Beautiful and perfect location downtown Lakeland. The atmosphere, decor, and over all vibe of the restaurant is incredible. I was greeted immediately, sat at the bar with my gf, had a nice cocktail by a very attentive bartender named "Brian" and had the most delicious salad I have had in a long time. Would definitely return. read more

Nineteen 61 - 1961 Salad with Salmon - Latin American Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

Your search is over. This is the place to eat when you're in downtown Lakeland. Outstanding service. Warm decor. And amazing entrées. The only reason I gave it four stars is because we all agreed the desserts were a miss. They're try hard, overcomplicated, and underwhelming. But aside from that, we had an amazing dinner and will be back. read more

See all

Amazing flavorful food. We went here for lunch, and the prices were reasonable, service was friendly, and we will for sure come back.

Went there for the first time a few months ago and had a great time. Our waiter was very knowledgeable about the menu and served us complimentary champagne with our meal. My husband loved his meal and said it was the best steak he had ever had. I ordered a special that I wasn't too keen about, but I think it was just not for me. Our appetizer was amazing. Service was prompt and friendly. We are returning this weekend for lunch. read more

We had a good time here.... Our service was great thanks to Cullen and my food was amazing from the guacamole and chips appetizer to the fried rice dinner meal I thoroughly enjoyed it only criticism I can give is that some of the food was lukewarm and we'd prefer it to be served hot. The ambiance indoors was amazing and the outdoor seating was nice and quaint I would highly recommend ! read more

Nineteen 61 - Cocktail and outside seating - Latin American Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

Everything about this gem was phenomenal. Great service, delicious food, beautiful ambiance. Cody provided an unforgettable experience and made awesome recommendations. We can't wait to come back for another date night. read more

Instead of writing a whole new review, I'll paste the personal review I shared with the restaurant. I'd also post their reply if I'd received one. First, I would like to recognize Savannah. I called and spoke with her around noon regarding our very special 5:45 pm reservation. I informed her that my girlfriend and I would be driving an hour and a half because we had heard such great things about your restaurant from her parenting network and I confirmed via Yelp reviews. After explaining how special of an occasion it was, Savannah informed me of several pleasantly surprising options you offered. BTW, having your staff sign the surprise card is brilliant. Upon arrival, we were welcomed and promptly sat. For context, this was our first date since her two-year-old was born, and this was the first time her son had been left with a babysitter. Although quite loud for a romantic evening, your establishment is visually appealing. We found the staff to all be welcoming as well. I want to avoid referring to our waiter by name. He is a fine young man. From the beginning, I appreciated his awareness of the call I had made earlier about how this was a memorable evening--good communication from Savannah. We were there to enjoy the experience your website speaks of and what we'd heard about. We found it incredibly difficult to relax with our wine when our waiter popped in almost every six minutes asking if we were ready to order. Kudos for him wanting to turn and burn tables. However, that's also why I expressed to him when we were sat that we would be "renting" his table, which would be reflected in the tip. I have no qualms tipping 30%+ for our tab, plus an additional 30%+ for taking up a table that might have been able to be sat again if our time exceeded an hour or so. I apologize. My goal was to provide feedback on our experience for your consideration. However, this has become long-winded (my lack of brevity). We did place our order after giving up on not being disturbed. My girlfriend's meal arrived well-timed from the kitchen (10-12 minutes, my estimation), although a little quick as we had yet to feel like we'd had a chance to settle in (no fault of the kitchen). After several minutes of encouraging her to eat before her food got cold, we inquired about the whereabouts of my entree. The server promptly apologized and took full accountability for not submitting the order. A miscommunication also happened at this time. When such a mistake has been made, especially given the overall context, and I hear that my "meal will be taken care of," I was surprised to find it on the check. I gently communicated as such to the server. I understand the high-stress levels of being a server, so maybe I was too passive in expressing my feelings at that point. He said he would check with the manager to see what could be done. I was shocked that not only did he inform us that the manager was not willing to adjust the check, but no one visited our table afterward to apologize or to check on us. Only the table directly behind us during that time. Also of note: I was pleasantly surprised when making the reservation to be asked about special diets, food allergies, restrictions, etc. I was impressed by your system being able to note my girlfriend is a pescetarian. That gave me confidence in the kitchen and showed how this restaurant does have it together, starting with the reservations. She loves paella but is still unsure if that's the entree she received-And she's one-quarter Spanish. I was caught off guard that having mentioned my guest being a pescetarian; she had to sift through pieces of ham. She felt like saying any of the troubles with her dish were too much after the challenges with mine. She gracefully requested that I not bring it to anyone's attention. It may have been a miscommunication or an error that could have been quickly resolved. However, she doesn't like to make a "fuss." I hope sharing our experience helps to improve your business. read more

