Altoona, Pennsylvania. A city steeped in railway history and nestled amongst the rolling hills of Blair County. But beyond its historical significance, Altoona boasts a surprisingly vibrant and delicious food scene. From classic American diners to international flavors and sweet treats, this city has something to satisfy every craving. Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Get ready to discover the very best food Altoona has to offer. This guide will lead you through the must-try restaurants and dishes that make Altoona a hidden gem for food lovers. We’ve carefully curated this list based on local recommendations, personal experiences, and those little sparks of uniqueness that make a restaurant truly exceptional. Prepare your taste buds!
A Taste of Classic American Comfort
Nothing beats the feeling of sinking into a booth at a classic American diner, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. Altoona delivers on this front, providing several establishments serving up generous portions of comfort food that will transport you back to simpler times.
One shining example is The Knickerbocker Tavern. This is a local favorite known for its friendly atmosphere and hearty meals. This Tavern isn’t just about filling you up, it’s about the whole experience. The friendly staff, the lively conversations, and the aroma of burgers sizzling on the grill all come together to create a warm and welcoming place. Be sure to check out the amazing deals they offer on drinks and food!
Another Altoona staple is Tom & Joe’s Restaurant. This is a family-owned diner that has been serving the community for generations. It is known for its friendly service and comforting food. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a classic diner, with cozy booths and a counter where you can watch the cooks work their magic. This is the perfect place to start your day with a hearty breakfast or enjoy a comforting lunch. Their claim to fame? The homemade pies. Freshly baked daily, they are the perfect ending to any meal. From classic apple to creamy chocolate, there’s a slice of heaven for everyone. You can’t go wrong with any of their food.
What makes these places some of the best food Altoona has to offer? It’s not just the food; it’s the feeling. It’s the sense of community, the friendly faces, and the satisfying comfort that makes them more than just restaurants. They are gathering places, where memories are made and traditions are upheld.
Pizza Perfection: A Slice of Altoona Heaven
No food conversation is complete without mentioning pizza, and Altoona boasts a vibrant pizza scene with styles to suit every palate. From thin-crust New York style to thick, Sicilian squares, and local creations, finding the perfect slice is an adventure in itself.
For a taste of traditional New York style pizza, look no further than Marino’s Pizza. This place is committed to crafting pizzas with the freshest ingredients and time-honored techniques. The crust is thin and crispy, the sauce is tangy and flavorful, and the toppings are generous. Each slice is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Their garlic knots are also a must-try!
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, head to La Trattoria Romana. While also serving traditional Italian fare, their pizza is the real star. It is a very popular place, so expect it to be a little crowded. The pizza is amazing, they have so many unique flavors and the service is amazing!
But what sets these pizzerias apart and makes them some of the best food Altoona has to offer? It’s their dedication to quality, their passion for pizza making, and their understanding of what makes a truly great slice. It’s the perfect harmony of crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings that explodes with flavor in every bite.
Exploring International Flavors
Altoona’s culinary landscape extends far beyond American staples, offering a passport to a world of flavors. Whether you’re craving authentic Italian pasta, zesty Mexican tacos, or savory Asian cuisine, you’ll find a restaurant to satisfy your wanderlust.
For Italian, Finelli’s Italian Villa is your go-to spot. This restaurant offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. The menu features a wide range of classic Italian dishes, from pasta and pizza to seafood and meat entrees. It is a little more on the pricy side, but the food is phenomenal.
For authentic Mexican food, El Rancho Grande is a local favorite. This restaurant has a great atmosphere, perfect for a party or dinner. The portions are large, so make sure to come hungry! The drinks and food are to die for, they offer a large selection of authentic Mexican fare.
For a taste of the East, New China Inn is a must. This restaurant serves up classic Chinese dishes that are prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. They have a large selection of fare, and amazing prices. It is a local favorite!
What makes these international restaurants stand out among the best food Altoona has to offer? It’s their commitment to authenticity, their use of fresh and flavorful ingredients, and their ability to transport you to another culture through their food.
Fine Dining Delights: A Taste of Elegance
For special occasions or simply when you want to treat yourself, Altoona offers a selection of fine dining establishments that elevate the dining experience to a new level. These restaurants offer impeccable service, elegant atmospheres, and expertly crafted dishes that are sure to impress.
