9 Best Restaurants Open for Thanksgiving Dinner Lancaster – 2024
Thanksgiving in Lancaster, PA, is a food lover’s dream. Whether you’re searching for “food near me” or planning a special holiday meal, Lancaster has plenty of fantastic options. From the historic charm of The Belvedere Inn to the cozy, authentic vibe of Quips Pub, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy gourmet dishes, classic fish and chips, or hearty home-style meals. Here are some top spots to make Thanksgiving memorable with delicious food and a great atmosphere. Get ready to enjoy a wonderful dining experience this holiday season in Lancaster!
Best Thanksgiving Restaurants in Lancaster, PA, This Year
The Belvedere Inn
The Belvedere Inn in Lancaster is the perfect Thanksgiving spot, blending historic charm with modern elegance. The seating options are varied and inviting, including a cozy downstairs dining area, a charming outdoor terrace, and a lively upstairs bar and dining space. The food is outstanding, with dishes that are delicious and artfully presented. Dishes like gnocchi, a standout carrot salad, and perfectly cooked duck.
The crispy Belvedere Bread is a must-try crispy, perfect for soaking up sauces. For dessert, the mango cheesecake is a refreshing treat. Service is top-notch, with friendly, attentive staff ensuring a memorable dining experience. The combination of excellent food, beautiful seating, and exceptional service makes The Belvedere Inn a perfect choice for Thanksgiving in Lancaster.
Location & Contact
- Website: https://www.belvederelancaster.com/
- Phone: 717-394-2422
- Address: 402 N Queen St, Lancaster, PA 17603
On Orange
On Orange in Lancaster, PA, is the perfect cozy spot for breakfast. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it feel like a home away from home. Their strong coffee and thick artisan toast are fantastic, especially with a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or skin-on red potatoes. If you’re into pancakes, you’ve got to try their Swedish pancakes with apple sauce—they’re a treat. Their breakfast bar is a great option, especially for singles and couples.
The staff is super friendly, and the owner, Melissa, often greets everyone personally. From legendary roasted potatoes to delicious omelets, the menu is solid. You get a sweet surprise—two little chocolate chip cookies—with your check. On Orange is a Lancaster breakfast staple, promising a delightful start to your day.
Location & Contact
- Website: https://onorange.wordpress.com/menu/
- Phone: 717-299-5157
- Address: 108 W Orange St, Lancaster, PA 17603
Horse Inn
Horse Inn, a historic speakeasy in Lancaster, PA, offers a cozy, rustic ambiance with live music, adding to its charm. The farm-to-table menu is ever-changing and always fresh. Known for winning the best burger in Lancaster last year, the food is excellent. Try the Horse Fries, shrimp, grits, or the killer cheeseburger. The diverse menu features appetizers like tips ‘n toast and entrées such as steak tips and chicken dumplings.
Their cocktails are stellar, crafted to perfection by knowledgeable bartenders. The ambiance transports you back to the Prohibition era, making every visit a unique experience. Whether local or visiting, Horse Inn’s superb food, friendly service, and historic vibe make it Lancaster’s best bar/restaurant. Don’t miss out on this gem—it’s a true Lancaster institution!
Location & Contact
- Website: https://horseinnlancaster.com/
- Phone: 717-392-5528
- Address: 540 E Fulton St, Lancaster, PA 17602
Harvest Seasonal Grill
Harvest Seasonal Grill in Lancaster, PA, offers an exceptional farm-to-table dining experience with a co-op model, ensuring fresh, local ingredients. The seasonal menu changes regularly, making each visit unique. The restaurant boasts a beautiful, elegant ambiance for romantic dinners and larger gatherings. Guests rave about the excellent service and knowledgeable staff. Must-try dishes include Korean BBQ Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Grilled Chili-Lime Shrimp, and Organic Pork Potstickers.
Their diverse menu caters to all dietary needs, including gluten-free and plant-based options. The mocktails and desserts are equally impressive, like the peanut butter and s’mores. Harvest Seasonal Grill delivers a delightful takeaway vibe with a cuisine emphasizing health, freshness, and sustainability. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this restaurant is a must-visit for its superb food, attentive service, and welcoming atmosphere.
Location & Contact
- Website: https://harvestseasonal.com/
- Phone: 717-740-5282
- Address: 1573 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, PA 1760
Willow Street Restaurant
Willow Street Diner embodies the heart of Central Pennsylvania’s culinary traditions, serving up authentic dishes like real turkey, Salisbury steak, and mouthwatering homemade pies. Locals love the diner’s consistency, especially the open-faced turkey sandwich, corn cakes, and the endless soup & salad bar.
The staff are friendly and ensure every visit is enjoyable. It’s not just about the food—the diner’s cozy vibe feels like a warm hug, perfect for catching up with family or meeting new friends. And the portions? They’re hearty, especially during Sunday brunch! The friendly service and welcoming atmosphere make Willow Street Diner truly special. It’s more than a place to eat; it’s a hub of community spirit, where everyone feels at home and leaves with a full belly and a happy heart.
