food made with love and plenty of flavor, and appreciate what Lakeland serves up.

RJ Walters EDITOR

THE BUZZ

COMMENTS FROM LAKELANDERS

I am honored to be featured alongside Polk County's higher education leaders in The Lakelander's education issue – #WeArePolk

FB | Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti

For exceptional Chiropractic Care after a vehicle accident, contact Dr. Abraham and the professional team at New Hope Chiropractic in the Lake Miriam Publix Plaza.

DON’T IGNORE YOUR INJURIES.

We would love to evaluate and treat you!

CONTRIBUTORS

ADAM SPAFFORD

Adam came to Lakeland in 1999 to attend Florida Southern College and, except for a 20-month graduate school stint in Massachusetts, has been here since.

When he’s not writing page-turners for The Lakelander, he trades stock and index options.

MADI ELIZABETH

Madi Elizabeth is a California-born photographer who now resides in Lakeland. Known for her ability to capture fleeting moments with authenticity, Madi's work showcases a diverse range of subjects and settings, from landscapes to intimate portraits.

With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she invites viewers to experience the emotions and beauty of each captured scene. Madi's talent has gained recognition through features and publications in People Magazine, The Lakelander, Voyage Tampa, etc, solidifying her place as a sought-after artist in the field of photography.

JENNA MACFARLANE

Hailing from Sarasota, Jenna Macfarlane is a Southeastern University graduate who fell in love with Lakeland when she arrived. Jenna earned a degree in communications and is passionate about her craft; she believes the highest form of art is hope and seeks to communicate it in every piece she writes.

@jenna_macfarlane

FIND YOUR PURPOSE. BUILD YOUR FUTURE.

Dive in to the waters of Tampa Bay and research stone crabs. Learn to trade through our student-run investment fund. Intern on Capitol Hill.

Hands-on, real-world experiences ensure you graduate with the knowhow employers and graduate schools demand.

BEST REGIONAL UNIVERSITIES

- U.S. News & World Report

BEST UNDERGRADUATE BUSINESS SCHOOLS

- Poets&Quants for Undergrads

BEST CAREER SERVICES IN THE NATION

- The Princeton Review

TOP FULBRIGHT PRODUCER

- U.S. Department of State

#1 IN EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION

- National Society of Experiential

- Education

“A PERSONALIZED EDUCATION CATERED TO STUDENTS’ INTERESTS”

- Colleges of Distinction

98% POSITIVE OUTCOMES AFTER GRADUATION

- FSC Career Services Annual Report

Tea Largo

MONDAY – SATURDAY 7AM-8PM

SUNDAY 9AM-8PM

PREORDER AT TEALARGO.MYSHOPIFY.COM

After 15 years in business, Tea Largo owner Kristin Miller has one goal: keep encouraging people to try new things.

If you’ve visited Tea Largo, you know it by its eclectic Floridian decor; colorful murals and mosaics cover every inch of the space. “I’m not exactly a ‘less is more’ type of person,” Kristin laughs. “I don’t do ‘simple’ well.” Its menu is no different. Think layered superfood bowls, vegan baked goods, 50+ varieties of loose leaf tea, and more.

Tea Largo was born after Kristin discovered loose leaf tea in 2007 and was struck by how flavorful tea can be. She started experimenting with new brews at home, and opened her shop with the hope of helping Lakelanders infuse their days with more joy and novelty.

Among her tea concoctions, she also started making homemade boba—and it’s been on the Tea Largo menu ever since. It’s a customer favorite.

Tea Largo’s your place to go if you’re looking for a customizable experience. With more than 21 different drink inclusions, mix-ins, toppings, bubbles and swirls, everything on the menu is made to order.

KRISTIN'S RECOMMENDATION: Taro Bubble Tea

It’s purple and it tastes like a vanilla cupcake. Can you think of anything better?

Along with its regular menu staples, Tea Largo gets creative with its seasonal drinks—like this fall’s iced apple butter cider. Also new to the menu is protein boba, a rich and satiating alternative that packs a nutritional punch.

4632 CLEVELAND HEIGHTS BLVD

WRITTEN BY RJ WALTERS DESIGNED BY BRIANA CHENOT

akelanders can now live in detached homes with apartmentstyle amenities without sharing walls with neighbors and without having to put down a hefty down payment, all within walking distance to restaurants, retail stores and a movie theater.

Grasslands West—located to the southwest of Grasslands off Harden Blvd., but not formally affiliated with the prominent neighborhood—is the innovation of three locals who strongly believe the community appeals to both millennials and empty-nesters alike.

Locals Rob Harper, Dan Green and Michael Myers have

partnered to develop 88 single family homes that have modern floor plans, screened in porches and a garage, along with a community pool, and views of a golf course and water.

“This type of community has become more and more popular around the country, and we’re the first one here in Lakeland,” Dan Green said. “You have millennials who really saw their parents lose their houses [and] you’ve seen their lifestyles change where they’re OK not owning…and having the

flexibility to leave. And then you’ve got the Baby Boomers who are saying, I'd rather downsize…I want to be traveling and all I wanna do is lock it and somebody take care of that.”

Harper said it’s also a great option for families moving from out-of-town who want to be centrally located and have a chance to get to know their surroundings before potentially buying a home.

There are three floor plans to choose from:

• The three bedroom, two bath Pebble Beach that is 1,560 square feet that runs around $2,700 per month

• The three bedroom, two bath St. Andrews, which covers 1,837 square feet and includes a study, and costs approximately $2,900 per month

• The two-story four bedroom, three bath Pinehurst, which consists of 2,414 square feet and includes an upstairs retreat, which rents for approximately $3,300 per month

Their floor plans were inspired by a national market study and conversations with many local builders, and they strike a balance between open concept and defined spaces.

They chose to call the community Grasslands West because people are well acquainted with the “Grasslands area of Lakeland” and because they built the homes with exterior aesthetics

that fit the beautiful golf course community that it is next to.

Grasslands West members are not part of the Grassland Golf and Country Club, but can apply for membership at the club the same as any other locals.

Grasslands is especially near and dear to Myers, not only because he owns a home in the community, but he also was a building superintendent of the construction of that neighborhood, dating back to the late 1980s.

Green is the Principal of Wheelock Communities, a company that has built a portfolio that encompasses more than 24,000 residential lots around the U.S.

Harper is owner of Land South, a property development, management and realty company, that has played a pivotal role in the growth of Polk County.

