We’re here today to introduce you to the 13 best restaurants near Exeter, PA. You might be asking yourself, ‘What makes these places so special?’ The answer is simple: they’re exactly what you’ve been craving.
Dowse’s Suds & Grub
$ | (570) 654-1125 | WEBSITE
Taco nights are practically meant for small-town gatherings, and Dowse’s is an outlier among the noise. This cozy family-run bar nails the predictable-yet-effective combination of warm tortillas, seasoned fillings, and fresh toppings, all in the welcoming guest of honor. But our tastebuds really can’t stop fixating on the atmosphere.
It’s arranged with slivers of community spirit moistened by personable service that slices the routine like a delicious karate chop—and would still feel great despite the occasional haze.
Notis The Gyro King 2.0: The Next Generation
$ | (570) 266-8988 | WEBSITE
This Exeter Mediterranean spot also serves up tightly wrapped gyros on warm pita, and their garlicky tzatziki-drenched classic is a no-brainer. Lamb and beef bring the savory richness, a yogurt sauce brings some cooling tang, and fresh veggies bring the crunch. You bring the appetite for leftovers.
N.Y. Fresh Bagel
$ | (570) 299-7903 | WEBSITE
N.Y. Fresh Bagel is a great choice if you’re passing through Exeter, but it’s also a good pick in general because their bagels are straight-up delicious. Our favorite is the breakfast wrap, which is like a morning meal that minored in Mexican during culinary school. It has fresh eggs, soft bagels, and savory fillings, and there’s a perfect balance of freshness, flavor, and comfort.
Sabatini’s Pizza
$ | (570) 693-2270 | WEBSITE
Pepperoni diced right into the sauce makes all the difference at this very serious pizza joint with rustic charm. As a purveyor of out-of-this-world Expresso Martinis, you’ll find Sabatini’s best pepperoni pizza topped with shredded pepperoni blended into the tangy tomato base, along with other excellent stuff like wheat crust pies, banana peppers, and yummy wings—both boneless and regular. These pizzas are practically designed for gathering with friends.
American Grill & BBQ
$ | (570) 655-1719 | WEBSITE
This northeast Pennsylvania barbecue joint has a remarkable steak sandwich called THE DUKE that’s effortlessly satisfying. The brisket is super tender and smoky, with necessary texture provided by sautéed onions and mushrooms smashed on top. Between that, sharp house-made sweet BBQ sauce, perfectly cooked brisket instead of traditional steak, and hearty sandwich construction, this is a barbecue masterpiece that’s ready for you to savor while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Customers are so impressed they’re considering making t-shirts to show their love.
Villa Pizzeria
$ | (570) 883-9999 | WEBSITE
Let’s say you spend an excessive amount of time daydreaming about Italian comfort food. Same. In that case, Villa Pizzeria should be your go-to spot. This pizzeria crafts homemade dough and tops it with spicy sausage, savory pepperoni, and a perfect blend of cheeses. The crispy crust holds up under the weight while still remaining chewy on the edges, made even better with a side of garlic bread (a buttery, herby delight with just the right crunch).
Yeah, some marinara sauce is probably going to drip onto the table, but that’s what the extra napkins are there for.
Mariano’s La Puccia
$ | (570) 883-1960 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving authentic Italian and have the chance to try their signature LA Puccia, that’s even better for the whole family-owned experience. We highly recommend the Del Sol pizza from Mariano’s. It’s an outstanding pie loaded with quality ingredients that only enhances on contact with the fantastic, unforgettable sauce. And if you’re able to save room, pair it with some light and heavenly lemon cello cake.
Yummy Yummy
$ | (570) 883-9888 | WEBSITE
When it comes to authentic Chinese takeout, Yummy Yummy is our go-to spot. Their sweet and sour chicken is a masterpiece of crispy, tender pieces drenched in that perfect tangy-sweet sauce you can’t find anywhere else. Whether you order the General Tsos Chicken that stays miraculously crispy all the way home, or the Singapore Mei Fun that packs a spicy punch with every flavorful forkful, it’ll be the highlight of your evening. Aside from the generous portions that easily feed two.
Oh, and those crab rangoons.
Donut Connection of Exeter
$ | (570) 655-9551 | WEBSITE
The charm of Donut Connection’s peanut butter angel creme is in its straightforwardness. Fluffy and sweet dough melds with creamy peanut butter filling for richness, and pairs with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar that is neither too heavy nor cloying. Served fresh from the baker on site all day, it’s on the indulgent side, and tastes wonderfully comforting with a cup of decaf coffee and/or some morning sunlight streaming through the drive-through window.
Sabatini’s Bottle Shop & Bar
$ | (570) 693-2270 | WEBSITE
Sabatini’s Bottle Shop & Bar is always a solid craft beer destination—there’s something refreshing about their rotating selection of on-tap brews combined with the chill, dimly lit atmosphere that makes for a real treat. The bar boasts one of the largest selections of beer worldwide, be it from local craft breweries or international favorites. Be sure to pair your pint with a slice of their amazing pizza for the full experience.
Pizza L’Oven
$ | (570) 655-5544 | WEBSITE
The pan-fried Sicilian pizza at this spot in Exeter is thick, crisped to order, and proves to be very satisfying on a busier night when there’s a crowd at the door. We’d honestly just be happy munching on their homemade pierogi drizzled in savory butter sauce alongside crispy wings tossed in tangy buffalo.
But their solid selection of comfort foods, from cheesesteak hoagies and cold beer to that consistently good pizza, makes it a great stop for both families and friends looking for a welcoming space with excellent service and good tunes.
Appletree House
$ | (570) 388-7000 | WEBSITE
For the times when your family insists on a “cozy, but lively” weekend outing and needs everyone to meet at noon “sharp,” grab the Napoleon Dynamite Quesadilla from Appletree House first. It’s a crispy tortilla stuffed with seasoned beef and melted cheese that keeps everything hearty, a generous layer of sour cream, and a side of fresh salsa—which means no bland bites to bore all over your family’s planned afternoon.
Blue Ribbon Farm Dairy
$ | (570) 655-5579 | WEBSITE
Blue Ribbon Farm Dairy’s salted caramel sundae, loaded with hot fudge and toasted pecans, is one of the best ice cream treats in the region. It holds up perfectly even as it softens in the summer heat, so this creamy masterpiece of sweet-salty goodness works well for a leisurely dessert on their outdoor patio. But you shouldn’t overlook their classic flavors like the phenomenal mint chocolate chip, a cool blend of rich ice cream, dark chocolate chunks, and that nostalgic green hue.
If you’re feeling indulgent, just order both and ask the cheerful staff for extra napkins.