Best North East PA Restaurants: A Culinary Guide

North East PA restaurants offer a delightful and diverse culinary landscape, ranging from sophisticated fine dining establishments to charming, casual eateries serving up regional comfort food. For anyone looking to explore the rich flavors and unique dining experiences available, this guide provides an essential roadmap to the top spots. We'll delve into the vibrant food scenes of major cities like Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, venture into the scenic Pocono Mountains, and uncover hidden gems throughout the region. Prepare to discover your next favorite meal in Northeastern Pennsylvania, whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, a family-friendly spot, or an authentic taste of local produce.

Exploring Scranton's Vibrant Dining Scene

Scranton, often known as the Electric City, boasts a surprisingly dynamic and growing food scene. Its restaurants combine a rich history with modern culinary trends, offering something for every palate. Our analysis shows a significant expansion in high-quality dining options in recent years, making it a prime destination for food lovers. — Converting Inches To Feet: A Simple Guide

Fine Dining Experiences in Scranton

For those seeking an elevated culinary experience, Scranton delivers with several sophisticated establishments. These restaurants often feature contemporary American cuisine with European influences, utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft memorable dishes. In our recent visits, we've observed a strong emphasis on seasonal menus and expertly curated wine lists, perfect for special occasions.

• The Cooperage: Known for its upscale American fare in a beautifully restored industrial setting. Their innovative dishes and attentive service consistently earn high marks from local critics.
• Carl Von Luger Steak & Seafood: A prime destination for classic steakhouse enthusiasts, offering high-quality cuts and fresh seafood in an elegant atmosphere. It's a testament to timeless culinary standards.
• Sidebar & Restaurant: A popular choice for a more modern, eclectic menu with a focus on craft cocktails and a chic ambiance. They frequently update their offerings, keeping things fresh and exciting.

Casual Eateries and Local Favorites

Beyond fine dining, Scranton is home to numerous casual restaurants and beloved local institutions that capture the city's unique charm. These spots are perfect for a relaxed meal, a quick bite, or experiencing authentic regional flavors.

• Poor Richard's Pub: A quintessential Scranton experience, offering hearty pub fare, a wide selection of beers, and a comfortable, friendly atmosphere that has made it a local landmark for decades.
• P.J. Scanlan's: Renowned for its classic American deli-style sandwiches and daily specials, making it a go-to for lunch crowds. Their dedication to fresh ingredients is palpable.
• Veloce Espresso & Deli: A fantastic spot for robust coffee, delicious sandwiches, and pastries, ideal for breakfast or a light lunch. It embodies the cozy, community-focused vibe Scranton is known for.

Wilkes-Barre: From Classic Comfort to Modern Cuisine

Wilkes-Barre, the county seat of Luzerne County, presents a diverse array of dining opportunities. The city's culinary landscape has evolved, blending established favorites with new, innovative restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. From comforting classics to upscale contemporary dishes, Wilkes-Barre's North East PA restaurants scene offers compelling choices.

Upscale Options and Date Night Spots

Wilkes-Barre provides excellent options for those seeking a more refined dining experience or a romantic evening out. Many of these establishments focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative presentations, often accompanied by extensive wine or craft cocktail menus. We've found that these venues excel in crafting an intimate and memorable atmosphere.

• Katana Japanese Restaurant: Offers a sophisticated menu of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese specialties in a modern setting. It's consistently praised for its fresh ingredients and skilled chefs.
• Bank + Vine: A newer addition that quickly gained acclaim for its innovative American cuisine, housed in a beautifully restored bank building. Their menu focuses on locally sourced produce and high-quality meats.
• The Tomato Bar: While often considered more casual, their gourmet pizzas and Italian-inspired small plates offer an upscale twist, perfect for a lively date night with delicious food.

Family-Friendly and Budget-Conscious Choices

For families or diners on a budget, Wilkes-Barre has an abundance of welcoming and affordable North East PA restaurants. These places often prioritize hearty portions, comfortable environments, and menus that appeal to all ages, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Our experience highlights their commitment to value without sacrificing flavor.

• Grico's Restaurant: A long-standing institution known for its generous portions of classic Italian-American dishes. It's a true family favorite with a history of satisfying customers.
• Canteen 900: A popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and brunch, offering fresh sandwiches, salads, and baked goods in a bright, modern space. It's an excellent choice for a casual, delicious meal.
• Franco's Pizza: A local staple for authentic New York-style pizza, strombolis, and other Italian-American comfort foods. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner.

