21 Charming Eateries (And Ice Cream Shops!) to Visit in Cumberland Valley

Presented by: Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau

Kristy’s Whistle Stop

During the summer, city haunts can quickly get stale—especially for foodies who visit the same spots weekend after weekend. For those itching for adventure, ditch the beer garden (you know, the one you’ve been to hundreds of times) and consider an excursion to over 20 of the most charming eateries, ice cream shops, tea parlors and more in Cumberland Valley.

Ice Cream Shops

A local legend since 1949, Massey’s Frozen Custard, Inc. is famous for their delicious soft-serve or hand-dipped frozen custard with pretzels, sundaes and milkshakes. Or, take a step back in time and swing by Kristy’s Whistle Stop; they serve up ice cream, burgers and dogs in a 50’s-themed atmosphere.

Continue your sweet adventure at the Twirly Top Drive-In near Pine Grove Furnace State Park. It’s a haven for campers and nature lovers alike, and shakes and floats are abundant. More daring diners, meanwhile, will appreciate the variety of flavors at Leo’s Homemade Ice Cream, from timeless classics like salted caramel to the unique favorites like chocolate chili pepper. Of course, a can’t-miss summer staple is the Italian gelato served up at Helena’s Chocolate Café & Creperie, which also boasts delectable additions like macarons and cheesecake.

Cabin on King crafts supreme sundaes with the peanut butter Lip Schmacker, the blueberry Blues Breaker and the coffee-flavored Pick-Me-Up. Enjoy a departure from standard offerings with the Salty Sensation maple bacon sundae – salty caramel crunch ice cream is drizzled with maple syrup, topped with whipped cream, sprinkled with bacon bits and garnished with a cherry and pretzel stick.

If you’re considering a full-on ice cream crawl (and who could blame you?), check out the Cumberland Valley Ice Cream Trail with detailed directions and even more scrumptious spots to help beat the heat this summer.

Tea Parlors

A rare collection this far west of the Queen, Cumberland Valley is home to a number of teahouses and shops that cater to all tastes. Camellia’s Sin Tea Parlor & Gift Shop offers an impressive lineup of British-inspired fare like scones, soups and finger sandwiches. Don’t miss their seasonal teas, such as local favorite “Snowflake,” a blend of black tea, coconut, almond and cinnamon. Tip: tote along a fun hat or borrow one from the selection hanging on the wall!

For an authentic United Kingdom experience, The Tea Corner at Oxford Hall Celtic Shop offers more than 70 loose and packaged teas from Ireland and England. Stop by for lunch with traditional Welsh Rarebit, savory meat pies and bangers, or take a Guinness brownie or sticky toffee pudding to go.

Recreate childhood memories with a tea party at Olivia’s Tea Room in Camp Hill. The shop sells American Girl doll clothes, handmade doll furniture, loose tea and tea accessories. (Tea parties reservations are available for adults or children!)

Find info on more “spots of tea” (and cookies!) here.

Waterfront Dining Spots

Take advantage of the picturesque beauty and serenity of the Susquehanna River at the RockBass Grill. Giving off vibes of a 1950’s yacht, this casual fine dining restaurant features mouth-watering seafood and steaks. Enjoy a Mad-Men-worthy cocktail or martini on their outdoor deck, or pop over to nearby Dockside Willie’s, the perfect after-work spot with happy hour drink specials and a long list of brick-oven pizza.

For larger parties, Duke’s Bar and Grill has the biggest deck on the river—ideal for leisurely summer hangouts. And don’t forget to order the fan-favorite Maryland Crab Pretzel.

Home-Style and International Restaurants

You don’t have to blow your budget on traveling the world for unique international cuisine – these Cumberland Valley restaurants can satisfy any appetite.

For both Spanish and Moroccan fare, head to Andalusia for their tapas and entrees (made with local ingredients) and full-service bar.

The Hellenic Kouzina Greek Cafe boasts a large menu of Greek classics like Gyros and Greek salads alongside a full espresso bar of coffee and gourmet drinks. The casual BYOB café boasts a scenic fountain with courtyard seating.

Spice things up at Cedars Restaurant with authentic Lebanese dishes like kibbe bi saneeyah, lollipop chops and kefta kabab. As an added bonus, enjoy live belly dancers and music every Friday and Saturday night!

Chalit’s Thai Bistro is the spot for special Thai dishes like homemade curries, stir fry, spicy wok and more. Keep cool with their smooth drinks like Thai iced tea or iced coffee.

European food and drink lovers are welcome, too. Enjoy Market Cross Pub & Brewery’s English fare with 250 varieties of beer from around the world and classic dishes, Café Bruges, where they have over 100 beers and ales from Belgium.

Visit American eateries like 1794 The Whiskey Rebellion for rustic steak, seafood and more than 50 varieties of whiskey. Redd’s Smokehouse BBQ offers authentic southern dishes with savory barbecue delights like pulled pork, ribs and brisket.