Location: Harrisburg
Top Restaurants in Harrisburg
Top Things to do in Harrisburg
Harrisburg Food Guide: 10 Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Harrisburg
Nestled in the fertile Susquehanna Valley, Harrisburg has played a pivotal role in the shaping of American history, both as a major link in rail and water transportation and as the setting of major Civil War battles. Having bounced back from economic distress in the 1980s, the city is now a vibrant hub of family activities, from cruises along the Susquehanna to arcades and athletics on City Island. The annual Pennsylvania Farm Show is the largest indoor agriculture exposition in the U.S.
Things to do in Harrisburg
1. Vino Italian Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 124 reviews
We are a small family owned restaurant specializing in authentic Italian cuisine with an emphasis on high quality imported ingredients.
Reviewed By JaneYost - York, Pennsylvania
I went here with friends this past weekend and had the gnocchi florentino. It was delicious. In fact 3 out of 4 of us at the table had it, one of us had come back especially for that dish. We paired it with a nice red, of which they had some good choices, although they were out of the one we really wanted. (This was a Sat night at 8:00 so we'll let that slide).
The restaurant itself is small, tight and cosy, with a bar in the back half, and a tastefully curtained entrance to their pizza shop (wherein lie the restrooms). It looks best suited to couples and small groups ... a large group could take up half the restaurant, or possibly the whole!
The staff was friendly and helpful, and the owner visited our table when we had a question. A nice touch, and we both enjoyed our first visit there, and our friends enjoyed their second visit. Looks like it might be love.
2. Gabriella Italian Ristorante
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 349 reviews
Reviewed By TOTFITIL - Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Had dinner here on a recent Saturday night with friends. The restaurant was small and extremely crowded. We had to stand almost shoulder to shoulder with each other in the very small bar area while we waited for our table. The dining room where we were seated was set up cafeteria style with tables in rows and diners seated almost on top of each other. Luckily the service was decent and the food was good. I’ll come back again but never on a weekend night.
3. Home 231
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 367 reviews
Reviewed By East_Coast_Foodie - Anderson, South Carolina
We stopped at Home 231 for dinner during a road trip we were taking down the east coast. We selected this restaurant using the TripAdvisor app looking for a restaurant that was downtown Harrisburg, that had good reviews, and was vegetarian-friendly.
Because we were very tired and hungry after driving 8+ hours thru the most recent nasty snow storm - we called ahead to make sure the restaurant was open and asked about parking. Happily, they were open and had a parking lot 1/2 block away on the same side of the street with a sign identifying it as being a lot shared by local two restaurants.
Using GPS we found the restaurant but could not find the parking lot in the dark and snow. We slowly cruised the street before calling them back. The person who answered snapped at us that the parking lot was just a 1/2 block away and had a sign. Said we saw one lot with no sign saying Home 231, but it had signs on the walls saying each spot was reserved for JHM(?) We asked if that was the same lot. They said no. We cruised the short street 2 more times and gave up. We parked in the lot with the signs saying "Reserved for JHM". As we walked to the restaurant we found a small black sandwich board saying parking for Home 231 ... but it had blown over and was covered with snow in the gutter. We tried to get it to stand-up again, but it blew over before we entered the restaurant. We told a staff member about the sign. It was not a good start to our dining experience.
They seated us in a cute table right at the front bay window. But it was so cold outside, it was miserable sitting near the window. We were too numb and tired to ask to be moved. The restaurant is an old, narrow building and I noticed as we were leaving that the tables near us were all empty and most of the dinners were tucked in at the tables at the back of the house.
Anyway, my vegetarian daughter ordered the Cheese Board and Beet Salad. She said the cheese was tasty, but skimpy for the price. She raved about the Beet Salad. Besides being served as a work of art, the flavor combinations were outstanding.
I ordered an entree that was a marinated/brined 1/2 chicken with a potato and green veggie. I really don't remember the sides. But I was disappointed with the chicken. I had never been served a 1/2 a chicken that had no white meat. I was served a very plump thigh and wing. I know most people say the dark meat has the more flavor, but personally, I am not a fan of dark meat. If the menu had specified the cuts, then I would have known to order a different dish.
We finished the meal with very good coffee and something chocolate. As we left the restaurant, a manager stopped by to apologize about the sign fiasco at the parking lot. Nice gesture, but too late.
