Despite being born and raised in Scranton, I rarely explored all the hole-in-the-wall restaurants and eateries until I came to the University. Over the last 4 years I’ve tried some delicious and not so delicious food at the local places. I’ve picked out a few of my favorite spots that are close to the University of Scranton. Old Forge, Taylor, and Scranton have so many places to eat, but these seven stops are all a must try!
Taylor Deli and Café:
A small family-owned business just a short 10-minute drive from the U brings classic comfort food to all! This is a great spot for breakfast or lunch. They have all sorts of soups, salads, wraps, subs, sandwiches, burgers, and more. Everyone is sure to find something scrumptious to eat. My personal favorites are the Bacon Cheeseburger and The All American Burger. They are both under $10 and taste amazing. Keep in mind, they close around three each day, so you have to get there early!
Tequila:
Honestly if you haven’t been here, you need to make it your next stop! I’ve been here a few times and always have the best service, food, and drinks. For starters, order the Queso Fondu with chorizo. This is a tasty choice for a light start to an evening of drinking and comradery. As you wait for your food, make sure to sip on the $7 margaritas. I recommend strawberry and coconut, but all of margaritas are strong and flavorful. For the main course, I like to get the California Burrito with chicken or cheese quesadillas. The overall atmosphere of the bar is welcoming, and the doors slide open to let in fresh air on beautiful nights. I’ve never had a bad experience here and highly recommend it!
The Railyard:
Make sure to bring some wet wipes here as your hands will get messy. The Mac and Cheese Burger is hands down the best burger I’ve ever had. The mac and cheese was extremely creamy and bursting with flavor. The Candy Peach Martini was missing the garnish, but the flavor was good. They have a variety of other fun seasonal beverages, too. A quick walk from campus makes this an easy place to go for a filling meal!
Dooley’s Pub and Eatery:
Hop in your car now and make the 15-minute drive to Old Forge if you are looking for great prices and amazing food. I ordered the Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla, and the plate was filled. The quesadilla was stuffed full and worth well worth the $12.99. My boyfriend ordered the Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich with fries. Of course, I had to help myself to some of the crispy fries! They don’t have a drink menu, but the waitresses were very accommodating. I love a good margarita while enjoying quesadillas, so our friendly waitress made me a margarita with grenadine. Flavored margaritas aren’t something they do here, but she recommended it as other patrons rave about it. Overall, the food and drink are worth the short drive off campus!
Arcaro and Genell:
Looking for a sweet treat? Arcaro and Genell is a stunning Italian restaurant located in Old Forge. Another 15-minute drive, but the homemade cannoli will make the drive worth it! The Blue Velvet Cheesecake is another interesting dessert I highly recommend. Both desserts will cost you around $6 each, but they are homemade with love. Located in the Pizza Capital of The World, one menu must-have is the delicious variety of pizza.
Catalano Importing Co:
A seven-minute ride to West Scranton will take you to a legendary hoagie shop and deli. The mild Italian hoagies are a great treat that won’t break your bank! If you are looking for some quality Italian foods, stop in and shop the imported groceries. Biscotti, sauces, pastas, olives, salami, and cheeses make you feel like you are walking straight into an Italian market!
Maroni’s Pizza:
Words can’t even describe how much I love this pizza. For over 40 years, Maroni’s has served delicious pizza and hoagies. My family has hosted numerous birthday parties here and we have never been disappointed. Pepperoni pizza here is a fan favorite in my family. The small restaurant is the perfect place to settle in and enjoy some quality food that is a West Scranton staple!