Lancaster County, a place of remarkable beauty and rich history, offers an array of attractions and activities for its visitors. However, one of the standout features of this region is undoubtedly its culinary scene. From classic Pennsylvania Dutch fare to contemporary and exotic dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. In this article, I will introduce you to my top 10 restaurant recommendations in Lancaster County, all carefully selected based on ratings, reviews, and menus available on TripAdvisor.
1. Himalayan Curry and Grill
For those seeking a fiery and flavorsome dining experience, Himalayan Curry and Grill is a must-visit destination. This eatery specializes in authentic Indian and Tibetan cuisine, featuring dishes like curries, tandoori specialties, momos, thukpa, and more. The servings are generous, the service welcoming, and the ambiance inviting. Don’t forget to savor a complimentary cup of chai tea alongside your meal. You can find Himalayan Curry and Grill in Lancaster City, open every day except Mondays.
2. John J. Jeffries
John J. Jeffries is a refined dining establishment renowned for its commitment to farm-to-table cuisine. The menu showcases seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, including grass-fed beef, organic vegetables, wild mushrooms, and fresh seafood. Dishes like duck breast with cherry sauce, scallops with corn risotto, and lamb chops with mint pesto exemplify their creative culinary offerings. The restaurant boasts an extensive wine selection and a cozy bar area. John J. Jeffries, located in Lancaster City, is open daily for dinner.
3. Dienner’s Country Restaurant
To experience the authentic flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, Dienner’s Country Restaurant is a must-visit. This family-owned eatery offers a buffet-style service, allowing you to indulge in unlimited portions of fried chicken, roast beef, ham balls, mashed potatoes, corn pudding, apple butter, shoofly pie, and more. The food is hearty and homemade, and the prices are reasonable. You’ll find Dienner’s Country Restaurant in Ronks, near the Amish Village attraction, open every day except Sundays.
4. Kling House
Kling House is a charming restaurant housed within a historic building dating back to 1738. Serving breakfast and lunch, their menu features omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, salads, soups, and quiches. Expect fresh and flavorful dishes with generous portions. The restaurant also boasts a bakery selling delectable pies, cakes, cookies, and other baked treats. Kling House, located in Intercourse near the Kitchen Kettle Village shopping center, is open daily except Sundays.
5. Gracie’s on West Main
Gracie’s on West Main offers a diner-style experience with comfort food infused with a twist. Their menu includes burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups, and entrees like meatloaf, chicken pot pie, macaroni and cheese, and fish and chips. All dishes are prepared from scratch using high-quality ingredients, resulting in delightful flavors. Additionally, their dessert menu features pies, cakes, brownies, ice cream sundaes, and milkshakes. Gracie’s on West Main in Leola is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
6.Kountry Kitchen Family Restaurant
Kountry Kitchen Family Restaurant is another fantastic spot to relish Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, their menu boasts a wide variety of options, including eggs, pancakes, waffles, sandwiches, burgers, steaks, seafood, pasta, and more. Expect homemade, delicious fare, accompanied by friendly and attentive service. The restaurant even houses a gift shop selling souvenirs, candies, jams, and other items. Kountry Kitchen Family Restaurant, located in Manheim, is open daily except Sundays.
7. Silver Spring Family Restaurant
A casual, family-friendly establishment, Silver Spring Family Restaurant adds a Greek touch to its American cuisine. Their menu covers breakfast items such as omelets, french toast, and crepes, along with lunch options like sandwiches, wraps, gyros, and salads. Dinner features steaks, chops, ribs, chicken, and seafood dishes, all known for their freshness and generous portions. The restaurant also boasts a bakery offering pies, cakes, muffins, and other delectable treats. Silver Spring Family Restaurant in Lancaster City is open daily.
8. Tomato Pie Cafe
Tomato Pie Cafe exudes coziness and eclecticism while serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their menu comprises soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, pizza, pasta, and various entrees. Expect dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative, satisfying flavors. This cafe is renowned for its signature tomato pie, a savory pastry filled with cheese, tomatoes, and basil. Additionally, they offer a coffee bar with espresso drinks, smoothies, and teas. Tomato Pie Cafe, situated in Lititz, is open daily except on Mondays.
9. Fireside Tavern
Fireside Tavern offers a rustic yet elegant dining experience in a relaxed setting. Their menu includes appetizers such as crab cakes, fried oysters, and cheese boards, along with salads like Caesar, spinach, and wedge. The selection of entrees features prime rib, filet mignon, salmon, chicken, and pork, all meticulously prepared and served with finesse. The tavern also boasts a full bar offering wine, beer, cocktails, and spirits. Fireside Tavern, near the Sight and Sound Theatre in Strasburg, is open daily except Mondays.
10. Brickerville House Restaurant
Steeped in history and charm, the Brickerville House Restaurant has been serving satisfied patrons since 1753. Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, their menu encompasses eggs, pancakes, sandwiches, burgers, salads, soups, and entrees like roast turkey, ham steak, liver and onions, and chicken pot pie. The food is uncomplicated yet satisfying, and the prices are reasonable. The restaurant even features a gift shop selling antiques, crafts, candles, and other items. You can find Brickerville House Restaurant in Brickerville, near the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, open daily.
These are my top 10 restaurant recommendations for experiencing the best of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania’s culinary delights. I hope this article has piqued your interest and helped you discover some exciting new dining options. If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to share them below. Thank you for reading!