Did you know that Wilkes-Barre, a city steeped in coal mining history, is quietly becoming a haven for food lovers? Beyond its historical landmarks and resilient community, Wilkes-Barre boasts a surprisingly vibrant and diverse culinary scene. From time-honored Northeastern Pennsylvania traditions to innovative modern dining experiences, Wilkes-Barre offers something to satisfy every palate. Prepare your taste buds for an exploration of the Diamond City’s gastronomic delights.
Wilkes-Barre offers a diverse culinary landscape, blending traditional Northeastern Pennsylvania flavors with modern dining experiences, satisfying a wide range of palates. This article will serve as your guide to navigating the delicious offerings this city has to offer.
A Taste of Tradition: Northeastern Pennsylvania Staples
The heart of Wilkes-Barre’s food scene beats with the rhythm of its cultural heritage, particularly its strong Polish and Eastern European roots. Several dishes are synonymous with Northeastern Pennsylvania, and you can find excellent examples within the city limits.
Pierogies: Pillows of Perfection
Pierogies are more than just dumplings; they’re a symbol of comfort, tradition, and family in Northeastern Pennsylvania. These savory pockets, filled with a variety of delicious ingredients, have a long history in the region. Originally brought over by Eastern European immigrants, pierogies have become a staple on dinner tables and in restaurants throughout Wilkes-Barre.
One local establishment that consistently earns rave reviews for its pierogies is “Babcia’s Kitchen” – a cherished family-run restaurant on Hazle Street. Babcia’s Kitchen’s pierogies are made from scratch daily, using a time-honored family recipe. You can choose from classic fillings like potato and cheese, sauerkraut, or meat. They also offer seasonal variations, like pumpkin pierogies in the fall and sweet cheese pierogies for dessert. Whether you prefer them pan-fried to a golden brown or simply boiled and served with butter and onions, Babcia’s Kitchen pierogies are sure to transport you back to simpler times. Other establishments also boasts their own twist to the dish such as offering jalapeno pierogies. There is no shortage of options for this local favorite.
Pizza: A Regional Spin on an Italian Classic
While pizza is a universally beloved dish, Northeastern Pennsylvania has its own distinctive style. Often referred to as “Old Forge style” pizza (named after a town just north of Wilkes-Barre), this regional variation is characterized by its rectangular shape, sweet sauce, and blend of cheeses. It’s often served in “cuts” rather than slices, making it perfect for sharing.
For a taste of authentic Northeastern Pennsylvania pizza in Wilkes-Barre, head to “Angelo’s Pizzeria” on Public Square. Angelo’s has been serving up their signature pizza for over three decades, and their commitment to quality ingredients and traditional methods has earned them a loyal following. Another great option is “Grotto Pizza”, a local chain offering thin crust pizza with a unique sauce and cheese blend. What makes this pizza special? The crust is typically thinner and crispier than a traditional round pizza. The sauce is on the sweeter side, and the cheese blend often includes American and provolone, giving it a distinctive flavor profile.
Kielbasa and other Polish Delights: Honoring Heritage through Food
The Polish heritage of Wilkes-Barre is deeply intertwined with its culinary landscape. Kielbasa, a smoked sausage, is a cornerstone of Polish cuisine and a beloved staple in the area. You can find authentic kielbasa at several local butchers and delis.
“Stanley’s Sausage” on South Main Street is a local institution known for its handcrafted kielbasa and other Polish meats. Stanley’s uses traditional recipes and smoking techniques to create kielbasa that is bursting with flavor. In addition to kielbasa, they also offer other Polish specialties like kapusta (sauerkraut), golabki (stuffed cabbage), and babka (sweet bread). For a truly immersive experience, visit Stanley’s on a Saturday morning and witness the bustle of locals stocking up on their favorite Polish delicacies.
Modern Dining Experiences: A Culinary Renaissance
While Wilkes-Barre embraces its culinary traditions, the city is also experiencing a renaissance in modern dining. Several restaurants are pushing the boundaries of flavor and creativity, offering innovative menus and elevated dining experiences.
Upscale Restaurants: Fine Dining in the Diamond City
For a special occasion or a memorable night out, Wilkes-Barre has several upscale restaurants that offer sophisticated menus, elegant atmospheres, and impeccable service. “Leeward Restaurant” on Carey Avenue is one such establishment. This restaurant features a chef-driven menu that changes seasonally, highlighting the freshest local ingredients. Their dishes are artfully plated and showcase a range of culinary techniques. “3 Guys & A Beer’d Brewing” has also evolved to a full menu with elevated options.
