Location: Reading
Top Restaurants in Reading
Where to Eat in Reading: The Best Restaurants and Bars
Reading, which gave its name to the Reading Railroad of Monopoly Fame, is located in the midst of Berks County, an area known for rich history amongst beautiful nature. The Greater Reading Area promises visitors the opportunity to experience a wide collection of covered bridges and Dutch folk barn art, and Berks County offers more intrepid explorers the chance to set off on a hike along the Appalachian Trail. Sitting atop Reading is the city's symbol, a massive pagoda, built as a hotel in 1908.
Things to do in Reading
1. Frank & Diannah's Arbor Inn
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 236 reviews
Fine food and service in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Eclectic menu. Full Bar including international wines and microbrew beers on tap.
Reviewed By Teresa K - Reading, Pennsylvania
We were lucky winners of silent auction gift certificate and had a terrific experience. The setting is intimate but tables a little too close together for a romantic dinner. I also learned they don’t accept reservations for parties less than 6. Everything else about the place was fantastic. I had THE best fettuccine Alfredo (which I never order because unless it’s perfectly cooked I won’t like it). It was perfectly cooked. My husband had schnitzel dish and raved about it.
2. Austin's Restaurant & Bar
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 224 reviews
Reviewed By hqueeniew - Reading, Pennsylvania
I prefer Austin's over the many chains that are available in the area. The food is good and the service is good as well. With so few choices for dining, Austin's does a good job of providing a well-rounded menu and good service. Portion size is good and has a pleasant presentation.
3. Chatty Monks Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 229 reviews
At Chatty Monks Brewing Company, our story is quite simple. Our business was born out of five friends with one thing in common: the need to make exceptional craft beer. Named as one of the Top 50 brewpubs nationwide and Top 10 in the Northeast by CraftBeer. We are a dedicated group of beer-loving guys seeking to put our own personal mark upon this fast-growing sector of small batch brewing. It is our passion to bring enjoyment to others in the form of outstanding craft beer, brewed with the highest level of integrity and utilizing true craftsmanship in our trade. We combine this with an artisanal approach to American Gastropub fare using only fresh and local ingredients.
Reviewed By Christie Y - Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
My husband and I were in town for a concert so we decided to hang out on Penn Street at Chatty Monks. It was Valentine's Day, but we arrived late afternoon w/o reservations and got seats at the bar right away. The crowd picked up pretty quickly. Only one bartender, but he did a great job - filling beers, taking food orders, answering the phone. Beer was okay. We split two flights for a total of six beers. The food was pretty good. They have a small menu of some typical bar food, but they had Valentine's Day specials + their regular specials offered. Before we came here we visited the Barley Mow (craft beer house) about 1.5 blocks away. We parked on street (free 2 hour parking) and it was an easy walk to both places.
4. Mission Bbq
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 140 reviews
Reviewed By RainbowNM - Belen,NM
This place is not to be missed. We ate here Nov 3 because our usual restaurant in the area has 90 minute wait. HOW LUCKY WE WERE NOT TO WAIT. Checked our phones for eateries in the area, ans MISSION BBQ sounded interest; and we called at 7:00 PM on a weekend nite were told no wait. All I can say is that the menu is limited, but the FOOD WAS TOP NOTCH. We had the beef brisket which was perfectly cooked and served in chopped pieces. Sides cost additional,but two of us ate beef brisket, each with a generous side of hot cheese potato salad, a piece of cornbread and unlimited fountain drinks for under $26.00.The theme throughout the restaurant is military, and the MISSION BBQ theme is carried thru the facility. We were so impressed with all aspects that we returned our second nite in town ! !
We highly recommend this restaurant, now a chain. The decor is from all types of occupations that protect us....military all branches, state and local law enforcement and fire protection; and even some sports memmorabilila. We spend 15 minutes after our dinner walking around and reading all the stuff on the walls.
The chain is growing. THIS PLACE IS A managed with love and respect for God and Country.
LOOK FOR THIS CHAIN...PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN ...
5. Stokesay Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 254 reviews
Come explore the castle and experience the 13th century inspired English atmosphere. Within Stokesay Castle there are two restaurants. The Knight’s Pub is an American Pub with an international twist. We take great pride in offering world class food and service in an open and inviting atmosphere. Our chefs are dedicated to create a menu that offers something for everyone! The Lord's Dining Room menu features contemporary American fine dining cuisine, in a beautifully decorated room. Private rooms are also available for parties or meetings.
Reviewed By Aly F
Stokesay recently hosted an event for my family and friends that was flawless. The party was for 60 people and everyone, including myself, were raving about the food, service, and amazing atmosphere. Emily Kurz was extremely pleasant, helpful, and went above and beyond her call of services. Our bartenders at the event were nothing short of spectacular, particularly Josh. I have been telling people ever since the event he was the best server I have ever experienced. Overall, we as a group decided we definitely would be back for parties and dinner! Amazing job, thank you!!!
