Eat, drink, and be merry. We did all that and more over the last 12 months. To celebrate the end of another year in Lakeland, let's look back on our editor + reader picks for our favorite things we tried in 2025.

Editor Connor's picks

I've tracked down these dumplings all over town — from Hakucho's first preopening pop-up, to opening night, to the Central Florida Food Fest. | Photo by LALtoday

Food
Hakucho | Pork dumplings
Somewhere out there, I'm sure an etiquette coach is showing a photo of me slurping up the coconut milk broth that comes with these delicate dumplings, telling students what not to do — but I don't care.

JJ's Fusion Khaana | Masala fries
This Catapult biz began serving Indian-fusion dishes this year, and the warm seasoning of its masala fries + butter chicken creations quickly made me a regular at its pop-ups around town.

The Peach House has been updating its offerings, but this summery cocktail has made the cut. | Photo by LALtoday

Drinks
The Peach House | Passionfruit Aperol spritz
Summer days called for dinner on the patio, and this drink's refreshing, bright flavors paired perfectly with warm evenings and good conversation.

Sora Eatery | Hojicha latte
Matcha is popping up on menus all over Lakeland, but I think the hojicha latte I found here will give them a run for their money. This tea concoction is sweet, nutty, and balanced, so it would suit anyone's tastes.

Polk County Clerk Stacy Butterfield led 20 couples in a romantic, public ceremony in downtown Bartow. | Photo by LALtoday

Events
Valentine's Day Group Wedding
When it comes to romance, maybe you don't think of Bartow, but love was in the air there for 20 couples this Valentine's Day. The Polk County Clerk of Courts has hosted this event for the last 12 years, and I can't wait to celebrate more couples at the next one.

Bloom at BSP
This past spring, Bonnet Springs Park held its first two-day flower festival. It was filled with all things botanical, from floral installations to garden tours. I hear it's coming back in April of 2026, too.

How many people can say they've actually been on Lake Morton? | Photo by LALtoday

Activities
Swan Roundup
Watching from the shore is always fun, but this was the first time I got to ride along with the city's team to wrangle the final swans on the lake for their health checkups. Bucket list item: check.

"Frank Lloyd Wright & The College of Tomorrow"
Did you catch the AGB Museum of Art's big Florida Southern College exhibition? This was one of my favorites I've seen there, and I learned so much about the architect's dreams for FSC — including a water skiing amphitheater on Lake Hollingsworth.

Bloom Shakalaka floral arranging classes
If you want to craft with your friends, look no further. I went with my mom when she visited Lakeland, and we both had a fun time building our own bouquets, even if mine looked nothing like the professional example.

Readers' picks

Açai a boba tea in your future. | Photo by @tealargo

Food
"Açaí bowl at Tea Largo" — Susan W.

“Thanksgiving feast at Nineteen61.” — Allyson A.

"Tableside guacamole at Plaza Mexico with a side of live mariachi band" — Susie B.

“The pastrami sandwich at Sora!” — Ryan H.

“Fish sandwich at Mr. Fish” — Anonymous

“She crab soup at Harry’s. Collard greens are pretty good too!” — Jan S.

“Mediterranean Bowl at Britt’s Cafe at Oakbridge.” — JC W.

“Royal red shrimp from Lakeland Seafood Company (cooked at home)” — Chris G.

“Terrace [Grille’s] fried coconut shrimp” — Dawn E.

Take flight at Front Page Brewing Co. | Photo by LALtoday

Drinks
“Wine and/or beer flights at Front Page Brewery in Bartow” — Jan S.

“Black and Brew Andes mint Frappe!! Amazing!” — Debbie M.

“Mocktail at Peach House” — Chris G.

“Delicious pitcher of tea on the porch at Hillcrest Coffee” — Susie B.

"Chai latte at Black and Brew!" — Alison T.

"Matcha Latte at Tea Largo" — Susan W.

“Golden Milk from Kala!” — Ryan H.

You'll catch Santa and Mrs. Claus at the end of every Christmas Parade. | Photo by LALtoday

Events
"We love the Saturday market and of course the first Friday events, but that CHRISTMAS parade was awesome!!!!" — Alison T.

“Pause and Renew wellness retreat with Meesh in Motion!” — Ryan H.

“The Christmas Parade … always a #1.” — JC W.

“Dixieland events” — Jan S.

“Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens” — Susie B.

“Snowfest at Lake Mirror” — Chris G.

Hollis Garden | Photo submitted by Bob K.

Activities
"My hubby and I love Bonnet Springs Park. There [are] always amazing things to see when we take our walk!" — Alison T.

“Strolling through the ever-changing Hollis Gardens” — Susie B.

“Restoration Fitness and Nutrition workouts!” — JC W.

“Exploring Bonnet Springs Park with my young grandchildren” — Chris G.

“I love the Makers Market on Saturdays and the Youkey Theater is always a favorite.” — Debbie M.

"Dog training at Imperial Polk Obedience Club" — Susan W.