Casual Eateries and Gastropubs: Comfort Food with a Twist
If you’re looking for a more relaxed dining experience, Wilkes-Barre has a growing number of casual eateries and gastropubs that offer creative takes on classic comfort food. “The Down Pour” on South Main Street is a popular gastropub known for its gourmet burgers, craft beers, and lively atmosphere. Their burgers are made with locally sourced beef and topped with inventive combinations of ingredients. They also have an extensive beer list, featuring a rotating selection of local and regional craft brews. “Breaker Brewing Company” provides another delicious option for a bite and a drink.
International Cuisine: A World of Flavors in Wilkes-Barre
Wilkes-Barre’s culinary scene is becoming increasingly diverse, with restaurants featuring cuisine from around the world. “El Rey Azteca” on Kidder Street serves up authentic Mexican dishes in a vibrant and festive setting. From tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and mole, their menu is packed with flavor. “Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse” offers a unique dining experience, where chefs cook teppanyaki-style meals right at your table. Also don’t miss out on “Cafe Toscana” an area favorite for delicious Italian dishes.
Food Trucks and Pop-Ups: Culinary Creativity on Wheels
While not a year-round fixture, Wilkes-Barre occasionally welcomes food trucks and pop-up restaurants, adding a dynamic element to the food scene. These mobile eateries offer a diverse range of cuisines, from gourmet sandwiches and artisanal tacos to wood-fired pizzas and handcrafted desserts.
Sweet Treats and Bakeries: Indulging Your Sweet Tooth
No culinary journey is complete without a visit to the local bakeries and dessert shops. Wilkes-Barre has several establishments that specialize in creating delectable treats that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Local Bakeries: A Tradition of Sweetness
“Gogion’s Bakery” on Hazle Street has been serving up freshly baked goods to the Wilkes-Barre community for over a century. Their cakes, pastries, and breads are made from scratch daily, using time-tested recipes. They are particularly known for their specialty cakes, which are perfect for birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions. Gogion’s Bakery is a true Wilkes-Barre institution.
Ice Cream and Dessert Shops: Cool Treats for Warm Days
“Manning Farm Dairy” is a local favorite that has been serving up creamy, delicious ice cream for generations. With multiple locations in and around Wilkes-Barre, Manning’s is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. They offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like salted caramel and peanut butter cup. In addition to ice cream, Manning’s also serves milkshakes, sundaes, and other sweet treats. “Just Fred” offers many other dessert options to curb your sweet tooth.
Special Events and Food Festivals: Celebrating Culinary Delights
Wilkes-Barre hosts several special events and food festivals throughout the year, providing an opportunity to sample a variety of local dishes and celebrate the city’s culinary spirit. The “Pittston Tomato Festival”, while just outside of Wilkes-Barre, is a huge celebration of tomatoes and Italian food. It’s a huge draw for local residents. Also, be sure to catch the farmer’s market that takes place in the warmer months.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites: Discovering Culinary Secrets
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Wilkes-Barre has several hidden gems and local favorites that are worth seeking out. “The Dough Company” on South Main Street is one such place. This small, unassuming shop serves up some of the best sandwiches in town. Their bread is baked fresh daily, and their ingredients are always top-notch. One local resident raves, “The Dough Company is a must-try! Their sandwiches are simply amazing.”
Conclusion: Wilkes-Barre – A City with a Delicious Future
Wilkes-Barre’s diverse food scene is a testament to the city’s rich history, cultural heritage, and growing culinary creativity. From traditional Northeastern Pennsylvania staples like pierogies and Old Forge-style pizza to innovative modern dining experiences and international cuisines, Wilkes-Barre offers something to satisfy every palate. So, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the Diamond City, be sure to explore the culinary offerings that Wilkes-Barre has to offer.
Wilkes-Barre offers a diverse culinary landscape, blending traditional Northeastern Pennsylvania flavors with modern dining experiences, satisfying a wide range of palates. As the city continues to grow and evolve, its food scene is sure to become even more vibrant and exciting. The future of food in Wilkes-Barre is bright, and there’s never been a better time to savor the flavors of the Diamond City. Come hungry and leave happy!
