THE LAKELANDER22
SOUTH LAKELAND 2410 S. Florida Ave S Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 682-1500 AgniniDental.comNORTH LAKELAND 1805 Lakeland Hills Blvd Lakeland, FL 33805 (863) 682-1500 Hello
Dentistry is evolving at a rapid pace due to incredible advancements in technology. At Agnini Family Dental we have embraced this revolution. New digital workflows make for seamless patient visits, less time in the chair, and exceptional results. We have invested heavily in the digital world to create a unique dental experience. Because of this, our patients are more involved and knowledgeable about their oral health goals. We would love to show you how our technology can create your new, beautiful smile.
CONTENTS ISSUE 78 ON THE COVER Photo by Dan Austin 54
THE LAKELANDER12CONTENTS FEATURES 36 89 • GREATER LAKELAND TACO TRUCK TOUR We made the sacrifice to brave the sweltering heat for the sake of sharing with you the most dynamic flavors, freshest ingredients and gooiest creations. Beware — you’ll need to clear your lunch or dinner calendar after seeing what we found. 44 • PEOPLE Baker Undercover Meet Debbie, a cake artist whose passion for the perfect dessert is matched by her love of people.Next Lakeland Food Stars 70 Only in RestaurantLakelandGuide
THE LAKELANDER14 METRO 24 • METRO A Century of Faithful Fellowship One Lakeland Church started 100 years ago following a revival. See how it continues to revive the community as a multi-generational, service-focused congregation. 28 • METRO Seven a er 7 When it’s getting late and the craving for something scrumptious arises your internal auto pilot might go directly to the same old spot. We show you seven local alternatives to cure your postsunset cases of the “hungries.” 16 • MASTHEAD 18 • EDITOR’S NOTE 20 • CONTRIBUTORS 22 • LETTERS 24 • METRO 34 • CATAPULT KITCHEN 54 • COVER STORY 70 • RESTAURANT GUIDE 82 • BAKER UNDERCOVER 90 • GREATER LAKELAND 31 • METRO Where There’s Smoke There Should Be Tasty Meat Also There are a plethora of options to upgrade your outdoor space with a smoker that will provide rich, flavorful food for years to come. Check out five smokers at a variety of price points that can immediately upgrade your barbecue experience. DEPARTMENTS CONTENTS
16 THE LAKELANDER Issue 78 The Lakelander is published twelve times annually by Patterson Jacobs Media Group, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission of The Lakelander is prohibited. The Lakelander is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions. PattersonContact: Jacobs Media Group, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802 863.701.2707 • thelakelander.com Customer Service: 863.701.2707 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 Advertising ADVERTISINGADVERTISINGDIRECTORSALES Editorial STAFF CONTRIBUTORSWRITER Creative GRAPHICPHOTOGRAPHERSDESIGNER Circulation CIRCULATIONGENERALVP,DIRECTORFINANCECOUNSEL Curt Patterson | 863.409.2449 Jason Jacobs | 863.606.8785 Jordan JulianneRandallWaller, Adam Spa ord, London DanJonJacobsSierraAustin, Jordan Randall, Paul Bostrom, Mark Batson Jason Jacobs Deb Patterson Ted W. Weeks IV Curt Patterson PUBLISHER Jason Jacobs ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER RJ Walters EDITOR Jon Sierra CREATIVE DIRECTOR w e a r e h e r e t o h e l p Empowering Women with Medical Services, Options and Compassionate Support W h e n h e r c h o i c e m a t t e r s m o s t 1 2 3 4 E . L i m e S t L a k e l a n d 3 3 8 0 1 8 6 3 6 8 3 2 3 4 1 Y o u r C h o i c e L a k e l a n d . c o m
I have joined Allen & Company of Florida, LLC. New Contact Information: 1401 South Florida Avenue | Lakeland, FL 33803 863.616.6355 Office | 863.559.2830 Educational communication as required by FINRA can be found by scanning this QR code: Nathan W. Adams CWS® Financial Advisor Allen & Company of Florida, LLC | 1401 South Florida Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33803 Securities and advisory services offered though LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.
No Stars Needed: Some Real Food For ought
Imagine asking a guy from the local tire shop for his take on the shrimp etouff ee and classic pavlova with berries at that restaurant that has the internet abuzz. Th e reference to a tire store refers to Michelin - the brand most recognizable for its lovable marshmallow-esque mascot - and the company that more than 100 years ago also instituted a global standard for fi ne dining called the MICHELIN Guide. Clearly the hyperbole is on par with saying “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse,” (it’s true, horse meat is a delicacy in some European countries) but in our comparisoncrazed culture that is always looking for something better, I encourage you to let your taste buds do the talking before your grand appetite gets your fi ngers swiping and typing beyond our city. Th e Michelin brothers were struggling with their tire business in a small French town, so they had the ingenious idea of creating a travel guide, encouraging people to travel for food that was worth getting in the car to track down. It was a PR gamble, but clearly one that paid off, and one that makes me laugh because of how a century later it feeds into how we feel about chefs and dining experiences. I’m sure you’ve heard of 1, 2 and 3 star Michelin restaurants, but did you know, that until this year, not a single Florida restaurant had garnered Michelin star status? Seriously — none of the top chefs from around the world who call Miami home, and none of the fi ne dining establishments of one of the world’s pre-eminent tourist destinations, Orlando, could make theHavinglist? indulged in and explored the growing and diverse food and restaurant landscape of Lakeland the past month, my point is simple — make your own list, and give the places closest to you a fi rst try, or maybe another try. Save your tires! In Lakeland we have everything from Cuban to French to Th ai cuisine done well, and we have chefs and owners who have had success around the globe, but who truly love serving the locals. As you will read in this issue, there are more than 30 motivated and talented entrepreneurs working hard in Catapult Kitchen to earn your business and give you something to add to your list of favorites.Wehave spots presidents have dined, we have an old house turned into a great late night spot where Elvis reportedly once hung out — and most importantly, we have passionate talented individuals who are worthy of your own personal rating system and bitmoji celebrations.Spendsome time in our “Only in Lakeland” restaurant guide for a curated taste of what you should taste. And the next time you get your tires changed, suggest one of your local favorites to the person helping you stay safe on the road.
LAKELANDEREDITOR’S
RJ Walters EDITOR
18 THE
NOTE
19ISSUE 78 Watson Clinic Women’s Center 1400 Lakeland Hills Blvd. • Suite B • Lakeland • WatsonClinic.com/Kazmier 863-680-7676 • Facial Rejuvenation (Facelifts, Eyelifts and Minimally Invasive Browlifts) • BOTOX®, Dysport®, Kybella® for unwanted fat, and fillers such as Restylane®, Juvéderm®, Voluma® and RHA® for the face and hands • Breast enlargement, breast implant revision, lifts and reductions • Tummy tucks and liposuction SERVICESWatson Clinic boardcertified plastic surgeon DR. FAEZA KAZMIER is a passionate and highlyskilled surgeon with over 20 years of experience. She can provide the enhancements you need to live with renewed confidence and offers a range of natural looking enhancement options including surgical and nonsurgical treatments that can help you achieve the look of your dreams. CONFIDENCEMENU IS ON THE
THE CREATIVES AND PHOTOGRAPHERS WHO MAKE THE LAKELANDER
Next Lakeland Food Stars photographed by Paul Bostrom, pg. 34
20 THE CONTRIBUTORSLAKELANDER
PAUL BOSTROM Paul is a commercial and editorial photographer based in Lakeland. His happy place is in the studio, snacks on deck, doing meticulous stuff no one else wants to do. If you're still reading this, send him a picture of your dog on Instagram (@paulbostrom). That would be hilarious and truly make his day. paulbostrom.com
MARK BATSON Mark Batson has been a photographer for Publix Super Markets for more than 40 years. He enjoys spending time with his wife, two children, three dogs, three cats and many chickens.
See the masthead on pg. 16 for a list of all contributing writers and photographers.
JULIANNE WALLER Julianne graduated from The University of Tampa with a degree in writing. She currently works as a freelance writer for the Lakelander and other publications. Outside of journalism and creative writing, Julianne is passionate about reading, travel, art, spending time with friends and family. She adores her two beautiful cats!
