12 Best Southern Restaurants in Lakeland

“Went to the Lakeland Fred’s the other day with my old auntie who lives in the area. I’m a Riverview Fred’s but this one was pretty good. They had the Swiss steak and gravy which I have never seen at my Fred’s. I sure do love it (hint-hint, clue -clue).Steak was tender and the gravy perfect. I wanted to go back for more but I have limited myself in order to keep this girlish figure. In keeping with tradition, the buffet was plentiful. It was like an old school family reunion or Sunday dinner after church at your granny’s. Fried and baked chicken and fish, ribs, chicken and dumplings, mashed potato’s, rice, grits, black eyed peas with snaps, tomatoes, tomatoes and okra, cabbage, greens, fried green tomatoes, Mac and cheese, sweet potatoes, corn casserole, corn bread, yeast rolls, green beans, a full old fashion salad bar, soups, and a dessert bar. I feel like heading back over there right now. It was good, let me tell you. If you like southern food you won’t go wrong at Fred’s.“

“We love coming to Fresco’s! Our waitress Olivia was excellent! She provided a wonderful dinning experience from start to finish. Staff is always friendly, food is great & the music was at the perfect volume. Was able to enjoy conversation at the table. We will be back soon!!“

“I love this beautiful restaurant! My daughter and I had a wonderful dinner, and the guava cheesecake for dessert. Can’t wait to go back and try another dish on their menu! 🧡“

“This place is amazing! I’m hooked on the Small White in Why? heat level. Finally a place with good sauces. Nothing bland about this place!“

“Very great personal team work“

“Excellent everything! Great menu options!“

“I ordered our Thanksgiving meal from 4 Rivers this year. Everything was ready to go when I arrived to pick it up, and they even loaded it in the car for me. The service was great, and the staff were friendly. The food was amazing! The reason I rated it a 4 instead of 5 is because of the way the food was packaged. I knew it would need to be re-heated, and they provided good instructions, but everything came in sealed plastic bags. I was expecting it to be in containers that could be placed directly in the oven, so at the last minute, I had to scrounge around & find 8 of my own Corning ware dishes, pots & pans for heating it all. Then I had to cut all the bags open & pour & squeeze the food out. It took a little more time & effort than I thought it would, but everyone enjoyed the food.“

“From the moment I stepped inside, I was impressed by the exceptional customer service. The staff took the time to thoroughly explain the menu, which I appreciated. The prices were reasonable, and the portions were generous. The owner's passion for his business was evident; his presence truly made a difference. The restaurant was spotless, and the food was absolutely delicious. The music wasn’t too loud either. I will definitely return and highly recommend others to dine here. I'm a very satisfied customer!“

“Everything is top notch and consistent. Great ambiance and bbq in downtown lkld“

“Came in with my husband for his birthday and they had a free dessert deal which we absolutely used. He got the broiled fish, I went for the chicken pot pie and we were both happy. The honey lime dressing on the house salad was surprisingly good, they apparently make it in-house. Walked out full and spent next to nothing. That's a win.“

“I was Amazed to see customers with dogs in an open restaurant where dishes are buffet style. It turned me off because dogs should not be in restaurants where people are dining. Dogs carry germs and other bacteria. This should not be allowed in Any restaurant even if they are service dogs. There should be limits placed on animals in food places. Don't 4get people dogs are not human. They are ANIMALS and they walk on dirty grounds with 4 feet. Also there are people that are allergic to dogs, afraid of dogs and can't be around them for medical purposes. Let's stop being selfish with animals. Just because you may love them others may not. Consideration Must be extended.“

“This has been our been our go to for over a year. Food quality was good, service quick & Josie is an Angel. However, we’ve been there 2 of the last few weekends. First time, a cook & a waitress were arguing in the kitchen & she walked out after 10 mins screaming. Today the same thing only it was 2 males dropping the f-bomb over & over. I told Josie I don’t think we’ll be back for a while. I go to relax on a weekend & enjoy. Sorry but that’s my experience.“