The 3 best restaurants in Scranton, according to readers

If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Scranton, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve gathered feedback from local diners to bring you a list of top-notch dining establishments in the area. From cozy Italian eateries to sophisticated cocktail bars, Scranton has a lot to offer when it comes to satisfying your culinary cravings. Let’s dive into the top picks and explore what makes these restaurants stand out from the rest.

1. Casa Bella

330 W Market St

Step into Casa Bella and you’re immediately wrapped in the warmth and charm that only a family-run Italian trattoria can offer. Also named the best Italian food in Scranton, it’s the community’s go-to spot for experiencing genuine Italian hospitality paired with a menu that speaks to the soul. Patrons can’t stop talking about the vibrant atmosphere, where laughter and conversation flow as freely as the house red. It’s this unpretentious, welcoming vibe that keeps locals and visitors alike coming back for more.

But let’s talk about what sets Casa Bella apart—the food. Imagine plates brimming with the rich, comforting flavors of Italy, each dish crafted from recipes handed down through generations. The Linguine Ai Frutti Di Mare, a particular favorite among regulars, is a testament to the kitchen’s commitment to authenticity and quality. This marinara-based pasta, loaded with seafood, is the epitome of Italian comfort food. It’s the kind of meal that not only fills your stomach but also feeds your soul.

The dedication to creating an unparalleled dining experience doesn’t stop at the menu. Every staff member at Casa Bella treats diners like family. From the moment you step through the door to the last sip of wine, you’re enveloped in a sense of belonging and care that’s as hearty and satisfying as the cuisine itself.

For those seeking a warm, hearty embrace from the very essence of Italy, Casa Bella stands ready to welcome you home.

2. Noir Dark Spirits

222 Wyoming Ave

Slip into the alluring embrace of Noir Dark Spirits, where sophistication and mystery mingle in the air like a finely aged scotch. This elegant cocktail bar, snugly situated in the Ritz Theater, stands as a beacon for those in Scranton with a penchant for the finer things in life. Its ambiance is a deliberate nod to the glamour of yesteryears, with a modern twist that captivates the contemporary soul. The moment you step inside, you’re transported to an era where every sip and bite is an affair to remember.

Noir Dark Spirits prides itself on a culinary narrative that is as compelling as its setting. Here, the art of mixology is revered. The cocktail list reads like an adventurous novel, each drink a chapter that tells the story of exotic locales and forbidden delights. But the crown jewel of your visit might just be the Gator Nachos, a comfort food elevated to the extraordinary. It’s an unexpected star in a place where liquid libations usually take center stage.

The menu, while succinct, is a curated collection of dishes designed to complement the extensive drink selection. Each item, from the small plates to the entrees, is crafted with an eye for detail and a flair for the dramatic. The culinary team at Noir Dark Spirits understands that dining is not just about nourishing the body but also enchanting the senses. They achieve this with a blend of innovative techniques and a deep respect for the ingredients they wield.

What sets Noir Dark Spirits apart is the experience it offers. The atmosphere beckons with an intimate vibe, making it an idyllic backdrop for whispered conversations and laughter shared under the soft glow of mood lighting. It’s a sanctuary for those seeking to escape the mundane, a place where every visit feels like a special occasion.

So, if your evening calls for a dash of intrigue and a splash of elegance, Noir Dark Spirits awaits. Here, every guest is invited to revel in the craftsmanship of master mixologists and the culinary prowess of chefs who speak the language of flavor fluently. In a city brimming with dining choices, Noir Dark Spirits shines brightly as a jewel in Scranton’s culinary crown, offering a night of sophisticated indulgence that’s bound to linger in your memory long after the last toast is made.

3. AV Restaurant

320 Penn Ave

The moment you step into AV Restaurant, you’re greeted with an ambiance that perfectly balances modern chic with a cozy warmth, setting the stage for a memorable dining adventure. The menu is a testament to the creative genius of the kitchen, where each dish tells a story of international discovery. Among the most celebrated is the Swordfish Milanese, a dish that transports diners straight to the coast with its fresh, oceanic flavors wrapped in a delicate panko crust. The rich tartar hollandaise sauce adds a lavish depth, making each bite a luxurious indulgence.

Service at AV is nothing short of exceptional, with a team that’s passionate about creating an unparalleled dining experience. They’re storytellers in their own right, guiding you through each course with insights that enhance the meal, turning dining into an event that’s both educational and enjoyable. The staff’s dedication to guest satisfaction is evident in every detail, from the thoughtful presentation of dishes to the attentive, personalized care they provide to each diner.

AV Restaurant offers an exploration of global cuisine without ever having to leave Scranton. It’s a place where the adventurous eaters, the culinary curious, and those celebrating special moments come together, knowing they’re about to embark on a journey that’s as exhilarating as it is satisfying.

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