Fueled by Coffee
and other delectable indulgences of the Lakeland coffee shop scene.
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.
Black and Brew
Items shown: Cereal Milk latte, Summer soda, avocado tartine made with fresh Born & Bread Country Loaf, mocha frappe
Established in 2006
Fun fact: Owner Chris McArthur is the brother of singer/song writer Michael McArthur who is married to Jenn Smurr, the founder of Born & Bread.
Locations: 205 E. Main St. | 100 Lake Morton Dr. | 4209 S. Florida Ave.
“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!”
Concord Coffee
Items shown: Iced cherry lime matcha (seasonal), baked goods from Meraki Bakehouse and a signature latte.
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.
Location: 1037 S. Florida Ave. #135
“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!”
Divicious
Items shown: Cafe con leche, strawberry banana smoothie, freshly baked pastries
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.
Location: 128 E. Main ST.
“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!”
Hillcrest Coffee
Items shown: Variety of pastries from Honeycomb Bread Bakers, latte, iced matcha
Established in 2017
Fun fact: Hillcrest creates opportunities for Lakelanders to connect with the community including lake clean ups, community hikes and bike rides.
Location: 119 Hillcrest St.
“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.”
Mitchell’s
Items shown: Spiced butterscotch latte, peach ring sparkler, frozen churro, cupcake, cranberry muffin, cinnamon roll
Established in 1998
Fun fact: Mitchell’s was the first local coffeehouse in Lakeland and celebrated 25 years in business last year.
Location: 235 N. Kentucky Ave.
“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.”
Pour Bear
Items shown: Iced matcha, Honey Bear latte, fresh pastries from Bandidas and Meraki Bakehouse served daily
Established in 2024
Fun fact: While grabbing a drink or treat you can purchase vintage decor and goods from The Crewel Jewels.
Location: 4608 Cleveland Heights Blvd.
“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.”
Pressed
Items shown: Tiramisu iced latte, pastry from Bandidas Bake Shop, The Summer I Turned Pretty rose orange tea.
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.
Location: 213 E. Bay St.
“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. :)”