Step into the warmth of an Amish kitchen with this menu featuring classic dishes, time-honored recipes, and the simple goodness that defines Pennsylvania Dutch country cooking.
Menu for an Authentic Amish Meal
Starter:
Chicken Corn Soup A cozy, comforting soup made with chicken, sweet corn, onion, celery, parsley, and homemade dumplings.
Simmer chicken in water, remove bones and strain; add vegetables and simmer until tender. Make small dumplings with 1c flour, 1 egg, and ¼c milk, crumble, and add to soup. Cook 10min more, garnish with parsley. amishoutletstore
Boil celery until tender, drain. In saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour, then milk and sugar. Add celery, seasoning, and simmer until thick. amish-heritage
4. Mashed Potatoes With Brown Butter
2lb potatoes, 4T butter, ½c milk, salt
Boil and mash potatoes. Melt butter in a pan until golden, pour over potatoes, add warm milk, season, and whip until creamy. amish-heritage
5. Dutch Apple Pie
6c sliced apples, ½c sugar, 1T cinnamon, 1 pie crust, 1c oats, ½c flour, ½c brown sugar, ½c butter
Arrange apples in crust, sprinkle sugar and cinnamon. Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, butter for crumble, top pie. Bake at 400°F 40min .amish-heritage
A New Amish Beginning: Glen Rock’s Flourishing Community
In the gently rolling hills of Glen Rock, Pennsylvania, a quiet revolution has unfolded. Over the past decade, a new Amish community has blossomed—unique not only for its roots, but for the intentional planning behind its creation. This distinct settlement is breathing fresh life into the traditions and culture that have long defined Pennsylvania’s Amish heartland.
Structured Migration for a New Era
The Glen Rock community, just half an hour west of York County’s older Amish churches, began through a “program of well-planned and possibly community-supported migration” to help ease population pressure and land scarcity faced in overcrowded Lancaster County. Instead of families individually and informally migrating, leaders took active roles: scouting affordable land, connecting interested households, and planting the seeds of a vibrant new chapter for Amish life. amishamerica+2
As of 2024, Glen Rock’s Amish number over a dozen households, with more than 70 residents. The community is now self-sufficient enough to hold its own church services, a marker of genuine settlement and long-term viability. amishamerica+1
“What’s needed is a program consciously designed to reduce risk,” one community leader explained, noting that tangible support from church leadership marks a key break with tradition. amishamerica
Building Tradition: From Schoolhouses to Farms
Among the first testaments of community spirit stands the Lilac Glen Amish school, painstakingly constructed by local families just outside town. The simple, one-room schoolhouse—with cinderblock outhouses and a baseball backstop for recess—echoes the values of discipline and fellowship central to Amish life. shscourier
Art teacher Wesley Myers, a neighbor, expressed admiration for the growing bonds between Amish and non-Amish residents:
“As much as we’re different, we’re kind of all the same… we have some of the similar struggles and frustrations—marital stresses, trying to get your kids to behave, and trying to pay bills and work hard. The more we’ve sat and just chatted, the more we find out we’re not that much different.” shscourier
The English Perspective
Change is rarely seamless. Increased traffic from horse-drawn buggies and small buses bringing children to school has prompted some adjustment. Yet, those who live alongside the Amish routinely remark on their courtesy and respect.
Driver’s Ed teacher Joseph Krodel, familiar with Amish ways since his Lancaster days, recalled:
“Typically, I’ve seen the Amish community drive very cautiously and respectfully on the roadway. They’re usually very good with pulling over to the side as necessary to let traffic flow through smoothly. They don’t typically cause any congestion issues.” shscourier
Residents like Myers find that day-to-day interactions—sharing food, aiding with transportation, and learning mutual rhythms—have deepened understanding rather than strain.
