Two important facts: 1. This is a CASH ONLY restaurant! Absolutely no credit or debit cards accepted. 2. No alcohol is served; however, bringing your own wine is welcomed. After reading several glowing reviews of Moonlight Café on Yelp, my husband and I were very excited to visit this hidden gem. Unfortunately, we did not experience anything close to what we read. Moonlight Café is a very small, noisy restaurant. A tile floor and a mock tin ceiling amplify every voice and clattering dish. There is no barrier between the dining area and the kitchen. I'm not saying this is good or bad, it is just a fact that you should know. This is definitely not a first-date restaurant. There is no chance at having any sort of quiet, intimate conversation. There is no hostess stand. You need to aggressively flag down a waitress who will add your name to the list. Also, make sure you name is written down. We witnessed a party of 4 who was told to "wait right here for a minute" get passed over several times until they questioned why. Reservations are not accepted, unless it is for an off-peak time, so be prepared to wait outside. There is nowhere inside to wait and staying in your car or wondering too far from the door is not a good idea. When a table becomes available, a waitress comes out and announces a name in a mild speaking voice. The menu was frighteningly large for such a small restaurant. I expected to see a much smaller, more specialized menu. Not a legal-size, laminated front and back page. Obviously, the menu is set and only a handful of specials will provide any future variety. Our table was both good and bad. We were right beside the counter which afforded us a great view of the kitchen but my husband had to contend with guests squeezing in behind him to get to the cash register. I suggested moving the table towards me, but that was not possible due to the men's room door swinging out. For an appetizer, I had the fried calamari. It was ok, but nothing special. The calamari itself was well cooked and not at all rubbery. The breading was light and crisp, but flavorless. I was able to improve it somewhat with the two thin slices of lemon that came with it and some black pepper. For a $9 appetizer, a quarter of a lemon is not too much to ask. The sauce was obviously something pre-made and was just ok. The bread was a basic white Italian roll served hot with butter - nice. The salad was exactly what I like. Mixed dark greens, a few carrot shreds, a quartered cherry tomato and a little cucumber. I took a chance and ordered the shrimp "risotto". It should be called stew or maybe soup; it is not risotto. The liquid did have a good flavor, but there was way too much going on. First, problem was the rice. It was not a short grain Arborio or anything remotely resembling what should be used for risotto. I'm about 95% sure, I saw my dish being made and the chef grabbed a handful of what looked like a long-grain rice or pasta. There was an adequate amount of shrimp, but they were overcooked. The distractions came in large chunks of raw tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms. The peas were the least distracting, but still inappropriate. A garnish of scallions and parsley added even more distraction. A good risotto can stand on its own; it should be creamy, but not soupy like this was. My husband had the Italian wedding soup and the penne pasta with veal bolongese special. It was good, but nothing we couldn't do better ourselves at home. Two sodas, a soup, an appetizer, two dinners with tip was $75. We both agreed we could have done much better for that kind of money. The Moonlight Café has the potential to become a good restaurant. The chef really seems to enjoy cooking, but he needs to refine his technique and limit the menu. read more

One of our favorite local spots. Fresh made Italian food with love! My wife's favorite crab cakes, and I love the Afumicato add shrimp. Enjoy! You won't be disappointed. My wife's favorite crab cakes, and I love the Afumicato add shrimp. read more

Moonlight Café - Afumicato add shrimp and crab cakes are our faves. - Italian Near Me - Dover, Pennsylvania

Sat here and stared at those darned rating stars, trying to decide--just how many to give... The other commenters got the ambiance about right - don't go if you're looking for a quiet, romantic meal. Every seat (and there aren't many) was full, and the place was approaching boisterous, with plenty of activity from the kitchen, which is in full view of the seating space. Okay by me - it's kind of a fun, casual vibe, and we were forewarned by fellow Yelpers. So how was the food? Overall, pretty good. Appetizers are a bit odd - unless you want to go with calamari (which is supposedly pretty good), you're at a loss to get an Italian-themed item. The Asian app is just plain odd at a place like this. We chose the fried green beans and sadly, T.G.I.Friday's does a better job (shudder). Salads were fine (the dressings were quite good actually). I can only hope somebody at the Cafe has a critical look at that appetizer menu - it's just plain weird. I don't even want to talk about that weird cream cheese 'bruschetta' thing. Ew. Entrees were the highlight - clearly made just for us. My wife chose the lobster ravioli with the rosa sauce; I think she'd have drank the sauce with a straw had they given her one. The raviolis themselves seemed purchased, not house-made, but tasty. I chose an old standby: veal saltimbocca. It was a little better than okay - great white wine garlic sauce, although the veal was not well breaded (so it was soggy by the time it got to the table), and devoid of the sage that makes the classic proscuitto + sage that creates the 'jump in the mouth' that is the dish's namesake. Service was uneven; our server was attentive, for a while, although our request for extra rolls was near-ignored (think she forgot) until late in the meal, when two blackened briquettes were brought to the table with a dismissive "I left them in too long; hope that's okay". So much for sopping up the aforementioned rosa sauce. So, I'm still looking at those stars. I'll go with four, on the strength of the sauce, and a couple of touches that shows a chef-owner who cares. I'd like to think the missteps are anamolies, and I'm more than happy to give them a second shot - after all, there's far more Eye-talian food in these parts than Italian. Hoping next time goes better, or there's gonna be some falling stars in my update. read more

