When will Lakeland Linder have another restaurant? The latest on the airport's search

Despite claims of strong and continued interest, Lakeland officials have yet to receive a bid from any restaurateur interested in serving up food and drinks at Lakeland Linder International Airport.

The city posted a request for proposals June 4 seeking a new restaurant operator at the airport after Waco Kitchen suddenly suspended its operations in April. This left the airport without any food service weeks before Avelo Airlines launched its first commercial passenger service.

"We're looking for someone who is willing to come out and give the airport an opportunity," Airport Director Kris Hallstrand said. "It's a tight environment and it's difficult. Restaurants are closing all the time, so the deal has to be right."

City officials pursued legal action to evict Waco Kitchen in May, after the restaurant's operator DiMor Eats LLC failed to comply with its lease agreement and suddenly shutdown April 21. Under its lease with the city, Waco Kitchen was required to serve at least one meal per day, a minimum of six days a week.

Hallstrand previously told The Ledger that the city issued a five-day notice to the restaurant's ownership to comply with its lease and restart operations, without a response.

Now, the municipal-owned airport faces the red tape of abiding by Florida statutes when disposing of the property the restaurant left behind. Hallstrand said the city cannot simply assume ownership of the industrial kitchen equipment, chairs, tables, plates and utensils left behind. Under state law, Hallstrand told commissioners the items must be put up to public auction.

"The legal process is taking some time, as we do not own the equipment. Rather it's considered abandoned," she said.

City staff have made several attempts to reach out to the former lease holders regarding the items, without response, Hallstrand said.

The airport director said she met with two groups last week to discuss the restaurant, and she continues to be hopeful about future opportunities.

The city's RFP seeking an interested party to operate a pre-security screening restaurant on the second floor of the airport offering food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks, remains open until Aug. 2. Those who might be interested may reach out with any questions until 5 p.m. July 26.

"We're going to find the right partners, even if it takes time — so be it," Hallstrand said.

The airport director previously spoke of the possibility of having food trucks on site to provide food and beverages for Avelo passengers. Because of stringent federal security regulations, Hallstrand said it was not feasible and was not implemented.

Sara-Megan Walsh can be reached at swalsh@theledger.com or 863-802-7545. Follow on X @SaraWalshFl.