VisitCentralFlorida.com/WaterSki100 October 19-23, 2022 Lake Silver, Winter Haven
22 THE LAKELANDERLETTERS COMMENTS FROM LAKELANDERS "EXCITING DAY! WE JUST PICKED UP THE NEW 'HOMES' ISSUE OF THE LAKELANDER AND ARE PUMPED AND GRATEFUL TO BE FEATURED..." @Nicole Roe Design // Facebook @achairaffair // Instagram ACCIDENT?AUTO For ChiropracticexceptionalCareafter a vehicle accident, contact Dr. Abraham and the professional team at New Hope Chiropractic in the Lake Miriam DON’T IGNORE YOUR INJURIES. We would love to evaluate and treat you! New Hope Chiropractic Dr. Abraham Phone: (863) 682-1170 4788 S. Florida Av. Lakeland, FL 33803 "GREAT JOB...IN MAKING LAKELAND PROUD WITH A QUALITY PUBLICATION FOR OUR COMMUNITY!" @brianstephens13 // Instagram "THANK YOU @LAKELANDERMAG FOR FEATURING US. FIND THE POST ON THEIR WEBSITE. IT'S WORTH THE CLICK THROUGH IMO."
As a local, family-owned bank, Wauchula State Bank understands the importance of excellent customer service—they’ve been partnering with local businesses in Central Florida for more than 90 years. The experienced business banking specialists at the newest location in Downtown Lakeland continue the tradition of premier banking and offer custom solutions for your company’s specific needs. Visit the team at 221 E. Main Street for business banking, treasury management, and commercial real estate loans. “At Wauchula State Bank, being ‘easy to do business with’ is our foundation. We make banking easy, secure, and convenient, and we welcome the opportunity to partner with you to help you build a profitable future.”
Premier Bankingin Downtown Lakeland
Amy Thompson, Business Banking Officer, pictured with Branch Operations Manager Janesza Cardona
Selena Gant, Personal Banker, pictured at right with Janesza Cardona
.
EST 1922 THE STORY OF A FAMILY METRO NEW AND NOTABLE IN LAKELAND IN
The church moved into its current facility on N. Socrum Loop Rd. in 2015. Prior to that, the church was on the corner of Socrum Loop Rd. and Odom Rd. after being located at a property near Lake Wire for nearly half a century.Thestory of how the congregation obtained the Lake Wire property is just one example of how the people of Together Church have been diligent and faith fi lled over the by RJ Walters
“I can’t imagine pushing an organ down even a good road, let alone an old dirt road, and to think about how many times they probably had to pick it up,” says lead pastor Justin Stewart, who has been at the helm for more than five years. “It just shows the perfect picture of over the years, even through the hard times, of when we have had to persevere and push something to a different place that typically couldn’t be pushed to, but because of God we got there.” Stewart said an estimated 75 percent of Together’s regular attendees serve in “THE NAME IS NOT JUST A SLOGAN — IT MAKES SENSE BECAUSE THE CHURCH AS A WHOLE HAS BUILT A CULTURE THAT BRINGS DIFFERENT FAMILIES AND TOGETHERDEMOGRAPHICS the church in some capacity, a reality that mirrors a slogan embossed on the church exterior, This is Home.
The impact of the church, which is part of the Church of God denomination, goes far beyond its own congregation. Several local churches that have been planted out of the 100-year-old church are: Trinity RenovationLife Church Highland City Church of God Living Water Church of God n the early 1920s, Leila Sumner was determined to bring an authentic Pentecostal revival to Lakelanders, but she faced several challenges. There were no Pentecostal churches in the area and W.R Hadsock, the reverend who was going to host the revival, did not have an organ to accompany him. Not to be deterred, Sumner and two of her friends rolled a pump organ down bumpy, dusty roads to put under the tent.
years.Written
“The name is not just a slogan — it makes sense because the church as a whole has built a culture that brings different families and demographics together,” Stewart said. The church does that within its walls, but also through Lead Florida, a program and experience focused on developing Christian leaders and entrepreneurs that is led by Jaime Stewart, the lead pastor’s wife and Together’s administrative pastor.
The revival took place, people accepted Christ as their savior and it was the catalyst for the beginning of Lakeland Church of God on the corner of Ohio St. and Quincy St., where Hadsock served as the fi rst Today,pastor.thatchurch is a vibrant multi-generational church in North Lakeland known as Together Church, a congregation that is celebrating its 100th anniversary in September.
25ISSUE 78
26 THE LAKELANDER
Long-serving church members like Bob and Joyce Short have experiences with Together Church that date back almost as far. Joyce, now 75, is the daughter of W.C. Byrd, who pastored the church for more than a decade. Joyce started attending the church at 1 year old and has been involved with it the majority of her life. Bob serves as a board member, and the couple has served in various roles over the decades, including Sunday School teachers. Some of the Short’s children and grandchildren currently attend Together Church, and Joyce said the culture of the church includes involving children and teens from a young age, helping them to fi nd God’s purposes for their lives.
In the early 1950s Rev. J.T. Roberts decided he would ask people for donations of dollar bills and have them fi ll a wash tub with money to show the progress. In short order people stepped up and fi lled the tub with $30,000 that was transported to Peoples Bank of Lakeland and put in a safe until the contract could be fi nalized on the property.
“...EVEN THROUGH THE HARD TIMES, OF WHEN WE HAD TO PERSEVERE OR PUSH SOMETHING TO A DIFFERENT PLACE THAT GODTO,COULDN’TTYPICALLYBEPUSHEDBUTBECAUSEOFWEGOTTHERE.”
METRO
Dewayne Watford, fi nancial administrator at Together Church, started attending the church 46 years ago, and almost immediately he was personally touched by the kindness of the Shorts. “When we fi rst went into a Sunday School class, Bob and Joyce were the teachers, and there were chairs in a circle fi lled with people,” Watford recalls. “Bob made everyone move closer to each other to make space for us, and that made a memorable impression.”
As Dewayne awakened to a deeper relationship with God, especially at a local revival in the mid 1970s, God used him to make an exponential impact through a bus ministry he led for the church. In a period of fi ve years, a fl eet of seven buses transported a total of more than 28,000 children (total, not unique) to the church — not bad for a ministry that Dewayne said he had reservations about “being the right guy for” when someone at the revival told him he was the man to lead it. As with any organization that has survived 100 years, the impacts last generations. “I was at Watson Clinic earlier this year for some testing, and across the room there was a lady who kept looking my way, and I’m trying to figure out if I should know who she is,” Dewayne shares. “She eventually walks over to me and says, ‘Do you remember picking me up on Swindoll Road when you drove that bus?’” In the 70s it was a bus ministry that connected people. In 2022 it’s online streaming of worship services, it’s a commitment of churchgoers to serve community organizations alongside each other, and as Pastor Stewart puts it, it’s about “sticking to the Word because it’s the living Word and it will never return void.”
Welcome Home! Office: 863.683.2782 | Model Home: 863.858.3228 lakejamesadultcommunity.comerniewhiteconstruction.com Lakeland’s premier adult community.
3 The Joinery640 E. Main St Open Monday through Thursday until 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m., and Sunday until 8 p.m Quickly establishing itself as one of Lakeland’s must-stops in the last few years, The Joinery has a little bit of everything to keep you satisfied. Whether you’re looking for a great bowl of ramen from Sabu, a sushi burrito from �to, or just want to sit down and have a few drinks at the bar, there are plenty of options within the Joinery to keep you coming back for more. You have until 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday to get there, but on Friday and Saturday you can sit back and enjoy until 11 p.m.
2 LoveBird 2101 Florida Ave Open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until 9p.m In no time at all it seems, LoveBird has made an extensive impact on the food scene in Lakeland. Serving up an incredible abundance of Nashville Hot Chicken every day and garnering an audience of more than 4,000 followers on Instagram, people come through for the chicken, but stay for the good vibes. Here’s the thing about LoveBird— it’s impossible to just go once. Once you get your hands on their Bird & the Bee sandwich, or their So Gouda Mac & Cheese, you’ll be back with all your favorite people.
1 Black and Brew (Main Street) | 205 E Main St Open Monday through Thursday until 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday until 9 p.m. and Sunday until 5 p.m.
METRO When it’s getting late and you’re stomach is growling, there are better options than just hitting the same old drive-through line.
AfterSeven7
The Black and Brew on Main street across from Munn Park is a staple to downtown Lakeland. And while a lot of small businesses/coffee shops typically close their doors by 4 or 5 p.m., Black and Brew is the bistro that keeps on bumpin’. They’re open until 8 p.m. on Monday through Thursday and until 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. So the next time you’re craving one of their signature salads or a refreshing turkey & brie sandwich for dinner, stop on by this Lakeland favorite.
