Anna Bialkowski & Amanda Parrish
Editor-in-Chief & Staff Writer
Nestled right between iconic cities Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland invites visitors from all around the world with its inexplicable and unique charm. Home to a myriad of small food businesses, tons of weekend activities and a Smithsonian affiliate art museum, Lakeland has its own voice within Floridian culture.
One of the most well-known Lakeland activities is the local Farmers Curb Market that takes over much of downtown, closing off the roads from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. every Saturday. The market includes a unique collection of goods from food trucks to flower stands and craft vendors. The weekly event has become a defining part of the Lakeland experience. It’s a great place to spend your morning and get to know the people that contribute to the vibrant community. Many vendors will also change out their items sold weekly, so people get to experience new things each time they come.
Lakeland also puts on an event called First Friday. Similar to the Farmers Market, the markets include an array of goods and organizations. However, this market occurs at night. The streets are filled with lights, food, music and lots of people looking for some fun.
The Joinery, Lakeland’s urban food market located on Lake Mirror, has become a staple dining option in town. The stunning lake provides not only gorgeous scenery to enjoy while eating your food, but also gives a space for families and friends to walk after dinner. If you venture far enough along the lake, you can find Hollis Garden, a formal botanical garden with 16 themed sections.
The Joinery has eight different food spots to check out: Ava, a pizzeria, The Blue Dog, which offers all things BBQ, Japanese and ramen restaurant Sabu, sushi spot Zukku, ice cream place Mayday, Gallito Taqueria and The Super Duper Spot, which features your everyday burger, chicken and fries.
“I recently just went to the Joinery and tried Sabu for the first time. I got their ramen, and it was delicious. I will be visiting again for not only the food, but for the vibes the Joinery has to offer,” FSC student Desiree Gomez said.
If you’re a coffee lover in Lakeland, Black and Brew is a staple. With multiple locations around Lakeland including Downtown, Southside and Lake Morton, Black and Brew is a great spot to study, chat and eat. The Lake Morton location is connected to the Lakeland Public Library. This is one of many student’s favorite study spots, providing a great way to study but also treat yourself for your hard work. Lakeland has plenty of options for all the coffee lovers. There is Hillcrest coffee, LKLD Pressed, Born and Bread, Concord Coffee and as of most recently, Foxtail Coffee Co.
Right across from this location is the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (AGB), Florida Southern College’s Smithsonian affiliated museum. The AGB invites members of the Lakeland community to gather and partake in conversations around art.
Apart from coffee shops, Lakeland has a bunch of sweet spots to keep you smiling. Born and Bread is notorious for selling out their pastries some mornings, especially during busy seasons. FSC senior Lily Soukup speaks about her experience going to Born and Bread.
“I love Born and Bread because it’s a great place to get a sweet treat and coffee in the middle of the week. I love their rotating menu and weekly cruffin flavors.” FSC student Lily Soukup said.
“It’s a croissant muffin, this week is Apple Fritter flavored. My personal favorite is their Strawberry Nutella. If you have a sweet tooth, I recommend trying these pastries!”
Lakeland has its own unique personality, expressed through its community events, artistic showcases, people and food serving as a special community filled with life and vibrancy.
