5 Things You Need to Know About the Log Cabin Restaurant

August 3, 2021

The Log Cabin

One of the best restaurants in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania is located just a few miles from the Historic Smithton Inn Bed and Breakfast. The Log Cabin restaurant is a historic, lodge-like space that serves elegant American fare. Just five miles north of Lancaster City, The Log Cabin is in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, set in a charming residential neighborhood (ie: no, you're not lost, there really is a restaurant down that street!). The restaurant is surrounded by beautiful trees and countryside scenery on ground once occupied by the Nanticoke Indians. Here is what you need to know about The Log Cabin restaurant before your visit!

This post is all about The Log Cabin Restaurant

1. Make a Reservation

It doesn't matter when you're planning to go, The Log Cabin is a very popular fine dining restaurant in Lancaster and can be busy even on "off days". We highly recommend calling ahead to make a reservation in one of their dining rooms, at the Bar (very cool & hip) or in their wonderful outdoor Courtyard.

2. Embrace the History of The Log Cabin restaurant

The original structure of The Log Cabin restaurant was built in the early 1900s out of oak logs cut by hand from the adjacent Lehoy Forest. During its early years, it was a speakeasy, circumnavigating the law during Prohibition because of its remote location. The original owner, C.L. Leicey, admitted that he stored illegal alcohol under the wooden booths that are still in The Booth Room today. After Prohibition, the Great Depression hit, but The Log Cabin restaurant managed to remain open. Then, in 1958, Charles DiSantis bought the property to combine his loves for cooking and art. Expansions and innovation ensued, and many of the wall portraits that still remain were painted by DiSantis himself! Famous customers at the Log Cabin include Frank Sinatra and Lady Gaga! The current owners have embarked on some wonderful renovations to the property including a fantastic change to the main bar and some private party spaces that are cozy and elegant.

3. Check out Their Wonderful Menu

The Chef at The Log Cabin serves mouth watering and visually amazing dishes you're sure to enjoy. Pair his creative menu with a wonderful wine and drink list and you've got the makings for a wonderful night out. While the environment is definitely "fine dining", it somehow manages to be comfortable and casual as well... quite an accomplishment! There are an array of "small plates", a fantastic "raw bar", and nightly specials that will delight your senses. Try the Fried Calamari small plate to start that comes with two sauces - Chimichurri and sweet Thai chili sauce. Or order some iced Oysters from the raw bar, they have some wonderful options on their Specials Menu! After enjoying some drinks and appetizers, it is time to indulge in the main course. Entrees offer plentiful portions, with beautiful presentation that will appeal to all your senses. The chef manages to take traditional fine dining menu offerings and adds a twist to make them special and unique. The menu changes seasonally, but during our last visit we enjoyed the Seared Jumbo Sea Scallops with Prince Edward Island Mussels and it absolutely amazed!

Here's a link to their full current menu: LOG CABIN RESTAURANT DINNER MENU / LOG CABIN RESTAURANT BRUNCH MENU

4. Soak in the Atmosphere

The Log Cabin restaurant combines sophisticated American fare from the kitchen with rustic Americana charm in their dining rooms and outdoor space. The walls feature images of former stately pioneers, historical figures, and reproductions of masterpieces. The ceiling boasts open wooden beams that highlight the building's history. The restaurant's décor is from a past era, yet has an updated and hip vibe. The combinations of stone, wood, decorative lighting and eclectic art set the stage for a wonderful dining experience. The bar area with fireplace is the perfect space to either start out your evening or enjoy your dinner at the U-shaped bar where you can engage with other guests. The outside courtyard is stunning and a wonderful space to dine during warm-weather months.

5. Eat Before You Retreat

Since The Log Cabin is such a perfect "Date Night" or "Romantic Getaway" restaurant, it only makes sense that you should combine a meal there with a night (or TWO) at a romantic local Bed and Breakfast. We suggest that after a long day exploring Amish country, you should settle in for a nice dinner at The Log Cabin restaurant before returning to stay at Historic Smithton Inn for the evening. Follow up your historical meal with a night in another historical structure in Lancaster County!

Historic Smithton Inn’s seven guest rooms are each decorated in historic charm. Be sure to rest up for a gourmet hand-cooked breakfast at the inn the following morning!

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