6. Say Cheese! Restaurant & Cheese
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 162 reviews
Say Cheese! is a family-owned restaurant and cheese shop in West Reading, PA. We serve over 75 types of artisan cheeses, along with creative takes on traditional American food. A favorite stop for locals, we're humbled to be named Best Lunch in Berks County the last three years by the magazine "Berks County Living". We specialize in serving locally-made cheese, coffee, and other foods and drinks. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, we serve a full menu of salads, sandwiches, entrees, and our famous mac & cheese. Our drink menu features local craft beers, or BYOB and our wait staff will gladly accommodate it. Online reservations can be made on our website or on OpenTable and we have free Wi-Fi. Enjoy a meal in our dining room, outdoor seating area (weather-permitting), or book our private gallery room for your next business meeting or birthday party - it sits up to 25 people. Don't have time for menu dining? No problem! Carry out options are available and if you need a quick meal to feed a group of people, check out our party trays and custom gift baskets. Visit our cheese shop and pick up your favorite selections of artisan cheeses and meats. Our restaurant and cheese shop is conveniently located on Penn Avenue, right in the heart of West Reading. Visit our website to see our full menu, reserve a table, or to see a list of upcoming events. You can also give us a call to order takeout or catering. We're proud members of The Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Greater Reading Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Reviewed By Teresa K - Reading, Pennsylvania
West Reading has been quite successful in marketing Penn Avenue restaurants and shops. Visitors will enjoy the selection of eateries, as there are many. Have lived in the area for over 10 years and just visited Say Cheese! Delightful. The din of restaurant noises, diners and openness has the feel of a New York restaurant. Beer and wine available. Limited menu but everything we ordered was superb. Must try the fried Brie - outstanding!
7. Coastal Grille
Overall Ratings
4 based on 248 reviews
Our menu includes favorite dishes from coastal regions and is specifically designed to create a wide appeal by offering an exciting mix of seafood and non-seafood items. From appetizers to entrees the menu offers a diverse range of flavors from traditional to bold that are certain to satisfy a wide variety of tastes. In a world being dominated by your typical chain restaurant you will find Coastal Grille to be a refreshing change.
Reviewed By BerksPADad - Reading, Pennsylvania
I have eaten here probably over a dozen times. We went tonight 2-6. We got sat immediately. We then had 1 waitress who came by, told us the specials and took our drink order. Soon we had another waiter who told us he was taking over. This is when it went downhill. Example, I asked about the King Crab legs, and how is it? His answer was most of it is good. Most of it? My wife asked for her tuna rare and blackened. He then asked her 2 more times how she would like it done while taking the order. I also got a Ceaser salad with anchovies. We also asked for 2 waters. Time went by and no waters. Had to ask someone else. Got the Ceaser no anchoives, no waiter asked someone else to get it. Got our entrees. My wifes tuna was hardly blackened but she gave up trying to find the waiter, and just ate it. She said it was not good. My king crab legs, came with a cracker, a small fork, but not a smaller pick etc to get the meat out of the narrow parts. I also only got a smaller piece of lemon. This is when I found out what the waiter meant. Most of it was good, parts of it was overcooked. So I guess he was honest. The sides where good. We also got the desert special that bourbon bread pudding. Not taste of bourbon, and was not good, but at least it was free as I had a birthday coupon for it. My wife figured out that the waiter had tables across from us, that he was always at, but seemed to forget us. My wife said, we have some really good meals but some not so good, and the service is too inconsistant so she said we are done. I suggested if you get the cheaper items on the menu, like the fish and chips they seem to be good. Explore the higher price items and it seems hit or miss. Also one thing that bothered me. I saw my waiter restocking the paper goods in the bathroom. To me a waiter handling food, should not be doing that. Especially a waiter that seemed to be missing our table.
8. Judy's On Cherry
Overall Ratings
4 based on 373 reviews
Reviewed By Kristin070182 - Kenhorst
My husband and I enjoy going to Judy's on Cherry for date night. The food is absolutely wonderful, and the staff is amazing. Also, check out the website to see about the outdoor seating.
9. Mom Chaffe's Cellarette
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 158 reviews
Reviewed By jstr3 - Reading, Pennsylvania
We went here as a party of 9 to celebrate my parents' 50th anniversary. We loved the cozy atmosphere and the food and service were top notch. The lasagna, crab cakes, chicken parmigiana, and steak special were all fabulous. Portions were huge! Definitely recommmend! The only downside was that Parking can be a challenge, so allow extra time to find a spot. It's worth it though!
10. Laxmi's Indian Grille
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 55 reviews
Reviewed By luvroma2 - Reading, PA
We had lunch here recently and the food was still as good as the last time we ate here - if not better. I had the vegetarian lunch special which was an incredible bargain at $8.99. I asked what was included and I got lost in all the explanations. It was a very nice variety and so much food. The portion of each dish is reasonable but there are multiple items - plus rice and naan. I just kept saying "it's so much food." My husband, who likes very spicy food, had the chicken vindaloo. We also had raita and an onion naan. Everything is fresh and made to order. If this restaurant were closer to where we live, we would eat there weekly. It is BYOB, if you are so inclined.