OMG what an amazing dining experience. The attention to detail given to beverages and dishes is exceptional. The service was on point and the only slip up was an improper cava being poured. It was comped. Our table ordered the Peruvian ceviche to share with was delish. The flavors meshed and even though we were told it was spicy it was not spicy to anyone in our party. At $18 this starter was small but the quality was worth the price. Additionally, we ordered beef empanadas it comes as an order of 3 for $12. This was very much worth the price. The dough is made fresh on site daily. The flavor is better than any other empanada I've ever tasted. You could taste the love and freshness in the pastry. Finally, for my main, I'm a sucker for vaca frita so I had to try the version. It was not as dry as I'm accustomed but the flavor was exceptional. It was worth $23. Reflecting how on point the attention to detail, the server asked how I wanted my egg prepared though the menu offers it Sunnyside up. Finally, for dessert I shared their Gran Marnier creme brulee. The Flavor of the Gran Marnier really came though in the dessert. I would definitely order this dessert again. Def suggest this restaurant for any celebration, date or just a fine dining experience. read more

Amazing Food , Great Service and Fun Atmosphere. Nineteen 61 is the place to go if you are around the Lakeland area but best is doing reservations read more

We went here for our wedding anniversary, and it was absolutely perfect. From the champagne to the food to the menu personalization- just perfect! We had empanadas, shrimp ceviche, Hawaiian beef stew, a whole fish, and their steak. All delicious. read more

See all

Great brunch spot on the weekends. Perfect scenery, menu, and flavors that explode in your mouth.

Love this spot. Nice clean restaurant. Great service. They welcome you with a free glass of wine as first timer. Managers and staff all welcome you. Food is awesome. read more

Great service! The brunch was a perfect selection of sweet and savory. Best Nashville chicken and waffles I've had, ever. Their Argentinian Hash was on point...we used the comeback sauce from the chicken and waffles on it and that was so yum! Their atmosphere is clean and cozy. Loud, but not too loud, I could still hear my husband across the table just fine. Nice walk to the restaurant in a quaint part of Lakeland. read more

I've been living in Lakeland for yearssss and never visited this establishment until yesterday. The food was amazing, the service was awesome and the drinks were delicious. My server Tristan was so friendly and polite. The Maitre D Dean was very professional and welcoming. I ordered the PAN CON BISTEC sandwich, the Beef empanadas for appetizer and The walk in the park margarita. Everything was so good. I can't wait to go back! read more

Plainly put.... Awesome food and service. I haven't been disappointed yet. I love the playful samplings of foods and the quality in food selections by the chef. I want to come for brunch. So far it's just been for dinner. read more

I don't give out five star reviews often but when your food is consistently this good, staff always on point, and the vibe is great it, 1961 has earned it. read more

Nineteen 61 - Latin American Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

The service was great and so was the food. My grandkids took me for my birthday & I can honestly say I would recommend this restaurant. The attention they had for me cus it being my birthday was un real Once again nice place to have a nice dinner read more

See all

I've reviewed Nineteen 61 multiple times and have visited the restaurant many more times since my last review. Nineteen 61 is still, by far, the best restaurant in Lakeland and one of the best restaurants in Florida. Every dish I have ever tried has been phenomenal. On my most recent visit I finally splurged on a dish I have wanted to try for a long time: The Delmonico ($67). I am glad I did because this was one of the best steaks I have ever tried! The meat was cooked a perfect medium rare, was heavenly melt in your mouth buttery, and had the perfect amount of saltiness and char. If you have not tried Nineteen 61 yet, do yourself a favor and make reservations asap! read more

See all

Food was delicious! We try ceviche, steak, salmon, cheesecake Service was amazing read more

Nineteen 61 - Chipotle Salmon - Latin American Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

When we arrived the staff was almost bothered with us because we did not have a reservation. We waited an 1.5 hours while two tables were not used the whole time we were there. The food was good not great just good but your do not get much for the money you spend. I ordered the Wok Grouper and there was very little grouper in the dish. There was six of us and no one was very happy with their food. The waitress offered salads like they came with the meal, but they did not! The side salad ended up costing $13. We went to the upstairs bar while waiting for a table. The drink was good, but it was a coconut drink that tasted like lemonade. None of the six of us will ever go there again. read more

