22 Best Restaurants in Altoona, PA

I've been living in Altoona for quite some time now, and one thing I can confidently say is that this city has a fantastic food scene.

From mouth-watering Italian dishes to scrumptious Asian cuisine, there's something for everyone.

Let me take you on a culinary journey through some of the best eateries Altoona has to offer.

I promise, your taste buds will thank you!

33 on Mac

I recently took the chance to visit 33 on Mac after seeing it all over social media.

I must say, ut was completely worth it!

Right from the start, their service was top-notch and prices were quite reasonable.

I had the shrimp boil, taco, and just regular Mac.

All of them were simply delicious, and the portions were huge!

I even had to take some of it back home.

My friends and I also ordered some Pretzel bites, which didn't disappoint either.

I agree with other reviews that parking can be a bit of a challenge, but that's just a minor hiccup in what was an overall fantastic dining experience.

The Mac bowls are served hot, made fresh, and prepared quickly upon ordering.

It's so refreshing to see a tasty and creative upgrade to our favorite comfort food.

Jaidee Thai Restaurant

As someone who lives in the area, I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting places to eat.

Recently, I decided to give Jaidee Thai Restaurant a go, and I was more than pleasantly surprised!

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warmth and friendliness by the staff.

They were more than happy to answer all of my questions about the menu.

I started with a refreshing Thai iced tea, which was the perfect way to whet my appetite.

When the food arrived, I was instantly impressed by the vibrant colors and aromas.

The pad thai noodles with crispy duck were visually stunning and tasted even better than they looked.

The flavors were well-balanced, and the duck was cooked to perfection.

Besides the pad thai, I also tried their Mango Salad, Mango Curry, and Pineapple Fried Rice.

Each dish was packed with unique flavors and left my taste buds wanting more.

The atmosphere at Jaidee Thai Restaurant was cozy and inviting, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family.

29th St Pizza Subs & More

I recently decided to try out 29th St Pizza Subs & More and I must say, it was an amazing experience.

I had been hearing great things about their Altoona Sicilian pizza and decided to give it a try.

The pizza truly lived up to the hype - it was delicious!

My grandfather joined me and he ordered a steak hoagie, which he said was scrumptious.

The food and service at 29th St Pizza Subs & More are top-notch, and the owner and staff truly made me feel welcomed.

The Athenian Cafe

The Athenian Cafe has always been one of my go-to spots when I crave authentic Mediterranean cuisine.

Their gyros are simply amazing, especially the lamb one, and it never disappoints.

They come fully loaded with all the fixings and have a great flavor on warm, soft gyro bread.

From the first bite to the last, it's always a satisfying meal.

One thing that I appreciate about this place is their efficient service, even during the busy lunch hours.

Despite the slightly dated decor, the place is clean and inviting.

It's a refreshing alternative to the numerous pizza and sub shops around town.

Tom & Joe's Restaurant

Growing up in this neighborhood, Tom & Joe's Restaurant has always been a go-to spot for my family and me.

This family-owned diner has been serving the community for generations, and there's just something special about the vintage atmosphere and homestyle breakfast and lunch options.

It's true that the place could use a little redecoration, but it's part of the charm and history that keeps me coming back.

One of the things I love about Tom & Joe's is the consistency in their food and service.

I particularly enjoy their feta omelette - it's truly amazing and worth every bite.

Their home fries are also a must-try!

The staff here is always friendly, and I appreciate seeing familiar faces every time I visit.

While it may not be everyone's first choice, especially for those who aren't local, I can't help but appreciate the role Tom & Joe's plays in our community.

It's an affordable and delicious option for a traditional breakfast and has become somewhat of a staple in our neighborhood.

If you haven't visited Tom & Joe's yet, I highly recommend giving it a try.

You might just find yourself becoming a regular, just like me.

Tim's American Cafe

The other day, I decided to try out Tim's American Cafe for lunch, and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised.

The rustic, wood-paneled interior gave the place a cozy and welcoming vibe.

