Judy's On Cherry — Restaurant in Reading

Overall I think Judy’s has been a good restaurant. We've been going to Judy's for probably over 15 years (since I was in high school) and it's always been a staple "nice night out" place for my family and with friends. The atmosphere is amazing and relaxing with elegant touches that make it work for both casually-nice (maybe even a touch formal) occasions. Generally speaking the menu has a decent selection and the bread and salads served that accompany the meals are very good (I love the pesto ranch dressing). Desserts leave something to be desired in my opinion, they're never quite worth ordering to me as they've been kind of average, but that’s not a deciding factor for me. Most of the entrees I’ve tried in the past have been pretty good, my favorite is the crab pappardelle, which is reliably good and as such is usually what I get anymore unless I’m there for the pizza special on a girls night. The pizza has always been amazing and made in a brick oven Italian style. However, the last time I got the pizza special I am not sure what was wrong but it was some of the worst I have ever had anywhere. The cheese was disgusting, it had an off flavor and texture that's hard to describe exactly beyond a little gritty and separated. Neither of us could stomach it. We sent it back and our waiter insisted on remaking it as he thought it was a fluke, fine. The new one came out the same, which we explained to the waiter. Despite describing and showing him the issues he didn’t offer to replace it with something else or take it off the bill, nor did any management come over to get feedback on the issue. It was a disappointing experience when the main course was inedible. With Judys being a nicer place I would have expected a little more. I will say I would not get the pizza again until I know from someone personally that it’s better.

I think COVID and staffing must be impacting the food and service here because the last few times I’ve left disappointed. Not so extreme as my last time, but the couple times before food quality had slipped too. However, on those occasions either the concern was addressed or the issues weren't so serious as to ruin the meal. Staff has been generally good and Judy's has always been a more easygoing pace, so slower pacing isn't a real surprise. We go there to relax and enjoy the atmosphere and company over a good meal. I can really only recall the last time as having any significant issues with service. I still think at it's core it’s a good restaurant, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say I don’t make it our first choice anymore for nice evenings or special occasions, it just hasn't been up to par for that lately. When you're paying a higher price and/or going for a nice night, the food really needs to be worth it. The pizza experience was kind of the last straw and we haven't been back since that. Hopefully quality will improve because it’s hard to find a nice spot to enjoy a quiet meal like Judy's. I hate to give three stars to a local business we've loved, I'd probably give three and a half if I could, but I can't honestly give it the four or five stars it used to be after the last few times. I'm sure eventually we'll make it back for another try. It's been a staple too long to not afford one and I do have faith they will come...

Gotham's vigilance extends beyond the shadows, even to the quaint corners of Reading, PA, where Batmanjawn, recently ventured into a unique and historic building. It was Judy's on Cherry, which stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, a sanctuary where even the Caped Crusader can find respite from the eternal battle against crime, a haven of culinary delights where heroes and ordinary folk alike can find solace in the simple pleasures of good food and great company.

I was greeted by the warm glow of vaulted wooden ceilings and the aroma of freshly baked focaccia bread, a sensory experience fit for a hero.

Gail, the hostess, with her gracious demeanor, welcomed me with the warmth of a trusted ally, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.

The butternut squash soup started the meal off Bat-tastically. The old fashioned packed the punch of the Batmobile's turbo boost. The filet mignon, tender as a villain's heart after a night in Arkham, paired perfectly with a side of mashed potatoes and veggies that would make Alfred proud.

But it wasn't just the food that left me in awe; it was the service, embodied by Steve, a stalwart guardian of hospitality, a waiter of unparalleled dedication and charm, whose smile could rival even the Joker's grin. With 17 years of service under his utility belt, he exemplified the hospitality that does justice to Judy's reputation of excellence.

The unique cigarette-turned-magnet dispenser, made me marvel at the ingenuity of humanity, the resilience of the human spirit. It was transformed from nicotine machine to an artist’s dream. Poetic.

As I stood atop the payment folio, passing my Judy’s gift card like a torch of patronage to Steve, I couldn't help but feel that Judy's on Cherry isn't just a restaurant; it's a sanctuary for the soul, a refuge where heroes and artists alike find solace in a world fraught with chaos. To Judy's, I say: may your lights never dim, your flavors never fade, and your legacy endure like the legend of...

I wish there was a way to get this restaurant a 10 star. I’ve had my fair share of fine dining, but this has to be one of my favorite restaurants I’ve ever been to.

Just for the food stand point I thought the presentation, quality of food, and food choice combination was out of this world delicious. We ordered: 🔸 butternut squash crab soup for a starter, was very sweet and delicious. 🔸The fig bacon gorgonzola -this taste profile was very strong with the type of cheese and underlining hints of balsamic which was also delicious Main Dish: 🔸 crab noodle dish- soft creamy dish 🔸 honey mustard crusted salmon with brussels sprouts and beets- I personally don’t like the taste of mustard, but thought this dish with the mustard brought out a lot of new flavors!

Everything on the menu seemed well thought through, they had a unique vegan option, vegetarian option, as well as a Thai dish and a few other special items that are on the website!

The atmosphere and mood of the restaurant was so charming, it was built in the 1800s and used to be & old farmers market, the colors & local art was so inviting and had so much personality.

The staff was so kind, they still give you space to have a romantic dinner without constantly being asked “how was the food” but there’s always somebody there to accommodate and assist. You can tell the owner of this restaurant treats her staff very well as everybody seems to love what they do and are taken care of.

there is a flight of stairs going up to the restaurant, which are pretty steep so if you are handicap or not very mobile it’s a tad difficult to get into but the climb...