Greater Harrisburg
Blue Moose Bar and Grille
‘Burg-ers in the know head for Linglestown Road to enjoy live entertainment and happy hour specials daily from 4-6pm at Blue Moose Bar and Grille’s great outdoors. Munchies and crunchies include creative creations like lobster black bean spring rolls with sweet chili sauce and comfort food sinfulness like fried mac and cheese bites with spicy ranch. The menu ranges from homemade soups like bison chili to Chicago deep dish pizzas. There’s even a vegan veggie strudel. Innovative sandwiches include the adult PB&J—deep fried peanut butter and jalapeno jelly—plus burgers and much more. Homemade sweets include peanut butter “Moose pie” and white chocolate lemon cake.
Duke’s Bar and Grille
Part of the row of restaurants on Wormleysburg’s riverside, Duke’s lets you dine deckside across from Harrisburg on the Susquehanna. If you go, ask for the gazebo. Take advantage of savings on nightly specials like wings and prime rib on Sundays, house smoked ribs and homemade baked beans on Tuesdays and their special Peters Mountain meatloaf on Saturdays. The menu includes something for everyone, from soups, tons of salads, sandwiches and wraps to full fledged entrees like pasta dishes, grilled fish and steaks. Just save room for the peanut butter pie and Duke’s Pennsylvania Dutch whoopie pie sundae.
Rockbass Grill
Located on Front Street right beside the Market Street Bridge in Wormleysburg, Rockbass Grille offers the finest option of the three restaurants on the waterside row. It was designed to feel like dining on a 1950s yacht–from inside, porthole windows overlook the river and cityscape which is stunning at night sparkling on the river. Rockbass Grill offers casual fine dining specializing in seafood (including a raw bar) and classic appetizers like homemade oysters Rockefeller and clams casino. Soups, salads and sandwiches like the hoisin glazed salmon salad and Rockbass fish tacos are just a couple of casual favorites. Entrees range from steaks, seafood and pastas to the daily fresh catch. Enjoy brunch on the river, served Sundays from 11am-2pm, a leisurely way to wind down the weekend for sure.
TJ Rockwell’s
Two locations in Elizabethtown and Mechanicsburg offer a great place to get together and dine deck style. Try their sizzling skillet fajitas or stir frys–you can smell them coming as they make their way to your tableside. If you’re a fan of Yuengling’s Lord Chesterfield Ale, the Lord Chesterfield fish sandwich battered in its namesake is a must. Tons of classic appetizers, soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches, steaks and seafood–along with expansive desk seating–make this place crowd pleasingly popular. TJ Rockwell’s also has its own mug club, which gets you bigger beers and other perks, plus a “beer journey” experience where for one dollar, you begin tracking the tasting of all 66 of their bottled beers (not in one sitting!) and end by getting your name engraved on a special plaque (more for the fun of trying new beers, if you ask us). Head there after work for happy hour Monday through Friday, 5-7pm. Or enjoy a lazy Sunday outside with their all you can eat brunch buffet at both locations, 10am-2pm. www.tjrockwells.com
Trattoria Piatto
Now is the time to enjoy the patio of Trattoria Piatto’s Victorian townhouse location, nestled on the quaint Pomfret Street block in downtown Carlisle–worth a stroll for shopping before or after dinner. Chef Ross Morris’ philosophy to “eat real food” shows through his menu of farm to table cuisine, making summer the prime season for a visit. To start, try the panelle (chickpea fritters); they’re deliciously different. Then choose from at least nine varieties of thin crust grilled pizzas; classic and creative pastas; authentic entrees like sauteed scallops with Sambuca, fava beans, cream and chives; and of course daily specials. From 4-6pm daily Piatto features apertivo, or Italian happy hour, with a menu of stuzzichini, or small plates, to complement the authentic cocktail menu featuring Italian wine, beers and drinks like an Aperol spritz and Sgroppino (Prosecco, limoncello and lemon sorbetto–yes, please), plus the classic Negroni, Bellini, martinis and more.
Trevi 5
Dine al fresco on The Hotel Hershey’s veranda overlooking all of the town and this destination resort’s splendid landscaping and views. Named after Rome’s Trevi fountain, here you can sip sparkling Italian sodas, savor authentic pastas and pizzas: (Try the classic Margherita; prosciutto with figs, balsamic and gorgonzola; or the mushroom pizza with truffled whipped ricotta, crispy shallots and taleggio cheese.) Or nibble on plates of imported meats and cheeses to save room for desserts like chocolate cannoli tart, Nutella cheesecake, tiramisu and one our favorites, citrus polenta cake. Open for lunch, dinner and happy hour daily from 4:30-6:30pm.
