When visiting Pennsylvania, be sure to try the state's signature dishes, including Shoofly Pie, Philly Cheesesteak, and Scrapple, which showcase the region's rich culinary heritage.
Quick Facts
Food Culture Overview
Pennsylvania's cuisine is defined by its rich agricultural heritage and the cultural influences of its early settlers, including the Amish, German, and Italian communities. The state's unique blend of traditional farming practices and urban culinary innovation has resulted in a distinct regional cuisine. Key influences on Pennsylvania's cuisine include the state's rural farming traditions, as well as the cultural exchange that occurred in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. The cuisine in Pennsylvania varies by region, with the southeastern part of the state, particularly Philadelphia, known for its cheesesteaks and soft pretzels, while the central and western regions are famous for their farm-to-table produce and Amish specialties.
The state's culinary identity is also shaped by its history, with many traditional dishes dating back to the early colonial period. Pennsylvania's cuisine is often characterized by its hearty, comforting dishes, which reflect the state's rural roots and the resourcefulness of its early settlers. From the Amish farms of Lancaster County to the urban eateries of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania's food culture is a vibrant reflection of the state's diverse heritage.
In addition to its traditional cuisine, Pennsylvania is also home to a thriving food scene, with many contemporary restaurants and chefs experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. The state's culinary landscape is constantly evolving, with a growing focus on local, sustainable, and artisanal foods. Whether you're visiting a traditional Amish market or a trendy urban eatery, Pennsylvania's food culture has something to offer every palate and preference.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Type | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philly Cheesesteak | sandwich | thinly sliced beef and melted cheese on a hoagie roll | Pat's King of Steaks, Philadelphia |
| Shoofly Pie | dessert | traditional Amish pie made with molasses and sugar | Bird-in-Hand Bakery, Lancaster |
| Scrapple | breakfast meat | mixture of pork, cornmeal, and spices, often served sliced and pan-fried | Dutch Eating Place, Philadelphia |
| Pierogies | dumplings | Polish-inspired dish filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat | Pierogies Plus, Pittsburgh |
| Whoopie Pie | dessert | classic Pennsylvania dessert consisting of two soft cakes filled with cream | The Whoopie Pie Co., Lancaster |
| Soft Pretzels | snack | twisted, salted pretzels often shaped into a loop or braid | Miller's Twist, Philadelphia |
| Apple Butter | spread | sweet and tangy spread made from apples, often served on bread or toast | Kitchen Kettle Village, Intercourse |
| Haluski | side dish | traditional Pennsylvania dish made with noodles, cabbage, and sometimes meat or bacon | S&D Polish Deli, Pittsburgh |
| Kielbasa | sausage | type of Polish sausage often served with peppers and onions | Kielbasa Kingdom, Philadelphia |
| Funnel Cake | dessert | deep-fried cake made with a sweet batter, often topped with powdered sugar | Funnel Cake Factory, Hershey |
Street Food & Snacks
- Soft Pretzels: a classic Pennsylvania snack, often sold by street vendors or at ballparks ($5-7)
- Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches: available at many street carts and food trucks throughout the city ($8-10)
- Funnel Cakes: a sweet treat often found at fairs and festivals ($6-8)
- Kettle Corn: a popular snack at outdoor events and markets ($4-6)
- Apple Cider Donuts: a seasonal treat often sold at farmers' markets and orchards ($5-7)
- Pierogies: sometimes sold as a street food, often served with sour cream or fried onions ($6-8)
- Scrapple Sandwiches: a breakfast or brunch option, often served on a hoagie roll ($6-8)
- Amish Whoopie Pies: a classic Pennsylvania dessert, sometimes sold by street vendors or at markets ($5-7)
Drinks
- Yuengling Beer: a local favorite, brewed in Pottsville, Pennsylvania
- Apple Cider: a popular fall drink, often served hot or cold
- Iced Tea: a refreshing summer drink, often sweetened with sugar or honey
- Lemonade: a classic drink, often made with fresh lemons and sugar
- Coffee: a staple in many Pennsylvania cafes and diners, often served with a side of pastry or dessert
- Birch Beer: a regional soft drink, made with birch oil and often served at fairs and festivals
Dining Customs
- Tipping is customary, with 15-20% of the total bill expected
- Reservations are often recommended, especially at popular restaurants
- Dress codes vary, but casual attire is generally acceptable
- Table manners are informal, but it's customary to wait for the host to indicate where to sit
- It's polite to try a little of each dish, especially when eating with locals
- Cash and credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or tips
Where to Eat
- Farmers' Markets: a great place to sample local produce and artisanal goods, such as the Philly Farm and Food Festival
- Food Trucks: often found in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, offering a variety of street foods and snacks
- Diners: classic American eateries, often serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Restaurants: ranging from casual to fine dining, with many options for every budget and cuisine
- Breweries: a great place to sample local beers and enjoy pub fare, such as the Yuengling Brewery in Pottsville
Food Markets & Food Experiences
- Reading Terminal Market: a historic market in Philadelphia, offering a wide variety of foods and goods
- Lancaster Central Market: a bustling market in the heart of Lancaster, featuring Amish specialties and local produce
- Pittsburgh Public Market: a weekly market in the Strip District, offering fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods
- Kitchen Kettle Village: a charming village in Intercourse, featuring shops, restaurants, and a farmers' market
- The Amish Farm and House: a working farm in Lancaster, offering tours and a chance to sample traditional Amish cuisine