Dining in Lancaster County 2024-25

At Yoder’s Restaurant & Buffet we provide our customers with a casual dining atmosphere while offering a wide variety of different foods to accommodate everyone’s appetite.

BREAKFAST

We offer a full menu and a breakfast buffet. Our buffet includes eggs, quiche, home fries, creamed beef, bacon, sausage, scrapple, pancakes, baked oatmeal, biscuits, fruit, pastries and so much more!

LUNCH AND DINNER MENU

We also offer a full menu for our customers who choose not to get the buffet. Our menu includes salads, sandwiches, spaghetti and dinner platters.

• Senior Citizen discount for our friends 62 and older

• Seating available for large parties

• Children 3 and under eat free from the buffet with the purchase of an adult buffet

• Gluten-friendly menu available

• Plenty of convenient parking

BUFFET

Every day our Buffet includes: broasted chicken, baked chicken, ham balls, baked fish, mashed potatoes, macaroni & cheese, potato filling, buttered noodles, vegetables and homemade soups. Our dinner buffet offers featured items on the grill and buffet. To see featured buffets, please see our website.

Our salad and dessert bars feature over 40 different homemade items, plus fresh fruit, an assortment of cakes, pies, soft ice cream, Golden Guernsey ice cream and toppings.

For more information and to see our hours, please go to our website: www.yoderscountrymarket.com

YODER’S GOLDEN GUERNSEY MILK AND ICE CREAM

Golden Guernsey Milk is fresh from our farm and processed here at Yoder’s Market. We make over 30 flavors of ice cream. We serve our milk and ice cream in the restaurant and it is available to purchase in the grocery store.

Our family farm is located in Lancaster County, along the foot hills of the Welsh Mountains. The herd of registered Guernsey cows has been in our family for over three generations. Our goal is to bring to your family the high quality of Golden Guernsey Milk that was at one time a household name!

(717)354-4748

(717)354-4748

Yoder's Country Market New Holland 14 South Tower Road New Holland, PA 17557 (717)354-4748 Yoder's Country Market New Holland 14 South Tower Road New Holland, PA 17557

Yoder's Country Market New Holland 14 South Tower Road New Holland, PA 17557

Yoder’s is Family Owned and Operated for Over 40 Years!

Lancaster’s Taste of The Mediterranean

Yorgos Lancaster is open late, and our kitchen is open until 12:30 AM daily! Enjoy casual pub fare on the 1st fl oor. Authentic Greek-influenced dishes, American cuisine, and an extensive craft beer, cocktail, liquor, wine, and champagne selection for dinner in our Kefi Dining Room on the 2nd fl oor. Rooftop terrace dining (open weather permitting) and live entertainment at Little Mykonos on the 3rd fl oor. We have two beautiful venue options to accommodate parties of up to 75-100 people, including a newly remodeled outdoor terrace and elevator access to each fl oor. Celebrate Every Reason & Season With Us! Make OpenTable reservations and book your event now.

Contents Contents

20. Strasburg

Originally settled by French Huguenots, Strasburg is regarded as being one of the best-preserved towns in the state thanks to its dedication to historic preservation. That sense of community is reflected at the Speckled Hen, a restaurant whose breakfast and lunch menus utilize local products. The entrepreneurial spirit is embodied in the fact that its owners, Janae and Ryan Dagen, have opened a brewpub in Strasburg.

26. Lancaster City

12. Lancaster … Where the “Stars” Align

Lancaster is home to a former White House chef, winners of Food Network competitions and nominees for James Beard Foundation awards. It’s also the hometown of actor Taylor Kinney, who is an investor in a local restaurant. Because of Rock Lititz and Lancaster’s proximity to major cities, you never know who you might bump into.

19. Come for the History … Stay for Dinner

Lancaster’s fascinating history is one reason why visitors flock to the area. Other attractions include the arts and the outdoors. Yet another attraction has emerged. While visitors have always loved to sample our farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and homemade baked goods, as well as frequent our farmers’ markets and restaurants that offer a taste of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, Lancaster has become a heralded foodie destination of late, thanks to the proliferation of ethnic restaurants that have opened across the county. Yes, farm-to-table and smorgasbords still define Lancaster County, but now they’ve been joined by eateries that offer a taste of Italy, France, Greece, Ireland, the Middle East, India, Asia, Africa, Central and South America and the Caribbean.

In this edition of Dining in Lancaster County, we explore four areas that are rich in history and are home to an array of restaurants.

Originally called Hickory Town, the name Lancaster honors John Wright’s hometown in England. Always a beacon for those seeking a variety of freedoms, modern-day Lancaster is home to entrepreneurs who hail from around the world, many of whom have opened restaurants that celebrate their home country’s culinary traditions. Mohan Pradhan symbolizes that spirit. Hailing from Nepal, he has operated Himalayan Curry & Grill for 10 years and opened Diyo Fusion last year.

30. Route 23: Leola, Bareville, New Holland, Blue Ball and Churchtown

A magnet for those leaving the German Palatinate region in the 18th century, the corridor became an agricultural powerhouse, as well as the home of talented woodworkers and cabinetmakers. Funck’s Restaurant & Bar in Leola is owned by a regional restaurant group that transformed a traditional family restaurant into a modern space that features an indoor/outdoor bar and a beautiful spacious patio.

34. The River Towns: Marietta, Columbia and Wrightsville

The Susquehanna River serves as Main Street for these river towns that are experiencing a revitalization thanks to the rail trails and other outdoor attractions that have emerged over the last decade. The John Wright Restaurant in Wrightsville offers an unsurpassed view of the river.

PUBLISHER

Jocelyn Engle

EDITOR

Suzanne Starling-Long

ART DIRECTOR

Ashley Kendrick Kennedy

PHOTOGRAPHER

Nick Gould

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Michele Emenheiser

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

To speak to an account representative or to obtain a media kit for Dining in Lancaster County, call 717-492-2525.

SALES MANAGER

Greg March Gmarch@engleonline.com

ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE

Karen Stoltzfus Karen@lancastercountymag.com

Dining in Lancaster County reserves the right to edit material based on its standards for publication. Advertising is subject to the publisher’s approval. Although extreme care is taken to ensure the accuracy of all content, Dining in Lancaster County and/or its advertisers are not responsible for errors or misprints. © 2023-2024. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced by any process except with written authorization from the publisher. Published annually by Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc.

The Brickerville House

Kefi at Yorgos

Josephine’s Downtown

Lancaster Where the “Stars” Align

Where can you find a former White House chef, Food Network champions and James Beard Award nominees, as well as dine among rock and Hollywood stars? That would be Lancaster County!

Asfor the White House chef, that is John Moeller, who owns The Greenfield Restaurant & Bar. Moeller grew up in Lancaster and then graduated (with honors) from Johnson & Wales in Rhode Island. Always infatuated with French cooking, he set sail for France, where he furthered his studies and worked at several restaurants in the country’s notable wine regions.

