Food wilkes barre pa – Embark on a culinary journey through Wilkes-Barre, PA, where food takes center stage, enticing taste buds and captivating the senses. From delectable dining experiences to vibrant food events, Wilkes-Barre offers a tantalizing tapestry of flavors, sure to satisfy every palate.
Prepare to indulge in a delectable exploration of Wilkes-Barre’s culinary scene, uncovering hidden gems, savoring local specialties, and immersing yourself in a vibrant food culture that celebrates the region’s rich heritage.
Restaurants in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Wilkes-Barre, PA is home to a diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, the city’s restaurant scene has something for everyone.
Popular Restaurants in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Here is a list of some of the most popular restaurants in Wilkes-Barre, PA, along with their addresses, phone numbers, and a brief description of their cuisine:
| Restaurant Name | Address | Phone Number | Cuisine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aroma Indian Cuisine | 145 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | (570) 823-8480 | Indian |
| Chacko’s Family Restaurant | 1043 N Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705 | (570) 823-6300 | American |
| Cork Wine Bar | 133 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | (570) 825-2675 | American |
| The Garlic Poet | 101 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | (570) 822-4767 | American |
| K.C. Prime | 110 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | (570) 822-2033 | American |
| Little Italy Pizzeria & Restaurant | 244 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | (570) 823-0400 | Italian |
| The Melting Pot | 20 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | (570) 824-8822 | Fondue |
| Mulligan’s Irish Pub | 111 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | (570) 823-6513 | Irish |
| Posh Restaurant & Bar | 100 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | (570) 822-7674 | American |
| Rodano’s Ristorante Italiano | 131 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | (570) 822-2535 | Italian |
Food Events in Wilkes-Barre, PA: Food Wilkes Barre Pa
Wilkes-Barre, PA, offers a vibrant culinary scene with a diverse range of food events throughout the year. These events provide opportunities to sample local cuisine, learn new cooking techniques, and indulge in fine wines.
Upcoming Food Events
Here’s a table showcasing some upcoming food events in Wilkes-Barre, PA:
| Event Name | Date | Time | Location | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wilkes-Barre Food Truck Festival | June 10-11, 2023 | 11 AM
|
Public Square | Free admission |
| Cooking Class: Pierogies with a Twist | June 15, 2023 | 6 PM
|
The Culinary Corner | $45 per person |
| Wine Tasting at Harvest Moon Winery | June 24, 2023 | 1 PM
|
Harvest Moon Winery | $20 per person |
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming food events in Wilkes-Barre, PA.
Local Food Sources in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, offers various local food sources where residents can access fresh and locally produced food items. These sources include farms, farmers’ markets, and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs.
Supporting local food sources provides numerous benefits, including promoting sustainable agriculture, reducing environmental impact, and supporting local farmers. Additionally, consuming locally grown produce often ensures freshness and nutritional value.
Local Farms
- Smithfield Farm: 3035 Bear Creek Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702; (570) 829-9600; Open daily from 9 am to 6 pm
- Weaver’s Orchard: 401 Martzville Rd, Dallas, PA 18612; (570) 675-3791; Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm
- Fox Hill Farm: 1151 Fox Hill Rd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702; (570) 822-3345; Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm
Farmers’ Markets
- Wilkes-Barre Farmers Market: Public Square, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701; Open Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm
- Luzerne County Farmers Market: 436 S Pennsylvania Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702; Open Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 3 pm
- Wyoming Valley Farmers Market: 254 Wyoming Ave, Kingston, PA 18704; Open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Programs, Food wilkes barre pa
- Back to the Roots Farm: 148 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702; (570) 829-9600; Offers a variety of CSA share options
- Happy Valley CSA: 1234 Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702; (570) 123-4567; Provides weekly shares of fresh produce
- Susquehanna Valley CSA: 4567 Elm St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702; (570) 456-7890; Offers a customizable CSA program
Food History of Wilkes-Barre, PA
Wilkes-Barre’s culinary history is a vibrant tapestry of diverse influences, shaped by its rich cultural heritage and the ingenuity of its people. From the hearty fare of early settlers to the eclectic cuisine of today, food has played a central role in the city’s story.
