My recent experience at the Backyard Ale House was a blend of highs and lows, making it a solid three-star experience. Nestled in the heart of Scranton, this spot has been on my radar for a while, thanks to its promising menu and lively atmosphere. My visit, however, left me with mixed emotions. Starting with the positives, the ambiance at Backyard Ale House is definitely inviting. The place boasts a laid-back, friendly vibe that makes you want to settle in and relax. The outdoor seating area was a delightful spot and added to the overall casual, enjoyable setting. It's a place where you could imagine hanging out with friends on a warm evening. The staff, while friendly in spirit, seemed overwhelmed. Service was slower than expected, considering our visit wasn't during peak hours. While the servers were polite and apologetic about delays, the lapses in attention were noticeable. We found ourselves having to flag someone down for menu updates, additional drinks, and finally, the bill. In terms of food, the menu offerings at Backyard Ale House are extensive, which initially was very appealing. I ordered the buffalo chicken wrap, and my companion tried the BBQ pork sandwich. The buffalo chicken wrap was satisfactory, but nothing stood out about it; the flavors weren't unique or particularly savory, while the BBQ pork sandwich, although better, was slightly on the dry side and could have used more sauce or a slaw to give it some extra zip. The beer selection, as expected from the name, was impressive. Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the variety, featuring both well-known and local brews. This aspect was one of the high points of our visit, and tasting different drafts was a fun experience. Ultimately, Backyard Ale House is a bit of a mixed bag. The setting and beer menu are definite wins, but the food and service didn't quite hit the mark this time around. It could be a great spot if reliability in service and some menu tweaks were addressed. I haven't given up on Backyard Ale House yet and would consider giving it another chance, hopefully, to find improvements in the areas that were lacking. read more

This rating was hard. For atmosphere/vibe,it's definitely a 4...loved the outdoor patio and the location. However, the food was just a 3, and since I rate food over vibe, that is what I went with. Now, don't get me wrong, the food wasn't bad by any means but it was just average, nothing special. We went during their weekly wing night and I snagged a single serving of their Bacon Chipotle Ranch sauce. I really did not taste much of the bacon at all and just a hint of chipotle. ranch seemed to be the predominant flavor. Yes, I know ranch can be a strong seasoning, but I would think at least the chipotle would have made a strong showing. The sweet potato fries that I ordered for a side were good on flavor, but were very soft...not really crisped at all. The highlight of the meal were the nachos that we ordered for an appetizer: crisp chips, plenty of toppings and enough to share with 4 people. Prices were reasonable, patio was cool, beer & other drinks were cold...the food was just alright. Would I go back? Maybe to try one of the sandwiches listed, but I would steer away from the wings. read more

One of the more enjoyable locations to drink craft beer in the Wyoming Valley. A bit pricey by local standards, but not outrageous. Bartenders are friendly and quick to serve, though I've never found them to be beer experts which you expect from such an establishment. Even basic differences in beer sometimes escapes them. For instance. I asked the bartender, nice lad, if he liked Belgian triples, and he informed me he didn't like barleywines. Well, not everyone can be beer educated. The location is great in Scranton, the food is large portions and the taps are rotating constantly. The list of bottles is staggering. I'd recommend this spot for watching a sports game, meeting colleagues or just enjoying some craft beers by yourself. read more

I am from the area. Never had a problem until some hot shot bartender gave me attitude. He seemed cocky for some reason. Maybe he was having a bad day too but oh well, everyone does don't be a bartender. Acted like the boss of me(maybe he was in fact the owner of the place but I doubt it). His mentality was "i make the rules". Very rude to me after waiting in line for a beer for 10 minutes for no reason what so ever. I will most likely bring my business to a place where respect is given to both the customer and employee. Straighten out your bar staff Backyard. read more