Upon his return to the U.S., Moeller settled in Washington, D.C., where he became acquainted with Pierre Chambrin, the head chef at the White House who was in search of a Frenchtrained American sous chef. Moeller accepted the position and worked under Chambrin and later, Walter Scheib.

Moeller became the acting head chef in 2005.

During his 13-year tenure at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, he worked for presidents George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, often gifting them with goodies from Lancaster County. (George W. loved Hammond’s Pretzels, while Laura Bush relished fresh peaches from Lancaster County.)

Moeller returned to his hometown in 2010, where he opened a catering company, State of Affairs, in Lancaster City. He also authored a book, Dining at the White House: From the President’s Table to Yours, that is part biographical, part cookbook and is chock full of photos from White House events.

Always desirous of operating his own restaurant, such an opportunity came Moeller and his wife Suryati’s way with the purchase of The Greenfield Restaurant & Bar in 2018. Located in a period (1780s) farmhouse in East Lampeter Township, the restaurant fit the criteria of what he envisioned, as it features a number of various-sized dining rooms, a wine cellar, an airy bar/lounge,

a beautiful patio and a large kitchen to accommodate the catering company.

The Greenfield’s lunch and dinner menus highlight high-quality, local proteins and produce. Local partners include Thom’s Bread, Brogue Hydroponics, Sauder’s Eggs, Lindendale Farm, Mr. Bill’s Seafood, Meck’s Produce, Fox and Wolfe Farm, Lancaster Coffee Roasters and more. Wine is also an integral part of the Greenfield experience and Moeller takes pride in the selection that is offered. Thegreenfieldrestaurant.com.

Want to have a Food Network champion prepare your meal? Chef Cedric Barberet, who won the Neapolitan Delight episode of Chopped Sweets in 2021, brings a taste of France to Downtown Lancaster with his Bistro Barberet & Bakery. Barberet’s extensive résumé also includes his time as executive pastry chef at former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Club, where he crafted Donald and Melania Trump’s seven-tier wedding cake. He also worked at the renowned Le Bec-Fin restaurant in Philadelphia.

Barberet and his wife, Estelle, opened their restaurant/bakery in 2015. Both from France, the Barberets grew up in the pastry business, as their respective families owned bakeries. The restaurant’s menu includes appetizers such as beef tartare and escargot. Entrées include such dishes as bouillabaisse and moules frites (Prince Edward Island mussels) and rack of lamb. Bistro Barberet also serves sandwiches, soups, quiches and salads.

Be sure to save room for dessert! Their display cases are filled with delicate, handcrafted pastries and

John Moeller worked at the White House before returning to Lancaster.

cakes, as well as signature breads and other baked items. Indulge in decadent desserts such as Floating Island (his creation that led to winning the Food Network challenge), L’opéra (almond cake soaked in espresso, layered in coffee buttercream and chocolate ganache), 7-layered chocolate cake, crème brulée, macarons, tarts and éclairs. Many of their desserts are gluten-free. Barberetlancaster.com.

Another Food Network alum can be found in Ephrata, where Laura Merkel began creating cookies in 2010, after her office job left her feeling unfulfilled. Over the years, she has perfected the art of cookie decorating and her bakery, Laura the Cookie Lady, was featured on Food Network’s Christmas Cookie Challenge in 2019. The episode, titled Colors of Christmas, saw five bakers compete to create the best holiday cookies. Laura won the episode after crafting a Christmas-tree-shaped cookie tart made from oatmeal-kiwi-white chocolate cookie, topped with cream cheese buttercream icing and garnished with her classic sugar cookies that were decorated as ornaments.

The shop offers an expansive variety of cookies (and often sells out). Laura specializes in sugar cookies

with beautiful, intricate designs. Her decorated cookies are perfect for any occasion, from weddings and births to holidays. The variety of cookie flavors could include chocolate chip, peanut butter, M&M, funfetti, lemon-blueberry, double chocolate and her Food Networkwinning flavor, oatmeal-kiwi-white chocolate. Lauracookielady.com.

Lancaster is also home to Lancaster Cupcake, another Food Network competitor. If you have a sweet tooth, this is an essential stop. The bakery is the premier destination for fromscratch, gourmet cupcakes in Lancaster County. Emily Barcklow Mitchell and her husband, Jeff, started the cupcakery in 2011. The next year, they were featured on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars. The episode, which aired in November 2012 and was centered around Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, saw Lancaster Cupcake take home second place.

Today, Lancaster Cupcake has two locations in Lancaster County (recently expanding into Lebanon County) and a cupcake truck, which can be booked for events. Cupcakes are made from locally sourced butter, cream cheese, cocoa and flour. Mainstay cupcake flavors include strawberry champagne, red velvet, vanilla and chocolate. The cupcakery also offers seasonal and holiday flavors, cakes, decorating kits, macarons and glutenfree cupcakes. An array of coffee drinks is also offered. Lancastercupcake.com.

If you would like a side of rock ‘n’ roll with your meal, head to Per Diem at the Hotel Rock Lititz. The restaurant, which is located on the Rock Lititz campus and is operated by TFB Hospitality, is a one-stop shop for A-list artists who are

preparing to go on tour. You never know who you might see exploring Lititz! Last fall, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith popped into a local hardware store, while Ariana Grande was spotted at Target.

With the décor inspired by Lancaster’s iconic farmhouses (with an edge to match Rock Lititz’s vibe and its huge collection of concert memorabilia), it only made sense that the menu would celebrate the farm-to-table movement. The menu changes seasonally so that ingredients can be sourced from local purveyors.

For dinner, choose from starters, salads, pizza and main dishes. Entrées include lobster ravioli, pepper-crusted filet mignon, cassoulet, the Tour Burger and more. For those with dietary restrictions, the menu offers accommodations and options for glutenfree, vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. Seasonal apps and sides round out the menu. Per Diem also offers a Sunday brunch menu, featuring pork belly benedict, baked eggs, breakfast pizza and more.

Drinks include signature house cocktails and an impressive list of wines and craft beer. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert from Per Diem’s inhouse pastry chef. Perdiemlititz.com.

Chef Cedric Barberet won an episode of Food Network’s Chopped Sweets.

Laura “the Cookie Lady” Merkel pays homage to Taylor Swift in a sweet way. Facebook photo.

Lancaster Cupcake continues to enjoy sweet success. Facebook photo.

Per Diem’s décor pays homage to farmhouse styling.

Speaking of stars, an evening at Josephine’s Downtown in Lancaster will have you surrounded by the legends of the silver screen. No, not in the flesh, but through vintage black-andwhite portraits that co-owners Dean Oberholtzer and Justin Ang spent the pandemic collecting. Part of the fun is trying to name the more than 400 Hollywood stars whose portraits (including that of the restaurant’s namesake, Josephine Baker) decorate the walls of this beautiful restaurant that takes its inspiration from supper clubs of old and puts a new and modern spin on the concept. (Many of the specialty cocktails are named for Hollywood stars, as well.)