4. Cork & Fork
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 156 reviews
Cork & Fork believes in working with local farms and purveyors to maintain sustainability and seasonality. We recognize the local culture, their customs and environment by adapting our menu, cuisine and ingredients accordingly with the utmost respect and creativity.
Reviewed By Lamp56 - Indiana, Pennsylvania
My wife and I had dinner here. All of the dishes are "small plates". My wife had a Butternut Squash Salad and really liked it. We shared a Chicken Meatballs served over cannellini beans and kale. This was very good and the beans were fresh not canned. We had a Pistachio Pizza (pistachio pesto, mozzarella, parmesan, arugula and pistachio dust) and a Polpetta Pizza (crushed tomatoes, mozzarella, ricotta meatballs, basil and provolone). Both were excellent. The pizzas are thin crusted and not overloaded with toppings but very flavorful. For dessert we had a Tiramisu (served in a glass with apricot brandy and La Colombe espresso) and a Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake (cheesecake with a chocolate crust and topped with chocolate ganache). Both were excellent. I will come here again when we are back in town.
5. Cafe Fresco Center City
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 180 reviews
Urban Café By Day. Metropolitan Gourmet By Night. Located in the heart of restaurant row, Café Fresco Center City continues to be an innovative leader in the Harrisburg dining scene since opening its doors in 2005. The Feng-Shui inspired setting offers comfortable and intimate dining spaces and a centralized, open bar that pulses with energy and excitement. From the moment you step inside, you become part of the Café Fresco experience. Join us for an urban, café-style power lunch. Return for the Asian-inspired dinner service masterfully prepared by award-winning Executive Chef Travis Mumma. At any time, our highly-trained, professional staff will strive to accommodate your every need. Our goal is to provide you with a metropolitan retreat nestled in a smaller city that will exceed every expectation - an experience that can only be provided by Café Fresco.
Reviewed By ksayl0r - Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
I enjoy meeting friends and business colleagues here for lunch. There are many options for lunch, fresh wraps, salads, pizza's, etc. Ordering takes place at the counter and food is quickly delivered to your table. Also a great place for dinner as well. Wide array of fun cocktails.
6. The Millworks
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 412 reviews
The Millworks features a brewery, a rooftop biergarten, a local & sustainable restaurant, an outdoor courtyard, and 3 art galleries with 23 artist studios...all under one roof.
Reviewed By Bootyjudy - Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Food was excellent. Waiter knew everything and had the best service! It was a Saturday night about 6PM. Very busy. You must read on their website about the building and how it has transformed into the restaurant! It is right next to Broad Street Market and well lit and free parking. Highly recommend it. There are many artisan rooms.
7. Char's at Tracy Mansion
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 266 reviews
Located overlooking the Susquehanna River, Char's offers inventive cuisine, impeccable service with a relaxed, dinner party atmosphere in a grandiose setting.
Reviewed By Salvatore M
Along the river in a beautiful spot, elegant, sophisticated and worth the extra cost. Food was excellent.
8. Bricco
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 346 reviews
We invite you to join us on a sensory excursion through a union of local Pennsylvania produce and Italian-style inspirations. The menu at our fine dining restaurant, prepared by Chef Bill Collier and his talented kitchen staff, rotates seasonally to deliver rustic, soulful dishes.
Reviewed By Kevots - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
I was invited to Bricco while attending a conference. I have been to Bricco a handful of times. Consistently outstanding. We enjoyed a private room with an uber attentive staff. Excellent shared appetizers. Simple but delicious Caesar like salad. I ordered short ribs, the house...MoreWe're so glad to top your list! Thank you.
9. El Sol Mexican Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 375 reviews
Reviewed By CtUSAMom - New London, Connecticut
The food was very good. I did ask the waitress if I could sub one of the enchiladas verde for ground beef, she flat out said no. Those little things really bother me. Would have made for a perfect experience.
10. Tomato Pie Cafe
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 302 reviews
Full Service Urban Style Eatery. Unique selection of Panini's, Soup, Salads, Breakfast Dishes, Lunch, Dinner. Full Espresso Bar
Reviewed By Kidsaregone65 - Fleetwood, Pennsylvania
My first visit to the Tomato Pie Café was for a short business meeting. I enjoyed an iced latte which tasted great. The staff was friendly and helpful. I look forward to returning for more iced latte and to try some of their foods.Thank you for your review, so glad you enjoyed your visit!
