5 Best Authentic Restaurants in Lakeland, Florida to Try

Lakeland, FL, is a delightful city known for its picturesque lakes and an outstanding culinary scene that showcases a range of authentic flavors.

Here are the five best authentic restaurants in Lakeland that you absolutely must try.

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille offers New Orleans-inspired dishes in a vibrant setting.

Try their Jambalaya, a flavorful rice dish with sausage, chicken, and shrimp.

Order the Crab Cakes, packed with fresh crab meat and served with a remoulade sauce.

Don’t miss their Bread Pudding, a sweet and comforting dessert with a bourbon sauce.

With its bold flavors and festive atmosphere, Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille is a must-visit for Cajun food enthusiasts.

Nineteen61

Nineteen61 serves modern Latin cuisine with a Southern twist in an elegant setting.

Try their Pork Belly, slow-cooked and served with a sweet plantain puree.

Order the Arroz Con Pollo, featuring tender chicken and flavorful rice.

Don’t miss their Dulce de Leche Cheesecake, a decadent dessert with a caramel drizzle. With its innovative dishes and refined atmosphere, Nineteen61 is a hidden gem for Latin food lovers.

Scarpa’s Italian

Scarpa’s Italian offers classic Italian dishes in a warm and cozy setting.

Try their Lasagna, featuring layers of pasta, meat sauce, and creamy cheese.

Order the Veal Piccata, tender veal cutlets cooked with a lemon and caper sauce.

Don’t miss their Tiramisu, a creamy dessert with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.

With its traditional flavors and intimate ambiance, Scarpa’s Italian is a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.

Texas Cattle Company

Texas Cattle Company serves premium steaks and barbecue in a rustic, Western-themed setting.

Try their Ribeye Steak, cooked to perfection and served with garlic mashed potatoes.

Order the Baby Back Ribs, fall-off-the-bone tender with a smoky barbecue sauce.

Don’t miss their Key Lime Pie, a tart and creamy dessert.

With its hearty dishes and friendly atmosphere, Texas Cattle Company is a hidden gem for steak and barbecue lovers.

Cafe Zuppina

Cafe Zuppina offers Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine in a charming and cozy setting.

Try their Chicken Shawarma, marinated and grilled to perfection with a side of rice.

Order the Falafel Plate, featuring crispy falafel, hummus, and warm pita bread.

Don’t miss their Baklava, a sweet pastry with layers of nuts and honey. With its authentic flavors and welcoming vibe, Cafe Zuppina is a must-visit for Mediterranean food enthusiasts.