If you love seafood, chef Rafe Hottenstein recently designed a new menu that places emphasis on ingredients that come from the sea. Josephinesdowntown.com.

And, in more news out of Hollywood … Lancaster is the hometown of actor Taylor Kinney (Chicago Fire, Dark Zero Thirty), who is an investor in Zoetropolis Cinema Stillhouse, a trifecta downtown destination that entails a micro-distillery, a restaurant and a movie theatre that specializes in Indie films and live music and other events. Chad Taylor, who was a member of the rock group, Live, has been performing there as of late.

As for Kinney, he made an appearance in March of 2020, when he helped employees man the take-out/ self-pick-up service Zoetropolis made available on Water Street. Needless to

say, drivers were shocked to receive their orders from Lt. Kelly Severide (Kinney’s character on Chicago Fire). Ironically, the late Treat Williams played Kinney’s/Severide’s father on the show. Williams was a graduate of Lancaster’s Franklin & Marshall College and could often be found posing as a human model in the windows of The Male Bag boutique back in the early ’70s. He was also a close friend of the late Mount Joy restaurateur, Betty Groff, who put Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine on the culinary map. Zoetropolis.com.

And, Lancaster has yet another Hollywood connection in the realm of food. At Decades, an entertainment destination that boasts a bowling alley, retro arcade games, a friendly bar and a fun menu, the Hollywood connection can be seen in the lighting fixtures, furnishings, accessories and even a phone booth that define its décor. Tons of such items came from the set of the Showtime series, House of Cards, which starred Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright as a scheming couple aiming to make their mark in a town where political intrigue is a way of life.

The series was filmed in the D.C. area and its set decorations were stored in a warehouse in Maryland. When the series ended in 2018, the question remained of what do with the contents of the warehouse. Shipping a warehouse full of stuff to California would be expensive. Fortunately, the owners of Decades – Chris Trendler, Jonathan Yeager and Adam Ozimek – were contacted by a high school friend who worked on the show and was aware that Decades was in the making.

The call proved to be a stroke of luck. The owners made the trip to Maryland and were wowed by what was being made available to them. After all, how does one decorate a cavernous

building such as the historic Stahr Armory? The three were stymied until they walked into that warehouse. The House of Cards décor provided the solution, as it was a perfect fit from a style, size and balance perspective. We doubt whether there is a bowling alley across America that is outfitted with such beautiful chandeliers!

Who knows? You just might spot a famous face. Billie Joe Armstrong, the lead singer of Green Day, celebrated his birthday there in 2020. Decadeslancaster.com.

Yet another Hollywood luminary has been seen out and about in Lancaster. Award-winning actor, William H. Macy (Fargo, Air Force One, Boogie Nights, Wild Hogs, and Showtime’s Shameless) has been a frequent visitor as of late, as his brother lives in Lancaster County. Macy has been spotted at such eateries as Gus’s Keystone, Frattelli’s Pizza, 3 Sisters Park and The Olde Lincoln House (all in Ephrata), Nonna Rosa’s in Akron, Mad Chef in East Petersburg, Columbia Kettle Works in Adamstown and even the Starbucks at The Crossings at Conestoga Creek in Lancaster. He generously shares his time and poses for pictures with employees and guests. So, if you see him, be sure to say hello.

On the television front, Lancaster County has received numerous visits from the diva of domesticity herself, Martha Stewart. She has been known to frequent the area ahead of

Photos of stars from Hollywood’s Golden Era decorate the walls of Josephine’s.

Taylor Kinney lent a hand at Zoetropolis’ take-out service that was offered in 2020. Instagram photo.

The décor at Decades is straight from the TV show, House of Cards.

appearances on QVC in Chester County, and to film promos for projects at Shadowlight in Leola. Along the way, she has popped into farmers’ markets (including Lancaster Central Market) and stopped at roadside stands. On one occasion, she visited Scratch Bakes in Ephrata to order take-out.

Robert Irvine, who hosts Restaurant Impossible on the Food Network, has visited Lancaster in various capacities. He has made appearances at charity events, filmed the show here and signed bottles from his line of spirits for customers and fans at a PA Fine Wine & Good Spirits store last year. A percentage of proceeds from the bottle signing benefited his Robert Irvine Foundation, which supports the mental and physical well-being of military members, veterans, first responders and their families. As for the Restaurant Impossible episode, which focused on a restaurant in the Southern End, that did not end well, as the restaurant closed prior to the episode’s airing in March 2012.

The renowned restaurateur and founder of World Central Kitchen, José Andrés, appeared in Lancaster in September 2019 in support of Lancaster’s CHI St. Joseph Children’s Health, which is part of Catholic Health Initiatives’ commitment to create healthy communities across the U.S. (CHI was instrumental in reviving the Market House in Columbia.) In addition to speaking to a packed house, Andrés signed copies of his book, We Fed an Island. Wck.org.

If you enjoy rustic, “old country” Italian cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, then LUCA is the place for you. Locals aren’t the only ones taking notice of this Lancaster County gem. Food Network’s Alton Brown has eaten at LUCA multiple times and has given it rave reviews after each visit. In 2020, owner and chef Taylor Mason was nominated for a James Beard Award in the Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic category. He and his staff even prepared an Italian Supper at the James Beard Foundation in New York in August 2019. Mason, a Maryland native, attended the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. He spent several years in Napa Valley working for private clients and wineries before returning to the East Coast and settling in Lancaster.

LUCA’s seasonal menu features simple dishes, which aren’t necessarily what you will find at other Italian restaurants. Expect lighter dishes during the spring and summer and heartier, richer menu options in the fall and winter. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available. Other specialties include handmade pastas, salumi and antipasto, simple roast meats and seafood. Their Italian-focused beverage program represents wines from all over Italy, craft cocktails inspired by Italian bar culture and an extensive Amaro collection.

LUCA’s pizzas proved so popular that the restaurant expanded to add a location that specializes in pizza, as well as snacks, salami, salads and desserts. Located at The Crossings at Conestoga Creek, the pizzeria’s well-rounded bar menu includes cocktails, spirit-free, beer, wine and Amaro. This is a selforder, no-reservations-style restaurant. Lucalancaster.com and Lucapizzeria.com.

Another James Beard-nominated restaurant, Horse Inn, has a storied past, as it dates to the 1920s. The building was originally a carriage house until the Shaub family renovated the hayloft into a speakeasy for neighbors to congregate and share a drink. The original horse stalls were moved upstairs to enhance the ambiance. The restaurant has carried the name Horse Inn since 1935. Ten years ago, Matt and Starla Russell became its owners. Matt, a Lancaster native, met Starla in Charleston, South Carolina, where both attended Johnson & Wales. After graduating, the two remained in Charleston, with Matt working as a chef under such James Beard Awardwinning chefs as Sean Brock, and Starla concentrating on restaurant management. The couple continue those roles at the Horse Inn, where the menu includes a nod to their time in Charleston with the Southern dish, shrimp & grits.

