We had a date with friends at a near by restaurant at 3PM in the middle of the week. But when we arrived found it closed, didn't realize that a few places in Reading close after the lunch hour and re-open for dinner. So we stopped at the Peanut Bar which had convenient parking in the back. The place was pretty much empty, but this worked in our favor cause it was nice and quiet. Very down home atmosphere and the wait staff were very attentive and pleasant. The food was okay...........and you have a lot to choose from. In my opinion..........I would skip the pretzel pie cake and the apple crisp next time. They were good if you can't pass up dessert- but pure sugar. read more

Not fancy but dependable brew and food. Peanuts always a treat. If you're in Reading downtown area check it out.

My coworker used to work here and recommended tge place so my husband and I decided to try the place... Over all... This place was pretty good. They offered excellent service and good food. We had the steamed mussels, Buffalo wings, crab cake dinner and stuffed flounder dinner. I would recommend all of the above. Ordering the famous frozen chocolate covered pretzel pie now. And yes... I would come back. read more

Peanut Bar Restaurant - Frozen chocolate covered pretzel pie - American Near Me - Reading, Pennsylvania

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Went here for dinner on a Saturday night. I really liked the ambience. Reminded me of an old style New York City bar and grill. I ordered the cheese balls appetizer. They were good but not great. My entree was weiner schnitzel. It was a generous portion but I felt that the veal was deep fried a little too long. read more

Peanut Bar Restaurant - American Near Me - Reading, Pennsylvania

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We took our niece here to celebrate her 17th birthday - Birthdays are truly special here and the staff took our picture and gave it to us as a keepsake - But the big story here is the food - It was awesome! Interesting drinks, delicious appetizers and unique entrees - The service was friendly too and they went above and beyond --- my sister-in-law's phone was dying and one of the managers helped charge her phone so she could use it to navigate home - I live more than an hour away but I might come back for MY birthday! So glad we found this restaurant! read more

Peanut Bar Restaurant - Birthday Card! - American Near Me - Reading, Pennsylvania

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Old spot and the atmosphere is good, however the food did not lead up to the the atmosphere. Service was good.

Dined here for the "little things" that I just cant find elsewhere, Started with the unlimited peanuts, fresh brewed ice tea, fresh cooked to order platter, and finished with a wonderful triple berry pie. It was served warm and next time I am adding a scoop of ice cream. I must return soon as the triple berry pie is seasonal and baked in house. Why eat lunch anywhere else? read more

From the time we sat down to the time we got our food an hour and 40minutes went by. The restaurant was not busy at all. The food was bland and meat well over cooked and dried out. This was my first time here and I don't think I will be back. read more

I was honestly surprised by the prior reviews. The food here is excellent. The crab dip is the best I've had in years, and the crab cakes are high quality. I would also recommend the schnitzel or going during wing night. Service can be slower when full on weekends, and id recommend a reservation. read more

Peanut Bar Restaurant - Crabacado salad - American Near Me - Reading, Pennsylvania

Gross!!!!!! Service was good maybe because there was only 3 tables full. I would never recommend this place.

The food was on a scale of 1-10, its a 2. The owner walked around to many other tables, but he never once acknowledge me and my family table, how Rude!!! We sat in the middle of the tables and he never said hello or greeted us. The clams were sooooo bland and tasteless, even the butter was tasteless. I don't see why folks eat here unless your a native of Berks county and enjoy boring, bland, tasteless food. No Old bay seasoning, no flavor at all literally like it was cooked in water. I will not go back to the Nut bar again, the owner was rude, the waitress was a 5. This is Bland, Boring, Berk's county what else should anyone expect. read more

I've only been here once, but the staff was so accommodating and the food was very good. We didn't realize they were having an event and we really should have had a reservation, but the staff still squeezed us in. What a great experience! read more

Sometimes people who visit Reading only remember the Pagoda and the Peanut Bar. With a storied history dating back to Prohibition, the dark vintage space has long been a local institution. Five Guys has free peanuts, but this place has been doing it for ages. Now it is time for some vintage cocktails, a trend Reading has not experienced. It could be done very well here, because the bartenders are skilled, and it is the perfect authentic atmosphere for it. (See menu from the Bookstore Speakeasy in Bethlehem.) Peter is particularly good with the Manhattans. Their new logo wine glasses are certainly nice and only $4 if you want to buy one. Not sure if there is a happy hour. I expected the wines by the glass to be better. They do a good job with the beer selection. I used to be able to get great veg entrees here such as meatloaf and a really good homemade veggie burger (has cheese in it though). There is a new chef from a cooking show competition, so I am hoping she will consider alternative diets and add a few savory vegan dishes -- or at least some soups made with veggie broth instead of chicken. There is Taste of the Middle East, which I thought was an all-vegan appetizer, but the sauce on it has dairy yogurt, bleh. I used to love their desserts too and would sob with gratitude to see a vegan choice or two, since no one else really does this in town but Good Eatz. I will definitely change my rating if I can find more to eat. They do a good job at marking gluten-free entrees. If the Sovereign Center is having an event, you won't be able to find a seat. They often have free acts during JazzFest, but it gets packed. Be sure to join the Birthday Club, for a free drink, picture, gift, coupons, and your name on the board. I cannot believe they still do this, so cool. There are tvs, but they have the great sense to fill them with a fascinating slide show of old Reading and Peanut Bar history. If you are coming from out of town, there is a parking lot in back with a guard, so don't fear. And don't be put off by the nasty billboards someone with a lot of disposable income has anonymously placed around our city, touting the rich and ridiculing the poor, very bad taste to see this in the country's poorest city. The quotes were initially mistakenly attributed to Abraham Lincoln and had to have his name blacked out after the error was made! read more