All 88 homes are expected to be complete in the next 12-18 months, but more than 30 homes are already being lived in or available for rent.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT GRASSLANDSWEST.COM OR EMAIL

LSM@LANDSOUTHGROUP.COM

"THIS TYPE OF COMMUNITY HAS BECOME MORE AND MORE POPULAR AROUND THE COUNTRY, AND WE’RE THE FIRST ONE HERE IN LAKELAND."

‘ve made only one change in 25 years,” Gio Moriello says about the signature food that has made his family’s Palace Pizza a mainstay of downtown Lakeland. Two and half decades is remarkable longevity for any business, to say nothing of the notoriously onerous restaurant industry. The secret sauce, it seems, is Palace’s unwavering pursuit of consistent, delicious excellence. Perhaps running counter to much business advice to be nimble and quickly adjust to cultural shifts, Moriello says succinctly, “I don’t change what works.”

It was the mozzarella—the change he made 14 years ago. A new cheese vendor had contacted Palace but Gio was, understandably, reluctant to change what had been working well for more than

a decade. At the urging of his father to give it a try, the vendor set up a blind taste test between Palace’s current product and the upstart competitor. The rest is Lakeland cuisine history–and the delectable cheese on Palace Pizza is now a flavor many locals can taste with their eyes closed.

This story illustrates the family foundation of the restaurant. Gio’s mother and father, having operated a restaurant overlooking the ocean in Italy, moved the family—including Gio’s brother and sister—to the US when he was 17.

“My hometown in Italy is very small, maybe 22,000 people in peak season and 15-17,000 in the winter,” he says about Monte di Procida, which is located about 15 miles west of Naples. “For work there are two choices: the shipping industry or the restaurant business. And if you move away the assumption is that you’ll work in the restaurant business in your new home.”

WRITTEN BY ADAM SPAFFORD PHOTOS BY JORDAN RANDALL

Begin

The Moriello family took a risk on Lakeland when the area wasn’t exactly thriving.

By the late 90s, the family owned and operated a restaurant in Kissimmee when the Palace Pizza location came up for sale. The family seized the opportunity, came to Lakeland and began to make the food that so many Lakelanders have enjoyed for so long. Although his mother and father have stepped back somewhat, Gio’s siblings and brother-in-law, along with nearly 20 employees on a busy night, continue to serve the famed pies, along with a host of other authentic Italian options.

Although Gio doesn’t mention it, those who remember downtown in the late 90s will know that the Moriello family took a risk on Lakeland when the area wasn’t exactly thriving. In fact, entrepreneurs like the Moriello’s and the late Gerry McHugh, can be credited in part for building the foundation of today’s vibrant city center. At the time, however, Gio says, “There were only a handful of restaurants that depended almost totally on the lunch crowd from Publix and FedEx employees. Everything effectively shut down after 5 p.m. After a few years, other Lakelanders started to find us through events like the Christmas Parade. Word-of-mouth spread and helped us grow. When investments that brought the nighttime crowd to downtown increased, we began to serve even more customers.”

It’s those customers that the 42-year-old owner credits for helping Palace survive the COVID response when so many businesses didn’t. “We had the support of the incredible Lakeland community to see us through. Social media helped us make a quick transition to takeaway service and we were able to maintain all our employees at full potential.”

Moriello doesn’t view Palace’s superb customer service as a challenge because “Italian customers are ten times harder to please!”

“I recently visited a cousin’s restaurant back home and thought, ‘I’m glad my customers aren’t as demanding!’”

“I just had to replace an oven—and the replacement was made in the 1970s.”

But like any endeavor, other challenges are ongoing. The nature of a family-owned venture means everyone must agree with business decisions. Then, there are the long hours. “I have to be the captain to ensure consistently good food,” Moriello explains, “so that means being present all the time: weekends, holidays–any time people might go out to eat. When you live the restaurant life, it’s the opposite of regular life; you live differently than 90 percent of the people you know.”

The father of three loves having his kids at the restaurant but acknowledges he’s not pushing them into or strongly recommending the life of a restaurateur.

Of course as a restaurant owner, it helps to have great employees. Gio has nothing but praise for his team and specifically the man–Walter–who makes the circular foundation of Palace’s signature dish. “Walter is a pizza making machine–400, 500 on a busy weekend! He’s been here 15 years and there’s no one who can make them as fast as he can. He’s a big part of the restaurant and a blessing to have at Palace. He’d rather redo something than send out an inferior product. He’s an old-school guy with an old-school work ethic making pizzas the old-school way.”

If he had advice for his younger self, Gio says he’d try to anticipate how improving restaurant technology could help serve customers better. But Palace doesn’t have the space for more modern equipment and–more importantly–this successful old-school way is impossible to replicate. “Our New York-style pizza requires an oven with a special stone that keeps the temperature consistent. These stones can’t be found anymore and the new ovens aren’t consistent enough. I just had to replace an oven—and the replacement was made in the 1970s.”

After all, don’t change what works.

“Walter’s an old-school guy with an old-school work ethic making old-school pizzas.”

“I have to be the captain to ensure consistently good food.”

Cigars and Brews at Cigar Life

WRITTEN BY RJ WALTERS PHOTOS BY JON SIERRA DESIGNED BY BRIANA CHENOT

fter more than four decades in the grocery business, a friend lit the flame of a new passion for Mario and Patty Medina, and that flame ignited into a passion that was the catalyst for the couple opening Cigar Life in South Lakeland in 2017.

They joke they traded in the keys to their Corvettes for the keys to the lounge, but their dedication to cultivating an exquisite experience where locals can connect, kick back and enjoy some of the world’s finest flavors and aromas proves there is no second guessing that decision.

Cigar Life is a Diamond Crown Lounge, meaning they are part of a network of J.C. Newman Cigar Company approved lounges that carry the exclusive and limited edition Diamond Crown Julius Caesar 1895 cigar.

The lounge also offers up an impressive variety of craft beers and fine wines that pair delightfully with the large selection of cigars.

They host a weekly poker night, and Cigar Life is actively involved in and supports a number of community endeavors.

“My favorite thing about owning Cigar Life is the customers, the camaraderie—and that’s not a tagline, I mean that sincerely,” Mario says. “We’ve developed relationships here that transcend relationships we’ve had for years and years.”

As a way of inviting Lakelanders in for a time of relaxation and connecting with each other, the Medina’s shared with us a few of their most recommended pairings for having a good time and making great friends.

CLAssIC with Zundert Trappist #4

The Diamond Crown Classic features a five-year-old Connecticut Fermented Wrapper and has full aromas of cedar with a fair share of citrus freshness in this luxurious smooth cigar. Floral aromas and a little white pepper are particularly well suited in the silky transparent texture of smoke.