The iconic restaurant’s drink offerings have earned nationwide acclaim. In 2020, Horse Inn was nominated for a James Beard Award in the Outstanding Bar Program. Purchasing a cocktail at Horse Inn, which offers a speakeasy vibe, is a must. Choose from either their list of classic cocktails or pick a seasonal concoction. All their bitters and syrups are made in-house, and all juices are fresh squeezed. Local and regional beers are also available, including St. Boniface, Yards Brewing, Yuengling and Ploughman Cider.

As for food, fresh ingredients are sourced from local farms and purveyors, including Stoltzfus Farms, Lapp Family Farm, Groff’s Veggies, Lancaster Coffee Roasters and more. The menu is tweaked seasonally, but some of the restaurant’s well-known dishes remain on the menu year-round, including Horse Fries, the Horse Inn Cheeseburger and, of course, their famous Tips N’ Toast. Horseinnlancaster.com.

LUCA’s Taylor Mason prepping dinner at the James Beard Foundation in New York. Facebook photo.

If you love food, you’ll love it here.

If you love food, you’ll love it here.

Enjoy many possibilities at Southern Market thanks to 13 unique chef stations with flavors from around the globe—plus Bar 1888, featuring specialty cocktails, wine, and a rotating beer selection. All under one roof in the heart of Lancaster City.

Enjoy many possibilities at Southern Market thanks to 13 unique chef stations with flavors from around the globe—plus Bar 1888, featuring specialty cocktails, wine, and a rotating beer selection. All under one roof in the heart of Lancaster City.

Downtown Lancaster at the corner of Queen and Vine.

Downtown Lancaster at the corner of Queen and Vine.

100 S. Queen Street Lancaster, PA

100 S. Queen Street Lancaster, PA

southernmarketlancaster.com

southernmarketlancaster.com

Come for the History Come for the History

Stay for Dinner!

When Lancaster County became a tourist magnet back in the 1950s, most visitors were attracted to the area because of their curiosity about the Amish. Many were unaware of Lancaster’s rich history that dates to when Native Americans were the area’s sole inhabitants. By the late 1600s, the Amish, Mennonites, French Huguenots, Quakers and other religious sects began arriving, epitomizing the reason why William Penn launched his “Holy Experiment” whereby those seeking religious freedom were welcome to practice their beliefs in a place that became known as Pennsylvania. Lancaster County, which is celebrating its 295th anniversary this year, was an integral part of the push to the western boundaries of Penn’s Woods. Its wealth of natural resources and fertile farmland attracted settlers from all over Europe.

ollowing the American Revolutionary War battles that were fought in the Brandywine and Valley Forge areas, many of the wounded soldiers were sent to Ephrata and Lititz to recover. During the 1800s, the county served as a major route along the Underground Railroad. Fortunately, Lancaster is home to people who seek to preserve and celebrate our history, hence many of our small towns boast historical societies, organizations and museums that have done stellar jobs in doing so.

Over the course of the last 70 years, Lancaster has developed many other avenues that are attracting visitors. The arts are one reason, as our downtowns are brimming with

galleries and other venues. The Fulton Theatre stages productions that rival those of Broadway. The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra is top notch and in summer our community parks are filled with music lovers. Our craft shows and makers markets serve as reminders of the creative talent that Lancaster harbors.

The great outdoors is attracting those who want to commune with Mother Nature. The choices know no bounds and include hiking along our many rail trails, kayaking our waterways and bicycling our backroads. Lancaster County even boasts a wolf sanctuary!

Lancaster’s latest attraction centers on the culinary arts. You can literally experience a taste of the world in Lancaster. The choices are endless and

range from small cafés to a food hall that makes its home in a market house that now serves as a glowing example of adaptive reuse. Our legendary smorgasbords remain an important part of Lancaster’s dining scene, but adventurous visitors are also embracing the opportunity to sample food from such places as France, Italy, Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, all points of Asia and even Africa.

Lancaster is also home to a plethora of breweries, wineries and distilleries. It’s also home to Lancaster Central Market, which is regarded as the country’s oldest continually operating public farmers’ market.

We’ve chosen four areas of the county that will allow you to fully experience all that Lancaster has to offer. Enjoy!

BY SUE LONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK GOULD

Strasburg Strasburg

Speckled Hen

Driven by a passion for community, fresh food and quality coffee, entrepreneurs Ryan and Janae Dagen opened Speckled Hen in 2015. “I can’t believe it’s been almost 10 years,” Janae says of their flourishing café. “The name was inspired by our passion for celebrating diversity and valuing community. We believe that the unique attributes or ‘speckles’ that we each have is what makes community so rich and beautiful,” Janae continues. “We also chose the icon of the Hen as a symbol of our farm-to-table approach.”

Eggs are a key element of the menu, sourced directly from Janae’s parents at Runnymede Farm in Quarryville, where she grew up. In addition, the Dagens partner with other farms and local purveyors for products such as beef, produce, dairy products and coffee.

Breakfast is served all day and includes omelettes, bowls, quiche, sandwiches and more. Baked goods and pastries are made in-house and include a selection of gluten-free and vegan treats. The lunch menu consists of burgers, wraps, paninis, veggie dishes, salads and more. Desserts and a wide selection of beverages – in addition to coffee, espresso, tea and latte, there are refreshers such as lavender and strawberry lemonade –are also on the menu. A kid’s menu is available, as well.

Upstairs, you’ll find the Bespoke Taproom, where Bespoke craft beer is available, along with cocktails

made with Pennsylvania spirits, wine (from Waltz) and cider.

Bespoke Brewing is a venture that the Dagens launched in 2020, partnering with Jon Sager on the project. What began as a brewery and a small taproom grew into a full-scale brew pub in 2023. Again, the focus is on local and the menu has more of a pub-fare focus. The two entities dovetail, as Speckled Hen is open for breakfast and lunch, while Bespoke welcomes lunch and dinner guests.

For more information, visit Speckledhencoffee.com and bespokebrewingco.com.

A Little History

Welcome to one of the state’s most picturesque towns. Credit for that goes in part to the establishment of the Historic District, which ensures that homes and buildings in a designated area are restored and maintained according to guidelines that were established in 1976. In all, more than 200 homes and buildings (representing a wide span of eras and architectural styles) comprise the district.

European settlement dates to the late 1600s, when hunter/trader, Pierre Bezaillon, arrived in the area, paving the way for other French Huguenots from the Alsace region to follow. People of German and Swiss heritage (including Amish and Mennonites) also settled the area.

As the village was located along the Conestoga Road, it instantly became a major thoroughfare for commerce and those making their way west. The village became known as Strasbourg in the mid-1700s, later reverting to its present-day spelling. It was during this time period that Strasburg grew, as the descendants of the Dougharty and Kendig families made the decision to sell parcels of the combined 300 acres they had inherited. This led to the growth of business opportunities and with it, the village’s population. By 1800, only Lancaster City surpassed Strasburg in terms of wealth and population.