I WISHED my birthday experience was better than it was. This was our first time at Nineteen 61. I will begin with our server being 10/10. Nothing was his fault and he was very attentive. We had a reservation for 6:30 on a Sunday and arrived on time to check in. They let us know our table was still being prepared, no problem. We waited. 20 minutes passed until we were finally seated. We were starving at that point so we ordered our meals shortly after we sat down. We got a complimentary cheese bread bites appetizer and a complimentary Amuse-bouche appetizer. Our food didn't arrive at the table until 8pm. I wish I was exaggerating. Our server felt bad and brought out more cheese bread at one point. The food that finally came out: good...except my dad got his steak WELL well done instead of medium so he had to wait another 20 minutes for a new steak and shared my brother's plate and then they shared his when it came. It was just not a pleasant wait. We were patient and didn't bother the server and then he realized how long we'd been waiting and felt bad. They gave us $8 off my dad's meal when I personally think it should have been comped or at least 50% comped. We waited an hour and he still didn't have his meal right. The good: they greeted me with a special menu of my own that said happy birthday, they provided a complimentary dessert for me with a sweet birthday card signed by the staff, and the server was exceptional. The food was both pretty and delicious. A little rich. Maybe we will try it again. I don't know. We didn't end up leaving the restaurant until 9pm. 2.5 hours to eat a one course meal is a bit much.... read more

See all

Amazing food and service . Brunch on Sunday is delightful. It's also nice that they have outdoor seating.

This was our first time coming to this restaurant and it was phenomenal! Our waiter was Zach and he treated us like we were the only table - meaning he was super attentive to us, answered all our questions, and gave wonderful suggestions. Since it was our first time, they gave us both a free glass of bubbly :-D We got the poutine cubano with egg as an appetizer. For our main course my partner got the churrasco steak with a black bean risotto and I got the filet mignon with manchego risotto. For dessert we got the guava cheese cake and the tres leche. Truly one of the best meals ever! read more

See all

I have now been to this restaurant three times over the past couple years. Today was the nail in the coffin. I will not be returning. This restaurant is slowly killing its patrons with the ridiculous amount of salt they are putting in their food. After leaving here you will need to drink a half gallon of water. Ambience and service are always nice but dishes are hit or miss and all of them are WAY TOO SALTY. Latin food doesn't mean you have to oversalt. Cuban black beans should not be thick like a paste. Peruvian fried rice too salty and greasy. Cuban sandwiches are good but again meats are too salty. On the positive front the desserts here are excellent. Tres leches and guava cheesecake are exceptional. read more

The restaurant is BEAUTIFUL! The service was amazing, everyone was so kind. It was for my husbands birthday celebration. I made a reservation so they knew it was his birthday. His menu said happy birthday Aaron on the top and he got a birthday card from the restaurant staff. It was so kind and sweet. This restaurant knows what they are doing In and out of the kitchen from the ambiance to the kindness they pay forward. All of our dinners were lovely. Thank you Ninteen61 for making my husbands birthday so special ! read more

See all

We're talking about one of the premier restaurants in Lakeland. I went for lunch while I was here traveling but honestly wished I could've gone a second time for. The ambiance was incredibly calming yet filled and busy with the hustle and bustle of the bar that it felt like a beautiful symphony as you were dining for your meal. Lots of different seating options. I was with a group of 11 and they made space fun us walking it which was awesome. The food stood out as some of the best in the area. Fresh, juicy, flavorful, and complex are adjectives that come to mind. I had the Vaca Frita and it did not disappoint. Exceeded all of my expectations and taste wise, great portion for the price, and left you feeling good about your choice for the meal. Give this place a shot if you're in town. read more

Nineteen 61 - Vaca Frita "The Original" Lunch - Latin American Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

Great atmosphere however disappointed with their rice "Chaufas." It looked and tasted like a microwavable rice of Uncle Bens. Rice was not fresh. This ruined the whole experience. read more

Delicious food and fabulous service. My steak was cooked to perfection. We enjoyed it so much that we recommended it some friends who loved it as well. read more

Pleasantly surprised at this little gem. Got a booth in the back which was quiet and cozy. Our server was great. Very attentive at the appropriate times. The food was amazing! Ropa Vieja beyond delicious. The 1961 salad is flavorful and get the expresso martini for dessert. Divine! read more

See all

Though all I can give is 5stars I'd give 10 if I could. This is the best service I've ever received! EVER! We arrived promptly at 6:30 for a reservation that they were so sweet to reschedule from 9pm. We were seated within 5 minutes and in that time had great conversation with the hostesses. The hostesses were friendly and welcoming and all around great attitude and beautiful personalities. We were seated and Daniel was our server. Daniel was attentive and knew the menu very well. I truly mean top notch service. We started out with drinks. I got a beautiful cocktail and my partner got a glass of Chardonnay. Next came our appetizer of Pulpo61.... This was the most exquisitely delicious octopus I've ever had! The execution of this plate was Michelin star worthy! Kalamata caramelThe slight brininess of the olives and the sweet nutty caramel flavor was like the chef was enhancing the natural flavors of the ocean! Spectacular! For my entree I chose the Vaca frita.... This meal was literally Cuba on a plate! It was elevated just enough but still held its humbleness of a good solid comfort meal. My partner got the filet mignon with risotto. The steak was so tender and delicious. They were able to get a beautiful sear yet while maintaining its succulent juiciness! The risotto was the best I've ever had! Not one undercooked grain. Thank you for only sending out exceptional food! Lastly was the Grand Marnier crème brûlée. Hands down best I've ever had! The hint of orange from the liquor to crème brûlée to a new exciting level! To the customer service.... every staff member provided exceptional service regardless if they were our server. No dirty plate remained on our table for more than 1 min!!!! No dirty silverware!!! From the bottom of my heart this dinning experience truly touched my heart! The attention to detail that you all took to make this night special left me speechless. It's been a hard year after a scary diagnosis and your actions meant so much! In all my years I've never had a restaurant print my name on a menu, create me a card and put my dessert on the house! Thank you Nineteen61 and staff. read more