This pairs perfectly with a European tripel ale brewed by monks within the walls of Zundert Trappist Monastery. This beer has an aroma of caramel, herbs and spices—initially floral and slightly sweet— and its character develops from light caramel to a lovely, dry, mellow hoppy bitterness as the flavor opens.

DIAMOND CROWN

JULIUS CAESAR ROBUSTO

with Hop Life Nuthouse Coffee Porter

This pairing is for java lovers. The Julius Caesar Robusto’s rich, bold and distinctive flavor comes from the especially flavorful Ecuadorian Havana-seed wrappers combined with a blend of fine Dominican binder and select Dominican and Central American filler tobaccos, carefully aged for five years. Lots of rich, coffee-laden smoke layers the palate with each puff. The bold coffee is balanced by sweet and spicy woody flavors and a savory finish.

Hop Life Brewing Company out of Port St. Lucie offers up an ideal mate with a beer that uses locally roasted coffee that include hazelnut, coconut and southern pecan bourbon flavors. The coffee is cold brewed and then blended with milk porter to create a medium bodied beer with a hint of chocolate, cream and roasted nut flavor.

DIAMOND CROWN

DIAMOND CROWN

MAXIMUS

with Cigar City Maduro

The unique and remarkably smooth, full-bodied flavor of the Diamond Crown Maximus is unparalleled, featuring the richest, hardiest and darkest tobacco from the top priming ‘corona’ of the plant. Dark and aromatic, this cigar features superb construction and a balanced profile. It delivers pleasant notes of fresh brewed coffee and roasted nuts throughout the powerful but refined smoke.

The Cigar City Maduro Brown Ale, produced out of Tampa, is a low alcohol content and moderate body drink that offers aromas reminiscent of toffee and chocolate macaroons. Semi-sweet chocolate, almond, and brown sugar flavors fill the palate but quickly dissipate into a dry, clean finish with notes of coffee grounds.

• Cajun and Southern Flavors with a Modern Twist

• Fresh Seafood, Steaks, Chicken, Pasta and more!

• Located in Beautiful Downtown Lakeland

• Happy Hour Everyday from 2-7pm

Marinated Salmon Salad

Blackberry Bramble

Red Beans and Rice

Jambalaya

French Market Pasta

Beef Tenderloin “Scampi Style”

PARTY

ow in her 15th season as the “HBC” (head ball coach) of a close-knit gang of neighbors and friends on Football Saturdays, Jess Weeks won’t let anything stand in the way of serving up amazing game day grub, not even her beloved Florida Gators.

Sure, she has a TV in her kitchen so she can keep one eye on her favorite team and the other on a tray or meatball sliders, but the memories she is making are more about food and fellowship than wins or losses.

In 2009, Jess and her husband, Ted, an Auburn fan, invited a couple of families over to their house to eat food and watch football. Fast forward to the kickoff of the 2023 college football season and there are nearly 15 families that make up the roster of a regular Saturday gathering that takes place in the Beacon Hill neighborhood—often at the Weeks’ home— near downtown Lakeland.

Weeks usually lets the crew know what’s on the slate for the main course(s) and everyone else brings over finger food, dips and desserts that are rooted in their own unique upbringings.

Everyone has become identified with the food item or items they are most passionate about whether that’s Jess' wings, Dean's blue cheese chips, Kate's carmelitas or Lamar's jalapeno poppers and many others.

Weeks said over the years, as the children in the group have grown older and palates have changed, they have at times enhanced their food offerings.

“One time for a gathering, when Hurricane Irma was coming, we did like all spiral themed snack foods, so it was like in the shape of a hurricane,” she said. “I went and got flank steak that was really flat and put blue cheese and spinach inside and rolled it up, and we had a red velvet rolled cake.”

What began as a way to enjoy games together has evolved into a group of people who do come together before a hurricane—to pray and sing worship songs—as well as have holiday parties, and ultimately, share life through the hills and valleys.

Weeks said that some of her fondest memories are of the neighborhood children playing volleyball or football in the yard or women connecting in the kitchen or seeing her husband build lifelong friendships with the guys, all with football and food as the backdrop.

Safe to say, the neighborhood children will have lasting memories on fall Saturday’s of going to this gathering for the rest of their lives.

Some memories you can see, and others you can taste. Enjoy some of this local gameday crew’s favorite foods that are irresistible, yet pretty simple to put together on a Saturday morning.

WRITTEN BY RJ WALTERS PHOTOS BY MADISEN ELIZABETH DESIGNED BY JON SIERRA

WINGS

INGREDIENTS

2 lbs chicken wings/drumettes

1 stick of butter

12 oz bottle Frank’s Red Hot Sauce

5-10 dashes of Tabasco Sauce (optional)

Canola Oil

Add canola oil to a Dutch oven or other deep pot, until it is 2-3 inches high. Heat over medium high heat until 350 degrees, as measured with a deep fry thermometer. When oil has reached temperature, add 10-11 wing/drumette pieces to the oil and fry for 10 minutes, using metal tongs to make sure no pieces are sticking to the bottom. Drain on paper towels and repeat with remaining wings, making sure the oil temperature is back up to 350 degrees before adding more wings.

While wings are frying, in a saucepan, melt butter and add Frank’s Red Hot sauce to melted butter. Add Tabasco sauce, to taste if you like your wings spicy. Once wings have drained on the paper towels, add to the sauce to coat. Serve warm with blue cheese dressing if desired.

layered

blue cheese Dean's

potato chips

Blue Cheese Sauce Chips

INGREDIENTS

1-1/3 cup milk

8 oz cream cheese

2/3 cup blue cheese crumbles

Add the cream cheese and milk to a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cream cheese begins to soften and melt.

Add the blue cheese crumbles. Stir often with a rubber spatula, and press down on the cheeses to help break them down so they'll melt into the sauce more easily. Once the cheeses have melted, bring the sauce to a simmer until thickened, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from the heat and set aside.

INGREDIENTS

Lots of Kettle style potato chips

1-1/3 cup blue cheese sauce, plus more to taste

5–10 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles

8 strips bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled

5–6 tablespoons fresh chives (or green onions), chopped

Make a layer of kettle chips on a platter. Drizzle blue cheese sauce over, but not completely cover, the chips (5–8 tbsp). Stack more chips on top of the first layer, piling them into a mound in the center. Drizzle the chips with more blue cheese sauce, to taste.

