Nestled in the heart of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord is a culinary gem that embodies the rich traditions and flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your visit.
Location and Current Status
Due to a recent fire, the restaurant has temporarily relocated to the former Revere Tavern at 3063 Lincoln Highway East in Paradise, PA. This temporary location is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 11 am to 7 pm. It is highly recommended to call ahead for seating to minimize wait times[1][4].
Dining Experience
The Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord offers a diverse and satisfying dining experience. Here are some of the key features:
Smorgasbord
The restaurant is renowned for its all-you-can-eat smorgasbord, which features a wide array of home-cooked, farm-fresh dishes. This includes hot entrees, fresh fruits, mouth-watering pastries, and more. The smorgasbord is a reflection of traditional Pennsylvania Dutch recipes, many of which date back to Grandma Smucker, whose recipes were first introduced to the world by National Geographic in 1938[1][3][4].
Soup, Salad, and Bread Bar
In addition to the smorgasbord, the restaurant offers a soup, salad, and bread bar. This includes homemade soups, fresh-baked breads, assorted cheeses, and farm-fresh salads. The emphasis is on using the freshest ingredients, often sourced from local Amish and Mennonite farms[1][4].
Dessert Bar
The dessert bar is another highlight, featuring homemade puddings, oatmeal pie, cakes, cookies, and other treats from the Bird-in-Hand Bakery & Cafe. This is a perfect place to indulge in sweet delights after your meal[1].
Menu Dining
For those who prefer a more traditional dining experience, the restaurant also offers an expansive lunch and dinner menu. This includes a variety of dishes made from scratch, such as macaroni salad, coleslaw, and even the tartar sauce and cocktail sauce. The menu features items like burgers made from Angus beef raised on local farms[1][4].
Special Features and Amenities
Banquet Facilities: The restaurant has extensive banquet facilities that can accommodate up to 300 guests. These include the Smucker Room and other private banquet rooms, making it an ideal venue for group tours, family reunions, and other events[4].
Family Inn and Recreational Activities: The property also includes a family inn, a mini-golf course, a playground, a pond, and a walking trail, providing something for everyone to enjoy[4].
Commitment to Quality and Tradition
The Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord has been a family-owned and operated establishment for over 40 years. The Smucker family is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and service, ensuring that every guest has a memorable dining experience. The restaurant’s philosophy is rooted in providing home-cooked meals using fresh, local ingredients, a tradition that has been passed down through generations[1][4].
Key Facts
Temporary Location: Currently operating at the former Revere Tavern, 3063 Lincoln Highway East, Paradise, PA, due to a fire at the original location.
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 11 am – 7 pm.
Call-Ahead Seating: Recommended to minimize wait times. Call (717) 768-1500.
Smorgasbord: All-you-can-eat smorgasbord featuring traditional Pennsylvania Dutch recipes.
Soup, Salad, and Bread Bar: Homemade soups, fresh-baked breads, and farm-fresh salads.
Dessert Bar: Homemade puddings, oatmeal pie, cakes, and other treats.
Menu Dining: Expansive lunch and dinner menus with dishes made from scratch.
Banquet Facilities: Can accommodate up to 300 guests.
Family Inn and Recreational Activities: Includes a family inn, mini-golf course, playground, pond, and walking trail.
Commitment to Local Ingredients: Uses fresh ingredients from local Amish and Mennonite farms and Lancaster County producers.
Whether you are in the mood for a hearty smorgasbord, a satisfying meal from the menu, or just looking to enjoy some homemade desserts, the Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord is a must-visit destination in Lancaster County.
