I picked this spot simply because this app told me that Burger Yum had the best burgers in the…read morecity. I had planned on coming into town today for an event in Coronet Park. I'm so glad I did! A 15 minute bike ride, and a 40 minute bus ride got me there.. The young guys that were behind the counter complemented me on My tattoos, and made me feel extremely welcome. I knew exactly what I wanted, despite everything on the menu looking amazing. By the way, I will be back for the hot chicken. But I digress... I got a classic, and added cheese and bacon. I also ordered bacon cheese fries. The atmosphere of the place was so inviting and quaint I knew I had chosen the right place even before my food came. I hadn't eaten since breakfast so I was wildly ready for this meal. But nothing prepared me for what I saw when they called my name when my order was ready... I stuck my fork into the fries first, golden brown and smothered in bacon and cheese. The second my fork broke the surface, clouds of steam rose off, as they were piping hot. The burger, nestled in a half rap of chef's paper, screamed at me the dive into, which I did immediately. A few minutes and a few pictures in, I questioned whether I could finish everything but as you can see from the final photograph it was really never in question. However long I have to wait to come back to this establishment it'll be too long. Go there!

Never disappoints, friendly staff and delicious food. Best…read moresmash burgers in the area. Can't go wrong with burger yum!

It's been 12 years since I last went to the Jackson House, and finally getting back there felt like…read morestepping into a completely different life. New me, new experience. like not a single cell from back then made the trip with me. We pull up, deal with Harrisburg parking (a whole separate scam I won't get into today), and walk into this little hole-in-the-wall lunch spot that closes at 2. That alone explains why it's been over a decade. But the second you step inside, it hits you this place has an aura. Straight New York-Philly energy. Metro signs everywhere, burger memorabilia, cheesesteak philosophy on the walls, Italian pride, city pride, just buku love, buku vibes. You order in a separate little room that feels like a classic bodega. Glass cooler with lunch meats, tiny soda setup, 50-cent refills, vanilla and cherry add-ons if you're feeling fancy. Cash only. No exceptions. We actually had to leave and hit an ATM because my roommate forgot. That's the kind of place this is. Feels like there's no internet in there. Like they might still be running a ham radio in the back. The guys working there? Straight 1970s New York swagger. You can tell this place has not changed since the day it opened, and that's exactly the point. And the wait,yeah, you're waiting. 20 minutes easy. But that's part of it. That's Staves of all the instant gratification and doom scrolling. It sets you back to a forgotten time. Then the burger comes out. This ain't no smash burger. This ain't no little quarter-pound situation. This is a big, meaty, juicy, chewy, greasy, gooey pound of flesh. And yeah, keep all of that. I'm staring at it for 30 seconds, salivating, practically full just looking at it. I finally put the bun on and go at it jerking my head around like a dog playing tug of war (making the most carnivorous, bestial sounds) I got the Jackson burger, lettuce, tomato, J-sauce. I need my J-sauce. And it hits and for a brief moment there is no worry in the world. This isn't a place you go every week unless you're trying to test your mortality. But when you go, you go all the way: 22-ounce Coca-Cola, burger, fries. No half measures. And the crowd? Office guys in suits on their lunch break. Capitol crowd. That's the vibe. I'm never in that world, so stepping into it felt like being dropped into a different city entirely--honestly felt like a Manhattan Lunch Break. The burger itself? Timeless. Not chasing trends, not trying to be Shake Shack, not Five Guys. This is some old-school, 1950s, Back to the Future-type energy. I half expected Marty McFly and Doc to walk in, get em one. Only surprise? No shakes. Feels like they should have shakes. They don't do fries with that shake. Now the one knock: the fries. Flavor? Perfection, hand cut boardwalk style fries. But I got a lot of little end pieces, now that's straight up disrespectful to me, how you gonna treat me like that?. I don't want to dig through little nubs to find actual fries. That's where I gotta be honest, dock a point. Overall though? Food: elite Experience: unmatched Vibe: 5/5 Conclusion - 4/5 (fix those bum-ass fries.)

We needed a quick lunch spot in Harrisburg and a local highly recommended the Jackson House. It was…read moredefinitely not what we expected. This is a small restaurant near midtown that one might just pass by without a second thought. Don't do that. While small, we were able to find a table. But plan ahead because there was a long line tha ended up out the front door. Burgers and fries were very good. No pre-pattied burgers here. Get lots of napkins too because the burgers are juicy.