Sprinkle the chips with blue cheese crumbles, bacon, and chives (green onions). Serve immediately.

MONSTER COOKIES Susan's

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup light brown sugar

1/2 cup peanut butter

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 1/4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

3/4 cup M&M candies

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cream the butter and sugar together really well—at least 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Add peanut butter and mix well. Add egg and vanilla and mix.

In a separate mixing bowl stir together the flour (be careful to measure correctly, spooning the flour into a measuring cup, then leveling off), oats, salt, baking powder and baking soda.

Add to the wet mixture and mix to combine. Stir in chocolate chips and M&M’s.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes, or a little longer if you make them bigger than a 1 inch cookie scoop. Don't overbake— they will look just set.

Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the pan.

Jess Weeks

Don’t try to do it all yourself!

Assign people items or share your party theme well ahead of time.

It’s Florida, so make sure you have a lot of ice and drinks.

She recommends pooling together money from partygoers before the event to help purchase enough beverages to last the evening, or in their case, the season.

Be intentional about building community.

Weeks said people connecting over good times is a great way to build bonds that can help strengthen each other whenever there are tough times.

francine's Meatball Sliders

SAUCE MEATBALLS

INGREDIENTS

2 cans San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes (yes, the brand is important!)

1 clove garlic. minced

Crushed red pepper

Coarse salt

1/2 stick of salted butter

INGREDIENTS

1 lb ground lamb

1 lb ground beef

1 cup Italian bread crumbs (I prefer Vigo)

1 egg

Splash of milk

Coarse salt

Shake of Italian seasoning

Shake of garlic powder (not garlic salt) Give the canned tomatoes a good whirl in the food processor. Add a good sized pinch of coarse salt. Heat olive oil in a pot. Once shimmery, add the minced garlic and a light shake of crushed red pepper flakes. Let it bloom for about 30 seconds (not too long or the garlic and red pepper flakes will burn and that's not delicious), then add the tomatoes and the half stick of butter. Let it simmer on the stove while you do the rest.

Combine all ingredients together in a large bowl - but do not overmix. Form meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.

Place on two parchment-lined baking sheets, about an inch apart. Bake at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes. I like to slice one open to be sure it's cooked all the way through. Go ahead and eat that one while you're at it.

Let the meatballs cool just a smidge on a paper towel-lined plate (helps some of the grease to absorb as well), then transfer them into the pot of sauce.

INGREDIENTS

32 caramel squares, unwrapped

1/2 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup butter, melted

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1 cup flour

1 cup rolled oats

1 teaspoon baking soda

6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Combine caramels and cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until completely smooth; set aside.

In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, flour, oats, and baking soda. Pat half of the oatmeal mixture into the bottom of an 8"x8" pan.

Bake for 10 minutes.

Remove pan from oven,and sprinkle chocolate chips over crust. Pour caramel mixture over chocolate chips. Crumble remaining oatmeal mixture over caramel.

Return to oven and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned.

Remove from oven and cool completely before cutting.

