Back in September, we ran the question: “Okay LALers, we need your help. In your opinion, where are the best places in Lakeland for authentic Italian food? And what's your number one order?” To our surprise, we unlocked all of you pizza, pasta + tiramisu lovers out there. And might I add, I’m glad I’m not the only one who gets chills at the smell of freshly baked bread. 🥖

I come from an Italian home, so it’s hard for anyone to beat my mom’s homemade tomato sauce, lasagna, or any other pasta dish, really. We even dare to tackle the art of tiramisu making every once in a while. Finding a good Italian spot, wherever I’m living, is simply necessary for a happy life.

So whether you’re seeking like me, looking for a good date night spot, or just craving some bread, we have the ultimate list of Italian food in Lakeland. Recommended by Lakelanders themselves. 🍝

Scarpa’s📍1833 E Edgewood Dr | $$$ | Menu

What LALers recommend: Scarpa’s is meant for a celebratory occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or making it through a Monday, their authentic Italian dishes are sure to have you feelin’ illustrious. Their intimate, romantic dining space will make it likely you’ll need a reservation, so don’t forget to call ahead. Lakelanders have assured us their Tuscan Chicken, Veal Parmesan + Tiramisu are some of the best on the menu.

Palace Pizza📍114 S Kentucky Ave + 5235 U.S. 98 | $ | Menu

What LALers recommend: Palace Pizza has become a Lakeland icon that locals have flocked to since their opening. It also doesn’t hurt that the owners hail from the motherland itself. If you’re stopping in, do get lured towards the garlic knots and pizza by the slice. (You won’t regret it). But if you’re looking for something a little different, some recommend their Chicken Parmesan too.

Il Forno 📍3615 S Florida Ave | $$ | Menu

What LALers recommend: A ton of engaged Lakelanders alluded to Il Forno as one of their favorite, classic Italian spots in Lakeland. They recommend ordering their bruschetta for the table, and the Penne Chicken Broccoli or Penne a la Vodka (which comes with prosciutto) for your entree.

Ciao Bella Pizza + Pasta 📍5369 N Socrum Loop Rd | $$ | Menu

What LALers recommend: Ciao Bella Pizza is another classic Italian spot that was recommended to us, and is said to have some of the best thin crust pizza in town.

Lakeland Stadium Pizza 📍1035 East County Road #540A | $$ | Menu

What LALers recommend: This underrated, New-York style pizza joint got some buzz on our question, and is said to have some of the best Chicken Florentine in town, for all those white sauce lovers out there.

Sal’s 📍6595 S Florida Ave + 4660 County Rd. 540A | $$ | Menu

What LALers recommend: Their pizza, nearly any slice, is a sure thing.

Romeo’s 📍2346 Griffin Rd | $$ | Menu

What LALers recommend: While also another solid pizza joint, most Lakelanders rave of an entire menu reminiscent of New England Italian flavors.

I hope this sample of recommendations helps you find your next date night spot or late night pizza go-to. We dough not want to miss out on your top places for authentic Italian food though, so if we missed it, it’s not too late to let us know.

What other authentic foods are you searching for in Lakeland? Ask us or recommend them in the comments below.

Happy eating LALers.

- Emily, LALtoday Intern