Bandidas Bake Shop — Restaurant in Lakeland

Bandidas is an instant classic and Lakeland is so lucky to have this GEM of a bake shop run by two local star chefs and bakers who bring their NYC culinary training and flair inspired by their heritage to our little town.

The food is superb. I dream about the chocolate chewy pecan cookie. The focaccia was a hit at a party I hosted. Their grab-and-go fresh fruit salad put Publix’s to embarrassing shame. I tried a slice of Gio’s chocolate cake (followed by three more) at a baby shower and tracked down the host to ask WHERE on earth she found what I considered to be the best chocolate cake I’ve ever had. Of course it was from Bandidas - I should've known. I can’t wait to try every single thing on the menu.

The atmosphere is that of an adorable local cafe where people are often working on their laptops, meeting friends, or splitting a cookie with family. It feels welcoming and warm and I love that it’s become a new hangout spot in town.

Gio and Gabi (and often their moms!) are always there themselves, whether taking orders and ringing customers up or making your food fresh in the kitchen. They’re always saying hello to guests they know and new friends they meet - which is how you feel your first time going there. Like a friend.

I really can’t say enough great things about Bandidas! Whether you get their catering or stop in for a sandwich, quick salad, or sweet treat, I know you’ll be...

I am soooo happy i went in! I was looking for something different to have for breakfast and decided to give this shop a try. I walked in and two ladies were eating in one of the tables. I mentioned to the lady taking the order that i’ve never been and shortly after one of the ladies eating began telling me about how it was her first time there and she couldn’t even put words together to say how great it was. I left excited after ordering a Miss honey, mint and rose cold tea and a chewy pecan cookie. Man ohhh man! I didn’t expect it to be this damn good! I literally have never had a sandwich soooo delicious! The reviews aren’t overhyping it, they are that great! Perfect blend of different flavors in their amazing and scrumptious bread. I was sort of like the lady, lost for words to describe it. I ate it and wasn’t hungry till like 6 hours later so it’s super filling! I will definitely be a regular! I LOVED IT! Go on and give them a try, you’ll probably be dreaming about their cookies or sandwiches .....

I decided to grab a quick breakfast at Bandidas Bake Shop at 1755 E. Edgewood Dr. Lakeland. It’s a small store front in the Bently Plaza next to Gigi’s Korean Market. They have a marvelous selection of fresh baked items and have a breakfast and lunch sandwich menu. (See photo.) Everything is made to order, so you know it’s fresh. I had the Sausage Biscuit which is a pork sausage patty with guava caramelized onions and shredded Kerry Gold cheddar cheese on a flavorful biscuit! The flavors go together so well. I added an orange juice from the cooler and I had a delicious meal! They have a small dining area inside and a table and chairs out front. The staff is very friendly and the whole store has a welcoming vibe. They are open Wednesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Stop by and...