PHOTOS BY MADISEN ELIZABETH JORDAN RANDALL DAN AUSTIN JON SIERRA

DESIGNED BY BRIANA CHENOT

CRAVE AND COPPER

117 EAST LAKE AVENUE

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 968-2971

CRAVEANDCOPPER.COM

BURGER BUNKER

1360 US-92 WEST

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 280-6862

AUBURNDALE MAIN STREET DINER

415 MAIN STREET

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 967-1700

THE BRACK SHACK RESTAURANT AND KICK YO BUTT CATERING

231 EAST LAKE AVENUE

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 875-8540

BRACKSHACK.COM

LAKE WALES FAMILY RESTAURANT

109 EAST STATE ROAD 60 WEST

LAKE WALES, FL 33853

(863) 676-8799

LWFAMILYREST.COM

FRESCO'S

132 SOUTH KENTUCKY AVENUE LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 683-5267

FRESCOSLAKELAND.COM

CHARLIE'S FAMILY RESTAURANT

2614 LAKELAND HILLS BLVD. #8 LAKELAND, FL 33805 (863) 683-2999

DECISIONS GRILL & BAR

1621 EAST EDGEWOOD DR. LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 686-6441

DECISIONS-GRILL-BAR.BUSINESS.SITE

FAT JACKS

2940 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 687-0262

FATJACKSDELIPUBINC.COM

CHOP SHOP

126 SOUTH KENTUCKY AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 603-4040

CHOPSHOPBURGERS.COM

SUPER DUPER SPOT

640 EAST MAIN STREET #7

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 608-9455

SUPERDUPERSPOT.COM

S&L RESTAURANT

2915 SOUTH COMBEE ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 665-0731

FORD'S GARAGE

879 LAKELAND PARK CENTER DRIVE LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 337-3673

FORDSGARAGEUSA.COM

REECECLIFF

940 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 686-6661

REECECLIFF.COM

FRED'S MARKET

RESTAURANT

2120 HARDEN BLVD.

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 603-7080

FREDSMARKET.COM

MARKET CAFE

20 NORTH MARKET STREET

LAKE WALES, FL 33853

(863) 676-8510

GLORY DAYS GRILL

3790 LAKESIDE VILLAGE COURT

LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 225-8958

GLORYDAYSGRILL.COM

TEXAS CATTLE CO

735 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 686-1434

TEXASCATTLECOMPANY.NET

ANDY'S IGLOO

DRIVE-IN

703 3RD STREET SW

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880

(863) 293-0019

ANDYSIGLOO.COM

AX-CALIBER

204 EAST ORANGE STREET LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 592-3500 AXCALIBER.COM

SIZZLING GRILL

21400 US HIGHWAY 27

LAKE WALES, FL 33859 (863) 676-4898

SIZZLINGGRILLFL.COM

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

NORTH 1070 WEDGEWOOD ESTATES BLVD

LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 853-9464

BEEFOBRADYS.COM

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

SOUTH 4810 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 646-7757

BEEFOBRADY.COM

BRITT'S CAFE

NORTH

6617 NORTH SOCRUM LOOP ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 583-4252

LOVEBRITTS.COM

BRITT'S CAFE

SOUTH

3662 HARDEN BLVD

LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 940-4300

LOVEBRITTS.COM

HARBORSIDE

2435 7TH STREET SW

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880 (863) 293-7070

HARBORSIDEFL.COM

THE FIRE RESTAURANT

325 WEST CENTRAL AVENUE

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880 (863) 875-5544

THEFIRERESTAURANT.COM

NUTWOOD

132 AVENUE B SW

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880 (863) 229-7770

NUTWOODWH.COM

THE ORIGINAL

MIKE'S GRILL

1037 NORTH BROADWAY AVENUE BARTOW, FL 33830 (863) 800-3130

ZEST BAR AND GRILL

315 E. SUMMERLIN STREET SUITE A BARTOW, FL 33830 (863) 800-3181

LOVEBIRDEATS.COM

ZESTBARTOW.COM

CURRY MANGO

6625 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 940-2275

MYCURRYMANGO.COM

MAGIC WOK OF LIN

2129 EAST COUNTY ROAD 540A

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 709-1688

MAGICWOKLAKELAND.COM

FEASTS OF PERSIA

3304 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 272-9330

PEKING HOUSE

2411 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 688-9022

THEPEKINGHOUSE.COM

PHO TAN

2920 SOUTH COMBEE ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 665-1312

SABU RAMEN AT THE JOINERY

640 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 940-2050

SABURAMEN.COM

SPICE THAI & SUSHI

3895 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 709-8321

SPICETHAISUSHIRESTAURANT.COM

SAIGON BISTRO

1554 TOWN CENTER DRIVE WEST LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 686-6560

SAIGONBISTROFL.COM

TERIYAKI MADNESS

304 NORTH KENTUCKY AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 500-8623

TERIYAKIMADNESS.COM

THAI OISHI

1535 TOWN CENTER DRIVE WEST LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 333-0657

THAIOISHIRESTAURANT.COM

ATO POKE

640 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 225-9752

ATOPOKE.COM

FANCY Q SUSHI & THAI NORTH

4304 US HIGHWAY 98 NORTH LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 608-7622

FANCYQLAKELAND.COM

FANCY Q SUSHI & THAI SOUTH

5615 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 646-6666

FANCYQLAKELAND.COM

GOSH! ASIAN

BISTRO & SUSHI

4742 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 701-9818

GOSHBISTRO.COM

HIBACHI EXPRESS

5351 NORTH SOCRUM LOOP ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 815-9888

LAKELAND.HIBACHI

EXPRESSJAPANESE.COM

NEW MOON

4231 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 647-1212

NEWMOONSUSHI.COM

4790 FLORIDA AVENUE S. LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 500-8333

OKSUMIRAMENBAR.COM

SCREAM 'N TUNA

270 EAST BAY STREET #2150

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 413-0264

SCREAMNTUNA.COM

BAKERIES COFFEE &

BANKERS BREW COFFEE

600 NORTH BROADWAY AVENUE

BARTOW, FL 33830

BANKERSBREWCOFFEE.COM

BORN & BREAD BAKEHOUSE

1113 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 450-4513

BORNANDBREADBAKEHOUSE.COM

THE MARKET AT CAFE ZUPPINA

4417 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 603-8113

CAFEZUPPINA.COM/THE-MARKET

BLACK & BREW AT LAKELAND LIBRARY

100 LAKE MORTON DRIVE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 500-9500

BLACKANDBREW.COM

CHARLIE'S MINI DONUTS AND COFFEE

1023 EAST COUNTY ROAD 540A

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 500-1414

CHARLIES-MINI-DONUTS-COFFEE.BUSINESS.SITE

BLACK & BREW DOWNTOWN

205 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 682-1210

BLACKANDBREW.COM

BLACK & BREW SOUTH

4209 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 250-8554

BLACKANDBREW.COM

CONCORD COFFEE

1037 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE #135

LAKELAND, FL 33803

CONCORDCOFFEE.COM

DIVICIOUS DELI AND COFFEE SHOP

128 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 940-9779

DIVICIOUSDELI.COM

UNFILTERED LAKELAND

801 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 603-3088

HAVEN COFFEE ROASTERS

140 3RD STREET SW

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880

(863) 251-9619

HAVENCOFFEEROASTER.COM

HAPPYFASTDELICIOUS DRIVE THRU COFFEE

3601 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(813) 540-5129

HAPPYFASTDELICIOUS.COM

HILLCREST COFFEE

119 HILLCREST STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33815

(863) 398-9155

HILLCRESTCOFFEEFL.COM

MITCHELL'S COFFEE HOUSE

235 NORTH KENTUCKY AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 680-2944

MITCHELLSCOFFEE.COM

PRESSED COFFEE

213 EAST BAY STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 603-3166

PRESSEDLKLD.COM

BAR AND LOUNGE

FOOD + BEER

3615 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

SUITE 1350

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 535-0820

EATFOODDRINKBEER.COM

1916 IRISH PUB

2900 BUCKINGHAM AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 834-2384

1916IRISHPUB.COM

THE BACK NINE

124 SOUTH TENNESSEE AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 510-5723

THEBACKNINELAKELAND.COM

THE BRASS TAP

1515 TOWN CENTER DRIVE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 680-9994

BRASSTAPBEERBAR.COM

BREW HUB

3900 SOUTH FRONTAGE ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33815

(863) 698-7600

BREWHUB.COM

BREWLANDS

5733 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 646-2600

BREWLANDSBILLIARDS.COM

LAFAMOSA CIGARS & PIPE TOBACCO

2118 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 687-4168

VELAZQUEZ CIGAR COMPANY

812 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 500-3717

VELAZQUEZCIGARCOMPANY.COM

GROVE ROOTS

BREWING CO.

