First time at this Restaurant! Wow, the Atmosphere was amazing and the Hostesses were so nice and professional! It was my mom’s birthday, I came in from Atlanta to spend it with her! Everything was seemingly going well until we met the Server (B)!! I understand in the service industry, we get tired and frustrated and even uninterested, but we should never let that energy shine through! This guy, Mr. B, had to be ready to leave for the night! It was late and they were closing at 9 PM, but this attitude and the rush and the breathing hard and we seen all of the faces guy were making! It started off when he said something, I thought he said, what was the occasion, I said her birthday- He responded, that’s not what I said to you, I asked if you were from here! I then looked up at him and said, Ohh my apologies, I didn’t hear you, but it was the way he said it! He was really coming off as rude to the point I was ready to leave. Not even making eye contact with us at times when we were trying to order! We were asking questions about the food and choices, he just seemed like he didn’t care! And Yes he had the sound, Yes my friend, Ohh No problem, but you could tell it was fake at this point! He rushed us to order, forgot our drank order. Called him back over, I ordered, my mom at that point said, she will just keep the water! Food came out, my mom and her husband didn’t like the taste of the soup! Hers was to salty and no seasoning, he pretty much just snatched it up, didn’t ask her if she wanted anything else! At this time Madison the MOD came over to ask if everything was ok! I’m assuming she saw our faces! I let her know it’s not the best experience bc this guy seems more interested in his other tables and maybe just wanted us to leave! She apologized and brought my mom out a salad! I guess she mentioned something to him, he came back with a little different attitude! I changed my order at the last minute, I didn’t want the salad, I wanted something else, he said he would check! I guess he forgot the kitchen is covered by glass and I saw everything he said out of his mouth to the cooks! These customers this, these customers that, changing at the last minute, then he steps back into the dinning room and puts that fake smile back on his face! It was just Not a good first time experience! I hope everyone else doesn’t get this same type treatment from B! On another note, the Chipotle Salmon was Amazing !! That did help that the food was really good! Ok, I’m done!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 1
Recommended dishes: Chips Avocado Mousse & Tomatillo Salsa, Black Beans
M Buckner
Perfect. Delicious.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Sprouts
Nathan Williamson
We had the very limited Happy Hour menu - between lunch and dinner times that have full menus. Wouldn't recommend it simply because of the limitation.Parking: Have you looked around for parking. We were about a half block away.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Guava Cheesecake, Black Beans
Jim Pfarr
Had a fantastic birthday dinner here and really enjoyed ourselves. My 23 ounce steak was cooked just right and was super tender, and the rest of our food was equally well prepared. The service was excellent and we shared the complimentary birthday cake for dessert. Highly recommended, but do note it's a bit expensive.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Churrasco Steak, Burger
Zuleyka Thomas
Had lunch with my friend. Great service, great atmosphere.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Yeura T.
The customer service was top tier, the food was nothing short of amazing and the vibe was definitely just that, a vibe. I would give this place 10 stars if I could.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Ropa Vieja
Molly Miller
If this wasn’t the best meal of my life, then I haven’t eaten it yet. I swear to you that the Fae have left their ancestral lands and set up a restaurant in Lakeland.I started with the hibiscus tea, which made my eyes roll back in my head with its rich and nuanced flavor. I was expecting iced tea, nice and refreshing. I got something with the sophistication I expect from a cocktail. And the meal only got better from there.We had fried Brussels sprouts to start. My 11 year old son was hesitant about them but after having one he fought us for every last bite. He particularly enjoyed the balsamic maple dressing, which was richer and milder than expected.Next came complimentary rolls - gluten free yuca flour and manchego cheese gave them a crisp outside with a chewy bite.I had the vaca frita, my husband had the arroz chaufa with chicken AND shrimp, and our son had a cheeseburger without a bun and French fries. My son has never, not once, eaten a full cheeseburger or even a couple French fries without asking about ketchup. He will eat them without ketchup but he WILL ask. Tonight? He did not ask about ketchup. He also tried both of our meals cheerfully and enjoyed everything he tried.Finally, we got the creme brûlée for dessert while my husband had a mezcal old fashioned. His drink was sophisticated and smokey without a hint of sweetness, and it made everything else taste even better. The creme brûlée was the best I’ve ever had. As a gluten intolerant diner, I’ve had many creme brûlées in my life but this one was superior to every one that came before it. The carmelized sugar wasn’t too thick or too thin. The caramelization was perfectly balanced between dark and light caramel. The custard was light and fluffy and perfectly balanced between vanilla and orange liquor.We removed nearly every atom from every plate. We laughed and we nearly cried. I’ve seriously considered rearranging our entire vacation to come back. Please, eat here if you have the chance.The only thing we would dare suggest as a change was put forward by my son. He wants to know if the kitchen can make a bigger yucca flour and cheese roll and serve the cheeseburger on it, so that he could have a gluten free bun that won’t fall apart in his hands.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Annalie Villar
Amazing experience overall! Food is delicious and service couldn’t be better!If you go to Lakeland, you definitely have to try this place.Very recommended!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
John Leavengood
We got the Vaca frita, shrimp and grits and torrejas. Everything was excellent. We'll be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Dean Hellen
This is my second time here. Great Spanish food, good steaks, and the staff is very friendly. This time, I ordered the classic ceviche and discovered my new favorite dish :) Fantastic. In my opinion, it's one of the best restaurants in Lakeland.