I like the Peanut Bar. I'm glad that a few places like this still exist. It's my belief that the corporate weenies who created the sterile TG McFunster restaurants based their original concept around places like this. Casual dining in a fun atmosphere with decent food. If you've never been to the Peanut Bar I say you have to check it out. It's worth seeing at least once and deciding for yourself if you like it. TV foodie fans, note that the chef is Andrea Heinly of Hell's Kitchen fame. read more

My favorite spot in Reading! A happy atmosphere with a nod to its history and dishes that stand the test of time. Can't go wrong with the cheese balls, Buffalo wings and chicken schnitzel. Who can resist snacking on a peanut or two and tossing the shells with reckless abandon?! Pair those with a tall glass of Franziskaner and I'm in heaven! read more

Mike and his crew run one of the best spots in Reading for a great meal. His garlic wings are fantastic but you cannot miss out on the fried cheese not mozzarella sticks. The fried cheese comes with a side of the homemade red sauce and the melt in your mouth. The biggest problem you have is remembering to share them with the family. The main courses cover everything from great cheeseburgers with crab or bacon. To steak, fish or one of the many chefs specials for the day. The salads are fresh mixed greens and most of the salad dressings are scratch made. In fact most of the menu is scratch made. Then we have our desserts these are made fresh from their pastry chef weekly. Mike is one if the most hospitable host in the business. Bring the whole family and you will be taken care of like family. read more

Outstanding menu, casual atmosphere but fine dining quality. Awesome experience. read more

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A truly unique experience dining here! A fun and interesting place with good food! Cheese balls are BANGIN !!!!!!! Never had better ones!!!! My Old Bay burger topped with crabmeat was delicious. The fries are fresh--not frozen. Homemade desserts are great. Make sure to use the restaurant parking lot around the corner if you go. One small negative--bathrooms greatly needed attention. read more

Nice place in the Reading area. Went there in May and when I walked in, they thought I was a married man (ha!) Had a burger and a beer and it was delicious! Not too busy that night which is always a plus since you could hear each other talk. The floors are covered in peanut shells. WARNING: if you are not used to slippery floors, this place isn't for you. I nearly tripped 5 times AND was SOBER! Imagine if I had a few to drink.... Overall, I do recommend. read more

Things to love about the Peanut Bar include; 1. all the shells of the peanuts that you eat are thrown on the floor. 2. great selection of imported beers on tap. 3. nostalgic decor. 4. the delicious chicken wings. 4.free parking. 5.Conshohocken bread is used for the sandwiches. I did have a Tappas special once, and I was not a fan of it. I would just order off of the regular menu. The Peanut bar is a great place to go to after you see a flick at the nearby theater. read more

Unique ambiance and lots of character best suscribe this Reading stable. The service and food can be hit or miss however so I can't give more than 3 stars. Hoping to update review at some point. But I feel that more effort needs to be made, a menu refresh or at least some more inventive off-menu selections read more

Peanuts was easy to find. And convenient. Upon entering the hostess didn't say hello, smile or make eye contact as she rushed us to our seat. We were seated in a high traffic area between the bar and the nicer, calmer, more attractive section of the restaurant. I wish I'd dined in that area. The hostess was rushing around, bumping into our table etc. Our waitress was perfectly nice, but not knowledgeable about the menu. When I asked about their craft beer selection she didn't know what "craft beer" was. Disappointing selection- I had assumed there would be more considering the large display for Great Lakes Brewing Co. The waitress was also forgetful- missing a few items we ordered and not checking in with us. The burger was absolutely delicious. No complaints there. The food was great but the atmosphere leaves something to be desired. Overall, it was a convenient meal before our show at the Sovereign Performing Arts Center. read more

It's the Peanut Bar... there are peanut shells on the floor. If you're grossed out or bothered by that kind of thing it's not the best place to go. Personally I feel kinda weird throwing shells on the floor but I don't find it detracts from the experience. I wouldn't wear anything open-toed. Good selection of beers, decent burgers, and the last time I had the calamari they were nicely fried though the dipping sauce was too salty. Nothing really amazing but it's a safe bet, reasonably priced, and for the parallel parking impaired they have a private lot behind the restaurant. Service can sometimes be slow but this seems to be a bigger problem when it's dead rather than when it's busy. read more

