This is a massive win for the local dining scene. The 2026 Florida Michelin Guide results just dropped, and Nineteen61 officially earned its place on the prestigious “Recommended” list.
It is a huge nod to Executive Chef and owner Marcos Fernandez, who has successfully put downtown Lakeland on the map as a legitimate culinary destination.
Why Michelin Noticed
What sets Nineteen61 apart is its highly sophisticated, modern twist on Latin American cuisine. The restaurant’s name honors a deeply personal history—1961 was the year Chef Fernandez’s parents left Cuba. That heritage anchors a menu that seamlessly weaves together Cuban roots, modern Spanish techniques, and vibrant Peruvian touches…