2 Fantastic Hidden Gem Spots to Try in Lakeland, FL

Lakeland’s dining scene holds flavorful secrets waiting to surprise newcomers and regulars alike!

Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille electrifies downtown with zesty Creole skillets and Oreo-stuffed beignets, channeling New Orleans spirit through every bite.

Across town, Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro fuels mornings with praline bacon sandwiches and evenings with chimichurri steak flatbreads—a community hub where coffee meets creativity.

Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille

Downtown Lakeland’s Louisiana love affair comes alive at Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille.

This vibrant hotspot serves up bold Creole flavors with a side of Big Easy charm.

Think sizzling skillets, frosty hurricanes, and a vibe that’s equal parts lively and laid-back.

Locals and travelers alike flock here for its New Orleans-inspired menu and infectious energy.

Food Highlights

  • Jambalaya: A smoky, spice-forward rice dish packed with shrimp, chicken, and sausage—a Creole classic that’s a crowd favorite.
  • Oreo Beignets: Fried pillows of joy stuffed with Oreo cream, dusted in powdered sugar—dessert goals achieved.
  • Crab Crusted Redfish Royale: Flaky redfish topped with lump crab, served over a velvety red pepper sauce—luxury on a plate.
  • Shrimp & Scallop Evangeline: Sea scallops and shrimp swimming in a garlic-lemon butter sauce over linguini—seafood heaven.
  • Louisiana Fondue: A gooey, rich blend of shrimp, crawfish, and three cheeses, perfect for dipping crispy bread.

Atmosphere

Step into a festive, bayou-themed space with exposed brick, wrought-iron accents, and upbeat jazz tunes.

The outdoor patio buzzes with chatter, while the bar slings signature hurricanes and rhythm & blues margaritas.

Servers like Devin (a Yelp superstar) keep the mood light and the crawfish étouffée flowing.

Bottom Line

Harry’s delivers authentic NOLA vibes without the airfare. Go for the killer seafood, stay for the Oreo beignets, and leave planning your next visit.

Address: 101 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland, FL 33801

Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro

Black & Brew slings more than just caffeine—it’s a Lakeland institution where locals and visitors clink mugs over locally roasted Patriot Coffee and inventive eats.

Since 2006, this downtown gem has dished up breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a side of Floridian charm.

Think pressed sandwiches with a twist, salads that defy rabbit-food stereotypes, and craft sodas that spark joy. Vegetarian? Vegan? They’ve got you covered.

Whether it’s a business meeting, solo laptop session, or post-farmers-market refuel, this spot thrives on good vibes and better bites.

Food Highlights

  • Praline Bacon Sandwich: A buttermilk biscuit cradling egg soufflé, candied bacon, and melty Monterey Jack—sweet, savory, and shamelessly addictive.
  • Spanakopita Breakfast Sandwich: Flaky spanakopita filling meets sourdough and egg soufflé for a Greek-inspired morning upgrade.
  • Meltaway Sandwich: Oven-roasted beef, turkey, and two cheeses dunked in au jus—pure comfort on a French baguette.
  • Street Corn Cobb Salad: A fiesta of street corn salsa, avocado, pickled onions, and bacon, tossed with chili-lime dressing.
  • Pesto Chicken Panini: Roasted chicken, pepperoni, and pesto aioli press into ciabatta for a flavor bomb.
  • Chimichurri Steak Flatbread: Tender steak, roasted tomatoes, and chimichurri sauce on crispy flatbread—dinner done right.

Atmosphere

The vibe? Laid-back but lively. Exposed brick walls, mismatched chairs, and a patio overlooking downtown create a come-as-you-are feel.

Students cram at communal tables, retirees gossip over lattes, and lunch crowds devour salads under string lights.

Bottom Line

Black & Brew masters the art of being your anytime place. Crave a killer breakfast sandwich? Check. Need a post-shopping salad? Double-check.

It’s where Lakeland unwinds, one cup (or craft soda) at a time.

Address: 205 E Main St, Lakeland, FL 33801