Local Dining

Get a taste of authentic Florida fun at this restaurant and tiki bar where you’ll find fried gator and frog legs on the menu (there are delicious seafood and steak items, too). Cowpoke’s Watering Hole is a place where locals and visitors mingle under the breezy, thatched-roof tiki hut to tip back a frosty drink or take in whatever major sporting event is showing on the flat screens. Regularly scheduled weekly events that draw in the crowds include line-dancing lessons, trivia nights and karaoke.

The only thing that rivals the food at Chicanes Restaurant is the ambiance. With garden and lake views, impeccable service and delectable dishes, you’ll want to make your dining experience leisurely. Signature dinner entrees include Tuscan Linguine, the Chicanes BV Napa Filet and the Supreme Christina, which features a chicken breast sautéed with Gulf shrimp, fresh mushrooms and tarragon in an exquisite lobster sherry sauce.

When you’re in the mood to eat like a local, stop by Jaxson’s, ranked No. 1 on TripAdvisor’s list of Lake Placid restaurants, for no-fuss pub-style American cuisine. Guests recommend sitting on the screened-in porch to enjoy the lakeside view. In addition to mouth-watering sandwiches, wraps, hoagies and build-your-own burgers, you’ll discover fresh seafood and steak entrees on the menu. If you’re feeling adventurous, sample a shareable appetizer of local gator tail or the saucy, cheesy chicken in Jaxson’s Hookiemelt.

Eighteen East Restaurant and Bar is the place to go for dinner to enjoy perfectly seasoned and sizzling steaks in Avon Park. Dare to venture from the fillets and feast on rib eyes, twice-baked potatoes, freshly grilled prime rib served in a wrap, or the Reuben sandwich. Spark conversation with the owner for a true local experience— rumor has it, he always has a good story to tell.