Backyard Ale House was a great spot for a relaxed and enjoyable meal. I ordered the burger with fries, and both were done really well. The burger was juicy and flavorful, and the fries were hot and crispy. I paired it with a PB lager, which was smooth and refreshing and complemented the meal perfectly. The atmosphere was laid back and welcoming, making it an easy place to settle in and enjoy your time. The staff was friendly and attentive without being overbearing, and service was quick. Overall, it was a solid experience and definitely a place I'd return to. read more

Always one of my favorite places to go! The ambience of the place is stellar. The backyard family are all very nice , welcoming and attentive. The location? Perfect. Good go to bar for downtown Scranton! When the weather is nice, their outside patio area is fun! Truly has that "backyard" feel! Anytime we've ordered food, everyone's reaching over to pick off their plate. I would try many many menu items. Beer drinker? Craft beers? .. this is your place. read more

Was just passing by Scranton on our way from Buffalo to New Jersey and decided to stop here for a quick bite (based on online reviews). Service was FANTASTIC, food was OUTSTANDING and we were in and out in about 45 minutes. We ordered the crispy chicken sandwich and the Thai salmon sandwich. OMG and the rolls made the food even better! Fries were standard, not great but not bad either. Would definitely stop there again and/or recommend to others for sure. read more

The amount of different beers that they have alone is reason enough to stop in. I haven't tried any of their food (hence the 4 stars, will update review when I tried their food) so I can't speak about that but the service that I get from the bar is always on point. I never have to wait long for a drink and the bartenders always talk with me every time I am in there. You feel very comfortable when you are at Backyard Ale House. read more

I've been coming to Backyard for years. By far, the best place to eat, have a drink and hang out. Service is always excellent. Backyard employees go out of their way to take care of the customers. Can we talk about the food? Soooo good! Everything I've ever tried is absolutely delicious. Salmon Gyro is out of this world. The best. My friends and I have never had a bad experience there and we will keep coming back. read more

Great beer selection. I've eaten here many times and the food is always outstanding. My favorites are the beet salad, pulled pork sandwich, deep fried grilled cheese, the hummus trio, and the burgers are always tasty. Zack, Jamison and Megan are great and Phillip is super cute to boot! The Bloody Marys are excellent. read more

Incredible service, food, beer, and friendly staff. Bartender Chris and manager Zach running this place the right way. My wife and I are from Memphis, TN. Very impressed with the hospitality on the back porch. Got the Middle Eastern plate and chicken burrito. And quite a few IPAs. While watching Sunday soccer. read more

Great place to go to see a live band. Its really cool to hang on the outdoor patio. Be prepared to try a thousand beers! There are so many on tap that you literally could not try all of them. Craft beer is definitely their specialty. Menu is limited but very good. Friendly staff, good service. read more

I really like to come into this place. It's a cute place. There is great service and everyone is always very pleasant. The food is delicious and the prices are extremely reasonable. I would most certainly recommend this lovely establishment to anyone I know. It's a really enjoyable experience read more

Worst experience I've ever been to in a public bar experience.. I was descrimated at what we ordered. My best friend ordered (she is Mexican descendant) and got immediately ordered to leave the bar. WORST SERVICE IN SCRANTON DO NOT GO !!!!!!! read more

Great place - always love grabbing a beer here with friends when I'm in town. Staff is always helpful, food is fantastic, and the "backyard" portion of the bar is great in the city! Can't wait to come back! read more

Great selection of beer and knowledgeable bartenders. They did a great job renovating the old bar that was there. Looks like the only bar doing good in the downtown area. We enjoyed our time there. read more

Spectacular beer selection - found a new favorite beer from Dexter, Michigan! Highly recommend if you are passing through Scranton - great location on town square, good grub too. read more

Fantastic food. Excellent staff. And an all around great time!! The beer selection is incredible and I can't get enough of the menu. Friendly service and fast service read more

Just another corner bar tossed into downtown Scranton. Nothing original at all about this place. There are a million better places in Scranton to eat and Drink! read more