Location & Contact
- Phone: 717-464-4428
- Address: 2601 Willow Street Pike N #9510, Willow Street, PA 17584
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant offers a delightful experience, even on a bustling Saturday afternoon. Stepping inside, one is greeted with a surprisingly spacious yet cozy setting, complemented by convenient parking. The country schnitzel, salmon, and Cajun pasta are must-tries, each earning high praise for their taste and comfort food appeal. The schnitzel is perfectly paired with homemade mashed potatoes and garlicky sauteed spinach, offering a balance of flavors.
The mussel’s appetizer is substantial, while desserts like creme brulee and bread pudding are delightful. Their beers and cocktails stand out, far exceeding the typical offerings of chain breweries. Situated in a touristy area, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant manages to deliver exceptional food, fantastic drinks, and a warm ambiance that invites you back for more. It’s a gem worth discovering and revisiting for an enjoyable dining experience.
Location & Contact
- Website: https://ironhillbrewery.com/location/lancaster-pa/
- Phone: 717-291-9800
- Address: 781 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17603
Ida’s Cafe
Ida’s Cafe has a lovely menu that’s perfect whether you’re a breakfast person or prefer lunchtime delights. Their fluffy pancakes with various toppings, such as strawberries or chocolate chips, are always breakfast favorites. Savory options like the crab omelet and cheese steak omelet showcase their skill in cooking hearty and flavorful dishes.
For lunch, the Reuben sandwich, stacked with corned beef and sauerkraut, is a classic choice praised by many. The hot sandwiches, including the Chef’s omelets, are also highly recommended for a satisfying meal. Don’t miss out on their delicious breakfast sides, like extra crispy bacon and tender tips, perfectly complemented by a homemade vanilla cappuccino. Ida’s Cafe is not just about great food; it’s about creating a warm and welcoming dining experience.
Location & Contact
- Website: https://www.idascafe.com/
- Phone: 717-293-1311
- Address: 507 Rohrerstown Rd, Lancaster, PA 17603
Prince Street Cafe
Prince Street Cafe in Lancaster offers a delightful experience for coffee and food lovers alike. Whether grabbing a quick bite or settling in for work, this Cafe has you covered. Their menu covers delicious options like the cobb salad and lavender honey latte, cheesy grits with bacon, eggs, and tomatoes, avocado toast, and guacamole breakfast sandwich, sure to please your taste buds.
If you’re in the mood for breakfast, their roasted potato bowl and grits bowl are top-notch choices. The atmosphere at Prince Street Cafe is super cute and welcoming, making it a great spot to hang out with friends or enjoy a cozy meal alone. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring your visit is always pleasant. Don’t miss out on this gem of a cafe in Lancaster!
Location & Contact
- Website: https://princestreetcafe.com/
- Phone: 717-397-1505
- Address: 15 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603
Quips Pub
Quips Pub is a beloved spot in Lancaster known for its authentic British pub experience. People can’t get enough of the perfectly cooked fish and chips, which are crispy on the outside and tender inside. The cozy atmosphere with dart boards and a spacious bar adds to the charm. Many folks love coming on Monday nights for the wing specials and appreciate the wide selection of beers available.
The staff is friendly, and the overall vibe of the place is just like a traditional British pub. Whether you’re indulging in their famous fish and chips or trying out other menu items like fish tacos, Quips Pub promises a taste of Britain paired with excellent service. It’s no wonder why locals and visitors keep returning for more. If you’re in Lancaster and craving authentic pub fare, Quips Pub is worth visiting!
Location & Contact
- Website: https://www.quipspub.com/
- Phone: 717-397-3903
- Address: 457 New Holland Ave, Lancaster, PA 17602
Conclusion
No matter where you dine in Lancaster this Thanksgiving, you’ll indeed find a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food. These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines and settings to suit any preference. So, gather your loved ones and make this Thanksgiving an extraordinary occasion with a fantastic meal in Lancaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ambiance at Thanksgiving restaurants in Lancaster is warm and inviting, with cozy decor and festive autumn-themed touches, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends to gather and enjoy a delicious meal together.
The Belvedere Inn is the most famous restaurant for Thanksgiving in Lancaster.
Yes, many restaurants in Lancaster provide special events for Thanksgiving, such as live music performances, Thanksgiving-themed trivia nights, and family-friendly activities, creating a festive and memorable dining experience for guests.
Yes, these restaurants generally welcome families and offer a family-friendly atmosphere for all ages.
Most of these restaurants offer menu options for various dietary preferences, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan dishes.
Jane Doe is a passionate travel writer with a special love for Thanksgiving traditions around the world. With over a decade of experience exploring different cultures, Jane brings a unique perspective to her stories, highlighting the diverse ways people celebrate gratitude. Her vivid descriptions and heartfelt narratives transport readers to picturesque locations and festive gatherings. When she’s not on the road, Jane enjoys cooking up Thanksgiving feasts for her family and sharing her travel tips on her popular blog.