High Dive is an interesting mashup. From the name and the first impression inside, it reads as a…read moredark, slightly dingy dive bar, and it fully delivers that vibe. Then you open the menu and realize there is a surprisingly large Hawaiian themed food selection. It is not really a restaurant, though. It feels like a bar first, with a better than expected food program, not the other way around. The bar service was excellent. I ordered a Sazerac, and they served it with the absinthe on the side so you can add it to taste. That is a small detail, but it shows care and attention, and it made for a great drink. Service overall was friendly and prompt. Even though it is clearly a bar, it is also calm enough during certain hours that you could do some work or have a low key meeting. I would not try that during peak drinking hours. I am not sure of the exact hours, but it seems like more of a late day or evening spot than a lunch stop. If you are in the area and want a solid cocktail and a snack, High Dive is an easy pick.

Amazing vibes, food was executed and the service was just as good. It's a very unique spot!read more

Scott was amazing and really helpful. He has a great personality! The restaurant looks very nice…read moreand the food was delicious! 10/10 would recommend!

Celebrated a birthday at The Millworks last week with the family and was reminded how lucky we are…read moreto have this gem in Harrisburg! The food was incredible, the server was fun and the ability to visit and purchase from the artists after our celebration was the icing on the cake. My kiddos were able to reconnect with Mr. McCloskey, a former teacher and I had the chance to talk with Reina. What incredible talent we have in Harrisburg! If you are looking for a great dining spot mixed with the creative arts, this is your place!

I needed my car navigation to find Big Rays, but it was definitely worth finding…read more I've been looking for local restaurants that specialize in all-beef hot dogs. I believe I found it at Big Ray's. My two dogs were just as yummy as I expected, but I could only eat one hot dog because I had to get the fresh-cut, homemade French fries. Very homey feel with friendly service. Al fresco dining is available when the weather is nice. The staff was very friendly, and I can attest that the food is great.

Exceptional food and service. We are fortunate to have a local burger shop this good in this area…read more When you walk in, the smell of smoked bacon hits you. When you bite into one of their burgers or chicken sandwiches, you realize how much prep and seasoning they do to the meat compared to other shops around here. Everything from the toppings, to the fries are so fresh, it is worth waiting a few extra minutes, I promise you.

4.5 Years Later: The Return Center Street Grille, Enola, PA…read moreLast time, long ago on our last visit, it was negative across the board: attitude from the hostess, long waits to order and for the food to arrive, and the BIGGEST un-crispy wings ever! We felt unwelcome and didn't enjoy our meals that night. Ok, fine, there are plenty of other restaurants in the area, no need to return. However, I may have turned my back, but I did not forget you, CSG. I remembered the good times, the trophies, awards, and accolades for your delicious sauces, and the excellent reputation that you've had all of these years. It was finally time for "The Return." Last night, a completely enjoyable meal and great service at the bar. (The dining room was very busy, and there were several seats open at the bar). It was actually our first time sitting at the bar and I believe this will now be our regular spot to eat and drink here. Got 6 Hot and 6 Creamy Garlic Parm. These wings were the perfect size for me, a little on the small to medium side, and they were cooked well. Not perfectly crispy, but close enough, and the flavor of the wings themselves were tasting fresh and delicious. I always loved their traditional hot sauce and this was my first time trying the creamy garlic Parm. The creamy texture was a little too much for me, so probably just get the regular garlic Parm next time. No issues with flavor, just a little thick and messy. (Somehow, I got that sauce on my shirt and on the back of my neck.) The Blue cheese was a great dipper for the hot sauce but I should've ordered a large cup. I also got the Cacio E Pepe Beef sandwich with fries; it was huge and awesome! I think I would order that every time I go here in the future It was so good. I'm glad that we can now place this restaurant back on our regular rotation list. See you again soon!

We started with Southwestern Chicken Rolls that have a very delicious Horseradish Ranch dipping…read moresauce. I ordered the Lemon Artichoke Chicken Sautéed sundried tomatoes and asparagus over sweet pea risotto. Topped with grilled chicken and lemon artichoke pesto. Served with a side of your choice. I had a side salad with Lite Italian dressing. The better half ordered the Center Street Meatloaf Homemade meatloaf served with loaded smashed potatoes, brussels sprouts with bacon, and finished with a Guinness gravy. Dinner came out hot and delicious. Shout out to Cynthia A our server for her over the top service and hospitality. Center St. Grille is still one of the best relaxing restaurants in the area with a very unique menu.

