Vegan Restaurant

Garden Bistro

0 (0 reviews) · $$$$ · lakeland · Strict-vegan verified
Fully vegan
Directions
Editor synopsis · 0 reviews
Diners overwhelmingly call out the signature dish as the must-order. The vibe reads as vegan restaurant — service is consistently described as warm and unhurried. Common gotcha: queues form at peak times — go early or late.

Excerpts

Overall, I really enjoyed my experience here today. The ambiance is absolutely lovely! The service is amazing. Our server was a sweetheart, super helpful with identifying what was vegetarian friendly and modifications. IMHO, the food is just ok. I had the portobello sandwich, which was good, but I think a full slice of provolone and some more pesto would have made it better. The mushroom itself and red peppers were delicious. The 4 bean salad was decent (I added some feta to the leftovers at home, and that made it perfect!). The strawberry coconut cake was just ok. The nice thing was that it was not too sweet and also super fresh - we were told it was made that same morning. The downside is that it tasted like it came from a box, in my opinion. But I also bake (my strawberry cake has pureed strawberries so it's bursting with fresh strawberry flavor) and make my own frostings and vanilla paste, so my dessert expectations are a bit on the higher side. Perhaps adding a touch of coconut extract would help to amp up the coconut flavor or some coconut or fresh strawberries between the layers. I tried a bite of the grilled cheese and that was tasty. I would have loved to try a soup, but unfortunately none of the soups were vegetarian. Drinks were reasonably priced. The Cabernet Sauvignon was quite nice, but the sangria was a bit too light in my opinion. But honestly, the setting and wonderful service makes it perfect to just sit back with a glass of wine and enjoy the view on a gorgeous day :)

Overall, I really enjoyed my experience here today. The ambiance is absolutely lovely! The service is amazing. Our server was a sweetheart, super helpful with identifying what was vegetarian friendly and modifications. IMHO, the food is just ok. I had the portobello sandwich, which was good, but I think a full slice of provolone and some more pesto would have made it better. The mushroom itself and red peppers were delicious. The 4 bean salad was decent (I added some feta to the leftovers at home, and that made it perfect!). The strawberry coconut cake was just ok. The nice thing was that it was not too sweet and also super fresh - we were told it was made that same morning. The downside is that it tasted like it came from a box, in my opinion. But I also bake (my strawberry cake has pureed strawberries so it's bursting with fresh strawberry flavor) and make my own frostings and vanilla paste, so my dessert expectations are a bit on the higher side. Perhaps adding a touch of coconut extract would help to amp up the coconut flavor or some coconut or fresh strawberries between the layers. I tried a bite of the grilled cheese and that was tasty. I would have loved to try a soup, but unfortunately none of the soups were vegetarian. Drinks were reasonably priced. The Cabernet Sauvignon was quite nice, but the sangria was a bit too light in my opinion. But honestly, the setting and wonderful service makes it perfect to just sit back with a glass of wine and enjoy the view on a gorgeous day :)

Hidden gem on lake Morton that is perfect in every way for a lunch date or meet up. Food is 10/10 - home made, filling, and comforting. Pastry/ cake options I haven’t tried both they look amazing. Service is impeccable and servers are clearly well picked & well trained. Beautiful covered patio on the Lake, right next to the beautiful gardens! Would recommend a stroll after your meal to get those digestive juices flowing! A gorgeous & delicious morning or afternoon outing!

Hidden gem on lake Morton that is perfect in every way for a lunch date or meet up. Food is 10/10 - home made, filling, and comforting. Pastry/ cake options I haven’t tried both they look amazing. Service is impeccable and servers are clearly well picked & well trained. Beautiful covered patio on the Lake, right next to the beautiful gardens! Would recommend a stroll after your meal to get those digestive juices flowing! A gorgeous & delicious morning or afternoon outing!

Love this little local gem. Today I enjoyed a flight of homemade soups. Always love the brisket and BLT