The Poconos region of northeastern Pennsylvania is a popular vacation destination for families and couples who want a romantic getaway. The area is also well-known for its exceptional cuisine. Hungry vacationers in the Poconos can choose from casual family restaurants or fine dining, including some can’t-miss specialities. Explore a few of the many places to find good eats.
Apple Valley Restaurant
Image via Flickr by tonnoro
If you’re looking for a place where you can relax with the kids instead of constantly worrying that they’ll be unwelcome, Apple Valley Restaurant at 104 Route 6 in Milford is one of the best. It’s located in Apple Valley Village, with 8 park-like acres where you can feed the ducks and admire the koi ponds. You can also visit several shops as you and your kids work up an appetite. Stop in for lunch or dinner and enjoy salads, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, and hearty entrees. The dress code here is casual, and prices are budget-minded.
If you’ve had enough sightseeing and need a place to spend the night, check out your hotel options in the Poconos with Hotel Planner and book your room for one night, a week, or as long as you need.
The Gem and Keystone Brewpub
The farm-to-table culinary trend continues to grow, and The Gem and Keystone Brewpub is an enthusiastic participant. It’s on the property of the Shawnee Inn Golf Resort at 100 Shawnee Inn Drive in Shawnee on Delaware.
The star of the show is ShawneeCraft Beer, available in several varieties from the light and refreshing Kirkwood Kolsch to the dark and filling Session Porter. This casual restaurant is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and it serves appetizers, salads, burgers, pub grub, and entrees cooked on the wood-fired grill. The dress code is casual, and entrees cost between $12 and $27.
Shawnee Inn Golf Resort also has two other on-site dining options. One is The River Room, which offers steakhouse-type fare, including chops and meatloaf; The River Room is also open for breakfast. The Buckwood Bakery and Cafe is a great place to grab a quick dessert, snack, or bagel. This establishment also serves coffee beverages including cappuccino and iced coffees.
The Frogtown Chophouse
The Frogtown Chophouse has an amusing name, but inside, you’ll find an elegant restaurant with a menu designed by Executive Chef Lyman Winner. Located at 472 Upper Swiftwater Road in Swiftwater, The Frogtown Chophouse is open for dinner and Sunday brunch only, and reservations are strongly recommended.
Culinary delights include soups, appetizers, salads, steaks, and chops, as well as delectable entrees such as braised short ribs and crispy duck. A full-service bar serves hand-crafted cocktails, wine, and beer; happy hour runs from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday. A lineup of live music appears every Friday and Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m., with “Music Monday” live performers and a special menu. Dress is business casual, and entrees run between $22 and $32.
Since the Poconos region attracts such a diverse group of travelers, it’s only natural that you’ll also find an eclectic mix of places to eat. Whether you’re a young family or an older couple, you’ll find a restaurant where you’ll fit in.
