Sebring, Florida, may be best known for its legendary raceway, but this Central Florida town is also a rising star in the foodie scene. From charming cafes and cozy bakeries to elegant hotel restaurants and creative fusion spots, Sebring and its neighboring towns serve up surprising flavors that’ll have you planning a return trip—race weekend or not. Here are some of the most excellent places to eat in Sebring, plus a few can’t-miss eats just a short drive away.
1. Sophie’s Café
Cuban flair with daily specials and fantastic coffee
Sophie’s Café is a great spot for a Cuban-inspired lunch, from classic sandwiches and warm, tasty plantains to hearty daily specials. I loved the perfectly made cortadito, and the welcoming vibe made it a relaxing mid-day stop. Even non-Cuban menu options offer solid variety.
2. Legacy 1912
A beautiful downtown Sebring dining experience run by a local favorite
The brainchild of Pink Pineapple Catering’s Jessica Pleger, Legacy 1912 is Sebring’s newest gem. My family dined here and was wowed by every detail—from gorgeous glassware and table settings to perfectly fresh salads (like in their own category!) and craveable bread and butter.
The atmosphere is both elegant and cozy, making it perfect for a date night or a celebration with family.
3. Faded Bistro and Beer Garden
Garden vibes, craft beer, and elevated comfort food
With indoor-outdoor seating surrounded by lush greenery, Faded Bistro offers one of the most atmospheric dining spots in town. The charcuterie board is a crowd-pleaser piled high with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and pickled bites. We also loved the Irish Nachos topped with stout beer cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Come for weekend brunch, stay for the cocktails!
4. Chicanes Restaurant at Inn on the Lakes
Fine dining with lakeside charm and fan-favorite French Onion Soup
Located inside the stunning Inn on the Lakes, Chicanes offers an upscale yet relaxed dining experience. For dinner, splurge on the cedar plank salmon, the daily special, or the melt-in-your-mouth Rollovers—bite-sized filet mignon wrapped around pepper jack cheese. Save room for dessert — they are mouthwatering!
Pro Tip: Pair it all with the French Onion Soup (or current soup) or a crisp Caesar salad.
5. Cowpoke’s Watering Hole
Steaks, karaoke, and a Florida Orange Cake you’ll dream about
Cowpoke’s Watering Hole is big—nearly 300 seats—but still manages to feel homey, thanks to its separate dining spaces, lively tiki bar, and regular live entertainment (think karaoke, line dancing, and local bands).
Start with the bacon-wrapped asparagus or CowPoke’s Kickin’ Cajun Shrimp, then dive into their famous Chairman’s Reserve steaks. I loved my juicy steak with sautéed onions and mushrooms, but seafood, pasta, and tacos are also solid picks.
Don’t leave without dessert—the citrus-packed Florida Orange Cake is legendary.
6. Nutmeg’s Cafe
A bakery-meets-bistro that’s Instagram-worthy and craveable
This charming café serves a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary dishes, satisfying the taste buds of all kinds. Nutmeg’s signature panini, The Mouse Trap, is a gooey blend of five cheeses, spices, and artichokes that pairs beautifully with the nostalgic English Pea Salad. I was also tempted by the homemade quiche.
Popular Buddha bowls, fresh salads, and gourmet sandwiches round out the menu—but don’t leave without grabbing a box of their macarons, cookies, or cupcakes from the bakery case.
7. The Restaurant at Hotel Jacaranda (Avon Park)
Old-school buffet with vintage charm
Located just a few miles from Sebring in historic Avon Park, this hotel restaurant serves a hearty lunch buffet (in the winter season) complete with soups, hot entrees, cold salads, and a dessert bar—all for one flat rate (drinks included). In the summer, lunch consists of sandwiches and daily specials.
Don’t miss the restaurant at Hotel Jacaranda’s Sunday Grand Buffet. It’s a throwback to traditional Southern hospitality.
8. Morty & Edna’s Craft Kitchen (Lake Placid)
Breakfast done right—with biscuit sandwiches and killer coffee
This cozy neighborhood favorite serves fantastic breakfasts, including homemade biscuit sandwiches, rotating quiches or frittatas, and bold coffee drinks. Morty & Edna’s setting is casual, the service is friendly, and the food is top-tier.
Don’t skip the biscuit and gravy—it’s a standout.
9. Jaxson’s (Lake Placid)
Casual, local-loved, and home of the addictive Hookiemelt
A quick drive from Sebring in Lake Placid, Jaxson’s is famous for its Hookiemelt—choose grilled, fried, or blackened chicken served over tortilla chips with sour cream, onions, cheese, and wing sauce. It’s spicy, melty, and utterly craveable.
Warning: You’ll want seconds.
Bonus Bites
Two bonus spots you’ll want to add to your Sebring travels are Sugar Blossoms and Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works for a divine sweet treat. At Sugar Blossoms, you’ll find a wealth of goodies, from cookies and cupcakes to Rice Krispie treats and Whoopie Pies, at this darling mom-and-daughter establishment open Tuesday through Saturday.
Satisfy your craving for craft soda or ice cream delights at Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works. An ice cream float never tasted better than good quality ice cream and a gourmet craft soda (I go for Fanta or Hank’s orange!), and you won’t believe how delicious the ice cream sandwiches are.
Final Thoughts: Sebring’s Food Scene is Full of Flavor
Sebring may surprise you with its variety of great food—from craft breakfasts and bistro lunches to elegant dinners and funky local joints. Whether you’re fueling up after a race, on a romantic getaway, or road-tripping through Central Florida, this town is serving serious flavor.
Thanks to Visit Sebring and Inn on the Lakes for hosting my visit, accommodations, and some of my meals. As always, opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased.
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