Another aspect of Strasburg’s economic success was the Strasburg Rail Road. Chartered in 1832, it provided a link (for freight and travelers) to points east and west. Saved from demise in the late 1950s, it is now regarded as the oldest continually operating railroad in North America and as the mostvisited heritage railroad in the continental U.S.

Out and About

The success of the Strasburg Rail Road (strasburgrailroad.com) led to Strasburg becoming known as “Train Town USA.” In addition to the Strasburg Rail Road, you’ll find

On the cover:

From Speckled Hen: French Toast topped with strawberries and blueberries and a dusting of sugar, and accompanied by candied-bacon. The antioxidant-rich Blue Butterfly Tea Latte is comprised of herbal blue butterfly pea flower, choice of milk and lavender syrup.

The French Toast is joined by the Farmers Best Omelette platter that entails farm-fresh eggs stuffed with broccoli, peppers, sautéed onions, spinach, portobello mushrooms and garlic humus. It’s topped with Feta cheese and served with potatoes, toast, and coffee.

Top to bottom:

Climb aboard the Strasburg Rail Road and travel to Paradise. The railroad hosts culinary-related events on a regular basis.

The menu is wide-ranging at the Fireside Tavern. Strasburg, which is a very walkable town, is known for its dedication to maintaining the period architecture that defines the Historic District.

attractions such as the Railroad Museum of PA (rrmuseumpa.org), the Choo Choo Barn (choochoobarn.com), and the National Toy Train Museum (tcatrains.org).

Other attractions include Sight & Sound Theatres (sight-sound.com), Cherry Crest Adventure Farm (cherrycrestfarm.com), Village Greens Miniature Golf (villagegreens.com) and the Lancaster County Art Association galleries (lcaaonline.org). The Strasburg Heritage Society (strasburgheritagesociety.org) offers events such as garden and holiday home tours each year. Strasburg also traditionally hosts the area’s first Mud Sale each February.

Other Dining Destinations

Casey Jones’ Restaurant

Climb aboard and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in a restaurant that makes its home in train cars. The menus are sure to please everyone in your party. The scenery – from farm fields to the Strasburg Rail Road – is unsurpassed. Redcaboosemotel.com.

Fireside Tavern

The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. A cozy tavern and dining rooms provide the settings for dinner. The menu offers a wide range of appetizers, entrées, desserts and more. (Don’t miss Fireside’s signature tomato bisque.) Dsfireside.com.

The Tavern by Spring House

Spring House Brewery’s lineup of craft beer is accompanied by a pub menu that features shared plates, handhelds and platters, salads and more. Springhousebeer.com

Hershey Farm

Following a devastating fire in 2023, the rebuild of the farm’s restaurant is slated to be completed this spring. The new dining complex will include a restaurant (the Grand Smorgasbord), a café and the bakery. Hersheyfarm.com.

Strasburg Creamery Café

The café menu includes coffee drinks, signature sandwiches, local baked goods and more. For dessert, stop by the adjoining ice cream parlor. Strasburg.com/Strasburg-creamery.

Agape Café & Grille

Incredible breakfast platters, decadent sandwiches, smoked meats, fresh salads, gourmet desserts and a wide selection of beverages from the coffee bar define the menu. Plus, Beautiful Home Interiors adjoins the restaurant. Agapecafeandgrill.com.

Fulton

Steamboat Inn

Dine aboard a steamboat without leaving the port. Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat, was born just south of the Strasburg area. Huckleberry’s Restaurant (and Huck’s Tavern) offer breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch menus. Fultonsteamboatinn.com

The Strasburg Creamery and Café is a popular place for tourists and locals to take a break.

From classic cocktails & craft beers to rustic Irish dishes & fresh fare, aims to provide

From classic cocktails & craft beers to rustic Irish dishes & fresh fare, aims to provide

From classic cocktails & craft beers to rustic Irish dishes & fresh fare, aims

Lancaster City Lancaster City

Diyo Fusion

Lancaster City has become known for its dining scene, notably the many ethnic restaurants that now exist. From Asian to Italian, from French to Latino, no doubt you’ll be able to expand your palate by visiting the city. One such restaurant is Diyo Fusion, which opened late last year and is owned by Mohan Pradhan, whose home country is Nepal.

Ten years after opening his wildly popular restaurant, Himalayan Curry & Grill (one visitor called it the “greatest hits of Indian food”), Mohan decided to expand and pay tribute to his Nepalese homeland. Diyo Fusion made its debut in Ewell Plaza in late 2023. Like Himalayan, it gained an instant following.

Mohan, who has been a chef for nearly 30 years, left his native Nepal in the mid ’90s and settled in Canada. In 1998, he moved to New York, and four years later, arrived in Lancaster, where he worked for an Indian restaurant for nearly 20 years.

Like most ethnic and regional cuisines, Nepalese food is a blend of flavors. Mohan, who describes Nepalese food as a “fusion of Indian and Chinese fare,” credits fresh herbs for the milder flavor that results. “Fresh herbs are essential,” he notes.

At Diyo Fusion, he is particularly

proud to offer Momo, a signature Nepalese dumpling dish that entails ground/minced meat that is steamed and served with a sauce called Achar. He points out that the dumpling concept developed in Nepal. As often happens, classic dishes such as Momo evolve, and Mohan reports that today it can be made from any combination of ground meat, vegetables, tofu, cheese and other ingredients.

That premise led to Diyo Fusion’s concept of allowing guests to “design” their own meals via a cafeteria-style serving system. In addition to Momo, the menu offers bowls, wraps, Sekuwa (a chicken dish) and more. Beverages made from papaya, hibiscus and other fruits/florals are available.

The restaurant’s décor also pays homage to Nepal via artwork and other items that Mohan sources during his trips home.

For more information, visit diyofusion.com.

A Little History

Lancaster was part of the Penn’s Woods Charter (1681) and mirrored William Penn’s vision of welcoming people of all religions, thus it attracted European immigrants from such countries as Germany, Switzerland, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, England and France. (Churches denoting all denominations dot the city, with many offering very historic and interesting graveyards.) Originally called Hickory Town, it was later renamed Lancaster in

honor of John Wright’s hometown in England. James Hamilton laid out the town in 1734. It became an incorporated borough in 1742. During the American Revolution, Lancaster served as the nation’s capital for one day on September 27, 1777. It became a chartered city in 1818.

Famous historical figures associated with Lancaster include the first President to hail from Pennsylvania, James Buchanan; the House of Representatives’ Civil Warera abolitionist, Thaddeus Stevens; Andrew Ellicott, who helped to map out the Lewis & Clark Expedition; Dr. Edward Hand, who crossed the Delaware with Gen. George Washington; artist Charles Demuth, who was at the forefront of the American Modern style of painting; F.W. Woolworth, who launched his first store here; Milton Hershey, who began his candy-making career in Lancaster with caramels; and Olympian Barney Ewell, who won gold and silver medals (track) at the 1948 games.

