WACO Kitchen 3900 Don Emerson Drive, Lakeland, FL 33811

"We haven't been here since WACO arrived but I got say WOW, the Shrimp and Grits was awesome. The food was so flavorful, zing and spice without heat. Mmmm. Our server was great, very attentive and knowledgeable about what she was serving. Our only issue was, and it's not really an issue, was the booth, tables would be better. The view from the booth is of the kitchen, which is not bad, its busy, clean, and interesting, but siting in the booth it's difficult to see the air strip, but then again, it's not much of a complaint, the service and food far out weigh the air strip."

"I love this place. The atmosphere and service are what really shines. The food could use some work. The onion rings, tasted like something you would get from a fast food place or an Applebee’s. The Cesar salad was beautiful, but the half heads of romaine made it very hard to cut without getting bits of cheese and crumbs all over the place. The grain bowl was like eating a huge bowl of steel cut oats, just too much grains, not enough vegetables. All one texture. The old veggie dish they had before with the rice and vegetables was a lot better. I appreciate the vegan options and will keep coming back. Would love to see an improved option."

"Staff awesome. Food awesome. Drinks great!! Have to ask. The lighting inside is so awesome but is there a reason at evening time it’s still bright like “you’re shopping at Publix”? Everyone in my party said the same. Maybe there is a specific reason since it’s at an airport but I’m all about ambience and I feel like they have spent so much money on beautiful lighting. It just needs to be turned down several notches to make it more intimate. Way too bright at dinner."

"Good food, excellent service, quiet atmosphere with a nice view. Grouper sandwhich is very thick. Salt, pepper, lemon, and traditional hot sauce would be good additional garnishes for it. The seasoning on the fries is herby and a refreshing change from the norm. The credit card, receipt, and pen holders are neat."

"Absolutely amazing! Obviously fresh ingredients, great taste, and beautifully presented! Will definitely be back! We had the biplane burger, the four cheese pasta, and the crème brûlée, all excellent! And our drinks were the Ground Control, Key Lime Pie and German Chocolate Cake, all delicious!"