Today we’d like to introduce you to Tina Calhoon.
Hi Tina, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar continues to define the heart of Downtown Lakeland’s dining scene, led by Chef Tina Calhoon—a Florida native born in Jacksonville and raised in Ocala, whose earliest culinary education came from days spent cooking beside her mother. Grounded in Southern tradition and shaped by real‑world, hands‑on training, Chef Tina brings a signature blend of comfort, creativity, and global influence to every dish. Since opening in 2009, Tina and her husband Tim, Frescos’ Director of Spirits and Entertainment, have guided the restaurant through three major expansions, transforming it from a small bistro into a downtown destination that guests routinely describe as warm, welcoming, and “like coming home.” Reviews consistently praise the exceptional hospitality, vibrant atmosphere, and thoughtfully crafted food and cocktails that make every visit memorable. As a cornerstone of Lakeland’s revitalized dining landscape, Frescos remains committed to creating a space where great food, genuine care, and a sense of belonging keep guests returning again and again.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Over our 17 years in business, we have learned to work through razor-thin margins.
This industry teaches you to work smart and quickly through financial strains and employee ups and downs.
The rising cost of every element, from labor to food costs, and every service in between, that provides a service for this industry.
We gone through labor audits, sales tax audits, social media bullying, and so much more. But, every day we come back to provide a service we love, a product we enjoy creating, and a true love of our community.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Frescos is known for a lot of things, but if someone mentions Frescos, you can always ask do you come for the Shrimp and Grits or Bottomless Mimosa.
We were the first restaurant in Lakeland to have a craft bourbon bar, three private banquet rooms, and provide full off-site catering service.
Recently, we opened a creators Market for young entrepreneurs. This came about due to needing to expand our catering division and the love of our community to create a storefront in the downtown corridor.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up in Ocala, I was blessed with local schools close enough to walk or ride my bike to. Great neighbors and good friendships. I was a little wild and started working at a young age to ensure I could purchase my own care when I turned 16. I have always been goal-oriented with a determination to get to my final destination one way or another. Quitting or failing is not an option.
Pricing:
- Breakfast $10 to $22
- Lunch $16 to $34
- Dinner $18 to $40
- House Cocktails Start at $13
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.frescoslakeland.com
- Instagram: frescoslakeland
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frescoslakeland
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/frescoslakeland