Unfortunately, my words here can only make my future at this establishment less pleasant. The place is a little small, and I'm scared that word may get out and people will flock from all over and I'll never get a table again. I was recommended by friends, and so far have been there about a dozen times. There is nothing there that I haven't loved. It seems the "big secret" is that they are the only people in York County that actually know how to use garlic. While it is a small place and it is ALWAYS packed, I've never waited more than 5 minutes for a table. The food is priced low for the exquisite quality, and you're never waiting around long for your meal or a drink. I even get coffee to go and that's terrific! I just heard about this website yesterday. Yes, I live under a rock. However, I needed to let people know about this place and give them the good press. read more

Having actually been to italy, this place is great and about as close to authentic Italian as I've had state side. They do have some regular American style dishes as well. But I would recommend ordering off there spirals menu. You won't be disappointed. As stated else where, it's CASH ONLY and BYOB/wine. read more

Italian restaurant for a gluten free gal is almost always a no-no. Not the case at Moonlight Cafe! You can add gf pasta to any dish!! I was over the 'moon' !!!!!! We were greeted at the door by the lovely Rosalyn, who's taken over the place with husband and chef- Marc. Stellar food, great service, adorable ambiance. Cozy and delightful. We will be coming back every time we come home to York! By on and cash only! read more

Moonlight Café - Italian Near Me - Dover, Pennsylvania

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There is simply nothing I can say except Moonlight Cafe is simply the BEST! The restaurant itself is small and sometimes parking is a pain, oh and they only except cash. That one threw me the first time I visited. Had to quickly run down to an ATM to get cash. Other than that it is simply the best Italian food around authentically prepared by a true Italian working his magic in the smallest kitchen I've seen. Everything is prepared in a kitchen which is pretty much viewable from any table and to watch him work is amazing. Go try this place. You won't be disappointed. read more

Hidden gem! This is our go to date night place and take out! We live 30 minutes away and will always make the drive down to this little place because of how amazing the food and hospitality always is! Always recommend to everyone. read more

I have been coming to Moonlight Cafe for the last 3 years. Selfishly I never wrote a review before because I didn't want everyone else to know about my secret spot! Now that I'm moving out of the area I figured I would finally share. It was by far my favorite restaurant in the york area. We went to several nice dinners in both Harrisburg and Lancaster, but none of them lived up to the food we had at Moonlight. Moonlight cafe has a great atmosphere. It is not a swanky 5 star restaurant nor is it a trendy gastropub. It is a laid back, local, casual place that fits the area well. There is a small area to wait for a table when you first walk in. The place is small and fills very quickly. If you don't hit it right you could wait a while for a table. We've had best luck either going early or closer to closing time. It is a BYOB, which adds to the local/personal feel. I don't believe there is a corking fee which is also nice. It is cash only so hit the ATM before you go. The main reason for the 5 stars is the food. The best food we had eating out in York. I don't believe we ever got appetizers, but if we did they were average. The entrees are incredible. I am a big fan of the stuffed flounder, as well as anything in the vodka rose sauce. A meatball on the side is always a good addition to any meal. The Menu is large and they are willing to make combinations or adjust your order. All entrees come with a warm roll and a house salad with a great balsamic dressing. Portions are large and we always left full after a bottle of wine, salad, and entree. Desserts are very good I typically get a canoli to go home with as I am usually to full to eat it then. Possibly the best part is that the owner of the restaurant is always there working. Every time we have gone he has personally come and said hello and asked us how our meal was. As the place is dying down you will see him grab a table and possible have the same meal you just ate. I think its a good sign if the owner/chef is eating the same thing you are. read more

Oh my gawd. This place sits right on 74, is just a few miles from York City, and serves up excellent panini's, italian food, and cappuccinos. The owner/chef is passionate about what he does. Don't miss! read more

