As the Ephrata Borough contains many spectacular restaurants, we’ve rounded up 5 local favorites to share with you while you consider where to eat next.
Food is such a big part of what unites a community, and local restaurants, in particular, are where neighbors cross paths, trade stories, and mention community news. In addition to warming the stomachs of residents and visitors alike, restaurants make a business out of meals worth savoring and raving about. To share some of Ephrata’s favorites with the public, we’ve rounded up 5 local eateries that call Ephrata home.
Barry Fair and his wife, Kathy, started Brewster’s Bar-B-Que in April of 2005 when his love for grilling and her love for horses led to him wandering the local horse show grounds for “real food.” Originally born in a shed by the Quentin Riding Club grounds in Lebanon, Brewster’s pork shoulders and beef brisket became so popular that they established a trailside location in Akron and another location at the Hillside Public House at Doneckers in Ephrata. Their delicious fixings include brisket and pork smoked with hickory and oak, an original Brewster’s sauce recipe, homemade baked beans, as well as turkey breast, ribs, and Texas-style sausage. Other fixings include potato salad, chili and cornbread, and additional Southern fare—available for takeout and catering for events.
The Griddle & Grind Café & Creperie has been serving scrumptious crepes to the community since November of 2018. Owner Sierra’s dream was to start her own café after working in the gourmet coffee industry, and after meeting co-owner Shayleen, they started talking about doing just that. With the help of Bob Harter, a local figure at the former Ephrata’s Downtown Organization and owner of Black Forest Brewery, the two transformed the 1880s building at 20 W Main Street into the beautiful cafe that is Griddle & Grind today. With a welcoming atmosphere, sweet and savory crepes, and specialty coffee drinks featuring homemade dairy alternatives and flavored syrups, Griddle & Grind quickly became an Ephrata favorite. They are currently open for dine-in and takeout options.
For some casual American cooking, look no further than The Dutchmaid Deck, often referred to as The Deck. With lots of appetizing bar food and drinks, The Deck is attached to a local motel that features a large outdoor dining area. Their comfort food includes wings, mac and cheese, and burgers, and they often have live DJs bringing unique mixes to the dining and lounge experience. With super affordable prices, a large variety of brews, and a fun atmosphere, it’s easy to see why The Deck is a local favorite. Head to 222 North Reading Street for a beer and a hearty meal—or order takeout!
Initially, just a small shop on North State Street, CJ’s Deli and More has enjoyed so much success that it now includes a full-service restaurant on Main Street. As a family-based business with great service, great food, and great prices, people rave about CJ’s deli offerings, which include food inspired by the Dominican Republic heritage of owners Carmen Lager and Jose Ricar. CJ’s Deli and More was born after the two former co-workers dreamed of opening their own place serving the food they grew up loving to their community. Every day, the deli serves two types of rice, pulled pork, fried fish, stewed chicken, pepper steak, and a fried plantain dish called tostones as well as traditional deli menu items. Their empanadas are also homemade, and they’re well-loved by the community. Swing by their restaurant or for a quick treat stop!
Formerly known as Chris’s New York Pizzeria, Maria’s New York Pizzeria serves the Ephrata community delicious New York-style pizza along with pierogies, calzones, and mouth-watering fried appetizers like breaded mushrooms, breaded cauliflower, mozzarella sticks, jalapeno poppers, and more. Maria’s also offers wings, salads, hoagies, stromboli, pasta, steak, chicken steak, and stuffed pizza. While the restaurant currently isn’t open for dine-in due to COVID-19, they are still offering takeout, and their friendly service in addition to their stellar food keeps customers coming back for more. Located at 128 North Reading Road, Maria’s is a must-visit for local pizza and Italian food.
In addition to these 5 fantastic eateries, the Ephrata borough contains many other restaurants, shops, and local attractions that enhance our community and delight residents and visitors. Discover more excellent locations in our business directory, and let us know how your experience is after visiting one of our local favorites! We’d love to hear from you.