Nineteen 61 - Fine Southern-Latin American-Spanish Cuisine in Lakeland, FL

Amazing experience from start to finish! We came for brunch and everything was simply outstanding. The service was excellent, the atmosphere was beautiful, and the music created the perfect vibe to relax and enjoy. Since it was our first time visiting, they kindly welcomed us with a complimentary glass of champagne each, which made the experience feel even more special. The food was absolutely delicious — every dish exceeded our expectations. We started with the ceviche, which was fresh and perfectly balanced. For drinks, the pisco sour was incredibly good — one of the best we’ve had. As main dishes, we ordered the vaca frita and the Cuban sandwich, both full of flavor and cooked to perfection. To finish, we had the crème brûlée for dessert, and it was the perfect sweet ending. A special thank you to our server, Sian, who was very attentive and made our visit even more enjoyable with his great service and friendly attitude. This is officially my favorite restaurant in the area. Highly recommended — we will definitely be coming back!

Great restaurant. Took my daughter out to celebrate her grades and the food and service were outstanding. Our hostess (Emma) was kind and friendly. Our server (Cody) was knowledgeable and very efficient. We had the avocado and tomatillo appetizer. It was really good. It came with both corn chips and plantains. I had the “Special” surf and turf and my daughter had the chipotle salmon. Both were outstanding. Then we had the key lime pie and tres leches cake for dessert. For drinks, we had a Shirley Temple and a ginger beer mocktail. We loved all of it. The prices are high but well worth it for special occasions.

Nineteen61 is hands down one of the best dining spots in Lakeland, Florida—a sophisticated Latin-inspired restaurant that blends modern Spanish influences with Cuban roots and Southern touches . What truly elevated my visit was the exceptional service, especially from our server Leah. She was attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and made thoughtful recommendations that perfectly suited our tastes . And Dean, the maitre d ', has a very professional, warm, welcoming demeanor. His extended knowledge set the tone for a wonderful dining experience.

We decided to step outside the box for our Wedding Anniversary. Nineteen61 did not disappoint us. The food was cooked to order and the staff was amazing! So, amazing that we came back two weeks later to celebrate a Birthday. If I could give this restaurant 10 stars I would! The general manager is doing a fabulous job running this establishment. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Nineteen61 has been on my list of restaurants to visit and I got to enjoy it my first time last night. The service was nice & friendly, the Japanese bourbon drink hit the spot, the seasonal Grinch cocktail was interesting, and I love that they start off with the little Brazilian cheese bread while you wait for your meal. The croquettas were delish, I loved the sauce they sat on. The only complaint I would have about my short rib & rice meal was that the sauce was a little too salty, and the meat portion was small for the price justification. I enjoyed the crunchy white bean rice that was served with it. I would love to come back and try again to find a favorite meal here.

Wow is all I can say! I emailed the restaurant a week before our reservations to ask about their dress code. I quickly received the most welcoming and kind email answering my question and even more. So I already knew then that we were in for a great experience! From the moment we arrived to when we left, we noticed how much thought was given to details. The restaurant is beautiful, the building inside and area outside is very clean, the employees were all very nice and attentive. Our server, I wish I could remember his name (he was from Jamaica) was so friendly and helpful. He made excellent suggestions! The oxtail I had was just as good as it is in the Carribean Islands! My husband who is Cuban raved about the Vaca Frita! The paella was huge and full of large and beautiful seafood!! Each dish was presented lovely and tasted very good!! Our server shared the story and history of the family that created the restaurant. We are excited to return and try more dishes!

Solid experience, food was perfectly cooked and absolutely delicious. Cocktails were spectacular as well, nicely mixed and well balanced. Outdoor seating is available however be mindful that trains run just across the park and can be quite loud with the horns. Little bit on the slower end for food to come out of the kitchen, wait staff were highly communicative though on the delays and kept our table up to date. Likely simply due to the holiday season in regards to this though.

One of the best restaurants in Lakeland with great flavors, strong service, and a nice ambience, especially for a business dinner or date night! Not ideal for kids. Brussels sprouts are must have appetizer, and the salmon is very strong.