I’ve been asked this question a lot lately – whether from friends, co-workers, or followers like you! The age-old question of “what should I eat for dinner tonight” has turned into a specified request for dinner options in Harrisburg.
I figured instead of typing up a similar response repetitively, I’d create a post I can link to so I can save myself some time. After all, any time saved is more time spent exploring the city.
The following dining options make up no extensive list, but serve as a great starting point for date nights, girls night, or for when your parents visit and you want them to treat you to somewhere a little above your usual.
Check out my 12 favorite places to eat dinner in Harrisburg.
Budget-Friendly & Laid Back
- Burger Yum
Located downtown, I like to equate Burger Yum to the Shake Shack of Harrisburg, but better of course. You order at the counter, but can easily dine in and spend as long as you’d like hanging out and chatting. They have a vegetarian burger option as well which makes it a win-win for those craving different alternatives.
As a pro tip, it also makes for a perfect after dinner milkshake stop on your way home. Made with Hershey’s ice cream, they spin their made-to-order shakes fresh while you wait.
2. Pastorante
Located in Midtown, Pastorante serves as the perfect pasta spot for a low-key night out without wanting to sacrifice the yum factor. Plus, it’s usually a no-brainer that everyone will find something on the menu to satisfy their cravings.
3. Freshido
Honestly, it does not matter the time of day you eat Freshido, but if you’re looking to explore new food options or keep it simple for the night you might’ve found the jackpot. Freshido, located in Strawberry Square, serves up poke bowls and sushi wraps to taste. You order counter-style, so don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions as you go down the line.
My suggestion – start with one spoonful of tuna and one of salmon for your poke bowl and build from there.
This is a great option for dining in or carrying out. Plus, you can find them in Hershey, and coming soon to Mechanicsburg!
Budget in Mind, But Dressy Accepted
4. Bacco’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar
One of my favorite spots for a multitude of reasons, Bacco’s located in Downtown Harrisburg has one of the best happy hour menus in town. Featuring half-priced pizza and pasta dishes, their budget-friendly happy hour and intimate atmosphere are perfect for an evening affair. If dining after happy hour, plan to spend a little more than usual on dinner.
Their Monday through Friday happy hour runs 5-7 p.m., but you’ll want to get there on the earlier side if hoping to snag a table. And their weekend happy hour runs Saturday 1-5 p.m.
5. Alvaro’s
Only open for dinner Thursday through Saturday, this is a hot spot for an authentic Italian meal, but you’ll want to make a reservation a couple of weeks in advance. It’s that good.
They serve good sized portions so take advantage of eating family-style and try a taste of your table mate’s plate. And always end the night on a high note by ordering gelato for dessert.
6. El Sol
You can never go wrong with Mexican cuisine, and El Sol never disappoints. Located in SoMa, Harrisburg, this restaurant provides a colorful atmosphere making it fun for date night or family night.
And as one would think, definitely order a margarita – I’m personally a fan of their raspberry margarita.
7. Passage to India
Sticking to a worldly theme, Passage to India, located in Shipoke, Harrisburg, offers fresh takes on classic Indian dishes making it a must-try. With an eclectic, yet vibrant atmosphere, this is the perfect dinner spot for switching things up from the usual.
If you’ve never ventured into Indian cuisine before, I highly recommend their $10 lunch buffet, which runs Tuesday through Sunday, where you can sample tons of different dishes and flavors.
Splurge Night & Worth Dressing Up
8. Café 1500
With a modern industrial set-up, Café 1500, located in Midtown, never fails as the perfect date night or family friendly spot. Their large dining room accommodates groups, but doesn’t take away from an intimate atmosphere if looking for that one-on-one date night treat.
Their menu never fails to impress with seasonally-inspired dishes and something for everyone.
9. Café Fresco
Something about a downtown date night to set the mood *insert emoji of choice.* Located on 2ndstreet, don’t let Café Fresco’s daytime café vibe fool you. At night it transforms into a gourmet eatery with one heck of a menu.
Personally, I take guests here if looking to impress them a little extra.
10. Rubicon
Bookmark this one for nights of celebration, or maybe just the nights you want to feel on top of the world. Tucked away off North St. in Downtown, Harrisburg, Rubicon sets the stage for high-class city vibes with its hanging chandelier and center-bar setup.
Everyone deserves to experience dressing up and dining in at Rubicon.
11. Suba Tapas
Located just right of Rubicon, and up the stairs, Suba Tapas plays perfectly into your dinner date dreams. With a small, intimate setup and a Spanish flair, you’re likely to find a new and exciting tapas dish to try.
Check them out on taco Thursdays from 5-9 p.m. where they feature half-priced tacos and $5 sangrias. And as a tip, definitely order the Queso Flambeado.
12. Note Bistro & Wine Bar
Whether your parents are in town, or it’s a first date, Note Bistro & Wine Bar, provides the ambient and upscale vibe you’re looking for. Located off 2nd street in Midtown, Harrisburg, it sits inside a converted Victorian house. Plus, the European-inspired dishes and full bar create for a unique night out.
You can’t miss their beautifully-strung string lights outside, so use them to guide your way in for a drink and dish.
Happy Dining, Harrisburg
With so many dining options it can be difficult to pair down a short list for dinner. Yet, with the abundance of options it’s easy to feel like you’re missing out on some. If you try out any of these restaurants, tag me on Instagram (@Cherisburg_) and let me know what you think. Or share some of your favorites with me in the comments below! Happy dining Harrisburg.
Cherishburg 
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