Local Amish Businesses: Preserving Heritage & Economy
Glen Rock is home to several thriving Amish-run businesses, blending old-fashioned craftsmanship with regional commerce:
Glick’s Produce Stand at the Markets at Shrewsbury, operated by Sara Glick and family, is a focal point for both locals and travelers. “It’s been a good challenge moving here. We’re closer to work, which means more time for the children,” Glick reports. npr
Amish Sheds & Furniture: Nearby, skilled builders handcraft sheds and home furnishings, demonstrating the renowned practicality of “An ounce of work is worth a ton of wishing”. redpowermagazine+2
Bakery and Bulk Foods: Markets host stalls featuring homemade breads, pies, pretzels, and candies—echoes of the “harvest” tradition that feeds body and soul. padutchmarket+2
Farm Goods & Auctions: Livestock and produce auctions, long a staple of Amish commerce, are becoming community events where “The more we’ve sat and just chatted, the more… not that much different [we are],” as Myers puts it. shscourier
Quotes from Amish Community Members
While direct interviews are rare, proverbs and personal reflections offer deep insight:
As documented from a member: “I’m perfectly content to ride this out until people understand that we have to move.” npr
From Sara Glick: “It’s been a good challenge…closer to work means more time for the children.” npr
Non-Amish Community Reactions
Neighbors, farmers, and township leaders express appreciation for the values the Amish bring:
C. Michael Weaver, township supervisor: “I have seen a cultural clash between the Amish community and the English. … But we have found with the new ordinance, many of the Amish have asked for variances… I have great sympathy and empathy for that position.” npr
Local residents note improved preservation of farmland: “For the first time in York County history, an Amish family have officially preserved their land with the nonprofit. The King’s farm in Glen Rock was the first.” yorkblog
The Road Ahead: Blueprint for the Future
Community leader Chet Lapp hopes Glen Rock’s intentional model will guide future settlements:
“It’s far enough away from Lancaster to be affordable, while being close enough that those who move can still see family back home regularly… I believe many Amish would move if they had that structure and remained close to supportive family members.” npr
This approach may become a roadmap for Amish communities grappling with the modern pressures of expensive farmland, urban encroachment, and changing family structures. amishamerica+1
Amish values remain strong—discipline, humility, faith, and simplicity. Yet as families move out of historic homelands for new opportunities, there’s renewed optimism. Glen Rock’s settlers believe they can preserve the best parts of tradition, while remaining open to respectful change.
The 3 Outstanding Amish Markets in Upstate New York
Upstate New York is home to a vibrant Amish and Mennonite community, known for their old-world traditions, wholesome foods, and meticulous craftsmanship. Tucked among rolling hills and charming towns, several Amish markets offer visitors a chance to experience authentic homemade goods, farm-fresh eats, and unique treasures — all delivered with warmth and hospitality. Here are three standout markets, each with its own special menu items and atmosphere.
1. The Windmill Farm & Craft Market
Address: 3900 NY-14A, Penn Yan, NY 14527 Website:thewindmill.com
Nestled in the scenic Finger Lakes, The Windmill Farm & Craft Market is arguably the largest and most well-known Amish-influenced market in the region. Established over 35 years ago and open every Saturday from April through November, this sprawling outdoor-and-indoor market is a bustling hub of local vendors, drawing visitors from New York, Pennsylvania, and beyond. thewindmill+1
What Makes The Windmill Unique:
175+ Indoor/Outdoor Shops: Everything from fresh produce, hand-stitched quilts, and floral arrangements to custom cabinetry and hand-crafted furniture.
Amish-Made Specialties: Daily baked goods such as classic cinnamon rolls, shoo-fly pie, fruit pies, cookies, and sticky buns.
Bulk Foods: Grains, flours, baking essentials, and nut butters, plus locally sourced maple syrup, honey, and homemade jams.
Dining & Snacks: Sample homemade pretzels, popcorn, fudge, smoked meats, and gourmet cheeses. Multiple vendor stalls offer full meals, snacks, and beverages, accommodating both sit-down and grab-and-go options.
Produce: Fresh fruits and vegetables, organic eggs, cheese curds, and deli meats.
Family Fun: Pony rides, craft demonstrations, and live entertainment.
Insider Tip: Start the day with a cup of Amish-roasted coffee and a fresh cinnamon bun, then browse the market’s streets for gifts, produce, and locally made sweets. Stay for lunch and sample homemade chicken pot pie or hearty soups, served with slices of home-baked bread.
Sauders Store is a Mennonite family-run market steady in its commitment to authentic quality and selection, located in the heart of the Finger Lakes. Renowned for its extensive grocery selection and inviting atmosphere, Sauders blends Amish and Mennonite culinary traditions, making it a favorite stop for both locals and tourists. discoverseneca
Bulk Foods: Dried fruits, flours, organic grains, beans, local honey, pasta, seasonings, and more.
Deli & Café: Freshly made sandwiches, soups, and deli meats/cheeses cut to order. Popular menu items include turkey and Swiss sandwiches, homemade salads, and “Amish potato salad.”
Insider Tip: Try the famous “Whoopie Pie” and artisanal cheese curds. Friendly staff can help you select a picnic lunch to enjoy at nearby Seneca Lake or Montezuma Wildlife Refuge.
