4 Rivers Smokehouse To Open 1st Eatery In Lakeland June 21

LAKELAND, FL — 4 Rivers Smokehouse’s 15th restaurant opens June 21 at The Shoppes at Lake Miriam Crossing, a retail and dining destination at 4729 S. Florida Ave. in Lakeland.

The 4,030-square-foot restaurant features seating for 92 guests, with large garage doors that open for fresh air. In addition to dining in, the new Smokehouse offers curbside service, a drive-thru option, delivery and a catering program.

The newest 4 Rivers Smokehouse operation creates approximately 50 new jobs for the Lakeland region, including the hire of Lakeland native Johanna Annis as general manager.

Named one of the “South’s Best BBQ Joints” by Southern Living Magazine, 4 Rivers Smokehouse brings the best of barbecue to Lakeland. The Smokehouse will serve its variety of signature classics, such as 18-hour smoked signature Angus brisket, pulled pork and burnt ends.

Guests will also enjoy popular homestyle sides, such as baked cheese grits, smokehouse corn and 4R mac n’ cheese. Additionally, the Smokehouse will offer its vegan burnt ends as well as other vegetarian options.

“Ever since opening the first 4 Rivers almost 14 years ago, we’ve heard a large outcry from Lakeland residents asking us to open a Smokehouse in their city, and it’s always been a goal of ours to do so,” said John Rivers, 4R Restaurant Group founder/CEO. “We’re honored that Publix has given us the opportunity to open a smokehouse in its beautiful Publix GreenWise Market complex in Lakeland, which bridges the gap between our nearest locations in Kissimmee and Tampa. We are thrilled to bring our barbecue ministry to Lakeland where we are neighbors with Publix, a company that shares our commitment to giving back to the community.”

“We’re excited to welcome 4 Rivers to the area,” said Publix Director of Communications Maria Brous. “Not only do we share similar values, like serving our communities, but we also share the love of good food.”

Established in Winter Park in 2009, 4 Rivers Smokehouse is a family-owned “barbecue ministry” specializing in 30-day aged smoked Angus brisket, homestyle sides and John Rivers originals.

4 Rivers Smokehouse is planning a week of grand opening activities. See the scheduled below: