Dine at These Unforgettable Special Occasion Restaurants in Lancaster
Many of our guests at After Eight Bed and Breakfast book one of our romantic and well-appointed suites to celebrate a special day, like Valentine's Day or a birthday or anniversary. When it comes to finding a local restaurant befitting these special celebratory occasions, our guests are looking for a spectacular dining experience that will guarantee an unforgettable evening.
Sure, there are plenty of restaurants that focus on delicious and hearty Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. But if you want a next-level culinary treat, Lancaster's fine-dining venues have you covered. Here are six of our favorites that offer a stellar dining experience from the moment you walk in the door to your last bite of dessert. Bon appétit!
The Belvedere Inn │ 402 N. Queen St., Lancaster
Known for its impeccable service and contemporary American cuisine, The Belvedere Inn is an upscale restaurant perfect for any special occasion. It's located in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion built in 1869, providing guests the perfect blend of elegance and sophistication. Artfully prepared entree choices include steak, duck, lamb, seafood and more. And don't miss the piano bar, where you can enjoy a cocktail and live jazz music.
Citronnelle │ 110 W. Orange St., Lancaster
This French-inspired establishment is an enchanting, intimate spot that treats seasonal, local ingredients with the utmost respect. The menu at Citronnelle is an exquisite fusion of French flavors with global influences from Asia and Africa. Each dish is a masterpiece in itself, from creamy crab croquettes to classic grass-fed steak frite to the signature Citronnelle soufflé for dessert. Don't forget to take along a bottle of your favorite Lancaster County wine to this BYOB restaurant.
John J. Jeffries │ 300 Harrisburg Ave., Lancaster
Arguably one of Lancaster's best fine dining restaurants, John J. Jeffries presents a delightful blend of contemporary American and farm-to-table fare. Located in the Lancaster Arts Hotel, John J. Jeffries is committed to sustainable, locally and ethically sourced ingredients, resulting in fresh, creative dishes like local, grass-fed dry-aged beef meatballs with saffron risotto and tomato sauce. On a nice summer evening, be sure to ask for seating on the terrace.
Josephine's Downtown │ 50 W. Grant St., Lancaster
Located in the heart of downtown Lancaster near the Fulton Theatre, Josephine's Downtown is the perfect place to dine in style before a show. This elegant French-style bistro delivers creative, scratch-made fare that focuses on locally sourced ingredients — like the comforting braised short rib or buttery A5 Japanese waygu striploin. From the mouthwatering food to the impeccable service and ambience, the sophistication of Josephine's Downtown is evident during every moment of your dining experience.
Gibraltar │ 488 Royer Drive, Lancaster
If you're craving the best seafood you've ever eaten, then book a table at Gibraltar. For 25 years, Gibraltar has delivered extraordinary dining, specializing in seafood and wild-caught fish of the highest quality. The culinary team prides itself on its elegant yet approachable dishes, like whole roasted branzino or lobster fettuccine. Or treat yourself to an impressive selection of caviar and raw oysters. Whatever you choose, Gilbraltar will make for an unforgettable evening!
The Log Cabin │ 11 Lehoy Forest Drive, Leola
The Log Cabin served its first customers as a speakeasy during Prohibition. In 1933, it became a restaurant and has changed hands only a few times in its long history. The Log Cabin has 12 dining rooms (that's right, 12!), each one exuding rustic warmth and charm to create a welcoming ambiance. The Log Cabin's executive chef embraces a farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing the freshest local ingredients for the restaurant's diverse menu. From classic American favorites to innovative creations, you can taste how each dish is crafted with great care and attention to detail.