A newer yet highly promising addition, Sunnycrest Markets is a family-friendly Amish-style market that brings charming homemade fare and handcrafted wares to the picturesque countryside around Sharon Springs. Sunnycrest offers indoor and outdoor shopping, with friendly owners always ready to share stories behind their goods. sunnycrestmarkets
Sunnycrest Markets Highlights:
Fresh-Baked Pretzels: Sweet and savory soft pretzels made daily.
Bulk Groceries: Beans, grains, pastas, baking ingredients, and regional specialties.
Playsets & Furniture: Wooden swings, picnic tables, and backyard playsets crafted by local Amish artisans.
Handmade Sweets: Fudge, fruit pies, honey, maple syrup, and more.
Local Produce & Pantry Items: Seasonal fruits, veggies, and a selection of canned jams and spreads.
Family-Focused Atmosphere: Free samples, play areas for kids, and regular community events.
Insider Tip: Snack on a homemade pretzel while shopping for unique wooden toys or furniture, then take home a basket of fresh produce and Amish candy.
Popular Menu Items at Amish Markets
At these markets, customer favorites include:
Cinnamon Rolls, Shoo-fly Pie, Apple and Fruit Pies
Exploring Amish markets in Upstate New York is more than a shopping trip — it’s an immersion into a culture that prizes craftsmanship, simplicity, and community. Each market offers its own distinct flavors and surprises, from mouthwatering baked goods to handmade wooden toys. Whether you seek the bustle of The Windmill, the cozy hospitality of Sauders Store, or the family-friendly warmth of Sunnycrest Markets, you will encounter upstate New York’s best through the authentic taste and artistry of its Amish residents. onlyinyourstate+3
Just east of Lancaster’s bustle, the areas surrounding Paradise, PA offer visitors a chance to discover authentic Amish shopping experiences—a world filled with hand-crafted goods, local foods, and a slower, friendlier pace. Skip the crowded tourist hotspots and explore these tucked-away destinations favored by the locals.
Dutch Meadows Farm Store
Address: 309 Meadow View Road, Paradise, PA 17562 Webpage: dutchmeadowsfarm.com/farm-store
A true out-of-the-way gem, Dutch Meadows Farm Store lets you purchase directly from the Amish. Expect pasture-raised eggs, 100% grass-fed beef, SOY/CORN free chicken, turkey, dairy, and more, all produced on pristine farmland. You can shop in person or order online for farm store pickup every Friday and Saturday. Ask about seasonal favorites like grass-fed raw milk, fresh cheese curds, and homemade butter for a taste of Amish quality. dutchmeadowsfarm
The Li’l Country Store & Miniature Horse Farm (near Paradise in Ronks)
Address: 264 Paradise Lane, Ronks, PA 17572 Webpage: lancasterminihorses.com
Owned by an Amish family, this charming shop combines a petite country store and a miniature horse farm experience. Try their homemade Amish root beer, baked goods, hand-sewn crafts, and signature canned produce. Search for signed baskets, aprons, pot holders, and beautiful locally-made toys. Kids can ride a miniature horse, interact with farm animals, and everyone can relax on the farm. It’s a perfect, unhurried taste of Amish life. lancasterminihorses
Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market
Address: 2710 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand, PA 17505 Webpage: birdinhandfarmersmarket.com
Just a short drive from Paradise, this family-run market features many Amish vendors selling meats, cheeses, produce, baked goods, candies, and a full range of local crafts. Must-try items include homemade whoopie pies, soft pretzels, canned jams, and hand-sewn dolls. It’s open year-round and still far enough removed from the major crowds to enjoy a leisurely shop for Pennsylvania Dutch treats. birdinhandfarmersmarket
What to Expect
Authentic Amish Goods: Look for handmade furniture, baskets, quilts, aprons, and pottery.
Local Foods: Grass-fed dairy, fresh meats, SOY/CORN free options, canned jams, apple butter, shoofly pies, fresh-baked breads, and root beer.
Unique Experiences: Miniature horse rides, petting zoos, farm tours, and chats with Amish families about their crafts and traditions.
Quiet Country Shopping: These shops are family-run, closed Sundays for religious observance, and cash-friendly.
Shopping in the Paradise, PA area invites you to slow down and experience a world where quality and tradition matter, the treats are homemade, and each purchase supports hard-working Amish families devoted to craft and community. Whether you’re seeking a unique gift or simply the freshest local food, these out-of-the-way shops offer a truly memorable piece of Pennsylvania Dutch life.
Pennsylvania’s Best Amish Restaurants Outside Lancaster County
Pennsylvania is renowned for its deep-rooted Amish culture and the hearty comfort foods that define Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. While Lancaster County is typically the first stop for Amish dining, venturing beyond the 50-mile radius reveals hidden culinary gems, each offering authentic, home-cooked experiences. Dive into three of the finest Amish restaurants in the state—far from the bustling tourist crowds of Lancaster.