www.thehotelhershey.com/dining/trevi5.php
Greater Lancaster
Annie Bailey’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
One of the reasons this pub feels authentically Irish is the owners, husband and wife team Siobhan and John Keane. The other is the exquisite imported woodwork, featured throughout the magnificent bars upstairs and down, plus other Irish antiques and artifacts. But this is the time of year to step outside this cozy pub and enjoy the deck, and downtown Lancastrians flock there, whether headed for happy hour after work or for spending leisurely weekend afternoons kicking back with some beers and buds. Though it seats almost 100, it’s one of downtown’s most popular hangouts, so reservations are accepted. Try their new Sunday brunch featuring menu items like the Irish breakfast with sausage, rashers (Irish bacon), black and white pudding, grilled tomato, eggs and toast; or start the day with Celtic eggs Benedict served with potatoes O’Brien. Their brunch menu (and regular menu) include American and internationally inspired dishes from salads and sandwiches to entrees, so there’s something for everyone, as well as the Irish favorites like bangers and mash, fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.
The Belvedere Inn
Tucked above Lemon Street in Downtown Lancaster is one of the region’s most beautiful settings to dine al fresco. Owner Dean Oberholtzer not only knows how to run a restaurant with his long loved establishment, he also has quite the green thumb. His display of vibrant hanging baskets, a kaleidoscope of color on The Belvedere’s deck, transforms the quaint space above the busy city streets, hushed by a trickling fountain and swooning jazz, making it the perfect retreat for a romantic date or girls’ night out. Or enjoy a weekday leisurely lunch hidden away from the world. Sometimes you have to take time to stop and smell the flowers (and, of course, eat). Our recommendation: Go for the steaming pot of mussels, grilled Caesar, and any of the specials, which are always innovative and never disappoint.
Bluebird Inn
A country drive to Cornwall takes you to one of our favorite destinations. Dine outside on the deck in the rural countryside at this former inn turned arts and crafts style pub. The deck is as one might expect, adorned with tiki torches, and lends just the right kind of summer atmosphere for nightly specials like all-you-can-eat crab legs made to order on Tuesdays. An extensive menu features something for everyone from casual salads and sandwiches—like a balsamic grilled portabello with spinach, peppers and goat cheese on 12 grain focaccia—to entrees like shrimp and andouille mac and cheese in a smoked cheddar red pepper sauce. Or try their house smoked baby back ribs with home made bourbon sauce and pork barbeque sliders. And nothing goes with pub fare like beer; brew gurus will enjoy their selection of microbrews and local beers.
General Sutter Inn
The General Sutter, as it’s called among locals, is the place to enjoy al fresco dining in Lititz. Its beautifully landscaped courtyard situated on the corner of Main Street and Route 501 makes it the prime hang out whether it’s happy hour or fine dining or somewhere in between. There are also a few bistro-style sidewalk tables next door at its sister restaurant, Bull’s Head Pub.
www.facebook.com/GeneralSutterInn
The Pressroom
One of the region’s most unique outdoor dining venues, The Pressroom attaches to Lancaster’s Steinman Park located right in the heart of the city. An all brick courtyard with sculptures, waterfalls and ambient lighting, it sets the perfect scene for a romantic summer evening or special occasion. From brick oven pizzas to fine dining and live jazz, it’s one to put on your summer dining destination list.
John J. Jeffries
John J. Jeffries, attached to the Lancaster Arts Hotel, has one of the coolest patios around–not to mention the local, organic, sustainable cuisine. Okay, we will mention it, because it’s phenomenally good. Now back to this patio; a must go, it’s earthy, mod, hip and fresh. A unique waterfall feature adds soothing sounds to the entire patio, which runs alongside a park pathway in the middle of urban Lancaster.
Loxley’s
Designed like a tree house from the tales of Robin Hood, Loxley’s deck (and yes, a tree house you can dine in) is certainly a popular place for families. Later in the evenings, groups of friends gather for cocktails and live entertainment. In keeping with the legend, Loxley’s also donates five percent of every dining check to your choice of several rotating charities.
Fenz
The terrace at Fenz is one of our favorite spots to hang out in Lancaster. Dining rooftop at the apex of Harrisburg Pike and Charlotte Street offers urban views at one of the city’s hot spots. Go for “rush hour” from 4-6pm for appetizer discounts and bar specials. Stay for dinner and enjoy top notch farm fresh cuisine in a sleek, sophisticated outdoor setting.