Out & About

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, dining out or the arts, Lancaster City offers it all. Be sure to visit Lancaster Central Market, which is regarded as the oldest publicly owned and continuously operated farmers’ market in the country (centralmarketlancaster.com). The Fulton Theatre, which was built on the site of a pre-revolutionary jailhouse, underwent a complete renovation in the late ’90s and now offers top-notch Broadway-style entertainment (thefulton.org).

If art interests you, Lancaster is

From Diyo Fusion (clockwise from top left): Naan bread; Momo (dumplings filled with minced chicken) and Achar dipping sauce; and marinated chicken served with Diyo rice (infused with mint, peas, carrots and raisins) and Timur-seasoned potatoes. It’s all served with a refreshing beverage made from hibiscus.

filled with a wide range of galleries and museums. The Demuth Museum pays homage to ground-breaking artist, Charles Demuth, who was at the forefront of the American Modern movement (demuth.org). To see the work of Lancaster’s modern-day artists, visit the galleries on Gallery Row, including Red Raven, Liz Hess and Frieman Stoltzfus. A good way to explore the galleries is during First Friday festivities, which are held evenings during the first Friday of each month (visitlancastercity.com).

If period architecture interests you, be sure to visit Wheatland, the home of President James Buchanan from 1848-1868. While the exterior is reflective of Federal styling, the interior rooms mirror the Victorian era. Wheatland shares the property with LancasterHistory, which offers exhibits, a gallery and a genealogy/ research center (lancasterhistory.org).

Children will enjoy visiting the North Museum of Nature and Science (northmuseum.org) and The Lancaster Science Factory (lancastersciencefactory.org).

Events surrounding the abolishment of slavery come to life at Bethel AME Church, where Living the Experience conveys its role in the Underground Railroad through a reenacted and interpretive program (bethelamelancaster.com).

Other Dining Suggestions

As we said, Lancaster City is home to a wide range of restaurants, brew pubs, cafés and even a food hall!

Belvedere Inn

Located in a period (1860s) building, the restaurant underwent a makeover ahead of its 25th anniversary in 2023. The menu is thoroughly modern, the bar is friendly and there’s weekend entertainment in Crazy Shirley’s Lounge. Note: Vescor Restaurant Group also owns C’est la Vie (French bistro), Josephine’s (focus on seafood) and 401 Prime (modern steakhouse). Belvederelancaster.com.

Bistro Barberet

Chef/owner Cedric Barberet was the winner of a dessert contest on Food

Network. But before you indulge in the restaurant’s delectable desserts, savor the French-inspired menu. Barberetlancaster.com.

Annie Bailey’s Irish Public House

Inspired by Irish pub hospitality, Annie Bailey’s offers traditional Irish fare, as well as modern American cuisine. Needless to say, the beer and whisky selection is phenomenal. Anniebaileys.com.

LUCA

Rustic Italian cuisine – courtesy of wood-burning ovens – is the star attraction at this restaurant that makes its home in what was once a warehouse, epitomizing the adaptivereuse building concept. The bar is known for its extensive Amaro selections. LUCA also operates Pizzeria LUCA at The Crossings at Conestoga Creek. Lucalancaster.com.

Yorgo’s

Classic Greek fare is on the menu at Kefi, Yorgo’s beautiful secondfloor dining spot. If steak or seafood is what you crave, they are on the menu, as well. The first floor is home to a bar and pub-style menu. Yorgoslancaster.com.

Photo of Downtown Lancaster by Jordan Bush.

John J. Jeffries

Seasonal, sustainable and farm fresh define the menu at this beautifully appointed restaurant that is located at the Lancaster Arts Hotel. Johnjjeffries.com.

Lombardo’s Restaurant

Family-owned since 1946, Lombardo’s is now being led by a third-generation family member who fully renovated the building and added contemporary Italian fare to family favorites. Lombardosrestaurant.com.

Decades

Old-school video games, a bowling alley, a friendly bar, décor from House of Cards and a fun menu now fill what was once the cavernous Stahr Armory. Decadeslancaster.com.

Plough

Located at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, local, seasonal, organic, farm fresh and sustainable define the ingredients that comprise Plough’s menus. Ploughrestaurant.com

Southern Market

Designed as a farmers’ market by architect C. Emlen Urban in 1888, Southern Market is now a beautiful food hall whose vendors literally offer a taste of the world. Southernmarketlancaster.com.

Flora’s

The Latin-fusion menu offers a taste of such places as Colombia, Peru, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Brazil and Puerto Rico. The restaurant also serves as an art gallery, as the work of Abner Gonzalez fills its walls. Florasrestaurant.com.

Issei Noodle

This popular restaurant recently relocated to a much larger location. The menu is a fusion of Vietnamese and Japanese cooking and specializes in ramen. Isseinoodle.com

Cabalar Meat Co.

Who doesn’t crave a burger now and again? If a burger is on your mind, Cabalar’s are the best! Cabalarmeatco.com.

Passerine

This café, restaurant and bottleshop is a celebration of fresh ingredients and regional food. The bottleshop is stocked with items such as cider and wine that have been sourced from cideries and wineries on the East Coast and Appalachia. Cafepasserine.com

Lombardo’s has remained family owned since it was founded in 1946.

Southern Market, which dates to 1888, is now a modern food hall.

The artwork at John J. Jeffries echoes its emphasis on honoring Lancaster’s agricultural heritage.

In the mood for a burger? Head for Cabalar Meat Co.

Route 23 Route 23

LEOLA, BAREVILLE, NEW HOLLAND, BLUE BALL, CHURCHTOWN

Funck’s Restaurant & Bar

One of nearly a dozen regional restaurants owned by brothers Alan and Matt Funck, who grew up in the industry, the Leola location encapsulates Funck’s tagline: Eat. Drink. Enjoy.

Once the home of a family restaurant, the location has undergone a metamorphosis and is now a quasi-industrial yet modern gastropub that offers guests the choice of several cozy dining rooms, an indoor/outdoor bar area and an expansive outdoor patio that utilizes “igloos” for cold-weather months.

The lunch/dinner menu offers a selection of appetizers, salads made with fresh, local ingredients, a wide choice of sandwiches, imaginative burgers and tacos, entrées and desserts.

The bar is outfitted with a wall that holds 115 taps that deliver a wide selection of craft beer. Handcrafted cocktails, wine and zero-proof drinks are on the menu, as well. Happy Hour, complete with a special small plates menu, is held daily. Live music can be heard Friday and Saturday nights.

For more information, visit Funcks.com/leola

A Little History

The Route 23 corridor is rich in history. Settled by European immigrants in 1723, Leola was

originally part of Bareville, which was founded by Andrew Bare and became the site of one of the colonies’ first distilleries. Ingredients for spirits and beer were in such high demand that area farmers devoted a majority of their crops to distilling. In 1896, Leola became its own entity. The name was derived from two names, Leacock (the township in which it is located) and the suggested name of Glenola.

