Serpentine roads, savouring sceneries, gentle breeze coupled with the playfulness of the delicious rays of the sun - this ecstatic feeling of a road trip is second to none! But how about a food road trip for the gourmet fan in you? Sounds fascinating, right?
Vidar Nordli-Mathisen/Unsplash | The state of Pennsylvania is a gorgeous amalgamation of natural beauty, bustling urban hubs, and mouth-watering delicacies
Located on the eastern coast of the USA, the state of Pennsylvania is a gorgeous amalgamation of natural beauty and bustling urban hubs. But why are we recommending Pennsylvania for a food-road trip? Well, that’s simply because Pennsylvania leads the world in the production of pretzels, potato chips, and candy, and for this, it has effectively bagged the title of the “Snack-Food Capital of the World”! Not just this, this culinary hotspot boasts of countless toothsome foods, including some renowned Pennsylvanian Dutch recipes. Undoubtedly a paradise for all foodies!
Therefore, planning a road trip to a place with such a rich culinary tradition is surely exciting. So, we’ve crafted an itinerary for you that’s power-packed with meticulous deets. Read on to know more!
#1 - Lancaster
Situated in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster captures hearts with its Dutch country charm. Presently, however, Lancaster is breaking this stereotype by opening numerous fine-dine multi-cuisine restaurants. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade jams, jellies, and baked goods are equally notable here. Plus, it has plenty of casual pubs, taverns and ethnic eateries that make it an ever-so thriving city.
Food to watch out for: some scrapple for breakfast, the city’s favourite birch beer which comes in creamy red, brown, and clear variants, pot pie, Lebanon Bologna, funnel cake.
Must-visit eateries: Shady Maple Smorgasbord, Beiler’s Donuts, Lancaster Dispensing Company, Belvedere Inn and Rachel’s Cafe & Creperie.
Lily Banse/Unsplash | Situated in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster captures hearts with its Dutch country charm
#2 - Pittsburgh
Another city that’s gastronomically rich in Pennsylvania that earned the title of ‘American food city for 2019’ is none other than Pittsburgh. Gone are the days when the Steel City was the land of steel mills, coal mines and smoky air. Today’s Pittsburgh is famed for its booming food scene that has a unique mix of East Coast and Midwest.
Food to watch out for: Pitts-burgher Sandwich, Pierogies, Wedding soup which is an Italian-immigrant recipe.
Must-visit eateries: Teutonia Männerchor, Dish Osteria and Wholey's, Gaucho Parrilla Argentina, Love Rocks Café, Con Alma, The Summit, Huszar.
#3 - State College
Situated in the heart of the state, State College is a place that is home to mostly college students. Despite owning a college town experience, State College has a vibe very much alike to small towns.
Food to watch out for: banana splits, skillet fries, cheesesteaks, and grinders
Must-visit eateries: The Tavern, Cafe 210 West, The Waffle Shop, Wegmans Grocery, Penn State Berkey Creamery, Champs Sports Grille, Federal Taphouse.
Stefan K/Unsplash | If you're looking for banana splits, skillet fries, cheesesteaks, and grinders, don't skip visiting State College
Alongside these, some other notable ‘foodie towns’ are- Souderton, Williamsport, Newtown, Gettysburg, Carlisle, and so on.
To wrap it up
In recent times, road trips have become way more common among millennials. So, why not be a little quirky by going on a food-road trip? And if you follow our cute little itinerary given above, we can vouch for sure you won’t regret it. So, what are you waiting for? Fuel up your vehicle and hit the road!