Say it’s late. Let’s go with 2 a.m. Maybe even 3? You’re driving back home from out of town and you’re just too hungry to make anything in your kitchen. You need someplace to stop real quick— Salem’s Fresh Eats off Memorial has got your back. Open from 10 a.m. until a whopping 4 a.m. every single day of the week, Salem’s is able to provide you with quick dine in or drive through options like a good gyro, philly cheesesteak, or fish & shrimp. When everything else is closed, Salem’s isn’t.
4 Cob & Pen 1221 S. Florida Ave.
Open Sunday through Saturday until 4 a.m
5 Gator’s Dockside 5147 US Hwy. 98 S. Open Sunday through Saturday until midnight Gator’s Dockside is a family-friendly sports bar that is perfect for your late night family outing. Craving wings? Their signature wings are a fan favorite. And if you’re feeling adventurous, just know they don’t call it Gator’s Dockside for nothing. Their menu is stacked with gator-based dishes like gator taters, gator nachos, gator tail and more. They’re open until midnight every night, so you’ve got plenty of time to stop by.
7
Salem’s Fresh Eats 101 E. Memorial Blvd.
6
The Brass Tap1515 Town Center Dr. Open Sun.-Thurs. until midnight and Fri.Sat. until 2 a.m. Picture this: it’s Friday night around 10 p.m. and you just got out of a movie at Lakeside Village. You ate your weight in popcorn, but of course, you’re hungry for real food. Where can you go? The Brass Tap is here for you when no one else is. Perfect for a late night draft and a good old burger and fries, this stop is open until midnight Sunday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. Friday through Saturday. And it’s right on Town Center Drive, so it’s just a short walk away if you’re leaving the movies or closing out a night of shopping.
Open Sunday through Thursday until 11 p.m. and Friday through Saturday until midnight It’s hard to think of a better vibe than a late night hang at Cob & Pen. If you’re out with friends and find yourself looking for a place to have good food, drinks, and conversation, then you’ve found your spot. If it’s a Monday, jump into a game of trivia and order the ultimate fries for a good time. Or go ahead and try their legendary fish & chips — you won’t regret it. Cob & Pen is open Sunday through Thursday until 11 p.m. and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, so your late night cravings can be met.
2 Pit Boss Pro 1077 SQ SAND PELLET SMOKER $499 | Lowe’s It may be small and portable in size, but the Pit Boss Pro packs a serious punch. Coming equipped with 1077 square inches of adjustable Porcelain Coated Steel grids on its vertical shelves, you’ll have plenty of space to do your cooking. And with WiFi capabilities similar to the Ironwood, this smoker will give you meals that are bigger, better, and tastier.
3 Joe’sOklahomaHighland 900SQ CHARCOALHORIZONTALSMOKER $449 | Lowe’s Oklahoma Joe’s Highland smoker is the perfect smoker to introduce to your household, providing you with a more classic smoker experience. It comes equipped with high-temperature, heavy-gauge steel construction that offers durability along with a convenient fire access door and multiple dampers to give you more control over your smoking experience.
This is the priciest option on the list, but for good reason. It’s a grill and a smoker, and is packed with some pretty epic features, including WiFi technology that will let you control your grill and monitor your cooks through an app. It also has a Super Smoke mode, allowing you to reach new and advanced levels of rich flavor.
Mountain CHARCOAL/WOOD BULLET SMOKER
The Traeger Ironwood 885 is the priciest option on the list, but for good reason. It’s both a grill and a smoker, and is packed with some pretty epic features, including WiFi technology that will let you control your grill and monitor your cooks through the Traeger app. The Ironwood also has a Super Smoke mode, allowing you to reach new and advanced levels of rich flavor.
SmokeyWeber
$419 | Crowder Brothers Ace Hardware
A more cost effective smoker, this smoker comes with three chromecoated smoking racks, thermostat temperature control for even, consistent smoking, and a built-in temperature gauge. Everything you need to begin your smoking journey is right here with the Masterbuilt Analog. or many households, the grill is the focal point of their outdoor space. If you’re looking for the ultimate boost in taste and flavor, you should consider adding a smoker to your arsenal. Smokers are designed to cook food at lower temperatures over longer periods of time, which allows more time for the smoke flavor to penetrate the food and truly upgrade your backyard barbecue. But where do you start? Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of quality smokers with a variety of features that you can pick up today (as long as they are in stock!) right here in Lakeland. 5
1 Traeger Ironwood 885 WOOD PELLET WIFI GRILL AND SMOKER $1,599.99 Crowder Brothers Ace Hardware
F A BARBECUEBACKYARDBETTER
4
AnalogMasterbuilt 530SQ ELECTRIC SMOKER $199 | Lowe’s
32 THE LAKELANDER C o n t a c t J u l i e R i c e , D i r e c t o r o f E n r o l l m e n t j r i c e @ l c s o n l i n e . o r g | 8 6 3 . 6 8 8 . 2 7 7 1 F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t l c s o n l i n e . o r g / a d m i s s i o n s Schedule your campus tour today to discover what makes Lakeland Christian School unique. WE'RE DIFFERENT. L E A R N I N G , L E A D E R S H I P , S E R V I C E & W O R S H I P . Lakeland Christian School equips students for a lifetime of
ISSUE 78
34 THE LAKELANDER BEHIND THE SCENES WITH FIVE UP-AND-COMING FOOD CONCEPTS BEING REFINED IN CATAPULT KITCHEN AND A LOOK AT THE SUCCESS OF AN ALUM WrittenByAdam Spaford PhotosbyPaulBostrom
35ISSUE 78 ONIGIRIBRISKETBEEFSMOKEDKOREANFRIEDRICEKIMCHIONIGIRISALMONONIGIRI OMUSUBEE ANA IMAI
36 THE LAKELANDER rom a basementdiminutiveareato an expansive entrepreneurs’mirrorsshortIncubatorofworkspace,professionaltheevolutionCatapult’sKitchenisnothingofremarkable.IttheIncubator
F CATAPULT KITCHEN HAS WORKSPACEPROFESSIONALTOBASEMENTDIMINUTIVEFROMDEVELOPEDAAREAEXPANSIVE MUFFHENSBREWERBAKINGVEGETATIONPLANTFOODS PINOY CRAVINGS BLUE DOG BARBECUE
Maggie came to the first version of Catapult more than five years ago as she was writing a thesis on restaurant entrepreneurship at Southeastern University. The kitchen was barely 250 square feet - and the equipment was the entire offering. “At that time, members had to acquire their own permits,” Maggie says. But even those limitations didn’t hinder the Kitchen Incubator as the launchpad for Crumbles and Cream, Krazy Kombucha, Honeycomb Bread Bakers, The Salty Cow, No Guilt Baking Company, and Born & Bread Bakehouse. In its new form, the Incubator boasts Wafu, Asian Food Mart, and Whisk the SweetThereBakeshop.willsurely be many more to join Lakeland’s culinary pantheon from Catapult’s Kitchen Incubator. Here’s a visual foretaste of the incredible food being crafted there right now. And there’s even better news: you don’t have to wait to try it. Visit catapultlakeland. com/events for a calendar of Kitchen PopUps – a rotating line-up of Incubator members serve up their best creations from a window on the east side of the Catapult building near the Lakeland Station – there’s even covered outdoor seating. Now, feast your eyes!
transformations of raw-ingredient culinary ideas and passion into delicious meals shared with friends. Kitchen Director Maggie Leach tells us how the Incubator works as its members share their most distinctive creations with us. You’re much more likely to sit across from your favorite people and eat this scrumptious food because the Catapult Kitchen Incubator exists. Even with incredible cuisine, the difficulty of the traditional restaurant business path is proverbial; getting one’s painstakingly prepared and crafted product in front of hungry patrons after start-up, maintenance, staff, marketing, and inevitable mistake-and-adjustment costs is daunting. But the 5,000 square-foot Incubator, which currently houses 30 members with capacity for 50, bridges that treacherous gap from concept to consumption for its culinary entrepreneurs. In addition to offering commercial equipment and 24/7 access for late/early food preparation, this side of Catapult, like its Workspace side, offers all those great benefits conducive to success: networking, collaboration and education - especially the demystification of food regulations. As Maggie explains, “There’s guidance on permitting, inspections, and accounting with the goal of each business having its own brick-and-mortar location - or being part of a manufacturing process - in six months to three years. This grows Lakeland’s culinary economy and provides Lakelanders with locally-sourced options.”
What’s important for eaters (and readers!) to know about your food? Yes, my foods have beer in them. No, they will not make you drunk.
