Foodie’s Guide to Lancaster City: Dinner Edition 2

Do you live in Lancaster and are tired of going to the same restaurant every week? Or are you visiting from out of town and you are looking for some local recommendations? As a Lancaster native, I’ve got you covered! Whatever the occasion is, the Foodie’s Guide to Lancaster City: Dinner Edition 2 can help!

And We’re Back!

If you have been around since before the pandemic, you probably saw a foodie guide or two show up in your feed. In 2019, I started off on a journey to round up the best of everything from breakfast to dessert. Well, 2020 got in the way of that, but we’re back! You loved The Foodie’s Guide to Lancaster City: Dinner Edition SO much, I decided to make a second one! There are so many incredible restaurants in Lancaster City, so keep your eyes peeled for many more. Whether you are in town for the weekend or you live here and want to try a new place, check out the Foodie’s Guide to Lancaster City: Dinner Edition 2.

1. The Exchange

25 S Queen St, Lancaster, PA 17603

Looking for a picture-perfect view of the city? The Exchange, Lancaster’s newest rooftop bar, is located 12 stories high on top of the Lancaster Marriott. This open-air, “all-weather” restaurant and bar is known for it’s seasonally rotating menu, which includes incredible wood fired pizzas. Executive Chef Ryan McQuillan seeks inspiration for his menu items from the local farms, and uses his PA roots to dream up classic dishes with some flair. The bar boasts a breathtaking view from inside and out, which means their craft cocktails can be enjoyed during any season. Book The Exchange for your next happy hour, date night, or special occasion!

Recommendations: Crispy Rock Shrimp, Bao Buns, ANY of the pizzas

2. Cabalar Meat Co.

325 N Queen St, Lancaster, PA 17603

Cabalar Meat Co. is the neighborhood hot-spot you never knew you needed! This butcher shop and eatery has quickly become a staple in the Historic District. Both adults and kids can find something to rave about on the meat-filled menu. While they specialize in meats, there are several vegetarian options for our plant-loving friends! Feeling thirsty? Nestled in the back of the restaurant is a Mad Chef Craft Brewing pop-up, which pairs perfectly with a juicy burger fresh off the grill. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, including their milkshakes! Lastly, you must try their mac and cheese at least once. It will change your life! If you couldn’t tell, you won’t be leaving the place hungry.

Recommendations: BBQ Bacon Burger, Chicken Parm, Pulled Pork Mac, Chocolate Milkshake (all paired with a flight of beer!)

3. Our Town Brewery

 252 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603

Our Town Brewery truly is “a brewery for everyone”! Locals have been flocking to Lancaster’s newest brew pub for more than just their beer. The restaurant features a smaller, rotating menu that includes daily themes such as “Cheesesteak Tuesday” and “Taco Thursday”. However, they currently appear to be most popular for their “Doo Wop Wednesday” when they feature a Smash Burger of the week and a limited-edition, milkshake-themed brew to compliment. Don’t have time to sit and eat? Grab some grub and beers to-go!

Recommendations: Grilled Cheese and Tomato, Philly Cheesesteak, BBQ Smash Burger

4. C’est la Vie Bistro

18 N Market St, Lancaster, PA 17603

Looking for an artisanal restaurant with a fun, French flare? This is it! Located off the alley by Central Market, C’est la Vie has made it’s mark on the City of Lancaster. Their seasonally rotating menu features locally sourced ingredients, brick oven pizzas, and hand crafted cocktails that will keep you coming back. If you are looking for a more intimate experience, ask for a seat inside the restaurant. However, if you want more of an authentic feel, sit outside in the alley. The surrounding architecture and exquisite service will make you feel like you are dining in Paris!

Recommendations: Baked French Onion, Mussels Beurre Monte, Chef Daniel’s Crab Cakes, Soppressata, The Central Market

5. Shot & Bottle

2 N Queen St, Lancaster, PA 17603

You can’t miss this gem, as it sits right in the heart of downtown Lancaster! Shot and Bottle boasts a large selection of Pennsylvania wine and spirits that pair perfectly with their locally sourced menu. Many of the ingredients are bought from local vendors at Central Market, which is a stones throw away. Stop in during the evening for an eclectic meal, hand crafted cocktail, and fantastic view of Penn Square. During the warmer months, outdoor seating is available and you can watch as the Lancaster nightlife unfolds. In the winter, the square is the location of the famous tree lighting ceremony. So make your reservations early for a prime seat of the show!