I ordered the chicken tenders and curly fries, and I was quite impressed with the portion size and taste – definitely worth the price!

The only downside was the small tables and close spacing, making it hard to have a private conversation without others overhearing.

However, the food more than made up for it.

I've heard from friends that their salads are huge and delicious, too.

Knickerbocker Tavern

My friends and I love spending our evenings at Knickerbocker Tavern, a gastropub located in a century-old building in our town.

Their standard pub grub and diverse beer selection never disappoint us.

What I personally love about Knickerbocker Tavern is that it's a hipster joint that accommodates both table and bar seating.

Their extensive whiskey selection is impressive, and they also offer a variety of cocktails and beer selections.

I always make sure to check in on Untapped to explore their latest offerings.

The staff, especially the bartenders, are super knowledgeable about the liquors and are always enthusiastic about sharing their insights.

The food, too, is fantastic.

My go-to dish is the lamb meatball pasta, which is loaded with flavor and has a nice kick to it.

My friends rave about the fried Brussels sprouts and the fish and chips - they say it's the best they've ever had.

Lena's Cafe

I have been going to Lena's Cafe for years now and it's always been a pleasant experience.

Their Italian cuisine never disappoints, especially the stuffed shells and bread.

The salads are also great, especially with the house Italian dressing.

The sauce they use is amazing, with a hint of sweetness to it.

Not to mention, their meatballs are always a treat, despite some recent changes in their recipe.

Although there have been some changes to the menu and recipes, I still find myself coming back to Lena's Cafe for their unique sauce and overall enjoyable dining experience.

Jack & Georges

My friends and I frequent Jack & Georges, a cozy bar & grill located in our neighborhood.

It's our go-to spot when we're craving good food and drinks, and it never disappoints.

I honestly can't get enough of their nachos and the large chicken salad, which is so filling that I always have leftovers to take home.

The place also has a warm and medieval vibe, with lighted fireplaces that make it feel incredibly cozy.

Jack & Georges is known not only for its delicious food but also for its fantastic service.

I've seen them handle large parties and busy nights with ease, and the staff is always attentive to our needs.

One of my favorite things to order is their cheese sticks - I highly recommend them as an appetizer for anyone who visits.

Overall, Jack & Georges offers a great atmosphere, large portions, and awesome service which makes it a must-visit spot for locals like myself.

Finelli's Italian Villa

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Finelli's Italian Villa, and I must say, it's one of the best Italian restaurants I've been to.

The atmosphere is upscale and intimate, making it perfect for a date night or a special occasion with friends and family..

The menu offers a wide variety of Italian classics, and I decided to try the gnocchi while my friends ordered the spicy Cajun pasta and park encrusted chicken.

Although it took a bit longer than expected for our meals to arrive, the wait was definitely worth it.

The dishes were flavorful, and the portions were generous.

The wine cellar at Finelli's is also quite extensive, so we enjoyed some great wine to accompany our meals.

We couldn't leave without trying their homemade desserts, especially after hearing rave reviews about the tiramisu.

I opted for the white almond cake, and it was divine.

We had to box up some of our dinner just to make room for dessert, but it was worth it!

Overall, I highly recommend Finelli's Italian Villa for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious Italian meal in a charming and elegant setting.

I know I'll be returning for more of their savory dishes and heavenly desserts!

La Fiesta Mexican Bar & Grill

I recently stopped by La Fiesta Mexican Bar & Grill for a dinner with some friends.

The atmosphere was quite lovely and the architecture well-done.

We were pleasantly surprised by the reasonable prices, and even more so by the extensive menu options.

What immediately caught my attention was the selection of vegetarian dishes, which were absolutely delicious.

Moreover, the portions were plentiful, and the food was savory.

I was particularly impressed by the chile relleno, and I would definitely order it again on my next visit.

To top it off, the margaritas were amazing, especially during Happy Hour.

Overall, La Fiesta Mexican Bar & Grill is a great spot for a casual dinner with friends or family.