BAKING Meghin Magliano
What’s your culinary background? I started out baking really young; I’d bake for weddings and parties but it was always just a hobby. But ultimately I wanted to experiment with baking which paired naturally with my other favorite hobby: beer. Tell us about your culinary dream: It’s the face…the face people make when they bite into something that is so insanely delicious that they lose control of all facial features. The face gets me every time. Baking and beer, separately, have always brought people together, to experience new flavors or to relive a memory. Combining the two initially, I think I just wanted to have fun, but really, both are luxuries that make people happy.
DELIGHTAFTERNOON LEARN MORE & ORDER AYOU’RENUT BREWER
oils.BANGBANG BOWL RICEPUDDINGCHIA LEARN MORE & ORDER
IS MY FIRST FOOD VENTURE.
Tell us about your culinary dream: Eating well is a priority for many of us but often life gets in the way. We want to make it as easy as possible for our customers to incorporate healthful, vibrant meals into their everyday lives. What’s important for eaters (and readers!) to know about your food? We are a scratch kitchen making all of our sauces, dressings & marinades in house. By doing this we are able to limit the use of processed foods which are so often laden with preservatives, oils, sugar and salt. We are so happy to bring our customers fully plant based meals which are also mostly gluten free and free of processed
Rima Schillinger What’s your culinary background? I started cooking with my grandmom when I was quite small. I love bringing together friends and family around food. Food is love! How long have you been pursuing this particular food business? Vegetation is my first food venture. We started out of the Incubator about three years ago and are so grateful for the support we’ve received since that first day. Maggie is like my kitchen mom. She’s tireless in her efforts to educate us and nurture the growth of our culinary businesses.VEGETATION
PLANTVEGETATIONFOODS
40 THE LAKELANDER
Promotional space sponsored by: lakeland symphony orchestra LKLDSYMPHONY.COM | (863) 688-3743
LEARN MORE & ORDER
What’s your ultimate goal for this business, and what are the milestones you want to hit along the way? Our ultimate goal is to have a brick and mortar where people could gather together around our food in the way we did back in the Philippines. We are excited to have our food trailer soon – it was made possible with a grant we won this year from the support of the Lakeland community.
CRAVINGSPINOY
Josephine Colorina and Jun Dobrea
THE THIGHSEXY PRAWNSWOON LUMPIA THE SKEWEDSEXY
What’s your culinary background? I (Josephine) have always been a foodie, binge-watching cooking shows and experimenting in my kitchen although I have no professional background working in a restaurant. The dishes we created are inspired by the foods we grew up with. We add fusion to modernize it and make it relatable to others. On the other hand, Jun has worked in the food industry in several capacities. His food was inspired by his grandmother and her delicacies that he enjoyed growing up. What’s important for eaters (and readers!) to know about your food? Filipino cuisine has so much more to offer than lumpia, adobo, and pancit. We hope that through our food creations we can bring the community together: for Lakelanders who’ve visited the Philippines and loved the cuisine and for Filipinos craving the tastes of home.
KAMAYANTHE “WE HOPE... WE TOGETHER.”COMMUNITYBRINGCANTHE
THOSEOPTIONS“MUFFHENSEXISTSTOPROVIDEFORINNEEDOFSAFEBAKEDGOODSTOEAT.”
MUFFINCINNAMONSWEET LEARN MORE & ORDER
BAKERYMUFFHENS
What’s important for eaters (and readers!) to know about your food? There is a misconception that vegan and allergen-friendly foods are not palatable but Muffhens’ customers and reviews show clearly that this is not the case. Even those that are not into healthy eating and “alternatives” have enjoyed our products and given rave reviews.
Shana Henry
What’s your culinary background? I taught myself to cook in college in order to prepare for the possibility of having a family and/or children. My creations are inspired by finding safe and delicious recipes for my family to consume and enjoy. Tell us about your culinary dream: More than 85 million Americans shop with allergies in mind and have to be conscious of what they eat either due to allergies and/or sensitivities; the number is up 11 percent year over year. There are more than 32 million Americans who have a very restricted diet due to life-threatening allergies and who struggle to find safe food options at schools, hospitals, hotels, sporting events, and so on. My dream is that there will be more products that are safe for consumption.
HOMEBUYING STARTS WITH PEFCU. 1.800.226.6673 | PEFCU.com | @PublixCU Federally Insured by NCUA. NMLS #403109
“I LOVE TO SHOW PEOPLE WHAT REAL BBQ IS TOSUPPOSEDBE.” CUCUMBER WATERMELON SALAD, BRISKET, MAC N CHEESE AND BRISKET BAKED BEANS
We featured Blue Dog in our Made Issue in January 2021. The locals have certainly “made it,” evidenced by the fact they recently opened a storefront at The Joinery, which is currently open on weekends.
BLUE BARBECUEDOG
What’s your ultimate goal for this business? We just opened up inside The Joinery! Come check us out! Thank you to everyone that has helped make this dream of mine come true! Max Miller
LEARN MORE & ORDER
What’s important for eaters (and readers!) to know about your food? If we don’t make it, we don’t sell it.
What’s your food background? Cooking has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I have zero restaurant experience and I don’t use any hand-me-down recipes. Why do you have this culinary dream? I love to show people what real BBQ is supposed to be.
50 THE LAKELANDER O your favorite min Moore® colors et $7 OFF select paints. Your home deser ves a great paint We now carr y Benjamin Moore® premium paints, giving you the ver y best color and quality for your paint project O f fer valid for $7 of f gallons, up to five (5) gallons, of ben from par ticipating Ace retailer. Subjec t to availabilit y. Cannot be combined with other deals or applied to previous purchases Retailer reser ves the right to cancel or modif y without notice O f fer expires 0 4/30/2020 ©2019 Benjamin Moore & Co ben, Benjamin Moore, Gennex , and the triangle “ M ” symbol are regis tered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co A ll other marks are the proper ty of their respec tive owner 10/19 HardwareAceBros.Crowder 2 LakelandFLocations30833L,Lakeland comacehardware|6702683(863)
DISCOVER THE LANDS OF YOUR FAITH After touring the Lands of the Bible by motorcoach or cruise ship, you and your group will return home with a refreshed faith and memories to share. Our expert guides will provide meaningful insights for you and your group as you explore your favorite Biblical sites, and award winning accommodations will give you a great night’s rest with breakfast and dinner included. Learn more and book your group’s tour today! www.NoseworthyTravel.com/TheLakelander • 800-929-4684 ext. 208 nt@travelwithus.com • 5725 Imperial Lakes Blvd. • Mulberry, FL 33860
What’s your culinary background?
What’s your ultimate goal for this business? We hope to make onigiri accessible to all with our own production facility.
ORDER
LEARN MORE
There are many ways to present onigiri and ours is conbini style onigiri. We package our onigiri using a wrapper that keeps the seaweed separated from the onigiri. The seaweed stays fresh and crispy. We bring the seaweed from Chiba Prefecture in Japan. And there is a very interesting way to unwrap it. It is a cultural experience.
What’s important for eaters (and readers!) to know about your food?
I co-owned a Chinese restaurant in Brazil. I was born and raised in Brazil, which has the largest Japanese community outside Japan. In Japanese culture, onigiri is not a type of sushi. It is a triangle-shaped ball of pillowy japonica rice, seasoned with salt and various kinds of savory fillings.
OMUSUBEE Ana Imai ONIGIRIBRISKET &
54LOVEBIRD THE LAKELANDER
Written By RJ Walters Photos by Dan Austin The Nashville Hot sandwich is big, bold and (can be) fiery. 55ISSUE 78
Perfectly Fried Tenders, Tangy Slaw and Jalapeno Bacon Corn LOVEBIRD
The question Jeremy Brumley and his wife Leah would pose to each other before bed each night before opening LoveBird in April 2021seems almost tongue and cheek now because of the restaurant’s early success. But the truth is, one of Lakeland’s hottest new eateries to launch in recent years wasn’t just a flash in the pan that happened to work – it is a carefully built and curated dining entertainment experience that is less focused on trends and more focused on quality products and connecting on an emotional level with its customers. Still, the proof truly is in the banana pudding. (just check out their menu) “[At first], I was trying to be realistic with everything going on, the size of the place and our menu,” Jeremy says. “I thought we might have some of our friends and family, some friends of friends come, and we’d sit out here (on the patio) and have some tenders and have a draft beer with them.”
The second most ordered entree is the Nashville Hot sandwich, and the favorite side dish of customers are the ooey gooey Dirty Fries.
