The Gem and Keystone Tavern

The Gem and Keystone Tavern

A scratch-house restaurant with a wood-fire grill, offering three levels of dining including outdoor seating. It sits in Shawnee on Delaware, an easy stop if you're already exploring that corner of the Poconos, and the cooking is straightforward American fare in the mid-range price bracket — the kind of place you can land at without planning ahead or dressing up. The atmosphere is casual throughout, and the three levels give you options depending on your group: a table indoors when the weather turns, or a seat outside when it doesn't. That flexibility makes it a practical pick for families, a group of friends, or a larger party that needs room to spread out. It clearly has a steady local following. That's a busy, popular tavern rather than a hushed special-occasion room — go for an unfussy meal off the grill with people you like.

Hours, menus and prices change. Call ahead or check the venue's own site before you go.