A Central Florida vacation offers visitors warm, tropical weather, pristine beaches, dozens of theme parks, gorgeous natural landscapes and a plethora of fun and exciting activities for families, couples and tourists of all ages. However, among the many things to do in Central Florida, Polk Country also provides travelers an ideal location for those looking to indulge in exceptional dining experiences while in the area.
Come Hungry On A Central Florida Vacation
According to the Travel Industry Association of America's Profile of Culinary Travelers, traveling foodies have noted that experiencing regional and local cuisines while on holiday tops the list of reasons for participating in culinary travel. Of this demographic, a large percentage wants to learn about the local cuisine culture as well as sample regional flavors and specialties.
These roaming gourmets will certainly hit pay dirt in Polk County. With an endless array of award winning restaurants, bistros and cafes in the vicinity, a vacation to this region is sure to satisfy the appetite, craving or palette of even the finickiest food connoisseur. From casual fare to high end fine dining, Polk County has it all.
Where To Eat On A Central Florida Vacation
They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so don't skip it while on your vacation. Check out places like Cypress Caf, Fred's Southern Kitchen, Sugar Bakery and Sandwiches and Camille's Sidewalk Caf. All located in Polk County, these places provide both an excellent cross section of regional flavors as well as a great way to start to your day.
For those looking for a refined noontime meal, try the Tearoom at the Stanford Inn. Located in Bartow, this bed and breakfast serves diners an assortment of soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts set in an original turn of the century Victorian home. For a spicier lunchtime treat, journey over to Abuelo's Mexican Restaurant in Lakeland. Enjoy authentic south of the border foods in this casual and inviting establishment. Lang's Taste of Florida Caf or the Lavender & Lace Tearoom, both located in Lake Alfred, are also great places to satiate those midday hunger pangs. Lang's Taste of Florida Caf is also known for their well-known dessert called Grapefruit Pie - if you're a dessert lover, this specialty is not to be missed!
Visitors seeking a succulent evening dining experience will also find they have a diverse and delicious array of options on their Central Florida vacation. Norby's Steaks and Seafood in Lake Wales boasts some of the best steaks in the area. For seafood lovers, Gary's Oyster Bar and Seafood House in Lake Alfred, known as the longest running oyster bar in Polk County, offers patrons both raw and perfectly cooked meals. The Terrace Grill in Lakeland's historic Terrace Hotel offers fine dining with 1920's charm. For fare with a more European flair, Mario's Italian Restaurant in Lakeland serves up quality Mediterranean cuisines in a fine dining atmosphere.
Other exceptional choices for regional tastes include Harry's Old Place, Sundown Southern Eatery, both located in Winter Haven, as well as Cherry Pocket Steak and Seafood Shak, Chalet Suzanne Country Inn and Restaurant and Festival Steak and Seafood all in the Lake Wales region.
With so many fabulous places to choose from, adding a culinary tour to the list of things to do in Central Florida will prove an easy feat!