Jeremy, a lifelong Lakelander, left the security of an executive level position with PDQ, the effects of COVID cul ture were still playing out for local busi nesses, and the restaurant was opening in a one-time gas station with little square footage and cramped parking quarters. The Brumley’s – parents to four children ages 14 to 28 – hoped the calculated risk would pay off, and the fact that the fried Southern Chicken spot has on occasion run out of chicken because of demand is proof that it has.
“I think what we learned is that we are so grateful that Lakeland allowed us to get open and stay busy. It’s been crazy,” Jeremy said. Although LoveBird heavily promotes its Nashville Hot Chicken, Leah said the number one seller on the menu is the G.O.A.T. It is LoveBird’s take on the traditional fried chicken sandwich (think window wars of national chains like Popeyes and Chick Fil A) and features generous hunks of their home made chicken that is hand breaded following a 24-hour brining process.
ISSUE
oney, are we going to be busy?”
H LoveBird owners Leah and Jeremy Brumley Fried Chicken, Tomato Cucumber Salad and Bourbon Baked Beans 78
The restaurant serves north of 10,000 pounds of chicken each month, it is customary to see a line of patrons wrapped around the corner of the building, and recently a customer traveled all the way from Tallahassee to see how the food stacked up to the emerging brand’s recognizable neon lights and lively vibe.
“I THOUGHT WE MIGHT HAVE SOME OF OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY, SOME FRIENDS OF FRIENDS COME, AND WE’D SIT OUT HERE (ON THE PATIO) AND HAVE SOME TENDERS AND HAVE A DRAFT BEER WITH THEM.”
NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE Call (863) 614-1794 Or visit DrWalding.com 444 W. Pipkin Road | Lakeland, FL 33813 We are proud to offer comprehensive dental care for Lakeland Area families including: We’re here to provide you with the level of care you need, no matter what stage of life you are in. Spring into a Brighter Smile! 2/22 • TMJ • Botox (Cosmetic & TMJ) Full and Partial Dentures • Emergency Dental Care • Family Dentistry • Dental Implants • BoneExtractionsGrafting • Facial Esthetics • Crowns & Bridges Fresh Artisan Bread · Craft Coffee · Breakfast · Lunch honeycombbread.com | 863.662.5513 | 140 6th Street SW, Downtown Winter Haven QE @honeycombbread
“NOW, I THINK WE MIGHT RECEIVE DEATH THREATS IF WE TAKE THAT BAMA CHICK SANDWICH OFF THE MENU, SO IT’S HERE TO STAY.”
“Now, I think we might receive death threats if we take That Bama Chick sandwich off the menu, so it’s here to stay,” Leah jokes.
59ISSUE 78
The go-to dishes keep the cooks busy, but the Brumley’s are not afraid to admit they have made some minor menu tweaks to their original concept. When LoveBird opened you could order a barbecue sandwich and cheesy potatoes. But not for long. Jeremy said he and Leah strongly considered process efficiencies such as oven time required for potatoes and how to serve quality hot food to as many people as possible each day. They also started with three core sandwiches, with the idea to rotate another seasonally, but the way repeat customers have responded to the chicken sandwich with white sauce, thick cut bacon and pimento cheese forced the couple to re-evaluate that stance.
60 THE LAKELANDER
“WE PREFERWOULDTO GROW WITH MANAGEMENTCANDIDATES,INTERNALOURTEAMHERE,ANDITHINKTHEREAREPLENTYOFOPPORTUNITIESINOTHERAREASTOPUTALOVEBIRD." LOVEBIRD
If their food is an attraction, it’s their brand that might create longterm staying power. Its bright colors, its classic monochrome floors and its consistently flavorful food with a little room left for creativity. Leah curates all of the playlists customers enjoy whether dinging inside or outside. They rotate in and out craft or region al sodas like Cheerwine, and Jeremy and the team have a large, always evolving selection of craft beers to pair with your food. “Not to get too cerebral in terms of how it’s set up…but the beer is almost like the old ‘new releases’ of music, and that’s what you’ll see with our ‘staff pick’ or ‘new release,’” Jeremy says. Before Jeremy turned 20 he opened Woodpecker Records in Lakeland, a business and brand he ran and cultivated for a decade. He says aside from his personal experiences, he also learned about the staying power of good branding by watching Ron Jon, who he says “wasn’t even a good surf shop” but evolved into becoming a globally transcendent logo and name. “My dad has a Ron Jon sticker at his house, and he hates the beach!”
The lighting, logos, apparel and social media all play a role, but Jeremy almost always steers back to the quali ty and consistency of their food. The couple has aspirations to expand to more locations, starting throughout Florida, but when is not a matter of time, but of timing. “We would prefer to grow with internal candidates, our management team here, and I think there are plenty of opportunities in other areas to put a LoveBird,” Jeremy says. “We are working through our processes and procedures and ultimately for someone to be at that stage where they are ready to open up their own LoveBird.”Thecouple is still adjusting to being “food celebrities” in Lakeland, which includes Leah being nick named “Mama Bird” by employees at the Southgate Publix. They may eventually get used to their status, but they’ll never forget the journey it has taken to get here. “Sometimes I like to tease him,” Leah says. “So, do you think we’ll be busy today?”
61ISSUE 78
BONNET SPRINGS
Do you have a favorite dish at LoveBird? I am a spicy food lover to the core, and choosing “favorites" can be personally difficult, but the Nashville Hot Sammie (ordered HOT) was fire! Quite literally. Tears of joy were shed. What does it mean for a city like Lakeland to have businesses like LoveBird to support and enjoy? Living in a city that values art, recreation and culture is important. A large part of our city's culture can be witnessed in the ever-growing independently owned food businesses. Supporting small businesses like LoveBird adds character to our town, encourages local entrepreneurship and fosters real connections in our community. As a successful entrepreneur, what advice would you give to restaurants like LoveBird about taking initial success and growing it into a healthy long-term business?
It seems Leah and Jeremy have found their secret sauce (pun intended)! Since opening, they’ve continued to be consistent and mindful of growth. While not one area can be more important than another, I value food quality and have witnessed others in our industry begin to fail by simply choosing to be cheap. All in all, keep doing what you’re doing, because you’re doing great!
ZINGY.PUNGENTPLEASANTLY"OOOOO...PIQUANTANDFIERY!!!FLAVORFUL...” 63ISSUE 78
Born & Bread Bakehouse is just a few blocks from LoveBird. Founder and head baker Jenn Smurr was named one of America’s Top 1,000 rising entrepreneurs in 2021. Jen loves all things related to good food and supporting local businesses. She recently met up with “The Lakelander '' for lunch to share her thoughts on LoveBird’s food and atmosphere, and how she sees the restaurant through her unique perspective. What's your first impression when you walk into LoveBird?
Born & Bread Bakehouse founder and owner Jennifer Smurr stopped a few blocks down to enjoy lunch with "The Lakelander."
How would you describe LoveBird's food to family and friends? A fast casual restaurant serving Nashville style hot chicken at various spice levels with southern sides and a large variety of canned craft beers out of a small previously occupied gas station. What adjectives come to mind when you think of the flavor(s) of their food? Oooo. Piquant: pleasantly pungent and zingy. Fiery!!! Flavorful.
With a slogan “Almost Famous Chicken” and bright pink accents, I instantly felt the playful and humble qualities that embody this southern eatery.
ISSUE 78
nearly
LoveBird pays homage to Woodpecker Record Store, a business Jeremy ran locally for a decade.
65 Jeremy and Leah are involved owners, always working to improve processes and procedures to set employees up for success.
October 14, 15 & 16th 2022 a FREE Community Event in Downtown LAKELAND, FL CONCOURS & CAR SHOW SAVE THE DATES Friday, Oct. 14th 6p-9p Hot Rod Rendezvous + RADwood Saturday, Oct. 15th 10a-3p Open Car Show + Concoure d’Elegance Sunday, Oct. 16th 9a-2p Road Rally www.LakeMirrorCarShow.com presented by
67ISSUE 78
- Swan must be kept at Lake Morton - You may not touch the swans -They may only eat city approved foods - You may name your swan and talk to it FREE PET SWAN PURCHASEWITH THE LAKELAND AC CO Limitations apply. See geico.com for more details. GEICO & affiliates. Washington, DC 20076 © 2021 GEICO 3615863-400-7460SFlorida Ave, geico.com/lakeland-boleyLakeland ¡Hablamos Español!
sincereplacementLeaderCLINICORTHOPEDICMESSIEHinanteriorhipinCentralFlorida1991Less-invasivesurgery for the active patient looking for a quick recovery and a quicker return to work Two 1601LocationsSixthStreet SE Winter Haven, FL 33880 3200863.419.9301Physicians Way Sebring, FL 863.471.970033880 LeaderCLINICORTHOPEDICMESSIEHinanteriorhipreplacement in Central Florida since 1991 Less-invasive surgery for the active patient looking for a quick recovery and a quicker return to work.
