A Second Visit to La Rocca Pizza and Pasta in Scranton
There’s something special about going back to a pizzeria a few years later and seeing how it’s evolved.
My first visit to La Rocca Pizza and Pasta (1826 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA) was back in 2021, shortly after they opened. At the time, I grabbed a couple slices—a buffalo chicken and a New York style cheese—and the place was still wrapping up construction.
Fast forward to today, and it’s a completely different feel.
A Cozy, Fast-Paced Lunch Spot in North Scranton
Walking in this time around, La Rocca has settled into its identity.
The front is now set up as a cozy dining area with a few tables, perfect for a quick lunch stop. Behind that sits a well-stocked slice case, and beyond that, a clear view into the kitchen—which I always appreciate. There’s just something about watching pizzas being made that adds to the experience.
I was in and out in about 10 minutes during lunch, but in that short time, it was clear this place is moving. A steady flow of customers, a mix of takeout orders and quick dine-ins—it had that hustle and bustle you want to see in a neighborhood pizza shop.
Grandma Pizza at La Rocca: The Move in Scranton
After going the New York slice route on my first visit, I listened to the people this time.
A lot of you told me: “Get the Grandma pizza.”
So that’s exactly what I did.
I ordered a full tray, cut into 8 large rectangular slices—and right away, this pizza made an impression.
Crust: Crispy, Golden, and Almost Fried
The crust on this Grandma pizza was baked to a deep golden brown, and the bottom had these microblisters that gave it an almost fried appearance.
- Edge crust: noticeably crunchy with a satisfying bite
- Center: soft, chewy, with just enough crisp to keep it balanced
There was a slight gumline just beneath the sauce and cheese, but nothing that took away from the overall experience. Flavor and texture still delivered.
Sauce, Cheese, and Pesto Balance
The sauce leaned mellow and savory—delicately seasoned in a way that lets the natural tomato flavor come through without overpowering the slice.
What really tied it together was the pesto drizzle.
It wasn’t heavy or overly basil-forward—just enough to complement the sauce without stealing the show.
The mozzarella had a creamy melt and gave you that classic cheese pull on every bite—always a good sign.
The Finishing Touch: Olive Oil That Pops
They finished the pizza with a healthy drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and you could taste the freshness immediately.
It added a subtle richness and that signature “lip-coating” finish that just makes you want to go back for another bite.
The People Behind La Rocca Pizza and Pasta
One thing that stood out just as much as the pizza was the atmosphere created by the owner.
Super nice guy—and you could tell the customers genuinely enjoy coming in. The way people interacted with him said everything. When a place treats people well, it shows—and it keeps them coming back.
Want to know what the best pizza sauce is? I tested, ranked, and scored them all! Here are my Pizza Sauce Rankings!
Final Thoughts on La Rocca Pizza and Pasta Scranton
La Rocca Pizza and Pasta is a great little spot in Scranton that’s clearly found its groove.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick slice or grabbing a full tray, this is the kind of place that delivers quality pizza with consistency and care.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend giving it a try—especially that Grandma pizza.
And one more thing to keep an eye on…
La Rocca is expanding, with a second location coming soon to Carbondale, PA. Definitely one to watch as they continue to grow.
Looking for the Best Pizza in Scranton?
If you’re exploring the Scranton pizza scene and want something a little different from your typical slice, La Rocca’s Grandma pizza is absolutely worth checking out.
Rating the Pizza
- Restaurant: La Rocca
- Address: 1826 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508
- Dine In/Take Out: Take Out
- Pizza Ordered: Grandma Pizza
- Date: March 2026
| Rating Category | Rating Score |
|---|---|
| Crust | 7.7 |
| Sauce | 8.2 |
| Cheese | 8.2 |
| Taste | 8.3 |
| Crispy/Cooked Properly | 7.2 |
| Value | 7.5 |
| Overall Rating | 7.9 |
Pizza is Similar to: D’Amore Pizza, Lucca Pizza, Bulls Head Pizza
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