MOJO Federal Swine & Spirits is a popular restaurant located in historic downtown Lakeland, Florida. What makes this restaurant unique is not just its delicious menu items but also the historic building it is housed in. MOJO Federal Swine & Spirits is located in a federal building that was built in 1910 and has a rich history that is worth exploring.
Dining room at Mojo Federal
The building that now houses MOJO Federal Swine & Spirits was originally built as a post office and later served as a courthouse and government building. The building has been preserved and renovated over the years, with MOJO Federal Swine & Spirits moving in in 2017. The restaurant has retained many of the building’s original features, such as the high ceilings and large windows, giving it a unique and charming atmosphere.
One of the highlights of MOJO Federal Swine & Spirits’s menu is their smoked turkey platter. The turkey is slow-smoked for several hours and served with delicious sides such as collard greens and mac and cheese. The restaurant also offers a variety of other smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. Their shrimp and grits dish is also a fan favorite, with perfectly cooked shrimp served on a bed of creamy grits.
Mmm… mmmm. mmm! Black-eyed pea goodness!
In addition to their great food, MOJO Federal Swine & Spirits has also received several awards and recognitions. In 2019, they were named the Best Barbecue Restaurant in Lakeland by the readers of The Ledger. They were also featured on the Cooking Channel’s “Carnival Eats” and Travel Channel’s “Food Paradise.”
Aside from MOJO Federal Swine & Spirits, downtown Lakeland is a vibrant and historic area that is worth exploring. The area is home to several shops and boutiques, including Black Swan Bazaar, which sells unique and handmade items from local artisans. If you’re a book lover, you’ll definitely want to check out the historic Lakeland Public Library, which was built in 1928 and is now a designated historic landmark.
Smoked turkey platter at Mojo Federal
For those interested in history, the Polk County History Center is a must-visit. The center is located in the former Polk County Courthouse, which was built in 1909 and served as a courthouse and government building until 1984. The building was renovated and reopened as the history center in 1998 and now features exhibits on the history of Polk County.
Downtown Lakeland is also home to several events and festivals throughout the year. The annual Mayfaire by the Lake festival is a popular event that features over 150 artists and craftsmen, live music, and food vendors. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is another great event that takes place every Saturday morning and features fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
The sauce lineup at Mojo Federal
In conclusion, MOJO Federal Swine & Spirits is a great restaurant to visit if you’re in the Lakeland area. Not only do they serve delicious barbecue, but they are also housed in a historic building that has a rich history. The smoked turkey platter and shrimp and grits are two menu items that are definitely worth trying. If you have time to explore downtown Lakeland, there are plenty of shops, events, and historic landmarks to check out.
