We’ve written before about Scranton, PA, and its unique place in the history of the region—and the history of the United States. But the “Electric City” is anything but old news: With a thriving food scene enfolding everything from classic Italian to trendy Thai, soul food, and beyond, Scranton restaurants always keep us curious, healthy, and well-fed.
With that in mind, here’s a short list of our absolute favorite Scranton restaurants. Next time you’re in our neighborhood, try one out and let us know what you thought!
Green Goods’ Favorite Scranton Restaurants
Fratelli’s Restaurant
1249 Providence Rd
Scranton, PA 18508
(570) 344-7414
Proof that you can’t judge a book by its cover, this Scranton landmark hides behind a deceptively plain facade. But inside you’ll find all the classic Italian-American foods you could dream of: Crisp chicken parmigiana, luscious eggplant stuffed with creamy ricotta, and of course the rectangular Sicilian-style pizzas that helped put this joint on the map some 25 years ago.
Abe’s Kosher Delicatessen
326 N Washington Ave
Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 342-4517
Another blast from the past that tastes better than ever today, this casual deli serves up the classics: Overstuffed pastrami, roast beef and (of course) Abe’s famous reuben sandwiches, hearty omelettes, and bagels ferrying rich Nova lox and other toppings. Don’t wait ‘til hanukkah for the potato pancakes, either: They’re out of this world any time of year.
Thai Rak Thai
349 Adams Ave
Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 344-2240
With savory delicacies like “Little Mermaid,” “Forever Love” and “Golden Triangle,” this elegant eatery puts a poetic spin on the alluring and unusual flavors of Thailand. Whether it’s chicken breast spiked with peanut sauce or seared tuna and avocado in a spicy Penang curry, you’d be hard-pressed to grow tired of the extensive menu here. Special note: The restaurant is especially welcoming to vegetarian and vegan diners, who’ll find a long list of dietetically friendly choices here.
Paradise Soulfood and Sweets
350 Adams Ave
Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 703-0403
If soul food classics like crisp fried chicken and catfish, homemade mac ’n cheese, and cornbread, this pint-sized people-pleasing outlet is right up your alley. But the menu isn’t all backward-looking; creations like honey-sriracha salmon and irresistible bourbon-glazed chicken take the idea of “home cooking” into the stratosphere. Desserts like pistachio pound cake and seasonal berry cobblers keep it sweet, as do the kind and accommodating staff.
Bar Pazzo
131 N Washington Ave
Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 871-4179
Old-school joints like Fratelli’s serve up “red sauce” Italian-American classics, but they’re not the only game in town. At this sleek and splashy downtown eatery, you’ll find a more modern spin on Italian. From wood-fired pizze like prosciutto and goat cheese to the “Bronx Bomber” (laden with housemade sausage, pepperoni, capicola, and mozzarella) all the way to gorgeous traditional pasta like peppery cacio e pepe or the bar’s signature polpette meatballs, there’s no deadwood on this menu. Oh, and if that weren’t enough, housemade gelato and an espresso bar will send you on your way in high style.
Garibaldi Authentic Mexican Cuisine
309 N Main Ave
Scranton, PA 18504
(570) 341-9030
We may be a long way from the Texas-Mexico border, but you wouldn’t know it after a meal at this beloved Scranton restaurant. Nothing fancy here at this family-style diner, but everything from the plump tortas—try the meaty Cubano!—to fiery jalapeño-studded steak a la tampiquena to comforting veggie enchiladas is just like it should be. And while alcohol is BYOB here, there’s aguas frescas and even fresh mango, guanabana, and other exotic fruit juices in stock.