302 3RD STREET SW

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880

(863) 291-0700

GROVEROOTS.COM

COB & PEN

1221 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 937-8126

COBANDPENLAKELAND.COM

LUGO'S CRAFT

DISTILLERY

2500 DRANE FIELD ROAD

SUITE 208

LAKELAND, FL 33811

(863) 816-3330

LUGOSCRAFTSPIRITS.COM

REC ROOM

202 N. MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 213-4073

RECROOMLKLD.COM

REVIVAL

119 SOUTH KENTUCKY AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 606-6090

REVIVALLAKELAND.COM

CIGAR LIFE

5724 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 603-8495

CIGARLIFELLC.COM

SWAN BREWING

115 WEST PINE STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33815

(863) 703-0472

SWANBREWING.COM

BAR61

215 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 688-1961

NINETEEN61.COM/BAR61

PEEBLES BBQ

441 DIXIE HIGHWAY

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 967-3085

PEEBLESBBQ.COM

SMOKIN' JIM'S

HOUSE OF BAR-B-Q

3615 HAVENDALE BLVD

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 965-0230

SMOKINJIMSBARBECUE.COM

GRANGER & SONS

BARBECUE

8121 US HIGHWAY 98 NORTH LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 858-7572

LIP SMACKING GOOD RESTAURANT

550 EAST MAIN STREET BARTOW, FL 33830 (863) 537-6347

BLUE DOG CRAFT BARBECUE

640 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 956-6466

BLUEDOGCRAFTBARBECUE.COM

FIRE HOT POT AND BARBECUE

4250 US HIGHWAY 98 NORTH LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 858-8804

FIREHOTPOTLAKELAND.COM

GALA HALL OF FAME

PRESENTED BY

4 RIVERS

SMOKEHOUSE

4729 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(844) 474-8377

4RSMOKEHOUSE.COM

MOJO FEDERAL SWINE AND SPIRITS

130 SOUTH TENNESSEE AVENUE LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 937-4226

MOJOBBQ.COM

MISSION BBQ

4014 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 225-8433

MISSION-BBQ.COM

OVATION BISTRO AND BAR

4715 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 262-3000

OVATIONBISTRO.COM

RED TOP PIT STOP

12160 US HIGHWAY 98 NORTH LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 853-9222

Carrie Jara Hair

PROFESSIONAL STYLIST

OVER 17 YEARS OF HAIR STYLING

TRAINED IN NEW YORK CITY

TOP HAIR COLORIST IN LAKELAND, FL

NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!

BRUSTER'S

955 EAST COUNTY ROAD 540A

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 619-5030

BRUSTERS.COM

DOU BAKEHOUSE

830 N. MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(407) 779-4299

DOUBAKEHOUSE.SHOP

DESSERT

SWEET MAGNOLIA'S CAFE & GIFT SHOP

135 SOUTH CENTRAL AVENUE

BARTOW, FL 33830

(863) 537-6083

TWISTED SUGAR

3958 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

COOKIE JAR

BAKESHOP

305 EAST MAIN STREET

BARTOW, FL 33830

(863) 519-3333

COOKIEJARBAKESHOP ANDEATERY.COM

BLUE VELVET GOURMET CUPCAKES

3800 US HIGHWAY 98 NORTH #846

LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 532-0244

THEBESTBLUEVELVETCUPCAKES.COM

CAKE MAKERS STUDIO

115 SOUTH KENTUCKY AVENUE

BARTOW, FL 33801

(863) 937-8451

CAKEMAKERSSTUDIO.COM

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

4754 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 345-7922

NOTHINGBUNDTCAKES.COM

SHAKE SHOPPE

101 MAIN STREET

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 967-3528

TWO CRAZY NUTS

125 SOUTH CENTRAL AVENUE

BARTOW, FL 33830

(863) 940-7314

THEBESTBLUEVELVETCUPCAKES.COM

LA MICHOACANA

TRADICION NATURAL

77 U.S. HIGHWAY 17-92 NORTH

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(863) 547-4409

MIMI'S ITALIAN ICE

3120 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 816-3163

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 816-3103

TWISTEDSUGAR.COM

MEL'S DESSERTS & DELIGHTS

3548 ISLAND OAKS NORTH

LAKELAND, FL 33805 (217) 691-4072

MELSDESSERTS.COM

MAYDAY ICE CREAM

LAKELAND

640 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

MAYDAYICECREAM.COM

LAKELAND ICE CREAM COMPANY NORTH

2973 DUFF ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33810

(863) 337-5652

LAKELANDICECREAM.COM

LAKELAND ICE CREAM

COMPANY SOUTH

2972 LAKELAND HIGHLANDS ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 337-6653

LAKELANDICECREAM.COM

CARMEN'S ICE CREAM

PARLOR

922 SPRING LAKE PLAZA

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33881

GOT DESSERTS

190 SOUTH WILSON AVENUE

BARTOW, FL 33830

(863) 853-9999

GOTDESSERTSLAKELAND.COM

PELICAN'S SNOBALLS

2510 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 816-5800

PELICANSSNOBALLS.COM

RITA'S ITALIAN ICE & FROZEN CUSTARD

3115 US HIGHWAY 98 N MARKET SQUARE

LAKELAND, FL 33805

(863) 606-5822

RITASICE.COM

JEREMIAH'S

ITALIAN ICE

2117 EAST COUNTY ROAD 540A

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 500-8055

JEREMIAHSICE.COM

ANDY'S FROZEN CUSTARD

4046 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 937-5604

EATANDYS.COM

GOOD FUN.

At Publix GreenWise Market, we want you to have fun discovering good food. Our FINDS specialists are here to help you find wine, cheese, and charcuterie pairings you’ll love. Come say hi.

GOOD FOOD. GOOD FUN.

The Preserve Marketplace

2175 Sembler Drive

Odessa, FL 33556

Water Street Tampa

555 Channelside Drive Tampa, FL 33602

At Publix GreenWise Market, we want you to have fun discovering good food. Our you find wine, cheese, and charcuterie pairings you’ll love. Come say hi.

The Shoppes at Lake Miriam Crossing

4747 S. Florida Avenue

Lakeland, FL 33813

The Preserve Marketplace

2175 Sembler Drive

publixgreenwisemarket.com

Odessa, FL 33556

Water Street Tampa 555 Channelside Drive Tampa, FL 33602

The Shoppes at Lake Miriam Crossing

4747 S. Florida Avenue

Lakeland, FL 33813

publixgreenwisemarket.com

Drink responsibly.

FINE DINING

THE CLUB AT EAGLEBROOKE

1300 EAGLEBROOKE BLVD LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 701-0101

EAGLEBROOKE.COM

GRASSLANDS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

1600 GRASSLANDS BLVD LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 680-1600

GRASSLANDSGCC.COM

WACO KITCHEN

3900 DON EMERSON DRIVE LAKELAND, FL 33811 (863) 583-4004

WACOKITCHEN.COM

HUNTINGTON HILLS GOLF &

LONE

At Chamberlin’s, we value what the earth gives us, in all its simple, organic, truly natural goodness. With straightforward ingredient lists and a thoughtfully sourced product selection, we always know exactly what’s in our boxes and on our shelves. No need for artificial additives. No need for harmful pesticides. No need for over-processing. Because we know nature is wonderful – just the way she is – from vine to shelf to table.

MESSIEH ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC

Leader in anterior hip replacement in Central Florida since 1991

Less-invasive surgery for the active patient looking for a quick recovery and a quicker return to work

Leader in anterior hip replacement in Central Florida since 1991

Less-invasive surgery for the active patient looking for a quick recovery and a quicker return to work.

