Nestled deep within the ancient, towering hemlocks of Cook Forest State Park and bordered by the winding, wild Clarion River, the tiny village of Clarington, Pennsylvania, has long been a haven for hikers, canoers, and nature lovers. While the area is famous for its breathtaking outdoor recreation, a new, mouth-watering destination is giving visitors another reason to make the trek. Trading camp food for deeply comforting, scratch-made Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, The Whispering Pines Amish Kitchen has officially opened its doors, bringing authentic, homestyle cooking to the heart of the big woods.
A Backstory Brought to the Forest
The story of The Whispering Pines begins about an hour south in the sprawling Amish settlement of Smicksburg, Pennsylvania. For decades, the Troyer family operated a bustling, highly successful bakery and catering business, serving massive spreads at local auctions and weddings. However, patriarch Eli Troyer and his wife, Rebecca, always dreamed of a quieter pace of life surrounded by nature.
When a rustic, 19th-century timber lodge went up for sale along River Road in Clarington, the family saw their opportunity. The Troyers relocated to the forest, spending a grueling but rewarding year renovating the property. They sanded down the massive, exposed log beams, installed expansive windows overlooking the woods, and built a large, open-hearth kitchen. Today, the restored lodge serves as a warm, welcoming retreat for tired travelers and hungry locals alike.
Cultivating Comfort and Craftsmanship
Stepping into The Whispering Pines Amish Kitchen feels like entering a bygone era. There is no Wi-Fi, no background music, and no rushing. Instead, the dining room is filled with the soft glow of gas lanterns, the murmur of friendly conversation, and the rich, savory aroma of roasting meats and freshly baked yeast breads. The Troyer family runs the entire operation, adhering strictly to their heritage. They source their ingredients from a network of traditional farms back in Smicksburg and rely entirely on slow, intentional cooking methods that have been passed down for generations.
Our Favorite Finds at The Whispering Pines
Whether you have just finished a long paddle down the Clarion River or a hike through the Forest Cathedral, this menu is perfectly designed to refuel you. Here are a few standout favorites that brilliantly showcase their culinary traditions:
- Stuffed Roast Pork: A Sunday dinner classic available every day of the week. This incredibly tender, slow-roasted pork is served alongside a generous mound of the Troyers’ signature sage and celery bread stuffing, then completely smothered in a rich, savory pan gravy.
- Brown Butter Noodles: A staple of Amish comfort food. Thick, hand-rolled egg noodles are boiled to perfection and then tossed in a decadent coating of nutty, browned butter and a hint of cracked black pepper. It is simplicity at its absolute best.
- Scratch-Made Beef Pasties: Perfect for a hearty lunch. These handheld savory pies feature a flaky, golden-brown crust stuffed with seasoned ground beef, diced potatoes, onions, and carrots, baked until piping hot.
- Wild Blackberry Cobbler: The ultimate forest dessert. Taking inspiration from their surroundings, this cobbler features a tart and sweet filling made from plump blackberries, baked beneath a thick, sweet biscuit crust. Served warm with a pitcher of fresh, heavy cream to pour over the top, it is simply unforgettable.
A Worthwhile Stop
A visit to The Whispering Pines Amish Kitchen is more than just a meal; it is the perfect complement to a weekend in the woods. It offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the modern world, look out over the ancient trees, and enjoy food that was prepared with immense care and immense pride. Just be sure to arrive with a healthy appetite—the Troyers are known for their incredibly generous portions!