1. Dutch Eating Place – Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia
Situated in the iconic Reading Terminal Market, the Dutch Eating Place brings the flavors of Amish country to the heart of Philadelphia. Amish women, easily recognized by their bonnets and plain dress, serve up breakfast and lunch in an open kitchen environment where guests can watch their meals being prepared.
Favorite Menu Items:
Blueberry Pancakes: Fluffy and pillowy, loaded with fresh blueberries, a perennial favorite.
Apple Dumplings: Traditional and served warm, these dumplings come drizzled with sweet syrup and a dollop of cream.
Chicken Corn Soup: Comfort in a bowl, loaded with shredded chicken and sweet corn, best enjoyed with their homemade rolls.
Shoofly Pie: Soft, sweet, and dripping with molasses—a classic Pennsylvania Dutch dessert.
Whether you’re starting your day or grabbing a hearty lunch, the Dutch Eating Place delivers a genuine taste of Amish kitchen traditions. amish-heritage
Nestled in the heart of Big Valley, Belleville is home to one of Pennsylvania’s most authentic Amish communities—far off the beaten path. The Amish Touch isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a country store offering homemade goods, quilts, furniture, and an eatery specializing in classic Amish fare.
Favorite Menu Items:
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie: Generous chunks of slow-cooked chicken, vegetables, and noodles in a rich gravy.
Dutch Potato Filling: A local twist on mashed potatoes mixed with homemade stuffing.
Sticky Buns: Sweet yeast rolls baked in caramel and pecans, a must-have for visitors.
Apple Schnitz Pie: Spiced dried apple pie, served at Sunday church dinners.
Grab a table or take your meal to go and stroll through the market, where baked goods, cured meats, and homemade jams abound. Few experiences in Pennsylvania rival a meal at The Amish Touch when it comes to authenticity. amish-heritage
3. Yoder’s Country Market & Buffet – New Holland, Chester County
Located in rural Chester County, Yoder’s Country Market & Buffet is a true celebration of Amish culinary heritage. Though technically near the edge of the Lancaster region, it’s just outside the 50-mile circle and well worth the trip. The smorgasbord buffet style allows you to sample a little bit of everything—a treat for anyone seeking the full spectrum of Amish cuisine.
Favorite Menu Items:
Beef & Noodles: Slow-cooked beef with homemade buttered noodles and brown gravy.
Creamed Corn Fritters: Sweet, crispy corn morsels fried to golden perfection.
Chicken Croquettes: Chopped chicken in thick creamy sauce, formed into balls, breaded, and fried.
Homemade Donuts and Pies: Whoopie pies, shoofly pie, and hand-rolled donuts are customer staples.
Yoder’s prides itself on using local produce from Amish and Mennonite farms, ensuring each recipe is packed with farm-fresh flavor. Their buffet experience is perfect for families and travelers eager to sample the culinary staples of Amish life. amishfurniturefactory
What Makes These Restaurants Special?
Far from Lancaster’s crowds, these three restaurants focus on tradition, simplicity, and the cherished recipes handed down through generations. Amish cooks create dishes from scratch, using local ingredients—heartwarming stews, fresh breads, sticky buns, classic pies, and satisfying casseroles. Every meal feels like home, every bite brimming with heritage.
If you want to immerse yourself in authentic Amish dining, check their hours before you go; many operate on limited schedules and close on Sundays in keeping with Amish religious customs.
Explore Amish cuisine off the tourist trail for a taste of Pennsylvania’s genuine flavor. Whether you’re hunting for blueberry pancakes in the city or chicken pot pie in Big Valley, these restaurants offer warmth, authenticity, and the delicious simplicity of Amish life.
Discovering Lima’s New Amish Market: Tradition, Community, and Homegrown Charm
The rolling farmland that surrounds Lima, Ohio, has long held stories of quiet resilience and enduring tradition. Now, with the recent opening of a new Amish market, the region is seeing a fresh chapter written—a blend of old-world values and local entrepreneurship that’s drawing visitors from across northwest Ohio and beyond.
Nestled just outside the bustle of downtown on Elida Road, the Amish Market isn’t simply a grocery stop—it’s a living experience for locals and travelers alike. Here, every shelf tells a story of craftsmanship, care, and community.
An Authentic Amish Experience
From the moment you walk in, a sense of serenity pervades the air. Wooden beams arch overhead, hand-constructed by local Amish carpenters, the scent of freshly baked bread and cinnamon pastries mingling in the aisles. Seasonal produce, canned jams, and artisan cheeses line rustic tables, each item a tangible result of time-honored agricultural methods.