Recommendations: Lady Finch, BBQ Chicken Flatbread, Mussels Red

6. The Belvedere Inn

402 N Queen St, Lancaster, PA 17603

An evening at the Belvedere Inn is an elegant yet rejuvenating experience. For decades, the Belvedere has hosted people from all walks of life for every occasion. From the second you walk in, you will be greeted with an unforgettable ambiance that is like no other in Lancaster. The mood lighting and leopard print carpet will invite you on a journey that your taste buds will thank you for. Whether you are booking an anniversary dinner or searching for a happy hour spot after work, there is something for everyone! Also, check out their website for current information regarding live music in their jazz lounge located on the second floor.

Recommendations: Lobster and Crab Dip, Signature Belvie Bread, Surf and Turf Mac and Cheese, Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee

7. Double C

220 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603

The newest kid on the block showed up and made a lasting impression! Double C is a farm-to-table restaurant that prides itself on quality, locally sourced ingredients. They boast a menu filled with an array of grass-fed and free range meats, including burgers, quesadillas, and pulled pork sandwiches. However, most of the locals will tell you that they are known for their slammin’ margaritas and tacos. Since Double C was born just before the pandemic, they continue to offer take out if you want to enjoy your meal at home!

Recommendations: ANY margarita, Shrimp Tacos, Hand Cut Pig Fat Fried Potatoes, Not Your Grandma’s Mac and Cheese

8. Conway Social Club

28 E King St, Lancaster, PA 17602

The secret is out! Wait for the green light, knock, and enter into the era of prohibition as you make your way through Lancaster’s “speakeasy”. Conway Social Club is the first of it’s kind in the city. You’ll feel like you have been transported back to the Roaring ’20s as you dine surrounded by gilded chandeliers and ornate décor. Start your meal with an amuse-bouche and some small plates while you look over the cocktail menu. Conway prides themselves on their house-made tonics and tinctures that bring their beverages to life. Order a couple of plates for the table and pass them around! Be sure to make a reservation because space is limited!

Recommendations: Burrata Salad, Fish and Chips, Yellow Canary, Gnocchi

9. Hunger N Thirst

920 Landis Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603

Hunger N Thirst is the perfect restaurant for the beer connoisseur. This gastropub features over 20 craft beers on tap that pair perfectly with their eclectic menu. Start your meal off with a custom charcuterie board, assembled with meats and cheeses from around the world. There is something for everyone on the menu, from surf to turf. Pro tip: Don’t count out the French fries. They make a perfect small plate to share! Looking to create your own craft flight at home? Visit their bottle shop, where you can purchase from over 200 bottled beers.

Recommendations: Duck Tacos, Cuban Cigars, French Fries, Custom Charcuterie Board, Gnocchi; Sample their incredible beers on tap

10. Cork & Cap Restaurant

480 New Holland Ave, Suite 3000, Lancaster, PA 17602

Tucked away in the historic and restored community of Urban Place, the Cork and Cap Restaurant features Lancaster County-inspired dishes with modern flair. The halls are lined with exposed brick and warm leather, which provides a cozy, yet sophisticated dining experience. Featuring fresh and local ingredients, the exquisite dinner menu offers something for everyone. Pair your entree with one of their unique, craft cocktails for an even more memorable experience. Do you still have room for dessert after your generous meal? Grab a couple of spoons and drool over the Vanilla Bean Crème Brû·lée. You will not regret it!

Recommendations: Crab Cakes, Shrimp Scampi, Cajun Seafood Fettuccine (special), Exquisite Martini, Bartender’s Punch, Crème Brû·lée

Dear Friends…

I hope that the Foodie’s Guide to Lancaster City: Dinner Edition 2 was just as tempting as the first! I hope this will guide you to wonderful dining experiences with your loved ones, and that you will fall in love with Lancaster just as I have!

This post may contain affiliate links, though all items are 100% recommended and used by myself personally. This means that at no extra cost to you, minimal compensation may be earned from any items purchased while visiting this site. This is to provide the ability for me to maintain the blog at no extra cost to you! 

These restaurants in Foodie’s Guide to Lancaster City: Dinner Edition are in no particular order. New guides will be created as new restaurants are experienced. Many restaurants require street parking. However, there are handfuls of garages within walking distance around the city. Also, street parking is free after 6pm Monday-Saturday, and free on Sundays. Download the ParkMobile app for easy parking! Recommendations are encouraged for sit down restaurants.