See all

Came here tonight to celebrate my moms birthday and oh my gosh. They had a cute menu for her and a birthday card signed by the staff that she unfortunately left on the table. She was almost close to tears riding home but we live far away and couldn't drive back in time to pick up the card. The service and ambiance were absolutely amazing! From the moment we stepped inside to the moment we left with our waiter and the manager both were very attentive and sweet. That grilled chicken was absolutely amazing! Juicy and flavorful. I will be bringing friends and family back here seeing as we couldn't stop talking about our experience here. read more

Best food and service we've had in a long time. Came here for my BF birthday and had Krista was our waitress and man!!!! She was awesome the food was amazing. I cannot say enough about Nineteen61. You have got to check them out. Everything was good. The food the drinks and service was top notch! read more

See all

Really enjoyed lunch here with family. Will definitely go back. Food and service was great!

Wow. What an amazing experience! Great atmosphere with amazing food. Oh wait, almost forgot incredible liquor & wine selections too! Oh double wait, top notch service can't be forgotten. Having spent my 20s in hospitality, it was nice to see the team effort the staff has towards service. It ensures you have an amazing experience. Different staff members filled our waters, pre-bused the table and ran the food. That comes from good management to create that culture. So if you're looking for a fine dining food/beverage experience coupled with amazing service, this is the place. Love the location too. This little downtown block of Lakeland has such a good feel to it. read more

See all

An Unexpected Gem!! Stopped by this restaurant on our way back from Disney and it turned into a wonderful dinner experience. We chose this restaurant due to the amount of good reviews and we are so happy we did! Was a beautiful place , and our server, Jackson, was exceptional!! We told him it was our first time dining there and he brought my husband and I complimentary sparkling wine and a mock tail for my under aged daughter. They also gave us complimentary cheese biscuits and some cute little crudités. We took all the recommendations from our server on apps ,salad ,dinners and dessert.. They were all fantastic! I just wish now we would have taken more pictures ... We had the empanadas, 1961 Salad , Burrata Salad, Seafood Paella , Churrasco Steak, and Espresso Crème Brûlée. All A++ We will definitely visit this place again! read more

See all

Stopped for lunch at this Lakeland eatery after a visit to this area. OMG! Everything was delicious! My friend had the smoked manhattan which was made with my favorite bourbon (Blanton's). It was amazing. We ordered the Brussel sprouts appetizer, avocado salmon toast with rice and beans and the garbanzo bean soup. Everything was delicious and the service was outstanding! The only negatives is that I forgot to take pictures and Lakeland is 2 hours from home. We plan to return next January when we next visit Lakeland! read more

The food and service was amazing, great place to celebrate a birthday with a few friends! The staff handled everything just perfectly and made my birthday so enjoyable! The atmosphere is so relaxing. We will for sure be back! read more

Service was great for the first time found, and the waiter was helpful in picking good recommendations. Started with the ceviche, which was phenomenal. The entree was paired, black bean risotto was amazing. Upscale spainsh/cuban cuisine great for nice date night for sure would highly recommend. read more

Nineteen 61 - Churrasco steak - Latin American Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

See all

An outstanding meal from start to finish. The sous vide octopus was cooked to perfection, as were the scallops in the paella. I also took the wine pairing suggestions, which complemented my meal nicely. read more

One time was enough for Me , I started with Spanish Bean Soup Which is Garbanzo Beans !!! No Cuban Bread with a cup of soup durning the day , I was told I could buy it for $7. Absolutely Not!!!!, It's only served with night meal at this restaurant, All Cuban restaurants except for this one serves cuban bread with all meal , That's the first thing all other Cuban Restaurants bring too the table as soon as you are seated, The so called Cuban chorizo was (horrible)!!! Switch Too Goya Chorizo and do a Sofrito don't just throw the chorizo in the pot it make's a big difference, The one you use totally overwhelmed the cup of soup & with it being horrible I only ate My baby garbanzo beans out of it which were hard , Paid for My Cup of Soup & left . I have voted this as the worst Cuba Food/Restaurant In Lakeland. read more

Nineteen 61 - Garbanzo Beans Soup - Latin American Near Me - Lakeland, Florida