Fueled by Coffee (and other delectable indulgences of the Lakeland coffee shop scene)
Written by RJ Walters
Photos by Madi Elizabeth
Coffee is the second most consumed beverage in the U.S. behind water. Cup by cup and drip by drip java has become its own industry that people around the world can’t get enough of. Lakelanders are no exception. It’s hard to believe that 25 years ago Mitchell’s Coffee House stood alone because today the local coffee and cafe culture is so ingrained in our day-to-day—especially the morning-to-morning—routine. One great advantage of the Lakeland coffee scene is there is something for everyone: dozens of roasts to try, cozy spots to log and work, pastries and lunch offerings that pair perfectly and tons of creative craveable drinks for all those who say a strong “no” to a Cup of Joe.

This coffee scene is worth celebrating, so come with us on a deliciously fun tour of favorite spots and decide whose latte or matcha mash up you’re going to try next.

Items shown: Cereal Milk latte and Summer soda

Black and Brew 

Established in 2006

Fun fact: Owner Chris McArthur is the brother of singer/songwriter Michael McArthur who is married to Jenn Smurr, the founder of Born & Bread.

“They have the best customer service and they always are happy to make me a custom frappe or other drink when I ask for it. I have been going since they opened when I was a teen and they have only gotten better!” – J.E. Yates, Google Review

Avocado tartine made with fresh Born & Bread Country Loaf

Locations:

205 E. Main St.
100 Lake Morton Dr.
4209 S. Florida Ave.

Items shown: Iced cherry lime matcha (seasonal) and baked goods from Meraki Bakehouse

Concord Coffee

Established in 2015

Fun fact: Celebrities love Concord—well at least two. Wrestler/actor Jon Cena and Jesse Palmer, former UF quarterback, TV analyst and host of The Bachelor have stopped by.

“We brought Concord coffee all the way across the US to Orcas Island WA so we wouldn’t miss a morning with our great cup (or two) of the best coffee ever!” – Laura Berg, Facebook

Signature latte from Concord Coffee

Location:

1037 S. Florida Ave. #135

Items shown: Cafe con leche and strawberry banana smoothie

Divicious Deli & Coffee Shop

Established in 2014

Fun fact: The name of the restaurant stems from when the owner, Johansi, once made homemade cookies. Her daughter loved them so much that she said they were ‘divicious,’ a combination of divine and delicious.

“How have I been sleeping on this gem?!? I had the pastrami sandwich, which was excellent and a great value. The guava cheese pastry was also heavenly!” @flfoodscapades, Instagram

 

Freshly baked pastries from Divicious

Location:

128 E. Main St.

Items shown: Variety of pastries from Honeycomb Bread Bakers and a latte

Hillcrest Coffee

Established in 2014

Fun fact: Hillcrest creates opportunities for Lakelanders to connect with the community including lake clean ups, community hikes and bike rides. 

“Amazing place to sit and read a book, relax, or simply study for an upcoming exam. I ordered a cherry scone and it was absolutely delicious. You can taste the fresh ingredients, the cherries were sweet but tart.” — Constanza Gomez Para, Google Review

 

An iced matcha latte

Location:

119 Hillcrest St.

Items shown: spiced butterscotch latte and baked goods

Mitchell’s Coffee House

Established in 1998

Fun fact: Mitchell’s was the first local coffeehouse in Lakeland and celebrated 25 years in business last year.

“I love grabbing a coffee with a bite to eat (the croissant sandwiches are amazing). The staff is always incredibly friendly and the atmosphere makes it a great place to sit with friends or do work.” Tara Shelby, Google Review

Signature latte and a cinnamon roll

Location:

235 N. Kentucky Ave.

Items shown: Fresh pastries from Bandidas and Meraki
Bakehouse served daily.

Pour Bear Coffee

Established in 2024

Fun fact: While grabbing a drink or treat you can purchase vintage decor and goods from The Crewel Jewels.

“The vibe of this place is relaxing. I love the art work and how friendly and vibrant everyone was. I got the Honey Bear Latte and I gotta say, this was the best latte I’ve ever had.” Jojo D., Google Review

Iced matcha and a honey bear latte

Location:

 4608 Cleveland Heights Blvd. 

Items shown: pastries from Bandidas Bake Shop

Pressed Books & Coffee

Established in 2021

Fun fact: Pressed hosts tons of fun events including book clubs, writing groups, book fairs and more. Check out pressedlkld.com/events for details.

“If you’re reading this, you’ve been invited to the chill coffee club. This is my favorite coffee place by far. Just don’t let out the secret…. Or do, this place deserves it. :)” Garrett Poorbaugh, Google Review

Tiramisu iced latte and 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' rose orange tea

Location:

213 E. Bay St.