OnlyRestaurantsinLakeland ONLY FINELAKELANDINDINING
LOVEBIRD ELECTRIC ATMOSPHERE, LOTS OF FRESH CHICKEN, FUN SIDES AND CRAFT BEER (863) 937-8055 2101 FLORIDA AVE S, LAKELAND, FL 33803 LOVEBIRDEATS.COM DINING AMERICANASIANBEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S NORTH 1070 WEDGEWOOD ESTATES BLVD LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 853-9464 BEEFOBRADY.COM BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S SOUTH 4810 FLORIDA AVE S. LAKELAND, 33813 (863) 646-7757 BEEFOBRADY.COM DECISIONS GRILL & BAR 1621 E EDGEWOOD DR. LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863)-686-6441 FAT JACKS 2940 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 687-0262 FATJACKSDELIPUBINC.COM FRED’S MARKET RESTAURANT 2120 HARDEN BLVD, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 603-7080 FREDSMARKET.COM FRESCOS 132 S KENTUCKY AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 683-5267 FRESCOSLAKELAND.COM REECECLIFF 940 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 686-6661 REECECLIFF.COM TEXAS CATTLE COMPANY 735 E. MAIN ST., LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 686-1434 TEXASCATTLECOMPANY.NET CURRY MANGO 6625 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 940-2275 MYCURRYMANGO.COM MAGIC WOK OF LIN 2129 CO RD 540A LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 709-1688 MY INDI KITCHEN 2810 LAKELAND HIGHLANDS RD. LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863)-225-8057 MYINDIKITCHEN.COM PEKING HOUSE 2411 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 688-9022 THEPEKINGHOUSE.COM PHO TAN 2920 S COMBEE RD LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 665-1312 PHOTON-LAKELAND.BUSINESS.SITE SĀBU RAMEN AT THE JOINERY 640 EAST MAIN ST LAKELAND,FL 33801 (863) 940-2050 SABURAMEN.COM SAIGON 1554 TOWN CENTER DR W LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 686-6560 SAIGONBISTROFL.COM SPICE 3895 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 709-8321 SPICETHAISUSHIRESTAURANT.COM THAI OISHI 1535 TOWN CENTER DR W, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 333-0657 THAIOISHIRESTAURANT.COM
BARBECUE BORN & BREAD BAKEHOUSE 1113 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 450-4513 BORNANDBREADBAKEHOUSE.COM CAFE ZUPPINA BAKERY 4417 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 644-5144 CAFEZUPPINA.COM FLEUR BISTRO LAKELAND 4525 FLORIDA AVE. S LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 937-5949 FLEURBISTRO.COM LA IMPERIAL BAKERY 830 E. MAIN ST. LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 500-4422 IMPERIALLAKELAND.COM BLUE DOG AT THE JOINERY 640 E MAIN ST LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 337-4583 BLUEDOGCRAFTBARBECUE.COM GASKINS BARBECUE 1614 TOWN CENTER DR LAKELAND, FL 33803 863-816-5644 GASKINSBARBECUE.COM GRANGER & SONS BARBECUE 8121 US-98 LAKELAND,NFL 33809 (863) 858-7572 OVATION BISTRO & BAR 4715 FLORIDA AVE S LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863)417-2996 FRESCOS AUTHENTIC SOUTHERN COOKING AND HANDCRAFTED COCKTAILS (863) 683-5267 132 S. KENTUCKY AVE., LAKELAND, FL 33801 FRESCOSLAKELAND.COM JIMBOS PIT BAR BQ 1215 E MEMORIAL BLVD LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 683-3777 JIMBOSPITBARBEQUE.COM RED TOP PIT STOP 12160 US HWY 98 N LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 853-9222 RIB HOUSE 2918 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 687-8260 RIBHOUSELAKELAND.COM BAKERIES
for the most special occasions. AN INVITING SPACE FOR YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS BANQUET61.COM 215863-404-6161MainSt.Lakeland, FL 33801
Centrally located in historic downtown Lakeland, Banquet61 a one-of-a-kind meeting space and event venue. Honored to chosen most meetings, our venue equipped with state of the art sound visual banquet staff and award-winning executive chefs make culinary fit
is
be
is
for the
monitors and lighting. Professional
for an extraordinary
experience
74 THE LAKELANDER
intimate celebrations and important
systems,
ISSUE 78 BARS BREAKFAST THE BACK NINE 7331 US HWY 98 N, LAKELAND, FL 33810 (863) 603-3700 THEBACKNINELAKELAND.COM BREWLANDS 5733 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 646-2600 BREWLANDSBILLIARDS.COM COB & PEN 1221 FLORIDA AVE S, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 937-8126 COBANDPENLAKELAND.COM CRAFT + KITCHEN 3234 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 455-9555 CKLAKELAND.COM REC ROOM 202 N MASSACHUSETTS AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 213-4073 RECROOMLKLD.COM REVIVAL 119 S KENTUCKY AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33801 BISCUITS BENEDICTSAND 1212 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 937-8293 BRITTS NORTH 6617 N SOCRUM LOOP RD LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 417-2716 LOVEBRITTS.COM THE BRUNCH BOX 735 EAST MEMORIAL BLVD, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863)686-9786 CHARLIE’S MINI DONUTS AND COFFEE 1023 E COUNTY RD 540A LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 500-1414 HOLE IN ONE DONUTS 2076 E EDGEWOOD DR LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 665-8385 BRITTS CLASSIC AMERICAN FARE SERVED IN A WARM, LAKELAND,3662(863)ENVIRONMENTINVITING940-4300HARDENBLVD,FL33803 LOVEBRITTS.COM 1916 IRISH PUB TRADITIONAL IRISH FLAVORS WITH A MODERN TWIST (863) 834-2384 2900 BUCKINGHAM AVE., LAKELAND, FL 33803 1916IRISHPUB.COM
COFFEECOUNTRY CLUB BLACK AND BREW AT LAKELAND LIBRARY 100 LAKE MORTON DR LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 500-9500 BLACKANDBREW.COM BLACK AND BREW DOWNTOWN 205 E MAIN ST LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 682-1210 BLACKANDBREW.COM CONCORD COFFEE 1037 FLORIDA AVE S #135 LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 225-2283 CONCORDCOFFEE.COM DIVICIOUS DELI AND COFFEE SHOP 128 E MAIN LAKELAND,STFL 33801 (863) 940-9779 DIVICIOUSDELI.COM FIRE STYLES COFFEE BAR 2084 E EDGEWOOD DR LAKELAND, FLORIDA 33803 (863) 940-3515 HILLCREST COFFEE 119 HILLCREST ST LAKELAND, FL 33815 (863) 398-9155 HILLCRESTCOFFEEFL.COM MITCHELL’S COFFEE HOUSE 235 KENTUCKY AVE. LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863)680-2944 MITCHELLSCOFFEE.COM PRESSED COFFEE 213 E BAY LAKELAND,STFL 33801 (863) 603-3166 PRESSEDLKLD.COM 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 LAKELAND COUNTRY CLUB 929 LAKE HOLLINGSWORTH DR, LAKELAND, 33803 (863) 680-2582 THELAKELANDCC.COM LONE PALM GOLF CLUB 800 LONE PALM DR, LAKELAND, FL 33815 (863) 499-5480 LONEPALMGC.COM AX-CALIBER AXE THROWING, VIRTUAL RANGE PAIRED WITH CRAFT COFFEE AND ELEVATED FARE (863) 592-3500 204 E. ORANGE ST. #102, LAKELAND AXCALIBER.COM
ISSUE 78 FINEBURGERSDININGITALIANNINETEEN61 MODERN SPANISH STYLE WITH A LATINO TWIST (863) 455-7316 215 E MAIN ST., LAKELAND NINETEEN61.COM TERRACE GRILLE SCRATCH KITCHEN IN ELEGANT HISTORIC HOTEL (863) 6035-5420 329 E MAIN ST, LAKELAND, FL 33801 TERRACEGRILLELAKELAND.COM BAY STREET BISTRO 211 E BAY ST, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 683-4229 BAYSTREETBISTRO.NET PATIO 850 850 S TENNESSEE AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) PATIO850.COM940-2030 RED DOOR 733 E PALMETTO ST, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 937-9314 REDDOORLAKELAND.COM SCARPAS 1831 E EDGEWOOD DR, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 937-8940 SCARPASITALIAN.COM WACO KITCHEN 3900 DON EMERSON DR, LAKELAND, FL 33811 (863) 583-4004 WACOKITCHEN.COM CHOP SHOP 118 S KENTUCKY AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 603-4040 CHOPSHOPBURGERS.COM SUPER DUPER SPOT 640 E MAIN ST #7, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 608-9455 WWW.SUPERDUPERSPOT.COM S&L 2915 S COMBEE RD, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 665-0731 S-AND-I-RESTAURANT.FOOD96.COM IL FORNO 3615 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 607-6030 ILFORNOLAKELAND.COM PALACE PIZZA DOWNTOWN 114 S KENTUCKY AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 688-0045 PALACEPIZZADOWNTOWN.COM PALACE SOUTHSIDE 4780 FLORIDA AVE S, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 619-5919 PALACESOUTHSIDE.COM PALACE ITALIAN RESTAURANT 6120 US HWY 98 N, LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 853-1316 PALACERESTAURANTLAKELAND.COM