Traveling east, New Holland is your next stop. John Diffenderfer is credited as being its first settler. He arrived in Philadelphia from the German Palatinate in 1728 and headed west. Others followed, notably the Amish, Mennonites and members of other Plain sects. The heavily forested area was balanced by fertile fields, thus establishing the area’s agricultural roots.

When Lancaster County was established in 1729, the area was designated as Earl Township, hence the town became known as East Earl. When a post office was established in 1802, a new name was suggested. New Holland honors the people of Holland, who aided those who were leaving Europe for the New World. New Holland is celebrating its 125th anniversary as a borough this year.

Agriculture led to the creation of one of the world’s best-known manufacturers of farm equipment.

The New Holland Machine Shop was founded by Abe Zimmerman in 1899. The entrepreneur not only repaired equipment but produced innovative products. Today, it is known as Case New Holland and is regarded as the second-largest manufacturer of agricultural equipment in the world.

Continuing east, your next stop is Blue Ball. One of the county’s more “colorfully” named hamlets, it derives its name from The Sign of the Blue Ball, a hotel established at the crossroads of two Indian trails. It was owned by Irish immigrant John Wallace, who positioned a blue ball at the hotel’s entrance. The crossroads village embraced the identity and in 1833, Blue Ball became its official name. The building endured until 1997, at which time it was razed.

Travelling along Route 23, you’ll be treated to vistas of farmland and the Welsh Mountains. Goodville, which was established in 1815, is named in honor of Peter Good, an early settler.

The final stop is Churchtown, which is so-named for the number of churches that were established. Originally settled by Welsh immigrants, the town is home to Bangor Episcopal Church, which is one the first Church of England congregations to be formed in the colonies. The Churchtown/Narvon area prospered during the late 1700s due to the rise of the iron industry.

Out and About

Factory tours at Case New Holland are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1 p.m. (Visit newholland.com or call 717-355-1588 for reservations.) The New Holland Historical Society operates a museum at the Kauffman Hardware complex that is open Thursdays and Saturdays (nhhistorical.com). Entertainment in the Park begins July 3 and continues on select

From Funck’s Restaurant & Bar: Lobster Tacos, Funck’s style, are made with Canadian lobster, Gulf shrimp, Mexican street corn slaw and queso fresco and are served with shishito ranch dressing. The dish is accompanied by an espresso martini that is made with vanilla vodka, Kahlua and fresh espresso.

dates through August 18, offering a wide range of musical entertainment (newhollandsummerarts.com).

Money Rocks County Park offers 300 acres of woodland to explore (lancaster.pa.us). Historic Poole Forge pays homage to the iron industry that once flourished in the area. It includes a covered bridge, a restored ironmasters mansion and lovely gardens (historicpooleforge.org).

The New Holland Farmers Fair, which was established in 1927, takes over the streets each fall.

This year’s dates are October 2-5 (newhollandfarmersfair.com). In Leola, Misty Creek Goat Farm, which is Amish-owned, offers European-style cheese and other goat-based products (mistycreekgoatfarm.net). Travel the

backroads and you’ll discover small greenhouses, roadside produce stands, quilt shops, furniture makers and more. Don’t miss the architecture in Churchtown.

Other Dining

Suggestions

Leola-Bareville

Gracie’s on West Main

This family-owned restaurant has become a Lancaster favorite. Madefrom-scratch is the mantra here …

meats are smoked, jams, dressings and sauces are made in-house, as are desserts. Bacon is the star attraction, as it’s used in breakfast dishes, salads, burgers, sandwiches and even drinks. Gracieslancaster.com.

Osteria Avanti

Located at the Inn at Leola Village, the Italian countryside is the focus of the menu. The menu’s rustic flavors are courtesy of produce grown in an onsite greenhouse and herbs that are grown in a garden on the property. Extensive wine list, craft beer and seasonal spirits infusions complement the menu. Innatleolavillage.com.

Every October, the New Holland Fair takes over the streets of the town. Photo by Jordan Bush.

Fox Meadows

Creamery

Lancaster’s favorite ice cream spot also has an impressive lunch menu that offers salads, soups, wraps and burgers, plus a wide selection of beverages. A kid’s menu is available. Be sure to save room for ice cream! Foxmeadows.com.

Eli’s Place at Achenbach’s

You haven’t lived until you’re tasted one of Achenbach’s famous Long Johns pastries. First, however, visit the bakery’s restaurant and enjoy a hearty breakfast or nourishing lunch. Some say “it’s like visiting Grandma’s house!” Achenbachs.com.

New Holland

Yoder’s Restaurant & Buffet

Order off the menu or be adventuresome and sample what the buffet has to offer. Each night offers a different focus. There are also breakfast, lunch and Sunday brunch buffets, as well as salad and dessert bars. Complex also features a market and a bake shop. Yoderscountrymarket.com.

Lickity Split

Located in the historic Kauffman’s Hardware building, this restaurant is pure fun! Reminiscent of an old

country store and an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, the décor is comprised of antiques, collectibles and memorabilia. The menu is filled with taste-tempting soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, grilled items and more. Save room for ice cream! Lickitysplit.info.

East Earl

Shady Maple Smorgasbord

This is the granddaddy of all smorgasbords, as it encompasses 200 feet of Pennsylvania Dutch favorites! Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. Special focused nights are held Monday-Thursday. It’s an experience! Shady-maple.com.

Clockwise from left: Selections from Shady Maple’s legendary smorgasbord. Fox Meadows now has a location in Leola. Bacon is the focus of the menus at Gracie’s on West Main in Leola.

The River Towns The River Towns

MARIETTA, COLUMBIA & WRIGHTSVILLE

John Wright Restaurant

What began as a popular Wrightsville sandwich shop has grown into a complex that includes a beautiful glass-enclosed restaurant, a pizza patio, a small gourmet market and a special events venue. As a bonus, John Wright offers an unrivaled view of the Susquehanna River. “We’re now the only restaurant with a view of the river,” says Jim Switzenberg, who has been the restaurant’s director of operations since 2010, of the area between Harrisburg and the lower Susquehanna. In Jim’s opinion, the location has enabled John Wright to become “a destination restaurant” that literally sits on the edge of Lancaster County. “The river is part of Lancaster County, so we’re right on the border of Lancaster and York counties,” he notes.

Freshness is a mantra of the restaurant in more ways than one. The menu emphasizes fresh, organic, sustainable, local and naturally raised/made food products. Jim even likes to introduce local curiosities such as ramps and pawpaws to the seasonal menus. Farther afield, tuna from areas such as the Outer Banks and shrimp from the Gulf Coast make their way to John Wright in just a day’s time.