Greenwood Steakhouse

Greenwood Steakhouse has become my go-to place for a delicious and satisfying meal.

One of my favorite dishes to order is their country fried steak with home fries - it's simply amazing!

I always tell my friends and family that this place is a hidden gem and once they go, they'll definitely want to come back.

You can check out their menu here.

The prices at Greenwood Steakhouse are quite reasonable, and the portion sizes are generous.

I love the fact that they offer great customer service, which is a big plus for me.

Texas Hot Dogs

One of my favorite go-to spots for a quick and tasty meal has always been Texas Hot Dogs.

This American restaurant has remained consistent in quality and taste over the years.

I love grabbing a hot dog with their signature minced-beef sauce, and their sides like fries, fried mushrooms, and cheese balls never disappoint.

The prices at Texas Hot Dogs are quite affordable, and the employees are always efficient and friendly.

If you don't feel like eating inside, there are a few picnic tables under a covered patio where you can enjoy your meal outdoors.

Although I've had a mixed experience with their food temperature sometimes, I still keep coming back for their delicious hot dogs and Texas-style mac and cheese with chili.

One thing to keep in mind is that the place gets crowded during the noon rush, so it's better to plan your visit before or after that time.

Also, I'd love to see a soda machine available for free refills, but that's a minor issue given the overall great experience I've had at Texas Hot Dogs.

Plaza Azteca

The other day, I decided to try out Plaza Azteca, a Mexican restaurant in Altoona.

I was impressed by the delicious food, friendly staff, and vibrant atmosphere.

Upon entering, I found the restaurant to be brightly colored, clean, warm, and welcoming which immediately put me in a great mood.

What really caught my attention was their fresh tableside guacamole.

They literally make it right in front of you, and it's quite a fun experience to watch.

Although it's a bit pricier than some other local Mexican restaurants, the quality and portions definitely make up for it.

I have to agree with other reviews that their house margarita is exceptional in quality as well.

I enjoyed a meal with friends, and our waitress was very friendly and attentive.

I can confidently say that I will be returning to Plaza Azteca in the future.

If you're in the Altoona area and craving some tasty Mexican cuisine, I highly recommend giving this place a try.

Al's Tavern

Whenever I crave some delicious wings and a good beer, I head over to Al's Tavern.

This place never disappoints with its down-home vibe and extensive menu.

I absolutely love their 2 alarm wings, and I'm excited to try their 3 alarm sauce soon.

Their pizza is fantastic, too, and I can't resist their house IPA.

Although the prices might be a bit on the higher side, I've never had a bad experience at Al's.

The service is always top-notch and the food is consistently good.

I also appreciate the huge portion sizes - I never leave Al's Tavern hungry.

It's truly one of the best spots in town for a satisfying meal and great atmosphere.

Aki Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar

One of my go-to spots for a delicious meal in Pennsylvania is none other than Aki Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar.

This restaurant offers an incredible dining experience with its delicious hibachi dishes, exceptional sushi, and dramatic tableside teppanyaki-grill dishes.

The modern decor and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect place to catch up with friends or enjoy a special dinner date.

I have been to Aki several times, and each visit has been just as amazing as the last.

The hibachi can get a bit noisy, but that's all part of the fun.

When dining with a group of three, I usually order one hibachi dish and sushi for two – it's the perfect way to sample both the grilled and raw delicacies.

My favorite part is that the restaurant is BYOB, so you can bring your favorite wine or sake to pair with your meal.

If you haven't tried Aki yet, I highly recommend giving their hibachi and sushi dishes a try – you won't be disappointed!

Villa Capri

As someone who lives in the area, I can confidently say that Villa Capri is a hidden gem in our town.

From the outside, you might not expect much, but once you step inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere will instantly make you feel at home.

I've been to Villa Capri several times, and each visit has been a delightful experience.

The staff is always friendly and attentive, going out of their way to make sure you have a great dining experience.

