SUMMER IS HERE, AND THAT’S A GOOD REASON AS ANY TO INDULGE THE KID IN ALL OF US, WITH FOODS AS ICONIC AS THEY ARE COMFORTING. HERE ARE OUR PICKS FOR THE TASTIEST QUICK EATS AROUND. TRUST US. BOTH YOU AND YOUR WALLET WILL BE SMILING.

Photography by Dan Austin

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Bruster’s // 955 CR 540A

Nothing quite captures the season like a sweet frozen treat. Bruster’s is a South Lakeland favorite that serves up truly delicious ice cream in classic flavors as well as a variety of more adventurous combinations. It’ll only take one visit to see why there’s a line at the window every afternoon all year round.

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La Michoacana // 1725 W Memorial Blvd

Tucked to the side of a small market bearing the same name sits a beloved taqueria that offers authentic Mexican cuisine from a modest food truck. With its simple ingredients, the carne asada taco is a mainstay fan favorite.

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Black & Brew // 205 E Main St

Known for its delicious lunch offerings and always-fresh coffee, it’s easy to overlook Black & Brew’s Strawberry Basil Iced Tea. These unexpected flavors come together to make what many would call the perfect refreshing beverage.

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Tea largo // 4634 Cleveland Heights Blvd

Devoured for health benefits as well as Instagram-worthiness, these bright acai bowls have become all the rage. Tea Largo serves up the superfood topped with granolas, exotic tropical fruits, and plenty of other sweet, guilt-free goodness.

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Main Street Diner // 812 E Main St

This vibrant restaurant offers classic breakfast and lunch items in an atmostphere as fun and nostalgic as summer itself. Their take on the Chicago dog features a quarter-pound all-beef frank. Need we say more?

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S&L Restaurant // 2915 S Combee Rd

Some Lakelanders call it a local institution. Others call it the S&L burger. You won’t find any garlic aoli or feta crumbles here. A no-frills burger, this American classic is served with a side of fries and a Coke — as it should be. 

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Country Chicken ‘n FISH // 1263 Kathleen Rd

Country Chicken ‘n Fish embodies quintessential Southern tradition. Their crispy fried chicken can be ordered with a variety of soul-food sides, such as mac and cheese, collard greens, and corn on the cob. And all is well with the world.

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