The city of Lancaster is a unique, quirky town settled in the center of the namesake rural county. The streets are lined with countless shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Along the way, you’ll be sure to find some interesting architecture, though the buildings tend to be dominated by brick. As you become more acquainted with the town, you’ll soon realize that there is not much in the way of entertainment. We have a theater, a concert hall, and a couple of museums, but not much beyond that. However, you’ll also realize that there are a massive, disproportional amount of places to eat. As a native of the county, I frequent many of the downtown restaurants and cafes whether it’s with friends, family, or just by myself.

Birds-Eye View of the City

Cafe Interior

When I think of eateries that truly encapsulate the energy of Lancaster City, I think of the Prince Street Café. Understandably, the restaurant is located on Prince Street, one of the main north-south streets of the city. It’s across from the Fulton Theater, a gorgeous and historic venue, as well as nearby Central Market (which will surely be featured in a future post). Though the café itself is rather small, the ambiance and decor make for a cozy feel. The interior features an exposed brick wall, paying homage to the architectural heritage of the city. The furnishings are trendy, yet lack the sterility of many so-called “modern” spaces. Like any café, there is a plentiful spread of featured pastries in a glass display by the cashier. As a whole, the Prince Street Café serves as an excellent location for any occasion.

Any eatery cannot be properly discussed without mentioning the food that it serves. In the summer, some of my favorite items are the freshly squeezed orange juice and baked oatmeal. The baked oatmeal is beautifully soft, heated to perfection, and as a whole absolutely delicious. The orange juice tastes like it was freshly juiced from a Floridian tree and usually makes me never want to touch a bottle of Tropicana ever again. In the winter, I enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate, topped with delicious whipped cream. The chicken quesadilla is excellent as well, prepared to perfection with just the right amount of cheese and chicken. Overall, the Prince Street Café is a must if visiting Lancaster City. With a location within walking distance of anywhere downtown, a cozy interior, and a divine menu, it is sure worth the visit.