Recommended dishes: Grand Marnier Créme Brûlée, Calamari
Admin One Clean Mom
It is always an amazing experience when I visit nineteen61. From the freshly prepared cuisine, to the exquisite customer service and atmosphere I couldn’t imagine a better place to celebrate great successes.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Guava Cheesecake, Calamari, Vaca Frita and Red Grouper, Ropa Vieja, Shrimp Ceviche, Sprouts
Paul Joiner
I don't usually leave 5-star reviews unless it is warranted.I recently had the pleasure of dining at Nineteen61 in Lakeland, FL, and I must say it was an exceptional experience. From the moment I walked in, the warm and inviting atmosphere set the tone for a delightful evening.First and foremost, let’s talk about the food. The menu at Nineteen61 is a culinary masterpiece. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing a blend of flavors that left my taste buds dancing. The presentation was equally impressive—every plate looked like a work of art. Whether it was the perfectly seared scallops or the tender braised short ribs, each bite was a revelation.But what truly stood out was the service. The staff at Nineteen61 went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Our server was knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the food they served. They recommended wine pairings that complemented our meal flawlessly.In summary, Nineteen61 is a hidden gem in Lakeland. If you appreciate inventive cuisine, impeccable service, and an overall delightful dining experience, look no further. Five stars, without a doubt!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Brian Christopher
Food took over an hour to receive. They didn't even seem that busy.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 2
Ben Tanner
I was in town for a couple of days and found this restaurant on Google. I’m glad that I did, this was one of the best meals I have had in a long time. Hostess the server and all staff were fantastic. we were able to get a table outside on the patio. If you are in the area, you need to go here!
First time at this Restaurant! Wow, the Atmosphere was amazing and the Hostesses were so nice and professional! It was my mom’s birthday, I came in from Atlanta to spend it with her! Everything was seemingly going well until we met the Server (B)!! I understand in the service industry, we get tired and frustrated and even uninterested, but we should never let that energy shine through! This guy, Mr. B, had to be ready to leave for the night! It was late and they were closing at 9 PM, but this attitude and the rush and the breathing hard and we seen all of the faces guy were making! It started off when he said something, I thought he said, what was the occasion, I said her birthday- He responded, that’s not what I said to you, I asked if you were from here! I then looked up at him and said, Ohh my apologies, I didn’t hear you, but it was the way he said it! He was really coming off as rude to the point I was ready to leave. Not even making eye contact with us at times when we were trying to order! We were asking questions about the food and choices, he just seemed like he didn’t care! And Yes he had the sound, Yes my friend, Ohh No problem, but you could tell it was fake at this point! He rushed us to order, forgot our drank order. Called him back over, I ordered, my mom at that point said, she will just keep the water! Food came out, my mom and her husband didn’t like the taste of the soup! Hers was to salty and no seasoning, he pretty much just snatched it up, didn’t ask her if she wanted anything else! At this time Madison the MOD came over to ask if everything was ok! I’m assuming she saw our faces! I let her know it’s not the best experience bc this guy seems more interested in his other tables and maybe just wanted us to leave! She apologized and brought my mom out a salad! I guess she mentioned something to him, he came back with a little different attitude! I changed my order at the last minute, I didn’t want the salad, I wanted something else, he said he would check! I guess he forgot the kitchen is covered by glass and I saw everything he said out of his mouth to the cooks! These customers this, these customers that, changing at the last minute, then he steps back into the dinning room and puts that fake smile back on his face! It was just Not a good first time experience! I hope everyone else doesn’t get this same type treatment from B! On another note, the Chipotle Salmon was Amazing !! That did help that the food was really good! Ok, I’m done!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 1
Recommended dishes: Chips Avocado Mousse & Tomatillo Salsa, Black Beans
Perfect. Delicious.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Sprouts
We had the very limited Happy Hour menu - between lunch and dinner times that have full menus. Wouldn't recommend it simply because of the limitation.Parking: Have you looked around for parking. We were about a half block away.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Guava Cheesecake, Black Beans
Had a fantastic birthday dinner here and really enjoyed ourselves. My 23 ounce steak was cooked just right and was super tender, and the rest of our food was equally well prepared. The service was excellent and we shared the complimentary birthday cake for dessert. Highly recommended, but do note it's a bit expensive.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Churrasco Steak, Burger
