Some folks think Clarks Summit is just where you go for a quiet Sunday drive or to admire historic architecture. And, while you can certainly do both, this charming town also brims with delicious, affordable dining. For a meal that delights without draining your wallet, start with this guide. It highlights spots where you can enjoy a fantastic dinner for around $20 per person—perfect for weeknights, casual dates, or whenever you’re saving up for your next home project or weekend getaway.
Dino & Francesco’s Pizza & Pasta House
$ | (570) 587-4306 | WEBSITE
There are a few Dino & Francesco’s around the area, and they all serve delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas in spaces that feel like classic family restaurants. All of these spots, including this one in Clarks Summit, are sit-down service, and they also have stromboli, homemade pea soup, and outstanding chicken parmigiana.
So bring the kids if you need something kid-friendly and affordable, or come by yourself and enjoy a few slices while you talk with the friendly waitresses and watch the owner check on tables.
Summit Cigar Lounge and Bar
$ | (570) 586-8772 | WEBSITE
Summit Cigar Lounge and Bar is part of a rare breed of elevated, balcony-overlooking valley lounges. It’s where you should go in pursuit of bourbon flights with cigar pairings, stacked Boars Head sandwiches, or hot boneless bites served with fries on the side like crispy golden companions. This is an especially great option if you’re near Clarks Summit and want neither a $75 cocktail experience nor a convenience store six-pack.
Kyoto
$$ | (570) 587-3236 | WEBSITE
Kyoto offers a full hibachi and sushi menu, but you should be coming here for the entertaining show at the hibachi table. This place has delivered one of the most memorable dining experiences in Clarks Summit for years, and you can enjoy the steak and shrimp dinner ($28) with fresh vegetables and rice ($5 extra), paired with a super nice waiter’s attentive service, and leave here feeling thoroughly satisfied and entertained.
Glenburn Grill & Bakery
$ | (570) 585-8777 | WEBSITE
If you live in Clarks Summit, Glenburn Grill & Bakery is your neighborhood breakfast spot. Or at least it should be. The space feels sort of like a cozy farmhouse kitchen from a country living magazine (which is a compliment), and the food is better than it needs to be. You can get a homemade cornbeef hash here, a firecracker omelette, or, if it’s a weekday morning and you’re trying to spend less than $15, you can just get a freshly baked pastry and a cup of coffee.
blend’d smoothie bar
$ | WEBSITE
A typical smoothie bar in Clarks Summit usually means paying $12 for something basic. Eating at Blend’d Smoothie Bar is a way around that though. This popular counter-service spot focuses on fresh, clean ingredients, and the menu offers something for everyone. So, when you grab a quick meal or snack here, you can enjoy with confidence that the Açaí base bowls and Chunky Monkey bowl are standout favorites – try to say that with as little pretention as possible.
Colarusso’s Cafe
$ | (570) 586-0608 | WEBSITE
If you’re in Clarks Summit on a weeknight and you’d rather spend $18 on hearty, garlicky chicken Florentine instead of groceries, go to Colarusso’s Cafe. You’ll never have trouble getting a table, since the dining room is so spacious that the owners felt compelled to put up a line of decorative Italian murals to create a divider in the middle. Bring your kids, your friend you like to talk sh*t with, or the only person who deserves your company on a cold Sunday night (you).
Schultzville Deli
$ | (570) 587-1867 | WEBSITE
When you step inside, Schultzville Deli mostly just looks like a regular neighborhood deli. But all of the hoagies here are generously portioned, and they use fresh ingredients for them. There are also many different kinds, with options like veggie, meatball, and their highly recommended cheesesteaks. Once you get a hoagie or platter, you can either take it to go, or stay in the family-friendly space where you can sit and enjoy some food that might be some of the best in Clarks Summit.
The Summit Market & Deli
$$ | (570) 319-9970 | WEBSITE
Technically, The Summit Market & Deli is a deli – but it’s better than about 90% of other places where you can grab a sandwich, eat some smoked wings, and get a meal to go. Think of it as a really welcoming spot where you could sit with friends who appreciate good food, and try it for lunch the next time you want a great fried chicken sandwich and some Italian potatoes. Especially if you’re planning a party or event (that’s when their catering services really shine).