The Greenfield Inn
One of Lancaster’s most elegant outdoor dining options, whether it’s a casual night out or a special occasion, The Greenfield Inn’s patio is a beautifully decorated setting to enjoy a great meal. Stylish linens add tropical ambience that feels like anywhere but Lancaster, and fans above keep things cool even when temperatures rise. Go for Sunday brunch, weekday lunch or dinner; this family run restaurant is full of hospitality and consistent classic cuisine.
www.thegreenfieldrestaurant.com
Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant
This brewery on Lancaster’s College Row is bustling any time, but come summer, the sidewalk patio is the place to be to sip freshly made microbrews in the sun. Mug Club members enjoy bigger beers and other special rewards so be sure to inquire if you’re a serious fan. There’s something for everyone here, including kids. There are plenty of soups, salads and apps to choose from; be sure to try some of their signature egg rolls (we love the Oktoberfest variety stuffed with bratwurst, sauerkraut and cheese with a stone ground mustard dipping sauce) or the cheese steak or buffalo chicken eggrolls. Healthy selections under 600 calories are popular especially among women, and brew house favorites like moules frites, or mussels and Belgian style fries with rosemary garlic aioli, are also well loved. Hearth baked pizzas come with artisan or malted barley dough and tons of different styles of toppings. There’s even a gluten free menu for adults and kids.
www.ironhillbrewery.com/lancaster
Tobias S. Frogg
The patio at Tobias Frogg was always a summer favorite on Lancaster’s Columbia Avenue for a casual evening or night out with friends. It’s a no frills kind of place, but recent renovations make it just the kitschy “beachy” kind of place to go and hang out on a hot evening (that’s right, you can sit outside under misters to keep you cool). Find Tobias S. Frogg on Facebook to keep up on nightly specials.
Tomato Pie Café
Everything Lititz locals and visitors have come to love about the quaint yet hip Tomato Pie Café (including the signature namesake dish) can be had out in the Tomato Patch–cozy outdoor dining surrounded by a picket fence amid growing varieties of heirloom tomatoes being served up in warm cheesy tomato pie. Enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner at this charming café featuring a simple yet creative menu of classic soups, salads and sandwiches.
Greater York
Accomac Inn
Sophisticated Susquehanna River views from the elegant porch of the Accomac Inn are one of our favorite things. If you’ve never been, it’s a must for your summer list. If you just needed a reminder, you’re welcome. Either way, you’ll enjoy Chef Endre Ebert’s locally sourced, seasonal creative cuisine at the peak of freshness in the way only the Accomac can deliver. Sip creative summer cocktails over small plates with friends or enjoy a romantic dinner for two; it’s a perfect way to savor summer in the Susquehanna Valley. Go for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch from 11am-2pm and take in the views.
Blue Moon
York-ers have been enjoying the all-weather enclosed terrace at Blue Moon all winter and spring, but in the summer, skylights and doorways open to allow fresh air to flow through. Chef Darrell Tobin’s seasonal American cuisine is served up in this warm bistro setting, making it a long-time regional favorite for business lunches or dinner before a show at the Strand Capitol.
John Wright Restaurant
Sit outside this restored warehouse and take in views of the Susquehanna River over locally grown casual fare inspired by each season. Wood fired pizzas are cooked to order outside on the patio. The outdoor bar, crafted by local artist Jonathan Colon, is made from fallen trees and blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Go for happy hour Wednesday through Saturday from 4-6pm or head out to the river for lunch, dinner, Saturday breakfast or their Sunday brunch buffet from 11am-3pm. www.johnwrightrestaurant.com
White Rose Bar & Grill
The White Rose, as York-ers call it, has always been a popular gathering spot, and it’ll be even more happening this summer with the recently renovated Philadelphia Street patio. Brunch is served Saturdays 8am-2pm and Sundays 10am-2pm with lunch and dinner daily. Popular choices include hot rock entrees where you can cook your own dish on volcanic rocks, an array of burgers, sandwiches and more.
Sydney
Enjoy al fresco dining on the cozy terrace of this historic East Berlin property while dining on renowned chef Neil Annis’ creative cuisine focused on fresh seasonal ingredients. Choose from lunch and tavern fare or fine dining. It’s a beautiful country trek worth the drive, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy this locally inspired menu at its best.
Victor’s
Where else can you eat Italian cuisine drinking select craft beers and wines—outside a former church? You can even head around back and check out the bocce ball league. Victor’s, tucked away in a York neighborhood, is one of those best-kept-secret kind of spots worth adding to your list this summer. Enjoy Friday night jazz and live music Saturdays.
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dining riverside at Accomac Inn
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Dining al fresco on the Fenz terrace is a hip hot spot.
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The beautiful Belvedere Inn patio in full bloom.
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Enjoy farm fresh Italian at the peak of season at Piatto.
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The Olde Greenfield Inn’s outdoor oasis.
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streetside outdoor eats at White Rose Bar & Grill, downtown York
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Sip refreshing cocktails with sweeping views from the Hotel Hershey veranda at Trevi 5.
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An experience unlike any other dining inside or outside at Victor’s, a former church.
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The year round outdoor dining at Blue Moon opens up over summer
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The Tomato Patch at Tomato Pie Cafe; dining riverside at Accomac Inn