CUBAN DELIGHT CAFE 1039 E COUNTRY ROAD 540A, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 701-0190 ELENA'S CUBAN CAFE 2246 E EDGEWOOD DR, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 665-3333 ELENASCUBANCAFE.GETSAUCE.COM JULIO'S SANDWICH SHOP 1825 E. EDGEWOOD DR., LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 686-1713 WEST CARIBBEAN CUBAN RESTAURANT 2215 S COMBEE RD, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 606-5954 ZARZA LATIN FOOD AND GRILL 4648 CLEVELAND HEIGHTS BLVD., LAKELAND, FL, 33813 (863) 607-3702 ANTHONY’S HEALTH HUT 5329 FLORIDA AVE S, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 644-5330 ANTHONYSHEALTHHUT.COM CAFE ZUPPINA 4417 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 644-5144 CAFEZUPPINA.COM GARDEN BISTRO 702 E ORANGE ST, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 686-3332 GOOD THYME 1037 DIXIELAND MALL LN, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 603-8296 GOODTHYMELKLD.COM JUICE BOX 4295 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 225-5961 JUICEBOXCAFE.COM KRAZY KOMBUCHA 1030 FLORIDA AVE S, LAKELAND FLORIDA 33803 (863) 661-8015 KRAZYKOMUCHA.LIFE ROOTED A HEALTHY TWIST ON DESSERTS, COFFEES & SHAKES (863) 254-1860 5327 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND TEA LARGO BUBBLE TEA, ACAI BOWLS, COFFEE AND MORE (863) 688-6816 4634 CLEVELAND HEIGHTS BLVD, LAKELAND TEALARGO.COM LATINHEALTHY
ISSUE 78 EVANOS PIZZA 6617 N SOCRUM LOOP RD LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 417-2716 PRIMO’S PIZZERIA 1031 S COMBEE RD LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 669-1020 PRIMOSPIZZERIAMENU.COM ROMEO’S PIZZERIA 2346 GRIFFIN RD LAKELAND, FL 33810 (863) 816-8100 ROMEOSPIZZAPASTA.COM MISTER FISH 715 E PALMETTO ST, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 688-4280 MISTERFISH.ORG PURPLE ONION 316 N KENTUCKY AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 688-5590 RESTAURANTWEBX.COM/PURPLEONION SUBS N SUCH 1008 SOUTH FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 686-9035 SUBSNSUCH.COM JBURNS THIN, CRISPY, SQUARE-CUT PIZZA MADE WITH FRESH(863)INGREDIENTS.450-2986 2306 E EDGEWOOD DR, LAKELAND JBURNSPIZZA.COM LUNCH MEXICAN PIZZAPIZZA SUSHI DONA MEXICANJULIA’SRESTAURANT 5375 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 648-0858 DONAJULIAS.COM MEGA MERCADO 2009 GEORGE JENKINS BLVD, LAKELAND, FL 33815 (863) 688-3202 PLAZA RESTAURANTMEXICAN 3635 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 940-4428 PLAZAMEXICOLAKELAND.COM TAPATIOS NORTH 734 E MEMORIAL BLVD LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 686-6958 TAPATIOSMEMORIAL.COM TAPATIOS SOUTH 6645 FLORIDA AVE S LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 646-2199 TAPATIOSTOGO.COM ATO POKE AND SUSHI BURRITO 640 E MAIN ST LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 225-9752 ATOPOKE.COM FANCY Q NORTH 4306 US HWY 98 N LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 608-7622 FANCYQLAKELAND.COM FANCY Q SOUTH 5615 FLORIDA AVE S LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 646-6666 FANCYQSLAKELAND.COM NEW MOON SUSHI 4231 S FLORIDA AVE, LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 647-1212 NEWMOONSUSHI.COM SCREAM’N TUNA SUSHI 270 E BAY ST #2150 LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 413-0264 SCREAMNTUNASUSHI.COM TSUNAMI 114 N TENNESSEE AVE LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 940-2112 TSUNAMISUSHI.NET
Proud to be joining the Valley Team as Market Manager in support of my wonderful Lakeland Business Community. Expansion • Working Capital • SBA Lending • Equipment Financing • Cash Management Every small business has their plans. Let’s talk about yours.STEPHANIE COLÓN Market Manager, Lakeland 427 S. Florida Avenue scolon@valley.com863.698.0569 © 2022 Valley National Bank. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender. All Rights Reserved. VLY4633
UNDER COVER written by Julianne Waller photography by Mark Batson
“I made a cake when they opened the green Tax Collector’s office, and for the Detroit Tigers when they changed the name to Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium,” she recalls. “We’re in so many people’s photo F
“When I first started decorating, we did the job fairs at the elementary schools every year and the kids would love it,” Debbie remembers with a smile. “They would see us coming down the hallway and yell ‘Publix!’ because they knew they were getting cake. We’d do a little demonstration. I’d show them how to decorate a cake and talk while I decorated and they lovedDebbieit.” has also made cakes to celebrate some of Lakeland’s big changes.
The Lakeland community is full of creatives, but not all of them are in the spotlight. Debbie Boyce, who has decorated cakes at Publix for 18 years, is a hidden gem of the community.
rom weddings to baby showers to birthdays, the 55-year-old has helped countless Lakeland families celebrate the most important moments of their lives. Debbie usually works behind the scenes, so having all eyes on her for an article and photo shoot was a little nerve wracking — but the excitement from her family made it all worth it. Debbie’s four children and 10 grandchildren were thrilled to see her work get much-deserved attention.“They’re the ones who were talking me into this,” she jokes. Debbie raised her children in Lakeland, but she didn’t grow up here. “My dad was in the military so we moved around a lot,” she remembers. “But my grandparents lived in Lakeland.”Debbielived in six or seven places growing up, and even lived in a van for two years when she was in elementary school. When her dad got out of the military, he and his wife moved to Lakeland. Debbie, then 19, moved to Lakeland with her daughter a year later. As Debbie’s family grew, she stayed home with her children – but she stayed busy by baking. The hobby quickly grew into a passion as she practiced more and more. “I made all of my children’s birthday cakes, made cakes for my parent’s family and learned from [decorating] books, and that’s how I started at Debbie’shome.”baking stayed a passion project until her youngest daughter started high school. Since she wasn’t as busy at home, she decided to apply for a job at Publix. “I figured I did it at home, so I’d give it a shot at the grocery store,” she says. “I like Publix and I enjoy my co-workers immensely. I’ve been working with them since I started. We have a lot of support and the benefits are good. I like [my job.]”
Debbie’s years of experience paid off, and she fell in love with her job as customers fell in love with her work. At the start, some of her biggest fans were the kids she visited at elementary schools.
OVER 17 YEARS OF HAIR STYLING TRAINED IN NEW YORK CITY TOP HAIR COLORIST IN LAKELAND, FL NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Located at: The Strand Salon 2537 S. F lorida Ave. Lakeland, FL 33803 Carrie Jara Hair PROFESSIONAL STYLIST 863.604.7776m @car riejarahairQ
“I enjoy the creativity of making wedding cakes, and the sentimental aspect. [Although] I worry every single time I make one if it’s good.” Often, wedding cakes are simply a precursor to Debbie’s long-term relationships with customers.