The Allegheny Club is known for its sophisticated ambiance and refined cuisine. This restaurant offers a classic fine-dining experience. From perfectly seared steaks to delicate seafood dishes, every plate is a work of art.
The U.S. Hotel Tavern is another excellent option for a special night out. This upscale restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere and an ambitious menu that showcases innovative culinary techniques and seasonal ingredients. From the attentive service to the exquisitely prepared dishes, every detail is carefully curated to create a memorable dining experience.
What elevates these establishments to the realm of the best food Altoona has to offer? It’s their attention to detail, their commitment to quality ingredients, and their ability to create a truly exceptional dining experience.
Breakfast Bliss and Brunch Bonanzas
Starting your day with a delicious breakfast or indulging in a leisurely brunch is a quintessential weekend activity, and Altoona has several spots that cater to this craving. From classic pancakes and waffles to savory omelets and breakfast sandwiches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Parkside Family Restaurant serves breakfast all day long, so if you want breakfast for dinner, this is the spot! This is a local favorite, and they are always offering new and exciting deals. The service is amazing, and the portions are generous. The pancakes are so fluffy, and the bacon is crispy and delicious!
For a more upscale brunch experience, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is a great option. While known for their Southern-inspired comfort food, their breakfast menu is a hidden gem. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the portions are generous.
What makes these breakfast and brunch spots stand out and earn their place among the best food Altoona has to offer? It’s their commitment to serving fresh, flavorful, and satisfying breakfast and brunch dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Sweet Sensations: Indulging Your Sweet Tooth
No culinary journey is complete without a sweet ending, and Altoona offers a variety of places to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic ice cream parlors to decadent bakeries and creative dessert shops, you’ll find the perfect treat to end your meal on a high note.
Ritchey’s Dairy is a local landmark, serving up creamy and delicious ice cream for generations. This family-owned business uses only the finest ingredients to create their signature flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to unique seasonal creations.
For a taste of homemade goodness, DelGrosso’s Park is a must-visit. While known for its amusement park, their bakery offers a delectable selection of cakes, pies, cookies, and other treats that are made with love and care.
What makes these sweet spots the best food Altoona has to offer? It’s their dedication to quality ingredients, their passion for creating delicious desserts, and their ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy with every bite.
Casual Bites and Pub Grub Gems
Sometimes, all you need is a casual bite and a cold drink in a relaxed atmosphere. Altoona offers a variety of pubs and casual eateries that serve up delicious food in a comfortable setting.
The Olde House Cafe is a popular spot for its friendly service and delicious food. This restaurant is a little off the beaten path, but the food is phenomenal and it is a very popular spot. It can be difficult to get a table, so make sure to call in advance.
Railroad City Brewing Company is a great option if you’re looking for some bar food. This place boasts an awesome menu, and their beers are really good! The staff is amazing, and always helpful with finding the perfect beer for each meal.
What makes these casual spots and pub eateries the best food Altoona has to offer? It’s their relaxed atmosphere, their friendly service, and their ability to serve up satisfying and flavorful food that is perfect for sharing with friends.
Unearthing Hidden Culinary Treasures
Altoona also has a few hidden gems that deserve to be discovered. These are the lesser-known spots that offer unique culinary experiences and are often overlooked by the crowds.
One such hidden treasure is The Dream Restaurant. Known for its fresh and unique food options, the service and people that work there are really amazing. They are always providing excellent deals and options for food.
Altoona Grand Hotel is another hidden gem that is definitely worth discovering. The atmosphere is amazing, and the bartenders are always whipping up new and creative drinks. It is on the pricier side, but it is definitely worth the money for the amazing food!
What sets these hidden gems apart and earns them a place among the best food Altoona has to offer? It’s their uniqueness, their passion for culinary creativity, and their ability to surprise and delight even the most discerning palates.
Altoona’s food scene is ever-evolving, filled with passionate chefs and restaurateurs dedicated to creating delicious and memorable experiences. From classic diners to international flavors, from elegant fine dining to casual bites, Altoona has something to satisfy every craving.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to embark on your own culinary adventure and discover the best food Altoona has to offer. Explore the restaurants listed in this guide, try new dishes, and share your own favorite hidden gems with the community. Altoona’s food scene is waiting to be explored, one delicious bite at a time. And don’t forget to share your culinary discoveries in the comments below! We’d love to hear about your experiences. Happy eating!
