Jessie's

As a local connoisseur of craft beers (featured in local news outlets such as the Lakeland Ledger, the Winter Haven News Chief and Fox 13 for my new years resolution of drinking a new beer every day), Jessie's is my go-to bar. Not only do they have an excellent and frequently rotating selection of craft beer, Jessie herself pours a mean martini. The jukebox is stocked with every imaginable sort of music, and live acts can range from local metal bands to hip hop legends Naughty by Nature (and even one-hit wonder acts like Afroman). A surprisingly intimate locale for such great concerts, a great selection of drinks, and guaranteed coverage of local sports (with the exception of anything blacked out, and I'm looking at you Buccaneers), the atmosphere here is great. The crowd can definitely range from central Florida hipster to tough country boys depending on the night, but I've made some of my best friends because of this incredible bar. Parking IS limited at the moment outside, by Winter Haven PD has made downtown safety a priority, so park down the street and check out this excellent bar with incredible prices. It's well worth it.

Great bar. Friendly staff and great selection of craft beers.

Great bar atmosphere. Often crowded. Great beer selection. Full liquor.