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Lancaster, Pennsylvania: A Culinary Destination on the Rise

In the heart of Pennsylvania, the city of Lancaster is emerging as a vibrant culinary hub, drawing inspiration from its rich agricultural heritage. Chef Ryan McQuillan, formerly of Porch & Proper and Mercato BYOB in Philadelphia, has recently made Lancaster his home, citing the region’s exceptional farm-to-table offerings as a key reason for his move. Now the executive chef at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, McQuillan describes the city as a “chef’s playground” where fresh, local ingredients are abundant.

Located about 70 miles east of Philadelphia, Lancaster City boasts a historic downtown filled with local cafes, art galleries, and restaurants. The surrounding landscape features nearly half a million acres of lush farmland, which has long been the backbone of its flourishing food scene. Produce, dairy products, free-range poultry, and pasture-raised meats are just a few of the local fare that contribute to the area’s gastronomic reputation.

To fully appreciate Lancaster’s culinary offerings, McQuillan suggests starting at the Lancaster Central Market, a nearly 300-year-old venue that operates on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The market is a treasure trove of local foods, featuring delectable treats such as Pennsylvania Dutch doughnuts, empanadas, and falafel. Just across the street, the hotel’s own Plough restaurant and The Exchange rooftop bar creatively highlight seasonal offerings and foraged ingredients. Notably, McQuillan incorporates pawpaw fruits—native to the region and known for their tropical flavors—into dishes like jam for cheese plates and a novel twist on banana pudding.

The culinary landscape of Lancaster is also influenced by its ancestral Amish farming community, which dates back to the early 17th century. However, the city also serves as a welcoming destination for immigrants and refugees, enriching its culinary diversity. This multicultural environment can be experienced through various local eateries, showcasing flavors from Latin America, Southeast Asia, Africa, and beyond.

For a taste of Venezuelan fare, Chellas stands out as an award-winning food truck offering arepas filled with honey barbecue-roasted pulled pork or sweet plantains. Authentic Asian flavors can be found at Rice and Noodle, where visitors can enjoy steaming bowls of pho and banh mi. Meanwhile, Issei, a noodle bar rooted in both Vietnamese and Japanese culinary traditions, has recently expanded to accommodate its growing popularity, now featuring Hi-Fi Izakaya with street food options like beef gyoza and sandos.

Furthermore, El Pueblito serves traditional Mexican dishes, while Himalayan Curry and Grill offers a selection of Nepalese and Indian delicacies, including vibrant curries and momos available during their lunch buffet.

In 2022, the historic Southern Market transformed from a farmer’s market into a bustling food hall, featuring diverse vendors offering everything from schnitzel to sushi. Luca was even nominated for a James Beard Award, recognized for its Italian classics prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Just a short distance away, Cabalar combines modern butchery with a restaurant experience, known for serving one of the best burgers in the state.

Newcomer Passerine, which opened in spring 2023, features a seasonal menu and a curated bottle shop, inviting diners to savor roasted duck and local produce in a cozy setting. For classic cuisine, dining at Horse Inn or Belvedere Inn offers an upscale pub experience, while John J. Jeffries, located in the Lancaster Arts Hotel, focuses on fine dining with an emphasis on sustainability.

Finally, for a sweet ending, Lancaster Sweet Shoppe serves Stroopies, Dutch stroopwafels made with cinnamon waffles and a homemade caramel filling—truly a local delicacy. And no visit would be complete without a stop at Fox Meadows Creamery for exceptional ice cream or a trip to Shady Maple, renowned as the largest smorgasbord in the nation, featuring a vast spread of Pennsylvania Dutch culinary delights, including the essential shoofly pie.

Source
www.foodandwine.com