I have been coming to this place for years, I actually was very very close with the orginal owners. I remember them renovating the place! This place is fine/causal dining. Suits or jeans are totally acceptable. The cuisine- absolutely authentic, everything/knowledge passed on to the current chef by the previous owner(years of teaching the young man). I am so glad that despite the change of ownership the quality and expertise standards are being maintained, if not, constantly growing. The moonlight cheese steak, fried greenbeans, the tomato sauces, pastas, coffee/espresso drinks- Oh My!!!! Its my go-to spot whenever I'm in town, now living in dc. Keep it up guys!!!!! We love it! read more

Very, very nice surprise on the outskirts of Dover. It's easy to miss and it's tiny, 10 tables. Could be a tough seat around the dinner crunch. Quality food. We had the Cigar Rolls as an appetizer, an inspired creation of feta and provolone inside a rolled-up tortilla. I ordered the Chicken Amaretto, a special, and it was delicious, almost peanut-buttery in taste with plenty of pasta and veggies. I took half of it home, as did my wife with the vegetarian panini. Outstanding portions. Appealing menu, upbeat atmosphere. Definitely worth a stop. read more

Tiny, cute, and serving up yummy food! We had 2 side salads, one French Onion cup, a veggie Panini and a steak Panini. Be aware half the Paninis had to come home because they were sub sized. Definitely....will go back. read more

Best authentic Italian food in the area. The usual Italian fare with a Sicilian twist. Anything from chicken parm with a side of pasta and garlic bread, to some of the signature dishes on the menu. The staff is very friendly, patient and attentive to the customers' needs; more than willing to explain every dish on the menu and specials off the menu. A great place to hang out with friends and have a great dinner. Leave room for an espresso coffee or cappuccino and dessert. Bring a bottle of your favorite vino. read more

Friday night super busy and food still came out at a reasonable time and was super good and hot.

Moonlight cafe, is just right for us. We moved to the area about a year ago and we just found this place. Perfect family-style Italian. Until now, every Italian place I we went to around here was either pizza shop or lousy. Moonlight cafe, was authentic Italian with a really Italian chef. My husband and I loved the food - good, honest meals. And we loved the price, the espresso, and the friendly staff. I had a red pepper, mushroom, chicken pasta dish it had a great flavor and a good portion size. This place is definitely on our list and when our family comes to visit, its our first choice. read more

The Moonlight Panini is our favorite! We go here at least once a month. The service is great snd the food is delicious!

This is probably our favorite restaurant in the area. We moved to the Harrisburg region a few months ago and love hitting up the local joints. We were recommended this place and showed up around 7 p.m. on a Tuesday evening. The place was still quite busy, but we were able to be served quickly. The wait was slightly slow, which was understandable. It was a packed house and we did not have a reservation. The food was SO worth the wait. I had a simple penne vodka (I forget what my fiance had) but we both LOVED the meals. The portion size is generous so we were able to enjoy our leftovers the next day. I was so full I didn't get dessert, but I plan to try some next time. The prices are very affordable as well. read more

I love this restaurant. It definitely need some upgrades, as the plates are Always chipped and I am always disappointed that an Italian restaurant serves grocery store bread... But the entrees always make it worth it! What it lacks in atmosphere it makes up in flavor read more

Moonlight Café - Scallop Diablo - Italian Near Me - Dover, Pennsylvania

This was my first time dining here after my Italian mainstay Bel Paese closed. Small & informal, the food is top shelf! The dining room is tiny & separated from the open kitchen by only a granite counter, so you watch as all of the food is prepared. Daily specials are on the board, like many places it's BYOB & all of the dishes looked delicious! I had a creamy & savory Chicken Afumicato that I won't soon forget. The portions are generous, so I enjoyed it again for lunch :) I can't wait to return! read more

So, I like Italian food, but, it is not in my top five favorite types of food. Which brings me to Moonlight Cafe. I have had the BEST food I've EVER had out at a restaurant at Moonlight Cafe. I have passed this place hundreds of times and would not have given it a second glance if a friend wouldn't have suggested it. I love sitting at the two tables by the entrance to the back room and watching the chef at work... I felt like I was in a Food Network show. I don't rate a 5 too often so believe me when I do... it is special. read more

A hidden gem !! If you are looking for a healthy meal , or original recipe comfort food this is a must !! From the cozy ambiance to the amazing food this BYOB restaurant is my go too!! read more

Moonlight Café - A hidden gem. If you are in the mood food a healthy meal , or just some original recipe comfort food this place is your go too.. A++++ - Italian Near Me - Dover, Pennsylvania