John Wright’s friendly bar is now being overseen by a new mixologist, who, according to Jim, has created a menu with “a whole new vibe.” As for the Pizza Patio, a portion of it is now undercover, which will allow for it to be used even when the weather is a concern.

To learn more, visit jwrpa.com.

A Little History

All three towns saw European settlement during the same time period: Columbia in 1726, Marietta in 1727 and Wrightsville in 1732. John Wright, an English Quaker missionary who went on to become a ferry operator and judge, founded Columbia. His grandson, Samuel, is credited with laying out the town and naming it (1788) Columbia.

John Wright’s ferry business led to the development of Wrightsville, which became a major stopping point for travelers heading west. Marietta is named in honor of Mary Cook and Etta Anderson, the wives of the town’s earliest settlers. All three towns prospered during the 19th century due to industries such as smelting and commerce that grew around river transport and railroading.

The area will always be connected to the Civil War. Most notable are the events of June 28, 1863. Southern forces arrived in the Wrightsville area with plans to cross the Susquehanna River into Lancaster County and make their way to Harrisburg and Philadelphia. Union soldiers and townspeople in Columbia thwarted those plans by purposely burning the bridge that spanned the Susquehanna, thus eliminating the threat. The Battle of Gettysburg was waged a week later. The area was also a major route of the Underground Railroad.

Out and About

You can’t mention the River Towns area without pointing out

that the area has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Northwest Lancaster County River Trail stretches from Columbia north to the Dauphin County line and is perfect for hiking and biking. South of Columbia, you’ll find the Enola Low Grade Rail Trail that now stretches to Chester County. Parks, trails and conservation areas also abound on the west banks of the river. Kayaking is also popular.

The Susquehanna National Heritage Area, which pays homage to the historical significance and natural beauty of the river valley, is headquartered on the York side (Long Level) of the river at the Zimmerman Center for Heritage, and on the Lancaster side at Columbia Crossing River Trails Center (susqnha.org).

If you’re an architecture buff, both Columbia and Marietta represent prime examples of preservation and restoration. Wright’s Ferry Mansion in Columbia is a must-see for those interested in period furnishings. Columbia is also known for its antiques and collectibles shops and venues. Time “travelers” will want to visit the National Watch & Clock Museum (nawcc.org).

Marietta is home to the Old Town Hall Museum (mariettarestoration.org), as well as art venues and unique shops. Both Columbia and Marietta host summer garden tours. Columbia also hosts Halloween and Fourth Friday events, while Marietta is home to one of the state’s oldest holiday tour of homes, as well as a cherry blossom festival and an en plein air painting event.

From John Wright Restaurant: Shrimp and Grits is comprised of Gulf shrimp, pepperjack grits and Cajun seasoning. It’s paired with a white wine from the restaurant’s extensive wine list.

Other Dining Suggestions

Columbia

Hinkle’s Restaurant

A Columbia tradition – 131 years –where 120-plus items define the breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. The selection ranges from long-time local favorites to what’s trending. Plus, there’s an ice cream parlor and a mercantile shop. Hinklesrestaurant.com.

Columbia Market House

Dating to 1869, the market house

underwent extensive renovations in 2021 and now hosts vendors specializing in an array of items (fresh produce, baked goods and more), as well as prepared food and drinks that can be enjoyed in the dining area. Saturdays only. Columbiamarkethouse.org.

Bully’s

Located in a building dating to 1903, the interior décor is reflective of that time period. The menu, however, is thoroughly modern, offering selections from land and sea. Bully’s is famous for its Beer Bible, an extensive guide to all-things beer. Bullys-restaurant.com.

Prince Street Café

A Lancaster favorite, the café opened another location in Columbia in 2023. The menu offers a wide

selection of breakfast and lunch fare, hot and cold beverages and desserts. Gluten-free and vegan are a specialty. Princestreetcafe.com.

Union Station Grill

An extensive menu, a wide selection of beer and cocktails, live music and special events such as St. Practice Day make Union Station a fun stop. Unionstationgrill.com.

Griddles Malt Shop

Step back in time to the 1950s courtesy of classic diner décor and local memorabilia. The breakfast and lunch menus are also reminiscent of the good old days. Ice cream desserts are made with Basset’s products. Griddlescolumbia.com.

The Susquehanna River is now part of the Susquehanna National Heritage Area. Parks, natural areas and trails can be found on both sides of the river, making it a magnet for those who love to paddle, bike and hike. Photo by Jordan Bush.

Marietta

Molly’s Courtyard Café

Breakfast is served all day! Lunch items include grain bowls, salads and sandwiches. Coffee and espresso drinks are made with Zeke’s products. Don’t miss the patio. Mollyscourtyardcafe.com.

Railroad House Inn

Last year the Railroad House celebrated its 200th birthday. Here, you’ll find something for everyone. The dining rooms offer upscale dining in refined steampunk surroundings. Perry Street Cellar offers a a pub menu and ambiance

from fall to early spring. Outdoors, the patio is surrounded by gardens. The menus focus on seasonal cuisine, with local ingredients utilized as much as possible. Railroadhouseinn.com.

McCleary’s Pub

While the pub’s menu has a bit of an Irish accent, you’ll also find burgers, pasta, seafood and salads. Of course, with a name like McCleary’s, you’ll find an impressive selection of beer, whiskey, spirits and more. Entertainment is also on the menu. Mcclearyspub.com.

River Trail Brewing

If you’re looking for casual dining in the great outdoors, River Trail is

the place to go. The food and drink menus are expansive. Plus, you can bring your four-legged friend; there’s a canine-cuisine menu for them to enjoy. Rivertrailbrewing.com.

Shanks’s Tavern

Built by a retired riverboat captain in 1814, today Shank’s is owned by Bob Shank, whose grandparents bought the building from a brewer in the 1930s. Honoring the brewing tradition, Shank’s offers eight taps that constantly rotate to offer new selections. The food menu offers homemade soups, salads, flatbread pizza and more. Don’t miss the plaques on the building’s exterior that detail high-water marks from flooding. Shankstavern.com.

Extensive renovations at the Railroad House resulted in new venues such as this private dining room that is located in what was once the summer kitchen. Photo by Ben McMillan.

The Columbia Market House is once again filled with vendors.

River Trail Brewing offers an expansive dog-friendly outdoor dining area.

SUSTAINABLY Sourced

THE LEGACY OF LOMBARDO’S is built on a foundation of authentic flavors and exceptional ingredients. As each dish is simmered, served, and savored, guests will be delighted to know that each component is carefully sourced for freshness and taste—from the house-made pasta and cheese from Lancaster County dairy farms to the famous Kennett Square mushrooms and expertly proved Thom’s Bread. As a place rooted in family recipes and rich heritage, Lombardo’s believes in the magic of bringing all of these pieces together around a table with friends and family.

TUESDAY – THURSDAY

Lunch 11am-2:30pm  Dinner 4pm-9:30pm

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

Lunch 11am-2:30pm  Dinner 4pm-10pm