If you’re hungry in Hershey, Pennsylvania, there’s no better place to explore than West Hershey. This part of town is home to some of the area’s most intriguing dining spots, from cozy coffee hangouts to incredible bakeries and eclectic eateries. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, West Hershey offers a delicious mix of up-and-coming restaurants, longtime favorites, and hidden gems that celebrate the best of local and global flavors.
Breakfast to Start Your Day
West Hershey mornings are best begun with superb coffee and a hearty breakfast, and locals know this neighborhood doesn’t disappoint.
- Cocoa Beanery (1215 Research Blvd)
Set in a historic barn with a charming wraparound porch, Cocoa Beanery is a West Hershey staple. Their extensive coffee menu—think espresso classics, seasonal lattes, and locally roasted beans—is matched by house-baked scones, breakfast burritos, and fresh muffins. The laid-back vibe draws early risers and remote workers alike. Prices range from $3 coffee to $15 breakfast plates.
- Hershey Road Family Restaurant (257 North Hershey Road near Hersheypark Dr)
Perfect for families and diners craving classic American breakfast staples, this bright eatery delivers big on pancakes, omelets, and breakfast sandwiches. The portions are generous, and you’ll find friendly service without the downtown crowds. Expect breakfast dishes from $8-$14.
Lunchtime Favorites and Quick Bites
Lunchtime in West Hershey brings an abundance of options, from vibrant delis to trendy food trucks.
- Smoked Bar & Grill (1201 West Chocolate Ave)
This low-key BBQ joint offers mouthwatering pulled pork, brisket, smoked wings, and comforting Southern sides like cornbread and baked beans. Their tangy house sauces stand out, and you can dine indoors or sip cider at their outdoor picnic tables. Lunch plates run $12-$18, and kids eat free Wednesdays with an adult meal.
- South Philly Hoagie House (Hilltop Plaza, 1125 West Chocolate Ave)
Craving a classic Philly-style sandwich? This spot is beloved for its authentic cheesesteaks, Italian hoagies, and loaded fries. The hoagies are stuffed and always fresh, making it a top spot for a casual lunch on the go. Sandwiches hover around $10-$13, making it a budget-friendly pick.
- Truckin’ Good Food Truck
Keep an eye out for this roving favorite, usually stationed at the West Hershey Shopping Center or Hersheypark Dr. Known for decadent grilled cheese creations (like pulled pork mac ‘n cheese melts) and gourmet burgers, it’s a hit among students and locals. Prices for their inventive sandwiches and loaded tots range $8-$15.
Global Eats and Dinner Destinations
West Hershey’s dining scene shines at dinnertime, with several restaurants offering bold, international flavors.
- Punjab Tandoor (Located near the West Hershey Shopping Center, 1170 Mae St)
A hidden gem for locals, Punjab Tandoor serves up fragrant Indian cuisine from creamy chicken tikka masala to sizzling tandoori platters. The lunch buffet is perfect for sampling, while dinner brings a cozy, festive ambiance. Expect $10-$20 for entrees—well worth every penny.
- Pronio’s Market & Deli (236 West Caracas Ave, just off West Chocolate Ave)
Pronio’s is a West Hershey legend, part old-school Italian grocery, part deli. Stop in for a meatball sub, handmade sausage, or a fresh slice of pizza. It’s also the spot for Italian market goods like fresh mozzarella, imported olives, and house-baked cannoli. Deli sandwiches run $8-$11.
- Hershey Biergarten (100 North Hersheypark Dr)
Pair your meal with a German-style lager at this beer garden featuring Bavarian pretzels, schnitzels, and sausage platters. Live music nights and communal tables make it festive and fun—plan ahead for weekend crowds. Most main dishes are $12-$20.
Sweet Treats and Bakeries
No West Hershey food adventure is complete without dessert, and this neighborhood offers some of the sweetest options around.
- Desserts Etc. (851 East Chocolate Ave, but close to West Hershey lines)
This bakery serves up towering slices of cake, homestyle pies, and artisan cupcakes in nearly every flavor imaginable. The red velvet and peanut butter fudge cupcakes are local favorites, and their pastry case is pure temptation. Most treats are $3-$7.
- Reppert’s Candy (2700 West Chocolate Ave, on the western edge of West Hershey)
A family-owned confectionary since 1929, Reppert’s is a must for hand-dipped chocolates, chocolate-covered pretzels, and classic candies. If you’re looking for a quirky, affordable gift or a sweet pick-me-up, nothing beats their chocolate-dipped Oreos or buttercreams—most treats are under $10.
Local Food Traditions and Community Flavor
West Hershey isn’t just about individual restaurants—it’s about community and tradition. Throughout summer and fall, the West Hershey Farmers Market (Research Blvd & Bullfrog Valley Rd) brings together local growers and food vendors every Saturday morning. Here, you can pick up fresh baked goods, locally roasted coffee, farm-fresh produce, jams, cheeses, and unique food truck fare. Many area restaurants source ingredients from these farmers, giving the local food scene a true farm-to-table feel.
Where Foodies Cluster: Hot Intersections and Dining Hubs
For newcomers or visitors, the easiest way to sample West Hershey’s best spots is by heading to these key intersections:
- West Chocolate Ave between Route 322 and Mae St – Packed with casual eateries, delis, BBQ, and bakeries.
- Research Blvd & Bullfrog Valley Rd – Coffeehouses, breakfast spots, and the weekend farmers market.
- North Hershey Road near Hersheypark Dr – Family-friendly restaurants, brewpubs, and quick eats.
Make West Hershey Your Next Food Destination
Charming, inviting, and always delicious—West Hershey is a playground for food lovers. Whether you’re feasting on world-class BBQ, sampling Italian deli creations, or relaxing at a coffeehouse with a fresh pastry, you’ll find yourself swept up in the neighborhood’s welcoming, flavor-packed spirit. Taste your way down West Chocolate Ave, share a meal with friends at a farmers market table, and discover why West Hershey is quietly becoming one of Central Pennsylvania’s most satisfying places to eat.