Compared to many Pennsylvania towns, Dallas is a relative newcomer. After all, we weren’t even incorporated until 1879—folks in Philadelphia have cobblestones older than that. Yet this small Luzerne County community has quietly cultivated a dining scene that punches well above its weight class. CK’s Summer Treats $$ | (570) 674-5777 | WEBSITE It’s uncertain whether or not there are summer treats at CK’s Summer Treats in Dallas, PA. We’ve never seen one. That said, this is one of the most delightful dining settings in town. The restaurant offers a pleasant experience where patrons enjoy reasonably priced specials so Christian can provide exceptional service. It’s the area’s only year-round ice cream parlor. If you don’t have a generously topped sundae in your possession already, you can grab one from the fun patio waiting area to keep you company while you eat the restaurant’s great food and drinks. Friendly employees walked so these treats could run. $ | (570) 255-1000 | WEBSITE Stepping into this Chinese restaurant tucked away in a plaza feels like entering a cozy neighborhood spot that has been serving the back mountain area for decades. There are clean, comfortable booths, the gentle hum of conversation from families enjoying dinner, and the welcoming smiles of staff who seem genuinely happy to see you. We have reason to believe every single person here is a regular, but you’ll never know for sure because the atmosphere is so warm and inviting that everyone feels right at home. Once you settle in, order some General Tso’s Chicken, the amazing bean curd, and, of course, the best egg rolls you’ve ever tasted. $ | (570) 675-6161 | WEBSITE III Guys is a Dallas institution, and if you think a few menu tweaks over the years have deterred the regulars from getting in on the action, you’re obviously unaware of just how much regulars love a good pizza joint. And honestly, can you blame them? The atmosphere is lively, the portions are generous, and the pizza hasn’t changed much since they first fired up the oven. It’s a triple-threat scenario for a casual night out, so as you’re snacking on some better-than-expected loaded crab fries, stay alert—there are likely some hungry families looking to snag a booth. North Slope Pub and Eatery $$ | (570) 255-4012 | WEBSITE With portions that could feed a small army, spicy flavors that wake up your taste buds, and a lively atmosphere that keeps things interesting, North Slope Pub and Eatery is the most satisfying spot in Back Mountain. If you’re in the mood for something similar, head off 309. The family-friendly pub might not possess those exact elements, but it does boast massive breakfast tacos and chicken nachos that, at least for one meal, will make you believe you’ve found the holy grail of comfort food. It also features live music and Wednesday trivia nights, so watch your leftovers—and the hard chairs. 3 Kings Pizzeria $ | (570) 255-1015 | WEBSITE This beloved pizzeria in Dallas has been a local favorite for years, but the concept itself has a much deeper tradition—all the way back to New York-style pizza joints that have defined American comfort food. Needless to say, these slices have satisfied generations of cravings, and if you dig into a generous Hawaiian pizza with its tasty sauce and light, crunchy crust, or some of the best boneless bites around, you probably will too. Jay’s Famous Roast Pork & Beef $ | (570) 675-7086 | WEBSITE Maybe it’s the regular who drives an hour for the roast beef hoagie, or the customer who stocks up on frozen soups for the week, but the vibe at Jay’s has always felt a bit like a culinary pilgrimage. In the likely event of a craving for that Thai chicken, don’t expect to breeze in and out, however, because you can’t—this Dallas, PA spot is bustling and beloved, and that regular isn’t giving up his seat for anybody. So just settle in and offer that craving some chicken noodle soup and a bite of your perfect shrimp cocktail. That’s what it came back for anyway. $ | (570) 674-3697 | WEBSITE In the unlikely event you haven’t tried Chinese takeout in Dallas, we’ll let you in on a secret: Memorial Highway loves a bargain. And while China King isn’t technically fine dining, it does offer both take-out and dining-in options, specializing in Hunan, Mandarin, and Cantonese cuisine. Needless to say, this is prime comfort food territory. Stay alert as you dig into chicken teriyaki and snack on pork eggrolls in the pleasant atmosphere. And if the friendly server insists that, actually, you’ve been enjoying consistently good cheese wontons this whole time, time to ask for the check—just maybe skip the general tso’s chicken. Overbrook Pub & Grille $$ | (570) 675-2727 | WEBSITE It’s common knowledge that the best casual dining feels right at home in a busy pub, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself elbow-to-elbow with regulars at Overbrook. This Dallas spot has been serving up generous portions for years, and these days feels like the heart of a neighborhood that never slows down. There are cozy booths filled with lively chatter, friendly waitstaff zipping between tables with plates of buffalo bites and crab-stuffed flounder, and the occasional celebratory toast from a nearby birthday party. It’s a classic Pennsylvania pub experience and one that will only be enhanced by the smell of sizzling steak wafting from the kitchen. Back Mountain Brewing Company $ | (570) 310-1387 | WEBSITE On any given night at this beloved Dallas spot, you’ll see locals, beer enthusiasts, and various visitors who just can’t give up the place—both regulars and newcomers. The brewery has a cool, comfortable vibe and is essentially a series of interconnected spaces with rustic wood accents, board games, and dozens of framed beer medals. Several of those award-winners are flowing nightly, to be sure. As for food, don’t get cute. This is the kind of place where you drink big pours of Cream Ale and several samples from the rotating food truck. Shady Side Tavern