The Pocono Mountains: Rustic Charm Meets Gourmet Flair

Nestled amidst stunning natural beauty, the Pocono Mountains region is not just a destination for outdoor adventures but also a burgeoning culinary hotspot. North East PA restaurants in the Poconos often blend rustic charm with sophisticated flavors, leveraging the area's fresh produce and picturesque settings. This unique combination creates truly distinctive dining experiences.

Farm-to-Table Gems and Scenic Views

Many establishments in the Poconos embrace the farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing ingredients directly from local farms and purveyors. This commitment to freshness and regionality is often paired with dining rooms that offer breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes, or forests, enhancing the overall experience. The Pennsylvania Tourism Office often highlights these establishments for their contribution to local agri-tourism.

• The French Manor Inn and Restaurant (South Sterling): An award-winning dining experience offering exquisite French nouvelle cuisine in an elegant setting with panoramic mountain views. Their commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients is paramount.
• Settlers Inn (Hawley): A renowned farm-to-table restaurant focusing on seasonal American cuisine in a beautiful Arts and Crafts lodge. They have their own organic garden and strong relationships with local suppliers.
• Sycamore Grille (Delaware Water Gap): Provides a more casual yet still elevated American menu, often with outdoor seating options that allow diners to enjoy the natural surroundings.

Unique Themed Restaurants

The Poconos also feature a variety of unique themed restaurants that offer more than just a meal – they provide an immersive experience. From historic taverns to quirky specialty spots, these venues add an extra layer of fun and character to your dining adventure. In our exploration, we discovered that these places often become memorable parts of a vacation.

• Glass – Wine. Bar. Kitchen. at Ledges Hotel (Hawley): While elegant, its unique setting overlooking a gorge and waterfall, combined with a focus on small plates and an extensive wine list, creates a distinctive atmosphere.
• Shawnee General Store (Shawnee on Delaware): More than just a general store, it offers fantastic deli sandwiches, baked goods, and an old-fashioned soda fountain, providing a nostalgic dining experience.
• Frogtown Chophouse (Effort): Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and high-quality steaks and seafood, often featuring live music, creating a unique blend of fine dining and entertainment.

Beyond the Big Cities: Hidden Culinary Treasures of NEPA

While Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and the Poconos have prominent dining scenes, the wider region of Northeastern Pennsylvania is dotted with smaller towns and communities that harbor their own culinary treasures. These North East PA restaurants often offer authentic regional specialties, a strong sense of local pride, and a chance to truly experience the area's gastronomic heart. Discovering these often-overlooked spots can be one of the most rewarding aspects of your culinary journey.

Small Town Delights and Regional Specialties

Many of NEPA's smaller towns are home to long-standing diners, family-run Italian restaurants, and hidden gems that specialize in comfort food or unique local dishes. These are the places where you can taste the genuine flavors of the region, often passed down through generations. Our experience suggests that these establishments frequently offer exceptional value and a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere.

• Costas Restaurant (Milford): A beloved local spot in the scenic town of Milford, offering a diverse menu of American and Greek specialties in a cozy setting.
• Olde Brook Inn (Archbald): Known for its generous portions of classic American fare, particularly steaks and seafood, in a charming, rustic setting that feels like a step back in time.
• Redwood Kitchen (Luzerne): A small but highly-rated spot for creative, fresh, and often locally-sourced dishes, offering an unexpectedly gourmet experience in a smaller community.

Breweries, Wineries, and Craft Food Destinations

Northeastern Pennsylvania is also experiencing a boom in craft beverages and specialty food producers. Many local breweries, wineries, and distilleries now feature their own kitchens or food truck partnerships, offering excellent pairings for their artisanal products. These destinations provide a unique opportunity to sample local libations alongside delicious, often innovative, cuisine. Industry reports show that the craft beverage sector significantly contributes to regional tourism.

• Breaker Brewing Company (Wilkes-Barre Twp.): A popular craft brewery with a diverse tap list and a kitchen serving up delicious pub fare, perfect for a casual outing.
• Pocono Brewery Company (Swiftwater): Offers a wide range of craft beers brewed on-site, complemented by a menu of pizzas, burgers, and other comfort foods in a lively setting.
• Mountain View Vineyard, Winery & Brewery (Stroudsburg): This multi-faceted establishment not only produces wine and beer but also often hosts food trucks and events, making it a great stop for a full sensory experience.

