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5 Top Restaurants The Locals Rave About

by Caren Foy

Whether you’re talking about the biggest metropolitan city in the United States or the smallest little town that you can’t even find with your phone’s GPS system, they all have one thing in common: the privately owned eateries that the locals rave about. New Castle, PA is certainly no different, as we have our own list of local restaurants that can compete with the best of the best from any town in the nation. Here’s a quick look at some of our favorite options if you’re new to town or just passing through. These restaurants will put New Castle, PA on your list of cities you have to spend some time in.

Hazel’s Restaurant

If you drive too fast down North Mercer Street, you might miss Hazel’s as it’s certainly not the biggest restaurant in town. But there’s a reason that this place has been a favorite of New Castle locals for decades, now. The most appealing part about Hazel’s is that you can swing by anytime and get a good meal, as they serve up breakfast, lunch and dinner every day.

Don’t let the non-descript façade fool you, or the tried and tested booths and tables on the inside turn you away. There’s a reason that Hazel’s Restaurant has been a local favorite for years. It’s because the food is hard to beat, there’s a wide variety of options and the staff will make you feel like family on your first trip. If you’re going to be in New Castle for any amount of time, you owe yourself a trip to Hazel’s.

Coney Island Hot Dogs

No, you didn’t drive too far, this isn’t New York, and there probably won’t be a national hot dog eating contest being hosted when you pull in. You’re still in New Castle, but this little gem on Wilmington Road serves up some of the best chili dogs in town. If you’re not sure about stopping at a hot dog joint while you’re in town, take into account that they’ve been serving up the “With Everything Dog” since 1923. Nearly 100 years of customers can’t all be wrong.

Mary’s Restaurant

You may not see the name “Mary” and assume you’re going to a haven of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean food, but that’s exactly what Mary’s Restaurant has been serving up on East Long Avenue since 1989. If Mediterranean cuisine isn’t your thing, you can still stop by and get a mouth-watering hamburger while others in your party enjoy traditional lamb, grape leaves, and other Middle Eastern staples.

Hugger-Mugger Tasty Recipes

It’s hard to find a place to eat with a more entertaining name to say, but a catchy sign isn’t all that makes Hugger-Mugger a great choice if you’re looking for an early breakfast or a late dinner. Variety is the name of the game at this stop on Ellwood Road, as you can get everything from traditional Italian options to liver and onions, to homemade meatloaf to some of the best desserts in town. Hugger-Mugger Tasty Recipes lives up to its name and provides some of the best service in town with a staff who makes your dining experience one to remember.

Ben Franklin’s Taproom, Grille & Bottleshop

While there are options on the menu that will appeal to customers of all ages, Ben Franklin’s Taproom, Grille & Bottleshop does make for a great night out for adults looking to soak in some of the local flavor of New Castle PA while enjoying a good prime rib and a nice drink.
Located right off of US 422, Ben Franklin’s serves up steaks, burgers, ribs, and more. The only thing that can rival the tasty menu of this option is the atmosphere that brings New Castle to life.