Lofty Pursuits is a soda fountain, toy store and ice cream shop all in one, making it one of Tallahassee’s most unique spots. Walking inside feels like stepping back in time, with colorful murals, vintage candies and old-fashioned sodas on tap. The mix of nostalgia and ice cream creates an experience that feels fun for everyone.
The restaurant, located in a small shopping center on Market Street, is a favorite for families, college students and anyone looking for a cute dining experience. The atmosphere is vibrant, with walls covered in colorful artwork and shelves lined with toys and games. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and with plenty of seating, it’s easy to find a spot to settle in for a meal or a sweet treat.
Lofty Pursuits is best known for its extensive menu, which includes breakfast, lunch and dinner options. The breakfast menu is a highlight, offering everything from omelets to Bananas Foster Waffles, which are topped with vanilla bean ice cream and flambéed bananas in a rum caramel sauce. The Lofty Breakfast Sandwich is another popular choice, with your choice of bread layered with bacon or sausage, cheddar cheese, fresh sliced tomato and two fried eggs.
For those with different dietary needs, there are plenty of options—including a vegan-friendly choice. The Vegan Hash features diced russet potatoes, onions, green and red peppers and sautéed spinach, served with a side of vegan grits.
The lunch and dinner menu offers comfort food, including burgers, salads, and chicken tenders. The Lofty Hamburger is a 6 oz handcrafted burger made from scratch, served with onions, lettuce, tomato and a pickle spear, with options to add cheese, bacon or even an egg. The Chef’s Salad is just as filling, combining a bed of lettuce topped with tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, bacon, ham, turkey and shredded cheddar cheese.
No visit to Lofty Pursuits is complete without ice cream. The shop offers a variety of flavors, ranging from classics like Chocolate Chip and Real Strawberry to unique options like Bubble Gum and Kahlua Almond Fudge. Any of the flavors can be blended into a milkshake, making it easy to create a custom treat.
Beyond ice cream, the soda fountain serves hand-crafted sodas, including root beer on tap. These drinks capture the essence of an old-fashioned soda shop.
For many locals, Lofty Pursuits is more than just a place to eat; it’s a weekend tradition. “It’s my favorite place to go on the weekends,” said Tristan Cruzado, a Tallahassee native. “The staff is always nice, and the milkshakes and food are really good.”
One of the most memorable parts of the experience is how orders are handled. Instead of giving customers a number, Lofty Pursuits hands out a small stand featuring a superhero or character placard. It’s a small touch but one that adds to the playful environment.
The combination of a welcoming environment, good food, and even better ice cream makes Lofty Pursuits a one-of-a-kind destination in Tallahassee. Whether stopping by for brunch, grabbing a soda, or enjoying a milkshake, the experience is about more than just the food; it’s about feeling like a kid again.