“I’ve had customers that I start off by making their wedding cakes, and then I make their first anniversary cakes, their baby shower cakes, and their kids’ first birthday cakes,” Debbie says. “A lot of them I see every year when they have an occasion.”
albums and on their phones — there’s a little piece of us everywhere.” Barney Barnett, former vice chairman for Publix who worked for the beloved grocer for 50 years, shared with “The Lakelander” that Debbie has decorated numerous cakes for his family over the years. She acknowledges it is heartwarming to decorate cakes for the kids, and exciting to be a part of Lakeland’s history, but Debbie’s favorite cakes to make are wedding cakes.
“WE’RE IN SO MANY PEOPLE’S PHOTO ALBUMS AND ON THEIR EVERYWHERE.”PIECETHERE’SPHONES.ALITTLEOFUS
“I BAKE WITH HERSELF”HERWANTEDSHETWOOCTOBER,SHE’LLGRANDDAUGHTER.MYBE10INANDYEARSAGODECIDEDSHETOMAKECAKESBY
Debbie has worked at the Lake Miriam Publix her entire career, but she has also been called upon numerous times to help open new locations.Debbie has touched the lives of her customers as well as her own family through baking. “I bake with my granddaughter. She’ll be 10 in October, and two years ago she decided she wanted to make her cakes by herself,” she remembers fondly. “We bake at home and I show her how to do it. She loves cats, so we made a cat cake and she piped the fur on it. She even made mine and my husband’s birthday cakes this year and made me a little mermaid out of fondant.”
87ISSUE 78 “I ENJOY ASPECT.”SENTIMENTALANDCAKES,WEDDINGOFCREATIVITYTHEMAKINGTHE
Since moving to Lakeland, Debbie has had a positive impact on so many people — not only with her impressive decorating, but with her quiet kindness and warmth. “I’m big on memories,” she says. “[I love] making memories with my own family, and being in other people’s memories.”
For more than 18 years, people have included Debbie in their special occasions because of her hard work and skill — and there are many more happy memories to be made. “[I LOVE] MAKING MEMORIES WITH MY OWN FAMILY, AND BEING IN OTHER MEMORIES.”PEOPLE’S
Greater Lakeland LAKELAND TRUCKTACOTOUR through Lakeland Story and Photography by Jordan Randall AND BEYOND
WITH QUESO
WLAKELAND REGIONAL NEWS & STORIES – CURATED FOR LAKELANDERS
AND LOADED WITH JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING YOU COULD EVER WANT. 91
THE
La Calentana 1725 W. MEMORIAL BLVD. If you’re looking for an authentic dose of Mexican food right here in Lakeland that is overflowing with flavor, don’t miss out on La Calentana. A permanent food truck parked right beside a Mexican store, La Calentana has been a must-stop for tacos in Lakeland for years. Just place your order at the truck outside and then grab a drink/pay inside. Whether you’re just on the hunt for a few classic tacos with a meat of your choice, or craving some of their legendary nachos full of deep fried tortillas, white cheese, cilantro, jalapenos and more, you’re sure to leave La Calentana satisfied. hen it comes to tacos, there is no shortage of authentic spots in Lakeland to satisfy your cravings. But sometimes with so many options, choosing where to go can be overwhelming. That’s why we stopped by all our favorite taco trucks in Lakeland (and Winter Haven) and compiled them for you in a fashion that’s sure to whet your appetite. NACHOS ARE A FAN-FAVORITE AT LA CALENTANA, TOPPED FRESCO
92 THE LAKELANDER TACOS ARE ONLY $1 AT TACOS CORRECTLY.READYES,FRIEND.MYYOUTHAT
RECKER
Take one bite into a chimichanga from Tacos My Friend and you’ll be making plans to return for lunch the next day @tacos_my_friend // ig Tacos My Friend off Recker Highway in Winter Haven is a must stop for you and your friends’ next Taco Tuesday festivities. Not only do they have a sleek and stylish taco truck waiting for you as you walk up, but along with it comes a stacked menu that is loaded with mouth watering options for you to satisfy your cravings. The best part? Tacos are only $1 here. Yes, you read that right. Here, tacos really are your friends. Run, don’t walk to Tacos My Friend. My Friend 3899 HWY
Tacos
HAVENWINTER 93ISSUE 78
© 2022 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”) Member SIPC. All rights reserved. (1120-0JP6) SCH4953-13 (1/22) We see things through your eyes. Lydia Boyd Branch Leader 6419 S. Florida Ave., #103 Lakeland, FL 863-450-327233813 Get started schwab.com/lakelandat At Schwab, we hold ourselves accountable for your satisfaction. It’s why we offer a Satisfaction Guarantee, which ensures that if you’re ever dissatisfied with us, we’ll refund your fee and work with you to make things right. You won’t find that kind of promise everywhere, but you will find it here. Accountability is the Schwab way. If you are not completely satisfied for any reason, at your request Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”), Charles Schwab Bank (“Schwab Bank”), or another Schwab affiliate, as applicable, will refund any eligible fee related to your concern within the required time frames. Schwab reserves the right to change or terminate the guarantee at any time. Go to schwab.com/satisfaction to learn what’s included and how it works. 5100 US HWY 98 North Unit #16 Lakeland, FL 33809 Neck pain • Back pain • Motor Vehicle accident • Headaches • Sports injury DRUG FREE, EVIDENCE-BASEDNON-SURGICAL,CHIROPRACTORP:(863)859-5441Callustoday!AsraKhan,D.C. Marshall Jewelers New Location! 2058 E Edgewood Dr | Lakeland, Fl 33803 863.682.4725 marshalljewelerslakeland.comY0066_SPRJ55188_C Local help with your Medicare questions. Cassie Hill Licensed Sales Agent 863-934-2152, TT Y 711
It’s not often you get great food, great service, and great prices, but Taqueria El Burrito checks every box. With some of the best authentic Mexican food in the area, Taqueria El Burrito is always filling orders and feeding the local community. I mean, where else can you get a steak burrito with beans and rice for $4? You just can’t beat it. Their sopes are both soft and crunchy (and delicious), and their tacos are 6 for $5. Truly, Taqueria El Burrito is the type of place you bookmark and return to again and again. El Burrito 125 N COMBEE
Taqueria
LAKELAND AT TAQUERIA EL BURRITO TACOS ARE 6 FOR $5, ALONG WITH CAN’TWATERINGMOUTH-SOPESFORONLY$1.BEATTHAT.
Since 1972 We’ve treated them like family. • Comprehensive Medical Services • Professionsal Grooming & Stying • Comfortable & Spacious Lodging • AAHA Accredited 3710 Cleveland Heights Boulevard pethospital.com863.646.2995 COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL/NATURAL GAS | LP/APPLIANCES-PIPING-REPAIRS INFO@ALTERNATIVEGASCONSTRUCTION.COM863.224.2354POBOX9461WINTERHAVEN,FL33883-9461
You can’t talk about the best tacos in the Lakeland area without mentioning Taqueria El Dorado. Equipped with outdoor seating and located directly across from a gas station (perfect for grabbing a beer or another refreshing beverage to accompany your meal), Taqueria El Dorado brings tacos to the food truck game that stand out. Their tacos al pastor even include fresh pineapple on top which really brings them to the next level. . TaqueriaDoradoEl 1155 W PIPKIN LAKELAND THE DELICIOUS BISTEC ENCEBOLLADO FROM TAQUERIA EL DORADO OFFERS A COMBINATION OF TENDER STEAK AND FLAVORFUL ONIONS THAT’LL EAVE YOUR CRAVINGSSATISFIED.FULLY 97ISSUE 78
Photo courtesy of the Lakeland Public Library
98 THE LAKELANDER
HISTORY
1940s
Interior view of the DonQuixote Spanish Restaurant that was located at 118 E Main Street in downtown Lakeland. By the 1940s the larger area of the restaurant was called the Rainbow Room which featured an orchestra nightly.
PETERSONMYERS.COM • 863.683.6511 • L AKEL AND | WINTER HAVEN | L AKE WALES E XPERIENCED MINDS COMPLE X M ATTERS handlingyearsof Since 1948, Peters on & Myers has provided exp erienced legal advice to help our client’s innovative ideas b ecome a reality. We b elie ve each client des er ves attorne ys who create learned, prac tical, individualized s olutions in a constantly changing and complex environment. Pleas e call us or visit our website to day for more information ab out our time-tested legal exp erience.
For all your healthcare needs, call 863-680-7000 or visit WatsonClinic.com. Enjoy a Lifetime of Good Health. In healthcare, as with most things in life, it’s all about the fundamentals. That’s why Watson Clinic is always there to offer expert guidance on nutrition and weight management, and to provide the preventative screenings that can keep you healthy and vital through every phase of your life. By emphasizing the basics, we’re working to ensure a brighter future for every generation.
