Steeped in American history and only 50 miles north of Baltimore, York, PA is feeling the early pangs of a new renaissance with chic eateries and unique spots for libations leading the way.
York, for much of the late 20th century, served as a commuter city for those working in Northern Maryland. But the White Rose City is steeped in history it is both proud of and not afraid to recognize as it enters a new period of prosperity. The city served as the capital of the United States from September 1777 until June 1778. In the late 1960s racial tensions in Pennsylvania came to a head as unrest led to violence in York; the city’s diversity is now celebrated through mural projects, cultural tours, and BIPOC-owned businesses.
The straight shot north from Baltimore on route 83 brings visitors from Charm City and the DC Metro area who are searching for a quick and quaint respite while enjoying the conveniences of city life. York has everything weekend tourists could desire, a professional baseball team, established performing arts, a county-wide community of makers and artists, and a burgeoning selection of restaurants, cafes, cocktail bars, and breweries.
Prince Street Café
Visitors find a crisp and clean environment to enjoy the morning’s first cup of coffee or an afternoon refresher at Prince Street Café. The spacious coffee shop specializes in espresso drinks. The Lancaster City micro chain serves some of the most popular coffee in the Susquehanna Valley as part of the Commons company. Before stepping foot into the space, guests can check the café’s vibe by finding out what music is currently playing via princestreetcafe.com.
2 W Market St
Roost Uncommon Kitchen
The early bird may catch the worm somewhere, but at Roost Uncommon Kitchen the night owl from the evening before can grab breakfast until 2:00 p.m. Specializing in brunch, Roost makes its biscuits from scratch, smokes its own meats, and serves beer and cocktails from local breweries and spirits makers. Roost serves fresh Necessary coffee alongside specials like The Garbage Biscuit and The Flower Pot, which both feature apricot butter for the meat lover and veg-forward eater.
35 W Market St
Central Market York
Central Market York is an institution. Built in 1888, the red brick and gray slate building stands in the heart of the York Historic District delighting tourists Thursday through Saturday. There are more than a dozen eateries located in the Romanesque building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The market offers a variety of dining options, from the popular Roburrito’s to landmark stands like Henry’s Ham and Chef Tim Spangler’s Mezzogiorno.
34 West Philadelphia St
Archetype Pizza
Archetype Pizza is far from an average pizza joint. Customers can build their own pizzas and select from a lineup of traditional “round pies,” but the specialty here is the Detroit-style deep dish pizza. The signature Mac Attack is an homage to a popular American burger franchise and is a thick rectangle of crispy dough topped with ground beef, American and mozzarella cheese, lettuce, pickles, and a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing.
33 W Market St
Victor’s
When asking locals for dinner recommendations Victor’s usually makes the list. Harold and Eunice Fitzkee opened the Italian restaurant in 1984 inside a circa-1925 church and the stalwart dining spot survived a fire, a pandemic, and ownership changes. Now owned by Mark and Marie Sindicich, Victor’s holds several “best of” awards and received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2022. Reservations are recommended for the dining room, while the patio and bocce court are more casual.
554 S. Ogontz St
Tutoni’s
Sophisticated yet welcoming, the Tutoni’s dining experience celebrates fresh, locally sourced ingredients with an Italian flair. The stylish, urban-chic décor—exposed brick, warm lighting, and partitioned dining areas—sets the stage for inventive dishes highlighted by handcrafted pasta, seasonal small plates, and thoughtfully curated specials. Craft cocktails and an extensive wine list elevates every meal. In favorable weather, Tutoni’s rooftop bar provides stunning city views and is a favorite spot among locals looking for a more mellow vibe.
108 North George St
The First Post
The First Post is versatile. Diners come for business meetings, family gatherings, and romantic evenings. Cocktail enthusiasts and domestic beer drinkers share space at the circa-1839 bar resourced from a closing Pittsburgh establishment and given new life in York. One of the most popular dishes is the charred octopus, which has been modified over the years, but still presents a Mediterranean flair. Sensational salads are also a big hit for both lunch and dinner.
3691 E Market St
South County Brewing Company
In April 2022, a tiny brewery with a loyal following made a big move to a new location. South County Brewing Company opened a 28,000 sq. ft., timber-framed space on 13 acres, complete with a production area tripling their brewing capacity. There’s also an event room, a casual dining hall, a loft with a few pinball machines, and an outdoor seating area and bar with sunset views. Dining options include St. Louis style barbeque, brick oven pizzas, and a few sandwiches, starters, and salads.
170 Crossway Dr
The Fig & Barrel Pub
Blending historic charm with modern flair, Fig & Barrell is where casual becomes elevated. The brick-lined interior and relaxed feel creates an inviting bar scene that is upscale yet approachable. Known for creative craft cocktails and an impressive selection of whiskeys, the pub pairs libations with artisan flatbreads, inventive small plates, and hearty mains. Live music makes Fig & Barrel a favorite for both locals and visitors. Elevated comfort food is served via Sunday brunch, happy hour, plus daily lunch and dinner.
25 W Market St
The Yorktowne Hotel
This classically iconic hotel in downtown York reopened as part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection in 2023 following $52 million in renovations. Riding the theme of “where majestic meets nostalgia” the bar program makes the Yorktowne Hotel the spot for classic cocktails made with high-end spirits. The Graham Rooftop Lounge offers sunset city views and small bites, while quality cocktails can also be sipped in the art deco-infused Davidson Lobby Bar. Artwork from a dozen local creators is hung throughout the hotel.
48 E Market St