For the last seven years, I’ve lived in Dauphin County, and I’ve regularly found myself eating at the many different restaurants in Hershey, PA.
During that time, I’ve eaten at some fantastic spots, so I figured I’d put together this list featuring a few of my places to eat in Hershey.
So, whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite or a visitor looking for somewhere to eat between attractions, here are a few great spots to check out.
Troegs Independent Brewing
When I’m trying to figure out where to eat in Hershey, PA, there’s nowhere that I end up more frequently than Troegs Independent Brewing.
Troegs’ brewery is located less than a mile northwest of Hersheypark and is one of the largest and best breweries in PA. However, they aren’t just a great brewery; they also make some pretty phenomenal food.
Interestingly, Troegs has what they call a Snack Bar, where you have to go up and place your order and then return to get your prepared food. However, this probably will be the only snack bar you’ll ever visit that has dishes like duck confit, charcuterie, oysters, and rack of lamb.
Of course, for those that aren’t into fancy food, Troegs features absolutely fantastic hop fries, braised brisket, and a pretzel that’s bigger than your head.
It’s also worth noting that Troegs is one of the most kid-friendly places to eat in Hershey.
Fenicci’s
Located in downtown Hershey, Fenicci’s has been a staple of the Hershey dining scene since 1935.
Fenicci’s features great Italian food and uses decades-old sauce recipes. They were even the first restaurant in town to serve pizza back in 1947. However, while Fenicci’s celebrates their past, they definitely don’t rely on it.
Popular dishes that I’ve enjoyed include their meatballs, lasagna, and the upside-down pizza, but everything I’ve seen come from the kitchen looks delicious.
If you want to live dangerously, try their ghost pepper wings made from ghost peppers grown in the owner’s garden. While they are tear-inducing spicy, the flavor is out of this world.
Rotunda Brew Pub
Rotunda Brew Pub has one of their two locations in Hershey (Their second is in nearby Annville). Rotunda offers some incredible beers, especially if you love stouts and sour beers, but also offers some great food.
Rotunda features a great menu that combines its excellent burgers with a wide range of other food from traditional bar foods to more fine dining options. All of this is in an atmosphere that’s great whether you are looking to simply have a drink or two or for a date night.
Smoked Bar and Grill
If you want BBQ in Hershey, look no further than Smoked Bar and Grill. While they offer other entrees like salads, tacos, and burgers, the real star of their menu is their BBQ sandwiches.
Smoked features seven different BBQ sandwiches ranging from traditional to rather unique (Pickled brisket, anyone?).
Smoked also features one of the best beer lists in Hershey, so this is a great spot to check out if you want a beer, but don’t want to venture to a brewery.
The Chocolate Avenue Grill
If you’re looking for a delicious, but unpretentious meal, the Chocolate Avenue Grill is a great choice.
The Chocolate Avenue Grill offers a broad menu that features everything from chicken wraps to lobster. During my visit here, my wife and I ordered a burger and a Reuben, both of which were incredibly delicious.
Make sure to save some room for dessert, as the Chocolate Avenue Grill has some fantastic options.
Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant
Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant is the second brewery in Hershey and is located in downtown Hershey. To be perfectly honest, neither their beers nor their food is as good as what you’ll find at Troegs. However, if you’re looking for another brewery to visit, Iron Hill is a solid choice.
My favorite aspect of Iron Hill is their great Happy Hour, which runs from 4-6pm Monday-Friday. During Happy Hour, they offer some great discounts on appetizers and beers. I especially love the soft pretzel sticks, fried Brussel sprouts, and the nachos.
Of course, they also have a full menu that’s available throughout the day for those looking for a bit more food.
Duck Donuts
If you’ve ever traveled to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, you’re probably familiar with Duck Donuts. However, since this company is based in the Harrisburg area, I figured I could get away with including this local chain on the list.
If you’ve never had Duck Donuts, they are made to order with a variety of toppings and flavorings. Without a doubt, their warm donuts are a fantastic treat whether you are eating them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.
Do you have a favorite restaurant in Hershey, PA that didn’t make my list? Let me know in the comments below.
Looking for more things to do near Hershey? Check out Indian Echo Caverns, The Hershey Story, the Spa at the Hotel Hershey, and the Antique Automobile Club of America Museum.
You can also check out the best breweries in the Harrisburg and Hershey area.
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Can’t believe you left out the Hershey Pantry!
I’ve never eaten there. Once I get a chance, if I think it’s good, I’ll add it to the list.
My thoughts too
The Hershey Pantry eggs benedict is outstanding! I can’t believe either that you didn’t include this great restaurant in this list. Many people love this place. It is always full.,
It’s simply a matter of including places that I’ve personally eaten at and enjoyed. The popularity of a spot didn’t really factor in. I’ve heard good things about the Hershey Pantry, but until I have a chance to eat there myself, I can’t include it on the list.
What is the fat wrap or burrito and where do I get one?
The photo at the top of the article is from Troegs Brewery.
Soda Jerk, Devon Seafood, Hershey Pantry…
What if Cafe
For good basic food we like Penn Hotel. Their crab cakes are great and their pepper soup is wonderful.
Duke’s has great food at good prices. They still serve a fajita on a sizzling plate.
The Parkside!!!
Devon Seafood Grill is amazing! Great atmosphere, seasonal food and the fish is flown in I believe weekly. Must try!
Cocoa Diner
The Hershey Pantry. The Mill. Parkside.
Why all the ‘wanna be cool’ spots and not an actual great spot like Park Side? Definitely more real and consistent than any of the ones mentioned.
Just my opinion from my visits to places around town. I also haven’t eaten everywhere, so I may add to this list in the future.
Hi! I know it’s just slightly over the Hershey border on 422, but Taste of Sicily is definitely worth checking out! Their food tastes like your family’s own. As far as atmosphere, you feel like you’re visiting with relatives. It’s a great little place.
Sorrentos for great homemade pastas. Delicious!
Piazza sorento
And yes it is my must stop
Yup! I go every time I’m in town.
Soda Jerk..great food and LOTS of it. 50’s Diner style.. in Wolmelsdorf,not far from Hershey Hospital.
Khana Indian Bistro on Fishburn has fantastic food!
I would add au bon lieu, the amazing French creperie next to Philip Arthur’s (amazing pizza there too btw). Not only are their crepes amazing (both sweet and savory) but during the pandemic they were offering free meals to whomever who was struggling financially.
It is obvious you did not grow up in the Hershey area. None of the places you mentioned are where my family or extended family eat. All you are interested in is if it has beer or a brewery. My family has been there for generations, and we know where to go for good eats!
You’re right, I didn’t grow up there. Still places that I personally enjoy eating at and are good. Plenty of other good restaurants in town (and yes, breweries are a HUGE draw for visitors, so it’s only logical to include several on the list).
We love Dafnos!
What about The Cocoa Diner! Great down home cooking! Breakfast all day long. And fabulous dessert!!! Awesome!!!
Piazza Sorrento is wonderful! Added bonus they offer an extensive gluten-free menu.