Alfredo's Cafe Scranton

A Scranton Favorite with a Legacy

Alfredo’s Pizza Cafe has been a cornerstone of the Scranton dining scene for years, with a reputation bolstered by its famous mention on the hit TV show The Office. Known as “the good Alfredo’s” in the show’s running joke, the restaurant has earned a loyal following not just for its pop culture fame but for its diverse menu and inviting atmosphere.

I’ve visited Alfredo’s multiple times over the years, both for lunch and dinner, and it’s always a lively experience. The restaurant is almost always packed with customers enjoying everything from Italian entrees to their well-known Old Forge-style pizza. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find a Little League team in their uniforms chowing down on pizza and wings at one table, while a couple sips martinis over a gourmet meal at another. Watching the waitstaff seamlessly handle the high volume of guests is always impressive—it’s a true testament to their efficiency and the restaurant’s popularity.

Revisiting Alfredo’s Old Forge Pizza

Back in 2018, I reviewed Alfredo’s signature Old Forge-style pizza, which has always been a hot topic among Scranton locals. Many loyal fans swore by it but often recommended adding toppings. As a pizza purist, I tried it plain and found the crust to be crisp and light, though slightly dry. The sauce was somewhat pasty, and the cheese had a firmer texture than the usual molten, gooey consistency I expect from Old Forge trays. While I understood why some preferred to load it up with toppings for added texture and moisture, I appreciated the crunchy crust and fresh-baked quality.

Fast forward to 2025, and I had the opportunity to give Alfredo’s Old Forge pizza another go—this time, with sausage and peppers. What a difference! The crust remained light and airy, golden brown on the edges, and lightly browned underneath. The sauce had a noticeable improvement: smooth, tangy, and bursting with a vibrant, punchy flavor. The cheese, which I previously found a bit leathery, was now irresistibly creamy, with that ooey-gooey texture you crave in an Old Forge pie.

The addition of sausage and peppers took this pizza to another level. The sausage was sliced impossibly thin, creating crispy edges while maintaining a tender bite where it nestled into the cheese. The peppers added a pop of flavor that complemented the richness of the sausage, enhancing the overall balance of the pizza. It was easy to see why so many Alfredo’s fans insist that toppings make all the difference here. For me, this is one of those pizzas you have to order toppings on, and the sausage really pairs up well with the American cheese!

A Fun Twist: The Heart-Shaped Pizza

Heart-Shaped pizza from Alfredo's in Scranton — Heart-Shaped pizza from Alfredo’s in Scranton

In addition to revisiting their Old Forge tray, I tried something a little different—Alfredo’s heart-shaped pizza. Unlike their signature style, this was more of a New York-style pie. The thin, foldable crust was chewy with a light crisp around the edges, making it a totally different experience from their usual square-cut trays.

The sauce was punchy and slightly acidic, with a hint of seasoning that complemented the thin crust. Topped with fully melted mozzarella, this pizza had a classic New York-style appeal while still carrying Alfredo’s signature touch. Most importantly, it was beautifully shaped and a fun, festive way to show some love—perfect for a special occasion or just to mix things up.

Final Thoughts

Alfredo’s Pizza Cafe continues to be a must-visit destination in Scranton, whether you’re a fan of Old Forge pizza, a New York-style enthusiast, or just looking for a great place to enjoy a meal. My 2025 visit showed noticeable improvements in their pizza, particularly in the balance of flavors and textures.

For those new to Alfredo’s, I’d recommend trying the Old Forge-style pizza with toppings like sausage and peppers to get the best experience. If you’re in the mood for something different, the heart-shaped pizza offers a fun and tasty alternative.

What’s your go-to order at Alfredo’s? Drop a comment and let me know your favorite pizza or dish from this Scranton staple!