4 Independent Restaurants Opening in Florida’s Heartland Region

Florida’s Heartland region has a few new independent spots worth putting on your radar—ranging from a taproom-side kitchen in downtown Avon Park to a relocated Okeechobee pool hall that treats the food menu like a main event.

Two of the projects are already serving customers now, while two more are still working through the final steps to open. Here are four openings (and near-openings) to know right now.

1. Porkchop’s Barbecue — Lake Placid

Porkchop’s Barbecue is targeting a mid-January opening at 295 E. Interlake Blvd. It’s built as a simple, counter-service barbecue spot with limited dine-in seating and a strong takeout focus.

The menu is set to feature smoked brisket, pulled pork, and in-house jalapeño cheddar sausage, with a poultry option and rotating specials expected over time.

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2. Sophie’s on Main Street — Avon Park

Sophie’s on Main Street is planned for 4 E. Main St., with timing dependent on final kitchen permitting. It will be the Del Cuetos’ third Sophie’s location, following two Sophie’s Café restaurants in Sebring.

The Avon Park café is expected to be a smaller, casual space (about 20–25 seats) serving the same Cuban café menu as the Sebring locations, with beer and wine planned once approvals are in place.

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3. Backwoods Billiards — Okeechobee

Backwoods Billiards is open now in its new downtown location at 413 SW Park St. The move keeps the concept focused on pool (14 tables), leagues, and a full food menu.

Food is positioned as a major draw here, with burgers, steaks, wings, pizzas, and other bar-style staples.

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4. Barley’s Hideaway — Avon Park

Barley’s Hideaway is open now inside The Pour House at 2 E. Main St. It’s designed as a fast-casual food operation paired with the taproom experience, using QR-code ordering and counter pickup.

The menu leans into comfort food with barbecue energy—think brisket tacos, sliders, pizzas, and protein bowls—wrapped in pet-themed branding that shows up across item names.

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