Better than most restaurants in PA. Normally I have to go to MD to get decent Italian but this place was worth the wait. Restaurant is small and noisy and when I arrived there were quite a few people waiting for tables. read more

It would have been a 5 but soggy fries are not okay, take a toothpick and poke holes in the box so fries can breath

One of those places that pays attention to details. The presentation is outstanding and quality is awesome. Marco does an amazing job on the food he serves. If you haven't been there yet, your missing one of the best places in York area. Highly recommended read more

Always been a great go to place for good Italian. Ownership changed and it just isn't the same. Food isn't as good and the service is lacking but it is not horrible. read more

Tucked away btw. two car lots on Rt. 74 sits the counties best Italian cafe. The food is freshly made and incredibly delicious and the service is excellent!! What more can you say? We've never been disappointed and it has become our favorite for Italian food. The steak paninis are the best this side of Philly! Try it and I'd be surprised if you didn't come back. read more

Moonlight Café - The culinary magicians at the Moonlight Cafe on Dover - Italian Near Me - Dover, Pennsylvania

Hidden gem. Great Italian food with gluten free pasta available. BYOB. Tables are close, but it gives a homey friendly atmosphere. Prompt service, will definitely be back. read more

Always a great choice for great food in Dover. Be prepared to wait for a table on Friday and Saturday. Prices vary quite a bit, so there's something for everyone. read more

Food is phenomenal! Staff was courteous and professional. Own was kind and interactive when possible. I have had several meals here. Mostly seafood and desserts but all of it was hand made fresh in front of you. Excellent! read more

Best local homemade Italian spot around. Only a few miles from Olive Garden, if you want real Italian food make the drive.

We have lived in the area for 3 years and have been told amazing things and we were excited to try it. I ordered 2 dishes for lunch and a French onion soup. I did not order drinks- and I was pretty shocked at the price. Food was decent- not spectacular but for $50 for 2 meals I expected a lot more. I was not unsatisfied but was certainly expecting more for the price. I would think twice before returning especially for the price. read more

Very pleasant first visit. Some say it's tiny, I found it cozy. Some say it's loud, I found it vibrant. Server was efficient and kind, food was sincere without being pretentious. Reasonably priced... I'll definitely return and recommend. My only suggestion , and it's a somewhat minor concern: I'd like to see them get rid of plastic and paper and invest in washable, reusable ramekins and napkins. It probably doesn't cost more after an initial investment, puts less waste in the landfills, and would bring a nice polish to this hidden gem of a restaurant. read more

Little gem of an Italian restaurant in Dover PA. They have authentic Italian cousine, as well as great Panini sandwiches served with shoe string fries if you like. Always busy, so make reservations. Also call in for take out. And it's BYOB too. read more

Terrible we got take out the chicken parmigiana have no breadcrumbs on it .. it was a plain piece of chicken with cheese on it , the vegetable panini was not cooked and the break wasn't a panini we tried this place driving thru never will we go back . read more

You simply have to experience this gem where exceptional cuisine is complemented by unequivocally matches attention from the chef/owner Marco and his handpicked staff ! read more

Delicious, fresh Italian food. This restaurant has limited seating. It would be great to see them add on or move to a bigger location. It can feel pretty cramped sometimes. You are getting what you pay for. The skill of the chef is exceptional. The staff is always friendly. You're welcome to bring a bottle of your favorite wine to complete your meal. read more

Loved this little gem! It's like an ordinary oyster with a beautiful pearl inside. We went on Thursday evening and wasn't crowded but reservations are a good idea. It's pretty small and is BYOB. The food is amazing. I had the cioppino or seafood over pasta. It was loaded with mussels, clams, shrimp, chunks of fish and scallops. The broth was a lovely red sauce and you could taste the wine wonderful flavors of the sea from all that beautiful seafood. Would have loved to try dessert but the portion was large and I left no room. I will go again and again! read more

This place is legit. I eat at lots of places for either personal or entertaining customers and I'm very happy to say that some of the best Italian I've had in PA is here in Dover. Easily the best Italian in central PA. You cant gl wrong with their afumicado. In fact there isn't anything I've had here that wasnt good. If you haven't been, try it. I dont think you'll be disappointed. read more

This place is a hidden gem. The dining room is really tiny, but who cares? The fresh pasta and home-made sauces are just excellent and the portions are surprisingly large. I've had the Lemon Pepper Shrimp Fettuccine, Shrimp Scampi, and Zuppa de Pesce. Everything was at least as good as anything I've had for twice the price in Little Italy in Baltimore. Honestly, Moonlight's stuff was probably better. Go there. Tonight. Seriously. read more