That is a classic “full circle” moment! Kara Kirkland, a Lakeland native who once donned the famous “Eat Mor Chikin” cow suit as a mascot, officially opened her own Chick-fil-A franchise today, March 5, 2026.
The new restaurant is located at 6875 Florida Ave S (at Shepherd Road) in South Lakeland. This opening is particularly special because:
- Hometown Roots: Kirkland is a local who grew up in the area, making this a true homecoming.
- The “Cow to Career” Journey: Her career began in the trenches (and the plush fur) of the mascot suit, working her way up through the ranks to become an independent Owner-Operator.
- Economic Impact: The new location is expected to bring approximately 100 new jobs to the Lakeland community.
Opening Details
| Feature | Details |
| Location | 6875 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33813 |
| Opening Date | March 5, 2026 |
| Operating Hours | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Monday–Saturday) |
| Services | Dine-in, Drive-thru, and Mobile Ordering |
The site joins several other new developments in the area, including a massive $150 million Chick-fil-A distribution center recently announced for Polk County.
(Visited 49 times, 1 visits today)