GETTYSBURG, PA - You can't always eat healthy and fresh food. Sometimes, you want comfort. Check out this list of Gettysburg comfort foods, including soups, sandwiches, desserts, and classic comfort food. This list is for you if you're looking for a warming, comforting, and indulgent bite.
A Taste of Comfort: A Guide to Gettysburg's Best Comfort Food
While Gettysburg is world-famous for its historic battlefields, it's also a destination with a rich and satisfying culinary scene that's perfect for when you crave a comforting meal. From historic taverns serving classic dishes to cozy pubs and down-home country restaurants, the area is packed with warming, indulgent, and delicious food. If you're looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug, here is a guide to some of the best comfort food dishes in and around Gettysburg.
1. Baked King's Onion Soup at Dobbin House Tavern
- The Dish: Nothing is more comforting than a classic onion soup, and the version at the historic Dobbin House Tavern is legendary. Their Baked King's Onion Soup is a rich beef broth packed with sweet onions and topped with a thick layer of savory, perfectly melted cheeses.
- The Vibe: Dining at the Dobbin House, which dates back to 1776, is an experience in itself. Enjoy your soup by candlelight in the rustic, colonial-era tavern for a true taste of history.
- Location: 89 Steinwehr Ave, Gettysburg, PA 17325
2. Shepherd's Pie at The Garryowen Irish Pub
- The Dish: The Garryowen Irish Pub serves an incredibly authentic Shepherd's Pie based on a traditional Irish family recipe. It features seasoned ground beef in a rich gravy, topped with a fluffy, lightly browned crown of mashed potatoes.
- The Vibe: A lively and authentic Irish pub in the heart of downtown Gettysburg, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, a great selection of Irish whiskeys, and often, live music.
- Location: 12 Chambersburg St, Gettysburg, PA 17325
3. Mile-High Meatloaf at Appalachian Brewing Company
- The Dish: Appalachian Brewing Company takes the classic meatloaf dinner to a new level. Their Mile-High Meatloaf features a thick slice of Black Angus meatloaf served on Texas toast, smothered in a stout-infused gravy, and topped with crispy fried onion straws.
- The Vibe: A spacious and family-friendly brewpub with a full menu and a fantastic selection of house-made craft beers and sodas to pair with your comforting meal.
- Location: 259 Steinwehr Ave, Gettysburg, PA 17325
4. Chicken Pot Pie at the Farnsworth House Inn
- The Dish: The Farnsworth House, an iconic and reputedly haunted inn that housed Confederate sharpshooters during the battle, serves a delicious, traditional Pennsylvania Dutch-style Chicken Pot Pie. It's a hearty and comforting dish made with egg noodles, potatoes, and tender chicken, all topped with a flaky, golden-baked crust.
- The Vibe: A unique opportunity to dine in a building steeped in Civil War history. The atmosphere is historic, cozy, and full of character.
- Location: 401 Baltimore St, Gettysburg, PA 17325
5. Crab Mac and Cheese at One Lincoln
- The Dish: Located in the historic Gettysburg Hotel, One Lincoln offers an upscale take on a comfort food classic with its Crab Mac and Cheese. This comforting bowl of goodness features freshly cooked macaroni coated in a creamy crab béchamel and topped with crispy brioche croutons.
- The Vibe: A sophisticated yet comfortable setting in the heart of Lincoln Square, perfect for a more refined dining experience.
- Location: 1 Lincoln Square, Gettysburg, PA 17325
6. Chili at Gettysburg Eddie's
- The Dish: There's nothing better on a cool day than a warm bowl of chili, and Gettysburg Eddie's serves an epic version. Their chili comes in a generous portion, topped with melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses and crisp red onions, and is served with a piece of grilled garlic bread for dipping.
- The Vibe: A fun, casual, family-friendly restaurant and sports bar dedicated to Hall of Fame pitcher and Gettysburg native, Eddie Plank.
- Location: 217 Steinwehr Ave, Gettysburg, PA 17325
7. Apple Cider Donuts at Thirsty Farmer Brew Works
- The Dish: Sometimes comfort comes in the form of a sweet treat. Thirsty Farmer Brew Works, located in the heart of Adams County's "Apple Country," makes incredible warm apple cider donuts tossed in cinnamon sugar.
- The Vibe: A beautiful farm brewery with a rustic and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy your donuts with their locally produced hard ciders and craft beers.
- Location: 290 Cashtown Rd, Biglerville, PA 17307
8. Crab Fries at The Blue and Gray Bar & Grill
- The Dish: A classic local favorite, the Blue and Gray Bar & Grill serves up a must-try comfort snack: Crab Fries. A heaping portion of their crispy fries is smothered in a warm, delicious, and cheesy crab dip.
- The Vibe: A casual and friendly sports bar that's a popular gathering spot for locals.
- Location: 2 Baltimore St, Gettysburg, PA 17325
9. Family-Style Dinner at Hickory Bridge Farm Restaurant
- The Dish: For the ultimate home-cooking experience, head to Hickory Bridge Farm. On weekends, they offer a family-style meal at private dining tables. The rotating menu includes entrees of two types of meat (often featuring their legendary Crab Imperial) alongside a variety of delicious sides, dessert, and beverages.
- The Vibe: A charming and rustic restaurant set in a historic barn on a beautiful farm just outside of Gettysburg. It's a truly unique and memorable dining experience. Reservations are often required.
- Location: 96 Hickory Bridge Rd, Orrtanna, PA 17353