The Best Lucinda PA Restaurants: Our Local Dining Guide
At Hemlock Haven Retreats, we believe a great vacation includes great food. We are Michael and Amanda, and after eight years of hosting guests in our treehouses and cabins, we know how important a good meal is after a day of adventure.
Lucinda is a small, quiet community. It does not have rows of fast food chains or big city dining halls. Instead, it has a few hidden gems that locals love. When you stay with us, you are surrounded by nature, but you are never too far from a delicious plate of food.
Here is our guide to the best Lucinda PA restaurants and nearby favorites to try during your stay.
The Heart of Lucinda Dining
When you are searching for places to eat right in town, there are two main spots you need to know. One is perfect for a nice evening out, and the other is great for a casual BBQ feast.
The Wayside Restaurant
This is the most well-known spot in Lucinda. It has a lot of history. The building dates back to 1873 and used to be a stagecoach stop. Today, it is a cozy place where you can enjoy a high-quality meal.
We love the atmosphere here. It feels historic and warm. Our guests often tell us how much they enjoy the friendly service. The menu has a mix of steak, seafood, and pasta. If you are looking for a romantic dinner near your cabin, this is a great choice. The crab cakes are very popular, and many diners say the seafood is surprisingly fresh for being in the woods.
Details:
- Rating: 4.8 Stars (205 Reviews)
- Category: Restaurant
- Address: 1123 Old Fryburg Rd, Lucinda, PA 16235
- Phone: +1 814-226-7344
- Hours: Tuesday – Thursday (4–8 PM), Friday – Saturday (4–9 PM), Closed Sunday/Monday
- Insight: Save room for dessert. The crème brûlée and cheesecake get rave reviews.
Learn more about The Wayside Restaurant
DB’s Smokin’ BBQ
If you smell smoke in the air, you are probably close to DB’s. This place is all about comfort food. It is also known as “The Shack” by some locals. It is a fantastic stop if you are hungry after hiking the trails at Cook Forest State Park.
The vibe here is very laid back. You can often sit outside when the weather is nice. They serve classic BBQ dishes like brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. The portions are usually generous. We hear guests talk about the “Texas Twinkies” quite a bit. These are jalapeños stuffed with brisket and cheese. It is a spicy treat that is hard to find anywhere else.
Details:
- Rating: 4.6 Stars
- Category: Barbecue Restaurant
- Address: 29611 PA-66 Box 12, Lucinda, PA 16235
- Phone: +1 814-319-1227
- Insight: Check their seasonal hours before you go, as BBQ spots sometimes close for the winter or have specific days off.
Learn more about DB’s Smokin’ BBQ
Unique Eats Just Down the Road
Lucinda is very close to other small towns like Shippenville. If you drive just a few minutes, you can find some unique dining experiences that are worth the trip.
PA Mushroom Company
This is one of the most unique spots in the area. It is located right on Route 66 in Lucinda. It is not just for mushroom lovers. They offer a great variety of food.
The atmosphere is fun and eclectic. They often play music videos and have a cool coffee house vibe. The menu features stir-fry dishes and pizzas. The ingredients taste very fresh. If you have dietary restrictions, this is a good place to check out. Our guests have mentioned that the owners are very friendly and passionate about their food. The stir-fry with orange chicken is a local favorite.
Details:
- Rating: 4.9 Stars (54 Reviews)
- Category: Restaurant
- Address: 28868 PA-66, Lucinda, PA 16235
- Phone: +1 814-319-1011
- Hours: Wednesday – Thursday (12–7 PM), Friday – Saturday (12–8 PM), Sunday (12–4 PM)
Learn more about PA Mushroom Company
Lost In The Wilds Brewing
This brewery is a short drive away in Shippenville. It is a beautiful place to relax. They have a lovely outdoor patio and a large pavilion.
While they focus on craft beer, they often have food trucks or snacks available. The setting is very peaceful. You can sit and look out over the fields and woods. It is a great place to unwind. People love the “clean” taste of their beers and the friendly staff. It feels like a true escape into the wilds.
Details:
- Rating: 4.9 Stars (173 Reviews)
- Category: Brewery
- Address: 21964 PA-66, Shippenville, PA 16254
- Phone: +1 814-227-8976
- Hours: Thursday (4–9 PM), Friday – Saturday (12–10 PM), Sunday (12–6 PM)
Learn more about Lost In The Wilds Brewing
Drinks and Provisions
Sometimes you just want to grab some supplies to bring back to your cabin. Whether you are staying in our Peaceful Pines Treehouse or one of our cabins, enjoying a drink by the fire is a perfect way to end the night.
The Back 40 Beer Barn
This is the place to go for a wide selection of beverages. It is located right in Lucinda. The owners are known for being very helpful.
They have everything from big brand names to smaller craft brews. It is a convenient stop if you want to stock up the fridge at your rental. Reviews mention that the staff is knowledgeable and can help you find something new to try.
Details:
- Rating: 4.7 Stars (89 Reviews)
- Category: Beer Store
- Address: 30836 PA-66, Lucinda, PA 16235
- Phone: +1 814-744-8711
- Hours: Monday – Thursday (10 AM–6 PM), Friday (10 AM–8 PM), Saturday (9 AM–8 PM)
Learn more about The Back 40 Beer Barn
💡 Insight: Many of these local spots have seasonal hours. We always recommend calling ahead or checking their Facebook pages for the most current updates before you head out.
Plan Your Foodie Getaway With Us
Exploring Lucinda PA restaurants is part of the fun when you visit the Pennsylvania Wilds. Whether you want a fancy steak dinner or a messy BBQ sandwich, you can find it here.
At Hemlock Haven Retreats, we want your stay to be perfect. We love sharing our local favorites with you. After a great meal, there is nothing better than coming back to a cozy treehouse or cabin, lighting a fire, and listening to the sounds of the forest.
We hope to see you soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lucinda have any fine dining options?
The Wayside Restaurant is the closest option to fine dining in Lucinda. It offers a historic atmosphere with a menu featuring steak and seafood. It is perfect for a special date night or anniversary dinner.
Are there vegan or vegetarian options in Lucinda?
Yes. PA Mushroom Company is a great choice for vegetarians. They offer fresh stir-fry dishes and pizzas. They focus on using local mushrooms and fresh ingredients.
Do I need reservations for restaurants in Lucinda?
It is a good idea to make reservations for The Wayside Restaurant, especially on weekends. Other places like DB’s Smokin’ BBQ and PA Mushroom Company are generally more casual and first-come, first-served.
Where is the best place to get drinks near Lucinda?
For a brewery experience, Lost In The Wilds Brewing in Shippenville is excellent. If you prefer wine, Deer Creek Winery is a lovely spot. For buying drinks to take back to your cabin, The Back 40 Beer Barn has a large selection.
Is food delivery available to vacation rentals in Lucinda?
Food delivery services like Uber Eats or DoorDash are generally not available in this rural area. You will likely need to drive to the restaurant to dine in or pick up takeout.