Two Locations 1601 Sixth Street SE Winter Haven, FL 33880 863.419.9301

3200 Physicians Way Sebring, FL 33880 863.471.9700

THE PATIO LAKELAND

850 TENNESSEE AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 816-3101

SCARPA'S

1833 EAST EDGEWOOD DRIVE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 937-8940

SCARPASITALIAN.COM

TERRACE GRILLE

329 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 603-5420

TERRACEGRILLELAKELAND.COM

ARABELLAS

346 WEST CENTRAL AVENUE

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880

(863) 293-1797

ARABELLAS.US

CHEF T'S GARDEN GRILL

1525 EAST GARY ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 687-4386

CHEFTSGARDENGRILL.COM

ATHENIAN RESTAURANT

1215 ARIANA STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 682-6477

CAFE ZUPPINA

4417 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 644-5144

CAFEZUPPINA.COM

LOUIS PAPPAS FRESH

GREEK LAKESIDE

1318 TOWN CENTER DRIVE EAST

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 284-1010

LOUISPAPPAS.COM

MEDITERRANEAN

FRESH GRILL

6035 CYPRESS GARDENS BLVD

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33884

(863) 633-4745

MEDITERRANEANFRESHGRILL.COM

THE KRAZY GREEK

6366 CYPRESS GARDENS BLVD

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33884

(863) 875-2753

THEKRAZYGREEK.COM

NINETEEN61

215 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 688-1961

NINETEEN61.COM

GREEK

HEALTHY

MARIA PETIT

FOOD BOUTIQUE

227 EAST LAKE AVENUE

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 326-8815

CRUSH IT NUTRITION

270 SOUTH WILSON AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33830

(863) 537-6346

CRUSH-IT-NUTRITION.BUSINESS.SITE

ANTHONY'S HEALTH HUT

5329 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 644-5330

BAHIA BOWLS

4784 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 646-0836

BAHIABOWLS.COM

FRESH KITCHEN

4520 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 315-9060

EATFRESHKITCHEN.COM

SO FRESH

4756 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 622-1369

LOVESOFRESH.COM

GOOD THYME

1037 DIXIELAND MALL LANE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 603-8296

GOODTHYMELKLD.COM

JUICE BOX CAFE

4295 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 225-5961

JUICEBOXCAFE.COM

KRAZY KOMBUCHA

1030 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 816-3869

KRAZYKOMBUCHA.LIFE

ROOTED LAKELAND

5327 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 254-1860

VEGETATION CAFE & KITCHEN

1439 EAST GARY ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 216-8534

VEGETATIONPLANTFOOD.COM

VEGAN MONARCH

BAKERY

371 AVENUE D NORTH-WEST

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33881

(863) 734-9148

TEA LARGO

4632 CLEVELAND HEIGHTS BLVD

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 688-6816

TEALARGO.MYSHOPIFY.COM

PALACE SOUTHSIDE

4780 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 619-5919

PALACESOUTHSIDE.COM

PALACE ITALIAN RESTAURANT

6120 US HIGHWAY 98 NORTH

LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 853-1316

PALACERESTAURANT LAKELAND.COM

TUA PASTA

315 EAST MAIN STREET

BARTOW, FL 33830

(863) 800-3759

NEOPOLITAN ITALIAN EATERY

645 INGRAHAM AVENUE

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(863) 353-2576

NEAPOLITANITALIAN EATERYHC.COM

PICCOLINA

TRATTORIA

18720 U.S. HIGHWAY 27

LAKE WALES, 33853

(407) 288-5790

PICCOLINATRATTORIA.COM

A TASTE OF ITALY

116 KENNY BLVD.

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(866) 584-5527

L'INCONTRO

ITALIAN

RESTAURANT

35 STATE ROAD 60 WEST

LAKE WALES, FL 33858

(863) 676-7400

LINCONTROFL.COM

ROMEO'S PIZZA & PASTA

2346 GRIFFIN ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33810

(863) 816-8100

ROMEOSPIZZAPASTA.COM

HAVANA DELIGHTS

CAFE & CATERING

155 EAST MAIN STREET

BARTOW, FL 33830

(863) 533-6947

HAVANADELIGHTCAFE.COM

3615 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 607-6030

ILFORNOLAKELAND.COM

CUBAN DELIGHTS CAFE

1039 EAST COUNTY ROAD 540A

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 701-0190

CUBANDELIGHTSCAFE. GETSAUCE.COM

DON CRIOLLO BAKERY & RESTAURANT

201 EAST HINSON AVENUE

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(863) 438-4974

DONCRIOLLO.COM

ELENA'S CUBAN CAFE

2246 EAST EDGEWOOD DRIVE

HAINES CITY, FL 33803

(863) 777-5784

ELENASCUBANCAFE. GETSAUCE.COM

JULIO'S SANDWICH

SHOP

4525 FLORIDA AVE SOUTH SUITE 33

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 686-1713

JULIOSSANDWICHSHOPAT

ITALIAN LATIN

ALAMOPLAZA.COM

WEST CARIBBEAN

CUBAN RESTAURANT

2215 SOUTH COMBEE ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(866) 606-5954

ZARZA LATIN FOOD AND GRILL

4648 CLEVELAND HEIGHTS BLVD

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 607-3702

ZARZALATINRESTAURANTS.COM

MISTER FISH

715 EAST PALMETTO STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 688-4280

MISTERFISH.ORG

PURPLE ONION

316 NORTH KENTUCKY AVENUE LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 688-5590

SUBS N SUCH

1008 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 686-9035

SUBSNSUCH.COM

UNCLE NICK'S ITALIAN DELI

6955 OLD ROAD 37 LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 333-4917

UNCLENICKSITALIANDELI.COM

LUNCH MEXICAN

THE DELI BASKET

3078 CYPRESS GARDENS ROAD WINTER HAVEN, FL 33844

(863) 325-9800

THEDELIBASKET.COM

SILVER RING CAFE

306 SOUTH CENTRAL AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33815

(863) 937-9002

HACIENDA MEXICO

195 EAST MAIN STREET

BARTOW, FL 33830

(863) 533-7600

DON MARTIN MODERN MEXICAN

15N SOUTH 5TH STREET

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(321) 730-2779

DONMARTINMODERN

CUISINEHAINESCITY.COM

EL AZUCARERO RESTAURANT

15 10TH STREET

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(863) 204-8061

