25 Essential Lancaster Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Lancaster.
Pizza Crossing Lancaster
Ohio
Pizzas are served alongside pastas, subs & appetizers at this casual eatery with TVs, beer & wine.
Ale House 1890
Ohio
American bistro fare & craft cocktails served at a 19th-century space with exposed-brick walls.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
Ohio
Soft-serve ice cream & signature shakes top the menu at this classic burger & fries fast-food chain.
Taqueria El Tapatio
Lancaster, Ohio
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great cocktails, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
IHOP
Lancaster, Ohio
Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
Lancaster, Ohio
Soft-serve ice cream & signature shakes top the menu at this classic burger & fries fast-food chain.
Shirky's Pizza Zone
Lancaster, Ohio
Service options: Outdoor seating, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Great tea selection.
Scramblers
Lancaster, Ohio
Local chain serving casual breakfast-&-lunch fare, from French toast to burgers.
Massey's Pizza
Lancaster, Ohio
Local pizzeria chain serving wide range of pizzas (including famed pepperoni), subs, salads & more.
Arby's
Lancaster, Ohio
Fast-food chain, known for its roast beef, serving up hot & cold sandwiches, fries & shakes.
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant
Lancaster, Ohio
Straightforward Chinese eatery fixing up noodles, fried rice & other everyday fare.
Nick's Restaurant & Pizza
Lancaster, Ohio
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Great coffee, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Lancaster, Ohio
Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.
Fillin' Station
Lancaster, Ohio
Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Outdoor seating, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Live music.
Waffle House
Lancaster, Ohio
Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.
Bob Evans
Lancaster, Ohio
Casual chain started on an Ohio farm & known for hearty family-style meals & a country vibe.
OX-B's
Lancaster, Ohio
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Drive-through, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Castaways
Lancaster, Ohio
Service options: Outdoor seating, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
Roosters
Lancaster, Ohio
Outpost of a casual chain serving American comfort food & specializing in chicken wings.
El Parian Steaks & Tequila - Lancaster
Lancaster, Ohio
New American cooking is presented in a stylish dining room with a seasonal patio.
Subway
Lancaster, Ohio
Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.
Sugar Bears Pizzeria
Lancaster, Ohio
Unassuming eatery with kitschy decor offering thick-crust pies, simple pastas & sandwiches.
Alfonso’s Italian Grille and Event Center
Lancaster, Ohio
Service options: Outdoor seating, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Great dessert, Great wine list.
Cristy's Pizza Lancaster East
Lancaster, Ohio
Unassuming eatery for pies, salads & subs, plus beer, wine, cocktails & a small outdoor patio.
Fat Cat Pizza
Lancaster, Ohio
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Drive-through, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Live music.