Had lunch with my friend. Great service, great atmosphere.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The customer service was top tier, the food was nothing short of amazing and the vibe was definitely just that, a vibe. I would give this place 10 stars if I could.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Ropa Vieja
If this wasn’t the best meal of my life, then I haven’t eaten it yet. I swear to you that the Fae have left their ancestral lands and set up a restaurant in Lakeland.I started with the hibiscus tea, which made my eyes roll back in my head with its rich and nuanced flavor. I was expecting iced tea, nice and refreshing. I got something with the sophistication I expect from a cocktail. And the meal only got better from there.We had fried Brussels sprouts to start. My 11 year old son was hesitant about them but after having one he fought us for every last bite. He particularly enjoyed the balsamic maple dressing, which was richer and milder than expected.Next came complimentary rolls - gluten free yuca flour and manchego cheese gave them a crisp outside with a chewy bite.I had the vaca frita, my husband had the arroz chaufa with chicken AND shrimp, and our son had a cheeseburger without a bun and French fries. My son has never, not once, eaten a full cheeseburger or even a couple French fries without asking about ketchup. He will eat them without ketchup but he WILL ask. Tonight? He did not ask about ketchup. He also tried both of our meals cheerfully and enjoyed everything he tried.Finally, we got the creme brûlée for dessert while my husband had a mezcal old fashioned. His drink was sophisticated and smokey without a hint of sweetness, and it made everything else taste even better. The creme brûlée was the best I’ve ever had. As a gluten intolerant diner, I’ve had many creme brûlées in my life but this one was superior to every one that came before it. The carmelized sugar wasn’t too thick or too thin. The caramelization was perfectly balanced between dark and light caramel. The custard was light and fluffy and perfectly balanced between vanilla and orange liquor.We removed nearly every atom from every plate. We laughed and we nearly cried. I’ve seriously considered rearranging our entire vacation to come back. Please, eat here if you have the chance.The only thing we would dare suggest as a change was put forward by my son. He wants to know if the kitchen can make a bigger yucca flour and cheese roll and serve the cheeseburger on it, so that he could have a gluten free bun that won’t fall apart in his hands.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amazing experience overall! Food is delicious and service couldn’t be better!If you go to Lakeland, you definitely have to try this place.Very recommended!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We got the Vaca frita, shrimp and grits and torrejas. Everything was excellent. We'll be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This is my second time here. Great Spanish food, good steaks, and the staff is very friendly. This time, I ordered the classic ceviche and discovered my new favorite dish :) Fantastic. In my opinion, it's one of the best restaurants in Lakeland.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Ropa Vieja, Churrasco Steak
Restaurantji Recommends
Sad tasting food filled with animal
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Recommended dishes: Grand Marnier Créme Brûlée, Calamari
It is always an amazing experience when I visit nineteen61. From the freshly prepared cuisine, to the exquisite customer service and atmosphere I couldn’t imagine a better place to celebrate great successes.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Guava Cheesecake, Calamari, Vaca Frita and Red Grouper, Ropa Vieja, Shrimp Ceviche, Sprouts
I don't usually leave 5-star reviews unless it is warranted.I recently had the pleasure of dining at Nineteen61 in Lakeland, FL, and I must say it was an exceptional experience. From the moment I walked in, the warm and inviting atmosphere set the tone for a delightful evening.First and foremost, let’s talk about the food. The menu at Nineteen61 is a culinary masterpiece. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing a blend of flavors that left my taste buds dancing. The presentation was equally impressive—every plate looked like a work of art. Whether it was the perfectly seared scallops or the tender braised short ribs, each bite was a revelation.But what truly stood out was the service. The staff at Nineteen61 went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Our server was knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the food they served. They recommended wine pairings that complemented our meal flawlessly.In summary, Nineteen61 is a hidden gem in Lakeland. If you appreciate inventive cuisine, impeccable service, and an overall delightful dining experience, look no further. Five stars, without a doubt!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food took over an hour to receive. They didn't even seem that busy.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 2
I was in town for a couple of days and found this restaurant on Google. I’m glad that I did, this was one of the best meals I have had in a long time. Hostess the server and all staff were fantastic. we were able to get a table outside on the patio. If you are in the area, you need to go here!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5