Reading, Pennsylvania, nicknamed “Pretzel City,” is a hidden gem for food enthusiasts, offering a vibrant culinary scene steeped in tradition and local flavor.
Family-owned restaurants in Reading showcase a rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and dishes that linger in your memory long after the last bite. Here are the five best family-owned restaurants in Reading that you absolutely must try.
Frank & Diannah’s Arbor Inn
Frank & Diannah’s Arbor Inn is a charming spot celebrated for its cozy ambiance and delicious American classics.
Start with the Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, filled with a delectable mix of crab meat and cream cheese, baked to perfection.
Their Filet Mignon, cooked to your preferred doneness and topped with a miso and roasted shallot compound butter, is a must-try entrée.
End with the Homemade Bread Pudding, rich and flavorful, topped with a warm vanilla sauce.
Judy’s On Cherry
Judy’s On Cherry offers a delightful Mediterranean dining experience with a touch of elegance, perfect for a casual lunch or a refined dinner.
Begin with the Wood-fired Focaccia Bread, freshly baked and served with an array of house-made dips.
Their Enraged Penne Pasta, featuring penne tossed in a spicy plum tomato sauce, is a standout main course for those who love a little heat.
Finish with the Chocolate Lava Cake, a decadent molten chocolate cake served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Chatty Monks Brewing Company
Chatty Monks Brewing Company is a beloved local brewery and gastropub known for its seasonal pub fare and in-house Belgian beers.
Start with the Crispy Brussels Sprouts, tossed in a balsamic reduction and topped with shaved Parmesan.
Their Tikka Masala, a robust dish featuring tender chicken in a spicy tomato and cumin sauce served with jasmine rice and paratha, is a must-try entrée.
End with the Homemade Cheesecake, creamy and rich, with a graham cracker crust and a drizzle of berry compote.
Say Cheese! Restaurant and Cheese
Say Cheese! Restaurant and Cheese combines love for artisanal cheese with modern American comfort food, making it a cheese lover’s paradise.
Begin with the Cheese Plate, featuring a selection of local and imported cheeses paired with fresh fruit and nuts.
Their BBQ Pork Mac and Cheese, a hearty dish with smoked pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy mac and cheese, is a standout main course.
Finish with the Chocolate Nutty Cheesecake, a sweet and nutty delight topped with hazelnut brittle.
Stokesay Castle
Stokesay Castle offers a medieval-inspired dining experience in a stunning castle setting, perfect for a unique and memorable meal.
Start with the Roasted Tomato Bisque, a velvety soup with a hint of basil and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
Their Pan-Seared Sea Bass, slightly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with a creamy American sauce, is a must-try entrée.
End with the Sticky Toffee Pudding, a warm and moist dessert topped with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream.
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