2009 GEORGE JENKINS BLVD LAKELAND, FL 33815

(863) 688-3202

LA FIESTA MEXICANA

94 MAXCY PLAZA CIR

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(863) 422-2200

LAFIESTAMEXICANA863.COM

TAQUERIA DON GONZALO

103 HIGHWAY 17

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(821) 419-0784

TORTILLERIA LA MEXICANA

701 EAST HINSON AVENUE

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(863) 422-1227

LAMEXICANA5.COM

FLAVORS DE ROSITA

1786 EAST HINSON AVENUE

HAINES CITY, FL 33844

(863) 216-4189

ORDERFLAVORSDEROSITA.COM

LA BOTANA

2415 EAST STATE ROAD 60 LAKE WALES, FL 33898

(863) 679-3335

AZTECA D'ORO MEXICAN RESTAURANT LAKELAND

1235 NORTH PARKWAY FRONTAGE ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 606-6682

AZTECADORO.COM/

DONA JULIA'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

5375 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 648-0858

DONAJULIAS.COM

SWEET CUP CAFE

1401 LAKELAND HILLS BLVD

LAKELAND, FL 33805

(863) 603-8464

PIZZA

TAPATIO'S RESTAURANTE MEXICANO

734 EAST MEMORIAL BLVD.

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 686-6958

TAPATIOSMEMORIAL.COM

TAPATIO'S RESTAURANTE MEXICANO SOUTH

6645 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH SUITE #11

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 646-2199

TAPATIOSTOGO.COM

TACOS MY FRIEND

3899 RECKER HIGHWAY

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880

(863) 837-7416

THE LAKEHOUSE KITCHEN

3071 CYPRESS GARDENS ROAD

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33884

(863) 269-5028

THELAKEHOUSEKITCHEN.GETSAUCE.COM

PALACE PIZZA

105 EAST MAIN STREET

BARTOW, FL 33830 (863) 533-9300

PALACEPIZZABARTOW.COM

AVA NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA

640 EAST MAIN STREET

LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 808-4025

THEJOINERYLKLD.COM/AVA

PALACE PIZZA

114 SOUTH KENTUCKY AVENUE LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 688-0045

PALACEPIZZADOWNTOWN.COM

J.BURNS PIZZA

SHOP SOUTH

5615 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH #101

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 377-9997

JBURNSPIZZA.COM

LAKELAND STADIUM PIZZA AND ITALIAN GRILL

1035 EAST COUNTY ROAD 540A

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 646-0700

STADIUMPIZZA.NET

MJ'S PIZZA AND WINGS

1747 EAST EDGEWOOD DRIVE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 816-6950

MJSPIZZAWINGSMENU.COM

JET'S PIZZA

3234 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 709-0999

JETSPIZZA.COM

JET'S PIZZA NORTH

4973 US HIGHWAY 98 NORTH

LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 333-0322

JETSPIZZA.COM

KC'S ARTISAN PIZZA & WINE BAR

6645 FLORIDA AVENUE SUITE 5

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 644-8000

MELLOW MUSHROOM

3555 LAKELAND HIGHLANDS ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 825-6000

MELLOWMUSHROOM.COM

THAT 716 PIZZA & PASTA

1950 SOUTH COMBEE ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 884-4252

THAT716PIZZAJOINTMENU.COM

CIAO BELLA PIZZA & PASTA

5369 NORTH SOCRUM LOOP ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 859-9075

J. BURNS PIZZA SHOP

2306 EAST EDGEWOOD DRIVE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 450-2986

JBURNSPIZZA.COM

PIZZERIA VALDIANO

1610 TOWN CENTER DRIVE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 686-3730

PIZZERIAVALDIANO.COM

SORRENTO'S PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT

2977 DUFF ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33810

(863) 859-4911

SORRENTOSLAKELAND.COM

BISTRO PIZZA

326 WEST CENTRAL AVENUE

WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880

(863) 293-1797

ARABELLAS.US/BISTRO-PIZZA

PRIMO'S PIZZERIA

1031 SOUTH COMBEE ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 669-1020

ORDERPRIMOSPIZZERIAMENU.COM

TANTRUM'S

LAKESIDE GRILL

330 DENTON AVENUE

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 875-3974

TANTRUMS-LAKESIDE-GRILL. BUSINESS.SITE

CRAZY FISH & BAR

802 HENRY STREET

LAKE WALES, FL 33853

(863) 949-6907

MELANIE'S

SEAFOOD CO.

120 EAST PARK AVENUE

LAKE WALES, FL 33853

(863) 949-6879

MR. & MRS.CRAB

3770 LAKESIDE VILLAGE COURT

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 413-0899

MMCSEAFOOD.COM

HARRY'S SEAFOOD

BAR & GRILL

101 NORTH KENTUCKY AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 686-2228

HOOKEDONHARRYS.COM

BONEFISH GRILL

225 WEST PIPKIN ROAD

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 701-9480

BONEFISHGRILL.COM

FISH CITY GRILL

1485 TOWN CENTER DRIVE SUITE D112

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 683-1243

FISHCITYGRILL.COM

MY COTTAGE GARDEN

327 NORTH KENTUCKY AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33801

(863) 688-9686

SWEET MAGNOLIA'S

TEA BISTRO

212 HOWARD STREET

AUBURNDALE, FL 33823

(863) 965-1684

MAGNOLIATEAROOMAND

GIFTSHOP.COM

LAVENDER 'N

LACE TEAROOM

430 NORTH LAKE SHORE WAY

LAKE ALFRED, FL 33850

(863) 956-3998

LAVENDERANDLACE

TEAROOM.COM

WINNERS CIRCLE

4215 FLORIDA AVENUE SOUTH

LAKELAND, FL 33813

(863) 644-9464

WINNERSCIRCLE

SPORTSBAR.COM

BEDROCK WINGS

2064 EAST EDGEWOOD DRIVE

LAKELAND, FL 33803

(863) 698-7923

BEDROCKWINGS.COM

UNCLE APPS

1046 MARTIN L KING JR AVENUE

LAKELAND, FL 33805

(863) 937-9064

UNCLEAPPS.HRPROS. HEARTLAND.US

THE END ZONE

6206 US HIGHWAY 98 NORTH

SEAFOOD TEA ROOMS WINGS

LAKELAND, FL 33809

(863) 858-7226

THEENDZONELAKELAND.COM

1934

Local residents dine at the Thelma Hotel restaurant in celebration of the movie “Dinner at Eight” showing at the Polk Theatre. The Thelma Hotel was built in 1913 located at the corner of Kentucky Avenue and Lemon Street. Unable to compete with newer suburban motels and hotels, the Thelma closed its doors for the last time in April 1962. It was demolished a month later.

Courtesy of Lakeland Public Library