Lancaster: Not just for the Amish
By Dana-Leigh Formon
Synonymous with giant Amish markets and smorgasbords, Lancaster, PA might just seem like a trip that someone from Philadelphia might take once (just to "see what's out there") and call it a day. The same goes for those looking for a mind-blowing eating experience. But while many picture Lancaster as being a quaint and pleasant tourist or retirement destination, the food presence in the town is much more expansive than some would expect.
Ditch the ideas of chicken and dumplings, meatloaf, and shoofly pie, and instead picture ethnic cuisine and restaurants that push the boundaries of the stereotype Lancaster has received. With trendy, delicious, and downright fun places to fill stomachs, Lancaster could easily be the undiscovered gem of modern-day fare.
Time to Eat the Doughnuts: The Fractured Prune
With a doughnut menu almost as insane as the name, and the woman it's named after, this restaurant has been featured in newspapers all throughout town and the country! Hailed as some of the best doughnuts in town and in America, this breakfast and lunch joint is most known for its brightly colored glazes and plethora of toppings for not only its specialty doughnuts, but for customers who choose to create their own (and what other doughnut shop do you know of that lets you do that?) The possibilities are literally endless…unless you plan on eating all of the nine thousand doughnut combinations from their menu.
To try: Blueberry Hill, Chocolate Covered Cherry
255 N. Queen Street
Lancaster, PA 17602
Authentic Vietnamese Amid the Amish: Rice & Noodles
Originally a big hit throughout Louisiana, the family masterminds behind Rice & Noodles decided to relocate to be with family in Lancaster after their original string of restaurants suffered massive damage from Hurricane Katrina. The change of scenery did not change their concept though, and they are still dedicated to bringing fresh and authentic Vietnamese cuisine to their customers, regardless of location. From appetizers all the way to desserts and drinks, the menu shows no signs of French fries or Caesar salads for picky eaters and instead focuses on staples such as the banh mi and pho and even lesser-known dishes that are still delectable. A substantial number of items on their menu are also available with a gluten-free option, and everything is reasonably priced and affordable.
To try: Banh Mi, Com Tam Suon, and the family's dessert specialty…macaroons!
1238 Lititz Pike
Lancaster, PA 17601
www.riceandnoodlesrestaurant.com
Keeping it Local: John J Jeffries
John J Jeffries is the premiere place to find a fresh and sustainable, farm-to-table menu in Lancaster. The menu is not confined to any specific ethnicity and as long as the ingredients are local and organic, you can expect to find anything from Thai, to rustic American. The entrees are not the only things that deserve high praises though, as word on the street says JJJ's resident pastry chef leaves a dessert menu not to be ignored. Additionally, the restaurant carries over its commitment to delivering sustainable food to its libations, cycling through wines, beers, and cocktails based on the seasons and local harvests.
To try: A current favorite is the Jim Bim Bop, however this item may not be on the menu for long as the winter season transitions to spring.
300 Harrisburg Ave
Lancaster, PA 17603
Table Matters is an online magazine at the intersection of food, drink, and culture, published by Drexel University's Center for Cultural Outreach.