LOMBARDO’S LASTING TRADITION: SEVEN DECADES IN LANCASTER

Decades since Lombardo’s opened its doors in 1946, the founding values of strong community, deep connection, and delicious food remain front and center. This timeless Lombardo family philosophy now fuels the leadership of Chef Ethan Lesperance and Front of House Manager, Jenna Pinhas. With over 70 years of experience preparing classic Italian dishes, Lombardo’s is making tradition its legacy.

In the kitchen, Ethan meticulously prepares each ingredient needed for weekly specials and seasonal menu items using his unique culinary perspective to create new recipes with innovative twists on classic dishes.

“We are fortunate to have a restaurant in the heart of one of the most bountiful farm regions,” Ethan said. “When things are in season, we are able to produce an Italian menu akin to what they have in Italy.”

Dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, eggplant parmesan, and lasagna remain permanent fixtures on the Lombardo’s menu—not only because they are time-honored family recipes, but because loyal patrons crave plates piled high with the classic flavors they fell in love with.

At the front of house, Jenna crafts seasonal cocktails with fresh produce from Lancaster County farms, curates a selection of local craft brews, and as Lombardo’s resident sommelier, offers patrons insight on which authentic Italian wine will best pair with their meal.

“You don’t always have to pair red meat with red wine,” Jenna said. “It depends more on what the sauce is. If you are having steak with a delicate white sauce, then a more delicate white wine will make a good pairing.”

Despite the different daily tasks that accompany each of their roles, Ethan and Jenna carry the same spirit of family and tradition that has run through the veins of Lombardo’s since its origin.

“We’re family here. That’s the Lombardo legacy,” Jenna said. Whether setting the table, pouring wine, or making a meal—the staff at Lombardo’s bring each customer into the familial atmosphere that has fed into the longevity of Lancaster City’s longest-standing Italian restaurant. After 77 years of cooking, simmering, and stirring each dish to perfection—generations of talented chefs at Lombardo’s have perfected signature recipes while keeping a spirit of creativity alive.

“Seventy-seven years is a pretty serious tenure in a city, especially a small city that’s constantly evolving,” Ethan said. “Lombardo’s will always stay true to its roots.”