If you are in Reading, you must try this dining landmark! Even better than the food is the history of this place, coupled with the fact that you are encouraged to be messy! Throw the shells of your complimentary peanuts on the floor as you read the story behind this institution. The menu seems to be progressing, yet one can still enjoy a good 'ol fashion grilled cheese. read more

This was our first time here. Everything was great! I just wish the table were a little larger. Our server Kelly was great and very attentive especially to our 2 sons (13 and 8) from the moment we walked in to the moment we left it was an absolutely great experience. read more

Favorite restaurant around! Love the wings and the staff is great, usually. but the wings flavor overshadows any weirdos you may encounter! Deff stop in for a drink or two and grab some wings, you be stoked you did read more

Stopped in for dinner on Saturday night. Sat at the bar and had a quick dinner. There is parking in the back of this place so parking on the street like I did is not necessary. It is a nice sized place and I was in the restaurant before the Saturday evening rush. I ordered the crab cakes based on the recommendation from the bartender. I was not disappointed. They were delicious and filled with crab. The cake only kept the crab together essentially. The service was outstanding and prompt. I would definitely come back if I find myself in Reading area again. Highly recommend!!! read more

Who doesn't love throwing peanut shells on the floor? The atmosphere is very comforting, lighting is everything. Friendly staff, food is always great love the beer (never seen a black and blue before, very creative) parking in the back and walking distance. Maybe don't go on a Monday. The staff was overwhelmed and the wings weren't great read more

The Peanut Bar is a pretty neat place. The floor is covered with peanut shells but that is part of the experience! It has a loud atmosphere. I came in for dinner to watch a jazzfest show. It has decent viewing for live music. The food was decent, not memorable. This place is more for the experience. There is parking in the back. read more

Great date night restaurant! Not too crowded or noisy. The wait staff was very friendly and helpful. Food was delicious, we had the soft shell crap and the chicken parm and we're both very pleased and full. Wish the peanuts were salted, but they were still very good anyways! Will certainly be back! read more

Peanut Bar Restaurant - Soft shell crap meal and chicken parmesan meal - American Near Me - Reading, Pennsylvania

A fun family-friendly place, this is a Reading area institution. The official home of the Reading Phillies, you can actually eat peanuts and throw the shells on the floor. (That's the real reason to eat here.) Standard American food, which is average. read more

Great place! Super amazing fried cheese balls! I had the chef salad. Delicious! Nice clean restaurant, nice atmosphere. Decorated very nice. Peanuts as you are seated is cute touch, just throw your shells on the ground. Great experience. No complaints. read more

I had the Buffalo Chicken Cheese-steak and was pleasantly surprised. The sandwich was big enough, the fries were crispy and not greasy. Seating was a little bit tight, but it's to be expected considering the size of the place. Attended parking behind the establishment was a nice perk as well. read more

Stopped in for just a quick drink and to enjoy the standard laid back vibe PB offer. Great peanuts and a decent tap selection. Bar tender is entertaining as always on a Sturday and it was a great break from the cold in January. read more

Went here for lunch. It was OK I liked the peanuts. You can throw the shells on the floor. the coconut shrimp was good. And the cake I had for dessert was awesome. read more

We had some wonderful seafood tonight. Our server Gretchen was an excellent waitress. The atmosphere is very nice. Overall we had an exceptional experience. I would recommend the Peanut bar to everyone ! read more

The Peanut Bar is always my go to restaurant for special occasions, or even just date night with the hubs. The atmosphere really stands out amongst others in the area, and really holds that charm and character to pay homage to its history. The staff is very attentive and goes out of their way to make sure you have an incredible experience. My husband and I had horrible timing with going to see a movie after and they made sure our food was ready, and they even packed it up for us so we could make it to the movie in time. Tina is our favorite waitress and we always enjoy going in to see her and the rest of the staff at the PB. We come all the way from Harrisburg to enjoy it! Overall, an amazing restaurant with incredible staff, and delicious food. 10/10. read more

The food was mediocre. Nothing special or worthy of telling a friend. Pricey for the quality. I'm glad they got rid of the peanut shells on the floor which seem like a slip hazard and a health code violation. However, the floors had been just as disgusting and dirty, as though they don't sweep or clean as ofter as they should. I can say they host pretty cool Jazz Fest events. I only go to the peanut bar when I'm invited for a event. read more

I've eaten here many times but unfortunately this place has been increasingly disappointing. Tonight we waited about an hour for very mediocre food. Sorry peanut bar I won't be returning. read more

This restaurant is a fun little spot to grab a bit to eat and enjoy a good beer. There is no outdoor seating so expect the dim lighting bar scene but the table area has lights strung in tree branches for a more artistic look. The food you ask? The cheese balls were fantastic, the portabella mushroom burger was amaze and the wings were delish as well (get extra sauce on the side, they are a dry rub). The food was classic food and the service was nice. A great spot to grab a bite if you're in for a casual good time. read more