Brian Nagele
Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a small city known for its coal-mining history, picturesque architecture, and vibrant culinary scene.
Spread across the city are a range of restaurants that cater to diverse palates and budgets. They include Ipanema Grille, A Little Pizza Heaven, and Henry’s on Clay and serve everything from traditional Italian fare to exotic vegan dishes.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best restaurants in Scranton that are worth checking out.
Best Restaurants in Scranton
- Ipanema Grille
- Casa Bella
- Bar Pazzo
- A Little Pizza Heaven
- Sambuca Grille
- Stirna’s Restaurant
- Savory Maza
- Coney Island Lunch
- Abe’s Kosher Delicatessen
- Thai Rak Thai
- Backyard Ale House
- Cooper’s Seafood House
- AV Restaurant
- Mansour’s Market
- Eden Vegan Cafe
- Market Street Bar & Grill
- Yume
- Henry’s On Clay
- Arcangelo’s Mamma Rosa Italian Kitchen
- Carmen’s
Ipanema Grille
1911 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508
Phone: 570-558-0742
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The Ipanema Grille opened in 2006 on Main Avenue and has since become one of the city’s most beloved establishments. It’s a Brazilian steak house that offers variety, quality, and quantity, as well as the option to try out more than twelve different meat options.
The restaurant also offers a salad bar with various options, including sushi, fruits, and vegetables. In addition to the food, the atmosphere at Ipanema Grille is vibrant and energetic, with live music on some nights.
I highly recommend trying the Rodizio buffet, which has an all-you-can-eat option for kids and adults!
Casa Bella
330 W Market St, Scranton, PA 18508
Phone: 570-969-9006
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Casa Bella is another great restaurant in the Scranton area, specifically on West Market Street.
It is an upscale restaurant with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that offers everything from shrimp cocktails (which I loved!) to spinach ravioli and linguine meatballs marinara.
The restaurant is known for its traditional Italian cuisine. It also offers a variety of pizzas made in their brick oven. The restaurant also has a fully-stocked bar with wine and cocktails.
Bar Pazzo
131 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-871-4179
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Bar Pazzo is an Italian-inspired restaurant located in downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania. Situated on North Washington Avenue, the restaurant has a lively and bustling atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends, like I enjoyed, or a romantic dinner date.
The rustic-style menu features a variety of pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and meat entrees such as pork chops and braised short ribs.
Some popular dishes include the cavatelli with broccoli rabe and sausage and the Margherita pizza. Bar Pazzo also has a selection of craft cocktails and an extensive wine list.
A Little Pizza Heaven
2015 Boulevard Ave, Scranton, PA 18509
Phone: 570-347-4977
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The humorously named A Little Pizza Heaven is a popular spot on Boulevard Avenue in Scranton. The restaurant has a laid-back and casual atmosphere, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors.
A Little Pizza Heaven is known for its delicious New York-style pizza with fresh ingredients and homemade sauce. Customers can choose from a variety of toppings and pizza sizes.
In addition to pizza, the restaurant also serves salads, sandwiches, and appetizers such as garlic knots and wings. I really enjoy coming here with my family on the weekends as there’s something for even the pickiest eaters.
Sambuca Grille
234 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-961-5205
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Sambuca Grille is another Italian restaurant in Scranton that’s worth checking out. Located on Penn Avenue, the restaurant offers traditional Italian foods like calamari and penne vodka and filet mignon, strip steak, and shrimp parmigiana (my favorite!).
Some other popular dishes include the shrimp scampi, lobster ravioli, and veal saltimbocca.
The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with an elegant dining area and a cozy bar.
They also have an extensive wine list and a selection of signature cocktails.
Stirna’s Restaurant
120 W Market St, Scranton, PA 18508
Phone: 570-343-5742
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Stirna’s Restaurant is a fantastic American restaurant in Scranton, specifically in Providence Square. They offer outdoor seating and a variety of classic American dishes that are perfect for any night out.
Every time I go, I have a wonderful experience with the staff, who always remember seeing me and my family.
Some of our favorites include the porketta sandwich, Irish pizza, and buffalo shrimp. This restaurant is practically a good choice for groups as they offer reservations and have enough space to cater to a number of people at once.
Savory Maza
200 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18504
Phone: 570-969-2666
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This west-Scranton restaurant offers amazing Lebanese cuisine. The restaurant has a casual and welcoming atmosphere, with warm lighting and comfortable seating.
Savory Maza is known for its authentic Mediterranean cuisine, featuring a variety of dishes such as hummus, falafel, shawarma, and kebabs.
The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Some popular dishes include the mixed grill platter and the lamb gyro wrap.
The restaurant also has a selection of beer and wine, as well as baklawa, nammoura, and maamoul for dessert.
Coney Island Lunch
100 Cedar Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-961-8288
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Coney Island Lunch is a casual American restaurant that offers lunch and dinner options. Located on Cedar Avenue, the restaurant is known for its “Texas weiners” and hamburgers.
They use incredibly fresh ingredients, and I highly recommend trying out the famous fries! The menu also includes a variety of other diner favorites, such as burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
The restaurant has become a staple of the Scranton community, and a visit to Coney Island Lunch is a must for anyone looking to experience the city’s rich history and classic diner cuisine.
Abe’s Kosher Delicatessen
326 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-342-4517
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This traditional deli is located on North Washington Avenue in Scranton, PA. It’s open seven days a week. The deli has a classic and cozy atmosphere, with wooden tables and chairs and a deli counter showcasing a variety of meats and cheeses.
Abe’s is known for its authentic Jewish deli cuisine, including pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and potato latkes.
Abe’s Kosher Delicatessen has been a staple of the Scranton community for several years and is a must-visit if you’re in the area.
