Welcome back, Polk County.
Mike here.
In this edition of The Best Food In Polk County, we're not really talking about food, but we are discussing something that's just as (and I'm sure to some people wayyyyyy more) important as food.
The Best Coffee Shops in Lakeland, Florida.
Whether you're on the hunt for a new coffee shop in Lakeland or just want to see if your favorite lakeland coffee shop made the cut, you're in the right spot.
And, as always, this isn’t just a list I’ve put together based on my own preferences…
This list was built from HUNDREDS of votes, from locals just like you.
Let’s go 
Special Author’s Note:
I don't drink plain black coffee. I drink my coffee with a Splenda or two (depends on the day) and a splash of almond milk. AND...I'm a big fan of pastries, cozy shops, and breakfast options.
First Place: Concord Coffee
The Best Coffee In Lakeland, Florida
Concord Coffee — 1037 Florida Ave S #135, Lakeland, FL 33803
Coming in at number one on our list, and being named THE BEST coffee shop in Lakeland, is Concord Coffee.
Considering Concord opened another location in Winter Haven, which happens to be much closer to me in Auburndale than their Dixieland location, I was very happy to see this top the list; as it's quickly grown to be one of my favorites.
We just did our Best Pizza Places In Winter Haven last week, but Concord might be showing up on quite a few lists when we get to the coffee shops in Winter Haven soon as well!
Among all the different polls for best coffee in Lakeland, Concord Coffee came in on the top of ALL of them.
With voters sharing:
- “Concord Coffee for sure.”
- “Concord Coffee is my favorite.”
- “Definitely Concord Coffee.”
I personally love the coffee, the vibes, the overnight oats, and the pastries — which makes it easy to be a favorite stop for me.
One voter highlighted: "Great coffee and a cool spot to hang out."
This is one that'll definitely end up being highlighted on Mike's Polk Food Quest sooner rather than later.
Second Place: Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro
The Second Best Coffee Shop In Lakeland, Florida
Black & Brew Coffee — Four Locations Throughout Lakeland
Coming in at second on the list is Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro — with FOUR locations throughout Lakeland.
Their locations are located:
- Downtown (Their Flagship Location)
- Lake Morton (Connected to Lakeland Library)
- Southside
- Lakeland Hills
We didn't ask for specific locations when voting, but their Downtown location did stand out [here and there] among the comments:
- “Black & Brew!”
- “Black & Brew downtown is great.”
- “Love Black & Brew.”
And with quite a few spots to choose in Downtown Lakeland, it is nice to see some people come in and mention: “Black & Brew has always been my go-to.”
Katie loves their food selection, and they definitely get bonus points for having a full menu with tons of great options.
Third Place: Lucky Goat Coffee
The Third Best Coffee Shop In Lakeland, Florida
Lucky Goat Coffee — 3615 Florida Ave S #810, Lakeland, FL 33803
Lucky Goat Coffee comes in at third place among our best coffee in Lakeland.
While Lucky Goat originally started in Tallahassee, their Lakeland location has become a favorite stop for a lot of locals.
Several people specifically mentioned their Cortado (1/2 espresso and 1/2 steamed milk) as one of the drinks you should try — but they also have a large selection of drinks and plenty of baked goods as well (and we know that's what really I care about).
Some of the comments included:
- “Lucky Goat is the BESTTT.”
- “Lucky Goat has the best regular hot coffee around.”
- “I recommend grabbing a cortado from Lucky Goat.”
If you’re looking for a solid craft coffee spot in Lakeland, Lucky Goat is definitely one locals recommend.
Fourth Place: Hillcrest Coffee
The Fourth Best Coffee Shop In Lakeland, Florida
Hillcrest Coffee — 119 Hillcrest St, Lakeland, FL 33815
Landing in fourth place is Hillcrest Coffee.
Another coffee shop located in the Dixieland area, Hillcrest has built a loyal following as a cozy neighborhood coffee shop with a relaxed atmosphere.
Many people mentioned the welcoming environment and friendly vibe as one of the reasons they keep coming back — and I can confirm this as one of the first things I noticed when I walked in.
Here are a few of the comments we saw:
- “Hillcrest Coffee in Lakeland.”
- “Hillcrest is a great little spot.”
- “Hillcrest is great for a cozy feel and a good hangout spot.”
If you're looking for a quieter place to sit down with a coffee and relax for a while, Hillcrest is definitely worth checking out.
Fifth Place: Pressed25
The Fifth Best Coffee Shop In Lakeland, Florida
Pressed25 — 1201 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33803
Rounding out the top five coffee shops in Lakeland, Florida is Pressed25.
Pressed25 is known not just for coffee, but also for smoothies, juices, and healthier drink options.
A few locals mentioned that it’s a great place if you're looking for something a little different than a traditional coffee shop.
Some of the comments included:
- “Pressed25 is so cute!”
- “Great choices and a lot of sugar free options.”
- “Pressed25 has some really great drinks.”
If you're looking for a coffee shop with a few extra options beyond traditional espresso drinks, Pressed25 is another local favorite.
Other Great Coffee Shops In Lakeland, Florida
If you’re anything like me, you want to try all the best coffee shops in Lakeland, Florida so you can be the judge for yourself.
So here is the rest of the top ten coffee shops in Lakeland, Florida (in order 6-10):
- #6 — Rogue Coffee
- #7 — Divicious Deli & Coffee Shop
- #8 — Pour Bear Coffee
- #9 — Mitchell’s Coffee House
- #10 — Foxtail Coffee
Which gives us our full list of the top 10 coffee shops in Lakeland.
And, of course, the moment you’ve all been waiting for…
My personal opinion (that no one asked for 
).
Here are my top three coffee shops in Lakeland:
- Concord Coffee
- Hillcrest Coffee
- Saving This Spot
Just like I reserved the third spot in my top ten pizza place article, I'm reserving my third spot here as well.
I'll always reserve that third spot unless I have tried every spot on the list, and there's one or two I still need to hit here!
THANKS!
Thanks for reading this new edition of The Polk Squeeze today.
Share this with a friend who has been searching for the perfect cup of coffee (and a good pastry).
- Mike Romaine
Never Miss An Event Or Story
Omggg Pressed25 made the list !? I have no idea how I am just now seeing this but WOW this means more to me than you know ! Thank you so much ! 🥲
You’re welcome! Well deserved! Tons of local recommendations/votes 🙂