I was recently back at the Grateful Goat while I was out of town for work. Unfortunately this place…read morefell off a bit since the last time I visited. Some of the food didn't look or taste fresh (I.e. the beer cheese) and the homemade tots that I ordered did not taste like tater tots at all. A coworker had to send her spaghetti and meatballs back because the meatballs were burnt to a crisp. I am surprised they even served them in the first place. The service was just okay as well. I saw that they recently closed so maybe they were just going through the motions at that point.

Attended a work happy hour event here with about 50 people in the back room. It was brightly lit…read moreand spacious, with TVs all around the room on sports channels. Thank goodness! I was SUPER IMPRESSED by the staff that managed to keep up with drinks in this horde of people, all moving around the space and socializing. I wish I'd caught our server's name because he was awesome and I'd like to give him props. They served some BBQ wings, which were big, juicy and delicious, excellent fried Brussels sprouts, and these loaded tots things that were yummy too. He's definitely go back to sample more of their menu.

As someone who can't currently drink alcohol due to medication, I was hesitant to go to Lovedrafts…read morewith a few friends. I was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere and energy in the bars upper floor! it was a little difficult to hear people talk due to the music sometimes, but you kind of have to expect that going in. Drinks and food was served very quickly after ordering. I have never had barfood this good before. I had the Chuck Norris burger with fries and I still think about that burger at night sometimes. It's like a past lover that you let go of too soon. But you can always come back for the Chuck Norris burger. It was a good burger. I also liked the mocktails :)

Jb lovedrafts is a place you can grab some really yummy food, a crisp local beer, and catch some…read morelive music all at the same time! They get in all different kind of people, performers, bands, etc which allows you to feel very comfortable in the space most of the time. Very inclusive which we absolutely love to see. The service is pretty on brand for a punky hole in the wall, you get what you get and you get it well lol.

My friend and I ate there last night. Excellent. He had the 2 meat platter with 2 side dishes and…read moresaid they were excellent. I had the double Patty smash burger with bacon and it was one of the best burgers I have had. There was also some homemade pickle Chips that were delicious. We split a PB pie. I hope they do coconut pie at some point. My only critique is the burger (all sandwiches) should come with potato chips. Or fries but I am thinking they don't have a fryer there. I didn't mind the price of the burger but the sides were too expensive for me to add. I just wanted something more with that burger. If that burger had Chips would be 5 stars. Highly recommend this place. I look forward to eating there again.

This place started showing up in my social media feeds constantly. All day. Every day. Smoked meat?…read moreI'm listening. Smoked meat and homemade peanut butter pie? In the same building?! Immediate must-try status. I hatched a plan to visit on a chilly January Friday night, knowing they'd recently been selling out of items before their posted 7pm closing time. The target: 5:30pm. Risky enough to feel exciting, early enough to still secure smoked meat. A calculated move. Get Smok'd is located in a strip mall, and when I arrived, most of the front parking spots were full. Brief "oh no" moment...then I snagged a spot from someone pulling out and hustled inside. The dining room was much more spacious than it looked from outside, though many tables were already filled. I stepped up to the counter fully prepared--having studied both the menu and their social media all week in belly-growling anticipation. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with street corn and a fountain soda. Adventure Buddy went with the Lamb Gyro special, coleslaw, and a soda. Total for dinner came in around $40, which felt very reasonable for the amount of food. We timed it perfectly. About 10 minutes after we arrived, a large party of ~20 people walked in and filled a reserved table. More folks followed right behind them and suddenly the place was packed, buzzing, and running low on seats. Lamb Gyro: Fantastic. The smoke really came through on the lamb, and the tzatziki was super cucumber-forward, which Adventure Buddy loved. It was also a generous portion for the price--always appreciated. Street Corn: First off, the presentation was on point. The husk flared out like a little sunburst--very eye-catching. The cook on the corn was perfect, seasoning was just right, and the ear itself was a great size. Goldilocks corn. Coleslaw: This one missed the mark for us. The cabbage itself was fine, but the dressing was very bland and there was a lot of it--bordering on cold coleslaw soup territory. Not our thing, though it might work for some. Pulled Pork Sandwich: The pulled pork? Fabulous. Moist, juicy, perfectly smoky. I paired it with the Lawd That's Good traditional sweet sauce and ate every last bite of the meat. The roll, however, didn't live up to the pork--it felt like an odd mismatch. I skipped the bread and focused on the star of the show. Peanut Butter Pie: I...was not prepared. I did not expect a smoked meat joint to casually deliver one of the best peanut butter desserts I've had in a long time. This isn't a slice--this is a personal peanut butter pie. I'd guess 5-6 inches wide, about 1.5 inches thick, served in its own tin and piled high with whipped cream. This wasn't dessert--this was an entire second meal. At $10, it was worth every single penny, and I seriously debated ordering another. I will absolutely be back just for this pie. Overall, Get Smok'd BBQ earns a solid 5 stars from both me and Adventure Buddy. Friendly staff who checked in, meat smoked to perfection, and a peanut butter pie that completely stole the show. Good lawd! PRO TIP: If you're planning to visit later in the day, check Get Smok'd on social media first. They sell out. Early. Often. Don't waste a trip just to find locked doors and shattered BBQ dreams. This place is hot right now--and very much worth the visit if there's still smoked meat left to be had!