Thai Rak Thai
349 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-344-2240
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Thai Rak Thai is a popular Thai restaurant located in the heart of downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania. Situated on Adams Avenue, the restaurant has a modern and stylish atmosphere, with warm lighting and elegant decor.
Thai Rak Thai is known for its authentic and flavorful Thai cuisine, featuring a range of dishes such as pad thai, curry, and stir-fry.
The menu also includes a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Some popular dishes include the drunken noodles and the mango sticky rice dessert.
The restaurant also has a full bar, offering a variety of cocktails and beers; if you need any more reasons to go and check it out!
Backyard Ale House
523 Linden St, Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-955-0192
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Backyard Ale House serves American pub food on Linden Street in Scranton, PA. The Backyard Ale House has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with rustic decor and a large outdoor seating area.
The restaurant is known for its extensive selection of craft beers from around the world, as well as its delicious pub fare.
The menu features a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options that I found to be surprisingly good!
The Backyard Ale House also hosts regular events, including live music. The restaurant has a great outdoor seating area, as well.
Cooper’s Seafood House
701 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18509
Phone: 570-346-6883
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Cooper’s Seafood House is a family-owned and operated seafood restaurant located in Scranton, Pennsylvania that comes highly recommended.
The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with nautical decor and comfortable seating.
Cooper’s is known for its wide variety of seafood dishes, including crab cakes, clam chowder, and lobster tail.
The restaurant also offers a selection of non-seafood options, such as steaks and salads, as well as a children’s menu. Cooper’s also has a full bar featuring a range of beer, wine, and cocktails.
It would be a great option if you want to go out with your friends or your family members.
AV Restaurant
320 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-457-5800
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AV Restaurant is a chic restaurant located in the heart of downtown Scranton. It is known for its creative and sophisticated Italian cuisine, featuring a range of dishes made from locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.
The menu is a bit pricey but includes a variety of amazing appetizers, entrees, and desserts, like grilled shrimp, chicken parmesan, and grilled swordfish.
If you visit here and don’t try their handmade pasta, you’re missing out! It’s an incredible offering that truly sets this restaurant apart from the competition.
Mansour’s Market
969 Prescott Ave, Scranton, PA 18510
Phone: 570-341-6673
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Mansour’s Market is a cafe and eatery that offers early morning coffee as well as breakfast and lunch. They’re open six days a week and are known for their very friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
On the breakfast menu, you can find classics like egg and cheese sandwiches, omelets, and even a fantastic Belgian waffle sandwich.
On the lunch menu, you can expect everything from wraps to quesadillas and club sandwiches. Mansour’s Market also does corporate catering if you’re interested in hosting an event.
Eden Vegan Cafe
344 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-969-1606
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Unlike the rest of the restaurants on this list, Eden Vegan Cafe offers an entirely vegan menu! They’ve been open since 2008 on Adams Avenue in Scranton, and their menu includes everything from smoothies to sandwiches and salads.
The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere perfect for any meeting, date, or outing.
Eden Vegan Cafe is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, as well as its commitment to promoting healthy and sustainable eating habits.
My personal favorites include the Buffalo Soldier Quesadilla and the “Maine Thing” Lobster Roll. Other options include a steak burger, lobster pizza, and fish tacos.
Market Street Bar & Grill
223 W Market St, Scranton, PA 18508
Phone: 570-507-9560
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The very popular Market Street Bar and Gill is located on West Market Street. The restaurant has a casual and friendly atmosphere and features a variety of American cuisine, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees such as steak, chicken, and seafood.
The restaurant also offers a selection of craft beers, cocktails, and other beverages. Some of my personal favorite menu items are their amazing gnocchi, onion rings, and custom tacos!
Yume
825 N Keyser Ave #9724, Scranton, PA 18504
Phone: 570-963-9433
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Yume is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Scranton, if not in the whole of Pennsylvania! The menu features a variety of Japanese cuisine, including sushi rolls, sashimi, hibachi dishes, and noodle bowls. The restaurant also offers a selection of sake, wine, and other beverages.
Yume is known for its high-quality ingredients, expertly crafted dishes, and friendly and attentive service.
If you’ve never tried traditional Japanese food before, Yume is a great choice to test it out.
Henry’s On Clay
1600 Clay Ave, Dunmore, PA 18509
Phone: 570-800-1839
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The very popular Henry’s On Clay offers a vast, high-quality menu and a beautiful setting to enjoy it in. The menu features a variety of cuisine items, including steak, seafood, pasta, and chicken dishes.
I love their “Egg in a Pothole” toast and the French onion soup, especially! The restaurant also offers a selection of craft beers, cocktails, and other beverages.
If you’re more of a picky eater, you can even build your own sandwich, choosing the bread, cheese, protein, and veggies.
Arcangelo’s Mamma Rosa Italian Kitchen
111 E Market St Rear, Scranton, PA 18509
Phone: 570-342-382
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On my last trip to the city, I visited Arcangelo’s Mamma Rosa Italian Kitchen a family-owned Italian restaurant. The menu features a variety of classic Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, seafood, and chicken dishes.
I can’t say enough about Arcangelo’s Mamma Rosa Italian Kitchen’s authentic Italian flavors and friendly service.
They really make you feel at home, and like they want to see you again every day. It’s a great option for a family meal night or to take a new date!
Carmen’s
700 Lackawanna Ave #102, Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-558-3929
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Carmen’s is a popular Italian-American restaurant located in downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Perhaps, more than anything, Carmen’s is known for its setting.
The restaurant is located within an old train station, the Lackawanna Station (which is also a hotel).
The interior is incredibly beautiful and will certainly make you want to visit, whether you’re a fan of Italian food or not.
Plus, they even serve breakfast. So if you’re staying at the hotel, you can enjoy three meals a day there.
