STORY AND PHOTOS BY LOREN SPANGLER
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Located in the 1919 historic district of Lake Wales, The Highlander Bar & Grille blends an atmosphere of the Highlander with juicy steaks, fresh grilled seafood, ribs, and great sandwiches. In addition to a full liquor bar, there is also a complete wine list, four beers on tap, and 20 bottled beers. As you enter, wood planked fl oors direct you toward your favorite table or a chair at the copper-topped bar. For those that desire comfort, two couches are available next to a large painting by artist, Tom Freeman. There is also a small table for two with a decorative lamp for those who enjoy something cozy and different. As the menu boasts, “We’ve Got What Lake Wales Wants!”

Owner, Robert Connors, is a native of central Florida, and a graduate from Lake Wales High School. As a former County Commissioner with a background in banking, he is no stranger to the business world and has his mind set in offering the very best in a special dining experience. His easy going nature and pride of being in the historic district shows in both of his adjoining establishments…the other restaurant is La Bella Torre. From the quality of the food to the pleasant décor it is obvious he is doing things right. The staff is friendly, efficient, and pleasant, enhancing the overall ambiance of the restaurant.

The menu at The Highlander Bar & Grille is easy to read and starts with appetizers such as, Basket of Fries, or Baked Potato for $2.99. Jalapeno Poppers, Fried Cheese, and Beer-Battered Onion Rings are $3.99. Fried Calamari is offered at $5.99. For a large group, an Appetizer Sampler for $6.99 that consists of all of the above would be a great choice.

All Sandwiches are served with lettuce, tomato, and French Fried Potatoes. The delicious, Char-Grilled Angus Beef Burger, Cajun Burger, and Onion Burgers are all 8-oz. portions and are $6.99. The equally tasty, Chicken Breast or Grouper sandwiches are also $6.99.

When asked about the creative selection of culinary ideas offered on the menu Robert replies, “The food we serve takes a lot of thought and preparation. The recipes you see listed here are a joint effort between myself and my talented Chef, Richard Collier.” I believe that tells it all.

For those that like to travel light, a Garden Salad is $1.99, and a Chef’s Salad with all the toppings is priced at $5.99. All entrees are served with a Baked Potato, Fries or Rice, and a Garden Salad. Grilled Chicken Breast is priced at, $8.99, and St. Louis Style Barbecue Ribs start at $10.00 for a half-rack. Tenderloin Kabobs are from $10.99 to $14.99, and if your palate craves a delicious steak, an 8-oz. Highlander Sirloin is $12.99 and a 14-oz. New York is $19.99. For the gourmet diner an 8-oz. Filet Mignon is available at $24.99 and a 16-oz. T-bone is $23.99. All steaks are US Choice or Select Beef aged for tenderness, and are cooked to order over an open fl ame. A topper of bacon, cheese, sautéed onions or mushrooms are only ninety-nine cents extra.

The Highlander Bar & Grill also serves a fi ne selection of Grilled Seafood, and all entries are served with a Garden Salad, Fries, Baked Potato, or Rice. An 8-oz. Yellow Fin Tuna Steak or Mahi-Mahi Fillet, also 8-oz., is offered for $12.99. Tropical Shrimp Skewers (two) are $14.99.

If scrumptious deserts are your passion you may want to try the Tiramisu, Lava Fudge Sunday, Profi tteroles, or Torta Della Nonna. Please ask about the Kahlua Dream!

Don’t forget that every Friday and Saturday
evening, The Highlander offers live
entertainment with a mix of original
songs and popular standards.

The Highlander Bar & Grille is located at
253 East Stuart Avenue, Lake Wales, Florida.

The phone number is (863) 678-9696.