I've passed Watershed Pub a million times and never stopped, so when I met a friend for lunch, it…read morefinally felt like the right time to check it out. Naturally, I had already done my due diligence (read: stalked the menu for a full week) and had a game plan. At the top of my list? The deviled eggs and the Kale Caesar salad with salmon. The only problem...I absolutely did not need $40 worth of food for lunch. So I quietly spent the week putting "deviled egg energy" out into the Universe, hoping my lunch partner would suggest splitting them. Manifestation is real, people. I arrived around 12pm and found plenty of parking out back in Watershed's designated lot, which is clearly labeled--a good thing, because parking in that area looks like it could get competitive if you're not paying attention. We had made a 12:15pm reservation (Monday lunch felt safe, but why risk it?), and our table on the enclosed patio was ready when we arrived. It was the perfect setup--sunny and bright, but still warm enough to be comfortable on a chilly day. The vibe was great, and our server was even better--friendly, attentive, and consistently checking in without being overbearing. Then it was time to order. I let my lunch partner go first and waited... "Do you want to try the deviled eggs as an appetizer?" Are you kidding me?!. YES. Yes, I did! We ordered the deviled eggs ($11) to share, and I followed through with my Kale Caesar salad ($15) topped with seared salmon (+$13), officially completing my week-long menu-stalking mission. The deviled eggs came out FAST, and in my excitement, I completely forgot to take a picture--which tells you everything you need to know. Each egg was topped with a cube of candied bacon that absolutely stole the show. Sweet, savory, and just the right texture to complement the creamy filling. We made quick work of all four--excellent start to the meal! Not long after, our lunches arrived, and my salad? Gorgeous. Like, actually exciting to look at. I dug in immediately and it delivered. The mix of shaved brussels sprouts, kale, and romaine gave it great texture, the dressing was well-balanced, and the red onion didn't overpower the rest of the flavors. But my favorite part? The garlic parmesan crouton crumble. No chasing rogue croutons around the plate--just perfectly distributed crunch in every bite. Genius! The portion size was generous, too--I made it through about half before calling it and boxing the rest for dinner later. By the time we were wrapping up, the enclosed patio had filled up significantly, which tells me this is a popular lunch spot--and for good reason. The food is solid, the atmosphere is great, and the service was spot on. That said...$40 for deviled eggs, a salad and water is a bit steep for an everyday lunch. For me, this feels more like a "treat yourself," client meeting, or special occasion kind of place rather than a regular rotation spot. Would I come back? Absolutely. Would I be casually popping in every week? Probably not. But those deviled eggs? Totally worth manifesting!

Atmosphere and seating around the exterior is on point. Really nailed the interior and fixing. They…read moredid a great job with heaters outside and retracting canopy blinds to make the outdoor space work in large swaths of the year. The main challenge: the food on two orders was a real miss. The review for the Greek salad was that it was one of the worst tasting Greek salads my brother has ever had, despite the attempt at some flare with phyllo on top. My second salad was equally uninspired. We didn't bother with anything else admittedly so perhaps their salad game is just very very weak, or a bad day in the kitchen. Hard to say; but wouldn't be bothering with their food again compared to hunting around.