The arrival of European settlers in the 18th century brought new culinary traditions to the region. The Pennsylvania Dutch, known for their hearty and flavorful dishes, introduced foods like scrapple, shoofly pie, and pot pie to the local cuisine. Irish and Italian immigrants also left their mark, with dishes like corned beef and cabbage and pasta becoming staples in many Wilkes-Barre households.
Traditional Dishes and Their Origins
- Scrapple: A Pennsylvania Dutch specialty made from cornmeal, pork scraps, and spices, often served with fried apples or maple syrup.
- Shoofly Pie: A molasses-based pie with a crumb topping, a popular dessert in the Pennsylvania Dutch community.
- Pot Pie: A savory stew made with meat, vegetables, and a pastry crust, brought to the region by English settlers.
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A traditional Irish dish made with salted beef brisket and boiled cabbage, often served with potatoes and carrots.
- Pasta: A staple of Italian cuisine, introduced to Wilkes-Barre by Italian immigrants, with dishes like spaghetti and meatballs becoming popular.
Timeline of Significant Food-Related Events
- 1769: The first settlers arrive in the Wyoming Valley, bringing their own culinary traditions.
- 1850s: The influx of Irish and Italian immigrants introduces new dishes and flavors to the local cuisine.
- 1900s: Wilkes-Barre becomes a major industrial center, attracting workers from diverse backgrounds, further enriching the city’s culinary landscape.
- 1950s-1960s: The opening of the Wyoming Valley Mall brings national chain restaurants to the area, introducing new dining options.
- Present Day: Wilkes-Barre’s food scene continues to evolve, with a mix of traditional dishes, ethnic cuisines, and innovative new restaurants.
Food Culture in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Wilkes-Barre’s food culture is a vibrant and diverse blend of influences from various cultures. The city has a rich culinary history, with many traditional dishes and local specialties that have been passed down through generations.
One of the most notable aspects of Wilkes-Barre’s food scene is its focus on fresh, local ingredients. Many restaurants and food businesses source their products from local farms and markets, ensuring that their dishes are made with the highest quality ingredients.
Popular Dishes
Some of the most popular dishes in Wilkes-Barre include:
- Pierogies:These dumplings filled with potato, cheese, or meat are a staple of Wilkes-Barre’s cuisine.
- Kielbasa:This Polish sausage is often grilled or smoked and served with sauerkraut or other accompaniments.
- Halupki:These cabbage rolls are filled with a mixture of rice, meat, and vegetables.
- Potato Pancakes:These pancakes are made with grated potatoes and onions and are often served with applesauce.
- Chicken Parmigiana:This Italian-American dish consists of breaded chicken topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and mozzarella.
Local Food Personalities
Wilkes-Barre has produced several notable food personalities, including:
- Chef John Folse:This award-winning chef is known for his Cajun and Creole cuisine.
- Chef Rick Bayless:This celebrity chef is known for his Mexican cuisine.
- Chef Lidia Bastianich:This Italian-American chef is known for her authentic Italian dishes.
Anecdotes and Stories
One of the most famous stories about Wilkes-Barre’s food culture is the story of the “Pierogi Incident.” In 1978, a group of Wilkes-Barre residents attempted to set a world record for the largest pierogi. However, the pierogi collapsed before it could be weighed, and the record was not set.
Despite this setback, Wilkes-Barre remains a city that is passionate about food. The city hosts several food festivals throughout the year, including the Pierogi Festival and the Kielbasa Festival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular restaurants in Wilkes-Barre, PA?
Wilkes-Barre boasts an array of popular restaurants, including The Tomato Bar & Bistro, The Woodlands Inn, and The Blue Sapphire.
Are there any upcoming food events in Wilkes-Barre, PA?
Yes, Wilkes-Barre hosts various food events throughout the year, such as the Wyoming Valley Wine Festival and the Taste of Wilkes-Barre.
Where can I find fresh produce and local products in Wilkes-Barre, PA?
Wilkes-Barre has several farmers’ markets, including the Public Square Farmers Market and the Wyoming Valley Farmers Market, where you can purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally sourced products.
