Every city has it’s iconic restaurant that is known for having just that right combination of romantic atmosphere and excellent food. In the Harrisburg area of Pennsylvania that restaurant is Char’s at the Tracy Mansion.
Occupying a mansion that was built in 1913, it’s the only restaurant in the city that’s on the Susquehanna River. With a series of large windows in their dining room it’s nearly impossible to miss the fantastic view at Sunset.
Char’s has a lot more than just location though. The interior is warmly styled and features an impressive collection of art which left us feeling like we were enjoying a meal in someone’s home rather than a stuffy restaurant. That is, of course, if the home was staffed with a full time chef named Ron Canady. Chef Canady makes it a point to put together a menu using local and organic ingredients whenever possible and that commitment to quality shines through in the entrees he prepares. With many daily specials on the menu there’s always something new to try. Our meal began with a creamed asparagus soup and steamed ox tail dumplings. Yep, you read that right. Ox tail dumplings in a miso broth with veggies. They tasted even better than they sound.
When it came time for entrees Lauren went for the braised pork osso bucco, which was succulent and richly flavored.
I tried the risotto of the day, which happened to be a delicate mushroom risotto served with beautifully prepared beef tenderloin. Interestingly, because so many fresh ingredients are used, the chef actually prepares a risotto, fish, and pasta of the day.
No romantic meal is complete without a dessert course and Char’s didn’t let us down. Lauren went for the decadent chocolate cake and I had a fantastic slice of their bread pudding. See how great they look? It tasted even better.
The meal at Char’s was excellent and our service was no less than outstanding. It’s no wonder Char’s came well recommended to us, and it’s easy for us to pass that on and recommend it to you. The next time you’re in Harrisburg, stop in and have a mouth-watering, full meal or maybe a fancy cocktail with an amazing view of the river. Give Char’s at the Tracy Mansion a call today and make a reservation whether for a special occasion or just a nice night out. You won’t be disappointed.
Details for Char’s at the Tracy Mansion
1829 N Front St
Harrisburg, PA 17102
(717) 213-4002
charsrestaurant.com