$ | (570) 675-9683 | WEBSITE A few years back, Shady Side Tavern underwent a renovation that brought in new pool tables and shuffleboard, and the results were fantastic. But you know who loves a lively spot even more than we do? Regulars. The moment you walk into this iconic Dallas bar, you can already picture groups of friends and family gathered around the tables. Or maybe that was them. Either way, find an open seat, order some crispy wings and pizza, and wait for the next round of music to kick up the energy. Spare Time Pizza $ | (570) 675-5026 | WEBSITE As a family-run pizzeria in Dallas, we’d be shocked if Spare Time Pizza didn’t have a reputation for heavy, satisfying meals. And sure enough, with its focus on thick-crust Sicilian and Detroit-style pies, this destination spot could stand in for one of those cheat-day havens you dream about when you’re super hungry. The friendly people and culinary masterpieces that exceed expectations only add to the comforting energy. We should warn you, though—the most challenging thing about Spare Time Pizza is still the aftermath. Brace yourself for delicious pepperoni/onion whole Sicilians, sweet-and-spicy buffalo chicken pizzas, and excellent wings, all under $25, but just be ready to relax after eating! Tomasino’s Italian Restaurant $ | (570) 675-4343 | WEBSITE It takes one glance at the Tuesday special board to realize that this family-run Italian spot is the main character in some pretty delicious Dallas moments. Open since well before the strip malls took over Route 309, Tomasino’s clearly has some of the best food in town, and if you’re coming here for a minimalist take on pasta, you’ve got the wrong place. You’re here because the chicken parmesan penne is freshest and the cozy dining room is always one bite away from someone breaking into a smile. And you better believe the atmosphere here likes to stay consistently excellent. Burrito Loco Mexican Grill $ | (570) 310-1026 | WEBSITE This Dallas institution has been serving authentic Mexican food for years, and therefore, is the recipient of our Highest Probability Of Leaving With A Smile And A Full Stomach Award. In truth, Burrito Loco is filled mostly with locals who know good food and flavors that haven’t strayed far from tradition, but if you leave here unsatisfied, you can only blame yourself. The margaritas are some of our favorites in town, the staff all still wear clean uniforms and friendly smiles. Plus, there’s a make-your-own burrito station in the back if things get creative and delicious with your meal. Hogan’s Heroes & Pizza $ | (570) 675-1000 | WEBSITE Opened in a converted storefront space that feels like it’s been serving the neighborhood for decades, Hogan’s Heroes & Pizza is the kind of spot where you go for a reliable cheese steak sub, not culinary revelations. The decor is unapologetically basic—think vinyl booths and fluorescent lighting—and the pizza won’t win any awards, but sometimes a straightforward meal hits the spot. So grab one of their generously stuffed heroes, loaded with steak, onions, and mushrooms, and enjoy the simple satisfaction. J & J Restaurant and Bar $ | (570) 675-6139 | WEBSITE Compared to the many classic joints in Dallas, J & J Restaurant and Bar feels like a fresh riff. But don’t let the rock n roll theme fool you, the families are flocking. And how could they not? The first thing you see inside is a spacious interior with 50s style seating and a super fun or super chill vibe, depending on the crowd. The cheesesteak is a must-try, but you’re here to enjoy the excellent service from polite and professional staff and feel your appetite satisfied after devouring that gigantic Italian hoagie packed with fresh ingredients. $ | (570) 675-9611 | WEBSITE Food blogs taught us that most pizza places are chain restaurants with neon signs and teenagers who don’t know mozzarella from provolone. But not at Bernie’s Pizza in Dallas, and where every slice here is a family recipe perfected over decades. This beloved, community-focused pizzeria is where you go when you’re tired of Dallas’s generic fast-food joints and bland chain restaurants and need to taste something authentic. Or at the very least, something delicious. There are friendly staff who greet you by name, a modern building that feels cool and inviting, and a thin, crispy crust that you’re positive is the best in town. It is—and so are all the generous toppings. Red Leaf Salad Company $ | (570) 310-1756 | WEBSITE Serving health-conscious eaters since opening, this bright salad spot is where you’ll find vegetables so fresh they practically still have morning dew on them. The Dallas location has become a favorite for those with dietary needs, so whichever day you visit, you’ll likely be sitting near someone with specific preferences—even if you can’t tell by looking. As for the food, it’s in the name: customizable salads with various proteins and toppings. Building your perfect bowl, adding that Burrito wrap option, and feeling the satisfaction of a meal that actually makes you feel better—it’s no wonder this place gets busy during lunch hours. Be sure to check their online ordering system. 10 Best Restaurants near Dillard, GA [2026 Updated] 15 Best Restaurants in Commerce, CA [2026 Updated] 15 Best Restaurants in Norwalk, CA [2026 Updated] 20 Best Restaurants near Clayton, OH [2026 Updated] Leave a Comment Cancel reply