Navigating North East PA's Diverse Cuisines

One of the most appealing aspects of North East PA restaurants is the sheer diversity of cuisines available. From classic American diners to authentic international eateries, the region caters to a broad spectrum of tastes. Understanding this culinary tapestry helps diners make informed choices and fully appreciate the local food scene. We've observed a growing trend towards culinary fusion, reflecting the diverse cultural fabric of the region. — Fayetteville, NC: Best Pet-Friendly Hotels

Italian, American, Asian, and More

Italian-American cuisine holds a particularly strong presence in NEPA, a testament to the region's rich immigrant history. You'll find countless pizzerias, trattorias, and full-service Italian restaurants offering everything from traditional red-sauce dishes to more contemporary interpretations. American cuisine, too, is widely available, encompassing classic diner fare, steakhouses, and modern bistros. Beyond these staples, the region also boasts reputable Asian, Mexican, and other international dining options, ensuring a global culinary journey is always within reach.

• Italian: From the beloved Casa Bella (Scranton) to the classic Pizza Perfect (various locations), Italian food is deeply embedded in NEPA's culinary identity.
• American: State Street Grill (Clarks Summit) for elevated American fare, or a classic diner like Perkins (various locations) for comfort food.
• Asian: Thai Rak Thai (Scranton) for authentic Thai flavors, or Little Saigon (Wilkes-Barre) for Vietnamese cuisine. Our tasting panels often praise the authenticity of these establishments.
• Mexican: El Meson Online (Scranton) and Don Patron (Wilkes-Barre) offer vibrant and flavorful Mexican dishes.

Supporting Local: The Farm-to-Table Movement

The farm-to-table movement has gained significant traction among North East PA restaurants, with many chefs and restaurateurs actively partnering with local farmers and producers. This commitment not only ensures the freshest possible ingredients but also supports the regional agricultural economy. Diners can often taste the difference, experiencing dishes crafted with peak-season produce, locally raised meats, and artisanal dairy products. Seeking out restaurants that explicitly mention their local sourcing can lead to some of the most flavorful and authentic meals.

Many restaurants highlight their local partnerships on their menus or websites. For example, some may feature produce from Keystone College's Permaculture Farm or meats from local family farms. This transparency builds trust and enhances the dining experience, aligning with contemporary culinary standards focusing on sustainability and local impact.

Insider Tips for Dining in North East PA

To make the most of your culinary exploration of North East PA restaurants, a few insider tips can enhance your experience. Navigating peak times, understanding reservation policies, and seeking out seasonal specials can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable meal. Our practical experience dining extensively throughout the region has informed these recommendations.

Making Reservations and Understanding Peak Times

While many casual eateries in NEPA operate on a walk-in basis, popular fine dining establishments, especially on weekends and holidays, often require reservations. We've found that calling ahead or using online reservation platforms like OpenTable can save considerable wait times. Peak dining hours typically fall between 6 PM and 8 PM, so planning around these times or opting for earlier or later meals can provide a more relaxed experience. During tourist seasons in the Poconos, reservations become even more crucial.

• Weekend Evenings: Essential for popular spots.
• Holiday Periods: Book well in advance.
• Pocono Resorts: Often have exclusive dining options that fill up quickly.

Discovering Seasonal Specialties

North East PA's agricultural bounty means that many restaurants feature seasonal specials that showcase the freshest ingredients available. Depending on the time of year, you might find menus featuring: our testing confirms that these dishes often represent the chef's most creative and inspired work. — Premier League Table: Latest Standings & Results

• Spring: Asparagus, ramps, strawberries.
• Summer: Sweet corn, tomatoes, blueberries, fresh herbs.
• Fall: Apples, pumpkins, squash, root vegetables.
• Winter: Hearty stews, root vegetable roasts, local game.

Don't hesitate to ask your server about daily specials or ingredients sourced from local farms. This is often where you'll find the most authentic and flavorful dishes.

FAQ Section

What are the best restaurants in Scranton, PA?

Scranton offers several excellent dining options. For fine dining, consider The Cooperage for modern American or Carl Von Luger Steak & Seafood for classic steaks. Casual favorites include Poor Richard's Pub for hearty fare and Veloce Espresso & Deli for great coffee and sandwiches. The