Peach & Lily
$ | (570) 586-7373 | WEBSITE
If you find yourself returning to that same old Chinese takeout spot again and again like a ghost haunting a familiar kitchen, it’s time you discovered Peach & Lily. This popular Chinese takeout restaurant in Clarks Summit is one such place. We especially like the sweet and sour chicken with rice and egg roll, and the fact that you can get cheese wontons, boneless spare ribs, or dumplings as appetizers.
The food is fresh and delicious, and orders are typically ready within 10-20 minutes, making it a great option for quick and tasty Chinese food. Just keep in mind parking can be a bit challenging.
State Street Grill
$$$ | (570) 585-5590 | WEBSITE
We appreciate State Street Grill because it has accommodations. If you want to enjoy a private event here, you can do that, but there are also outdoor dining options on the patio, as well as some really good appetizers like cauliflower sweet chili and fig flatbread. Plus there’s wheelchair access through the back entrance, and none of the menu items here cost over $24.
Formosa
$$ | (570) 585-1902 | WEBSITE
Formosa serves some of our favorite seafood ravioli in the entire area. For $18, you get a delightful dish stuffed with shrimp and crab, served in a white wine sauce with truffle oil. You’ll notice that there’s a lot of talk here about the mango and honey chicken – the entree that everyone seems to order. Try that signature dish, and you’ll understand why we often list it as our go-to comfort food.
HOOKED ON STATE STREET RESTAURANT
$$ | (570) 344-4665 | WEBSITE
If the sign outside Hooked On State Street didn’t promise ‘cozy atmosphere’ and ‘plentiful food,’ it might look like just another unassuming family-owned spot in Clarks Summit. Step inside past the ample parking, and you’ll find yourself in a welcoming dining room where the friendly staff makes you feel right at home.
Since you’re dining at a place that sometimes experiences longer waits due to being understaffed, your patience might be tested – but it also means that the quality of dishes like the amazing chowder, delectable grouper tacos, and perfectly balanced steak tacos is remarkably consistent – especially considering most hearty entrees come in under $20.
Sunny
$ | (570) 585-5106 | WEBSITE
Our go-to Chinese in Clarks Summit right now is Sunny, and a plate of sesame chicken will run you about $11. Add some fried dumplings if you’re extra hungry, and you’ll still be under $20. They also do a small wonton soup here with a perfect balance of pasta to filling, and the place is simple and no-frills with booths for eating in and a drive-thru for quick pickups.
Waffle House
$ | (570) 585-5575 | WEBSITE
Waffle House makes a solid pecan waffle, but you can also get a chicken melt with waffles here. Both are fairly substantial options, and you probably won’t be able to eat much more than one of these things, so you can either save the rest of your money for things like gas and buying your friend a coffee.
Abbiocco
$$ | (570) 319-9633 | WEBSITE
Abbiocco sounds like a sleepy little Italian spot you’d find tucked away in a strip mall. Don’t let the name fool you, though, because this is a solid place to bring the family for a hearty and affordable dinner after a long day. The warm, cozy space works perfectly for either a relaxed family meal or a casual date night. Get the generously portioned chicken parm or the creamy vodka risotto with that rich, spicy penne sauce.
The Nyx
$ | (570) 319-6883 | WEBSITE
The Nyx is a popular restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and welcoming vibe. The menu features a range of options, including the Cooper burger, served with a fried pickle and a side of good fries. Many customers have enjoyed the penne and vodka pasta and the garlic parm wings, with some even describing the wings as ‘to die for.’ The beer selection is well-regarded, and the bar serves unique and great drinks, such as the pear martini and orange crush made with fresh-squeezed orange juice.
While some diners have noted that the burger meat can be a bit inconsistent, the overall experience is positive. The changing menu and great drinks are highlights of The Nyx, making it a place many customers return to and recommend. Although there have been mentions of the restaurant wishing to stay open later, the quick seating and prompt service, even when busy, contribute to a satisfying dining experience.