The menu at Villa Capri offers a wide variety of classic Italian dishes to choose from.

On one occasion, my friends and I shared a delicious bruschetta appetizer before diving into the main course.

I ordered the lasagna in vodka sauce, and it was absolutely heavenly!

The portions are generous, so you'll definitely have leftovers to take home.

Another highlight of Villa Capri is their dessert selection.

The tiramisu is a must-try, with its perfect balance of rich and creamy flavors.

In fact, all the desserts I've tried here have been fantastic, making it difficult to choose just one!

In conclusion, if you're in the mood for a cozy and delicious Italian meal, I highly recommend giving Villa Capri a try.

You won't be disappointed!

Marzoni's

Marzoni's has become a regular spot for me and my friends to hang out and grab some delicious food.

The atmosphere is comfortable and inviting, with a golf course and outdoor seating options available.

One of my favorite things to order at Marzoni's is the brick-oven pizza.

Their Hawaiian pizza is always a hit!

I also really appreciate their wide selection of house lagers and ales, even though I don't drink myself.

If you have a sweet tooth, you should definitely try their lemon cream cake for dessert.

And if you're a fan of their beer, you can even purchase 6-packs, 22-oz bottles, or growlers to take home and enjoy later.

Overall, Marzoni's is a place I'll continue to frequent with friends and colleagues.

There's always room for improvement, but the unique ambiance and food offerings keep me coming back.

McGarvey's Bar and Grill

One of my go-to spots in town is McGarvey's Bar and Grill.

I've been there a few times now, and I must say, the food is consistently delicious.

Last time I visited in April, I tried their mussels sautéed with blue bay, and it was incredibly fresh and tasty.

I also had the swordfish and a medium-rare ribeye, both of which were cooked to perfection and generously portioned.

Aside from the food, I love the atmosphere at McGarvey's.

It's intimate enough to feel like you're mingling with the stars and offers a great lineup of entertainment.

Little Tokyo

One of my favorite spots to grab a bite is Little Tokyo.

This restaurant offers a variety of Asian cuisines, but they truly excel in Japanese dishes.

I often find myself ordering their Kiss of Fire rolls, which are simply amazing.

Whenever I have visitors from out of town, I make sure to bring them to Little Tokyo for lunch or dinner.

The pho is another favorite of mine, and the prices are quite reasonable.

I recently discovered their mango-flavored boba, and it's the perfect sweet treat to end a meal.

The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great place for both a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner.

I love supporting local businesses, and Little Tokyo is definitely one that I am proud to recommend.

Remember to check out their daily specials, as they often feature creative dishes that are not on the regular menu.

Overall, it's a fantastic dining option in our area.

Tavern 27

Located at Park Hills Golf Course, this American restaurant offers a beautiful view of the well-maintained golf course which makes the dining experience all the more enjoyable.

Last Easter, I had the opportunity to take my family to Tavern 27 for a special brunch.

We were seated in the main dining area adorned with elegant tablecloths and centerpieces, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance.

One of the highlights of the menu is their amazing drunken mushrooms, which has become a personal favorite of mine.

On special occasions, they even have live music and fun activities, like the time they had an Easter Bunny visit during our brunch.

Overall, I highly recommend Tavern 27 to anyone looking for a great dining experience with a fantastic view and friendly service.

Allegro Restaurant

One of my favorite places to enjoy a delicious Italian meal in town is Allegro Restaurant.

Their old-world charm and full bar, combined with the authentic Italian fare made from family recipes, always leave me satisfied and coming back for more.

Last time I visited, I had the most amazing Veal dish, cooked to perfection and served with an incredible sauce that I couldn't help but mop up every last bit.

And though I didn't have space for dessert, I couldn't resist taking a slice of their lemon cake home to enjoy later.

Apart from the mouth-watering food, the ambiance of Allegro is truly delightful.

It's not too loud, which allows for a relaxed and enjoyable dinner experience.

I can't recommend this gem enough to fellow foodies and Italian cuisine lovers.