“People come here for more than just food,” says John Yoder, one of the group members helping operate the market. “We want them to find connection and learn about the values we live by—simplicity, family, and hard work.”
Quotes and Impressions from Locals
The reception from the Lima community has been overwhelmingly positive. Mary Allen, a longtime Lima resident, notes, “You walk in and it already feels like home. The market brings a taste of country living right into the city. My kids are learning how bread is made and seeing where their food comes from.”
Business owner and neighbor, Sarah Becker, who runs Stites Grocery nearby, is excited about the collaboration. “The Amish market has added authentic flavor to our business district. We’re seeing more foot traffic, and shoppers pop into our store after picking up Amish pies and cheeses.”
John Miller, an Amish farmer supplying the market, shares, “We believe in doing business honestly and with a smile. When someone buys our vegetables, it feels like our families are nourishing theirs.”
Amish Horse and Buggy by John Greim
Highlighting Local Partnerships
The new Amish market doesn’t operate in a vacuum—it is awakening new synergies with other hometown businesses. Just down the street, Elida Road Tire Service provides services to many local families, including the market’s delivery wagons. Across town, Coffe Amor features pastries sourced from Amish bakers, while Norman’s Pest Control is a regular supporter of the market’s events, ensuring the premises remain inviting for all.
Another notable connection is with the Heritage Amish Furniture shop, also situated in Lima. Known for their custom, American hardwood pieces, Heritage provides much of the beautifully crafted seating and display furniture used within the Amish market. “We’re proud to see our furniture supporting other local ventures. It really is about neighbors helping neighbors,” says Hannah Schwartz, part of the Heritage team. heritageamishfurniture
Handcrafted Goods and Culinary Delights
Visitors delight in a rotating menu that follows the Ohio growing seasons—sweet corn in summer, apples and cider in fall, maple syrup in early spring. There’s a salad bar with fresh-picked greens, a bakery featuring everything from shoofly pies to soft pretzels, and a bulk foods section with candies and baking essentials reminiscent of an old-fashioned general store.
“Southern hospitality melds with Amish cooking here—Folks, ya’ll come back, danki!” beams Martha Troyer, who manages the bakery counter.
One recurring theme among quotes from both Amish proprietors and patrons is a respect for tradition without rigidity. “We may not have computers or smartphones, but we have books and genuine conversations. The market is a place where you come as a stranger and leave as a friend,” reflects Samuel, a group member overseeing fresh dairy offerings.
Impact on Lima’s Social Scene
Beyond commerce, the new Amish market is quickly becoming a social hub. Families gather for seasonal festivals, locals volunteer at the produce stand, and event nights with live bluegrass music and quilt displays are drawing crowds of all ages. The market recently partnered with ATR Contracting and State Bank and Trust, both recognized local businesses, for a “Day of Caring” initiative, where part of the proceeds supported youth programming in the Lima area. hometownstations
“The spirit of the Amish is in their generosity and their togetherness,” says Linda Peterson, who attended the opening weekend. “It reminds us that community is something we build every day, together.”
A Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
At its heart, the market is about fostering sustainable, healthy living. Amish farmers eschew chemical pesticides, rotate their crops, and invest deeply in soil health. Their stewardship is evident in the robust flavor of each tomato and the golden richness of hand-churned cream.
“The biggest lesson we hope people take home isn’t just a jar of jam or a loaf of bread—it’s a respect for nature and the rhythms of honest work,” says group member Sarah Miller.
Plan Your Visit
The new market is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours on Fridays for family night suppers. In addition to grocery staples, visitors can enjoy furniture shopping at nearby Heritage Amish Furniture, breakfast at JB’s Hunt N Fishing Supply’s counter café, and browse for fresh-cut flowers and handwoven baskets at The Olde Thyme Pantry in neighboring Elida. oldethymepantry.coshop4u
Local tip: Always bring cash, as is tradition among many Amish businesses, and save time to wander the outdoor gardens or visit the neighboring Central District for more unique, locally-made treasures. centraldistrictlima
A Final Invitation
If you’re searching for the soul of small-town America, look no further than Lima’s new Amish market. With each visit, you’ll discover something new—a handcrafted quilt, a neighbor’s smile, a story worth savoring.
As Mary Allen so eloquently put it: “It’s not just about what you buy here—it’s about what you take home in your heart.”
“The Amish are islands of sanity in a whirlpool of change.” – Nancy Sleeth
Come for the pies. Stay for the community. Leave enriched, in every way.yelp+3
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