Contests | Shady Maple

Charles B.

I love taking my sweetheart to Shady Maple for what I call a mini vacation or date day. I love everything about Shady Maple. Anytime we get the chance to make the 1.5-hour trip, we do it.

My favorite time at Shady Maple is anytime I can get our family together and take the ride from Philadelphia to East Earl to enjoy the great food at the best buffet we have ever been at. We always make it a point to go during midnight gladness, and we always make the trip on individual birthdays...

Valerie M.

Family gathering at Shady Maple! We came out to this beautiful rainbow outside!

David W.

My best time that I had was probably the first time I ever went there. I was absolutely in awe of the set up and the wonderful quality of food. I am a man that could eat breakfast foods all day, so that is always my preferred meal, but I haven't had a bad food day there ever. I love to make the...

Gregory H.

About 28 years ago, I was three months out of high school and was diagnosed with Lymphoma. After 108 weeks of chemotherapy and radiation once a week, I went into remission. The first thing I wanted to do to celebrate was have a meal at Shady Maple. Such a great celebration! My birthday is in 2...

Andrea B.

This was my mom's favorite place to go! We would eat and then go downstairs and shop!

Nancy L.

My absolute favorite memory was a trip with my senior citizens that I cared for at a senior apt complex. They loved Shady Maple, so I scheduled a trip, and the bus was filled. We get in, and everyone has had their lunch, and it's dessert time when I hear my name being yelled from a distance. I...

Jacob S.

My favorite memory was when I came on a bus trip with church a couple of years ago. Your food is so delicious. Thank you to all employees who work and God bless everyone.

Amanda W.

My first time at Shady Maple was 18 years ago when my now-husband took me there for breakfast on my birthday! We've been huge fans ever since!

Thom M.

I recently adopted a teenager. He loves buffets, and yours was worth the drive from Tennessee!

Rene A.

We come on Good Friday for breakfast. The numbers grew and grew. I moved to Texas, but the tradition continues. Can't wait to visit this summer and come to Shady Maple!

Ben R.

My family comes here at least once every 3 months. My favorite memory is probably the first time we ever went and walked up to the buffet to find the super crispy french fries!

Cynthia P.

We heard about Shady Maple from our son, so we went. It was never a disappointment. There was way too much to eat, and we had to save room for all the delicious desserts. My only disappointment is that I wish you weren't five hours away, but we make it at least once a year!!

Sue H.

Shady Maple's our happy place! I'm there as often as I can be, but my true happy memories are the times a group of my online friends meet there for dinner bi-annually. We are all in different parts of the state (and some are even across the country), so when we are all together, it's an amazing...

Mary H.

On 11-27-2024, 2 of my friends and I went to Shady Maple Smorgasbord to celebrate my birthday. It was 1st time my friends had gone to Shady Maple Smorgasbord, and they loved shopping in the huge gift shop downstairs. The food was hot and fresh. It was a great day watching my friends see all the...

Roseann W.

My friends from Virginia, Maryland, and, of course, Pennsylvania come together to share a great meal.

Traci F.

I remember going to Shady Maple with my grandparents when I was a kid. It was in the basement of a gift store, and I couldn't believe I could have as much food as I wanted plus get an omelet to order. We would always walk around the gift store afterward and look at all of the trinkets.

John T.

My favorite experience is meeting up with my old friend, Richie, after about a 30 year hiatus. We had a Monday night dinner at Shady Maple and reminisced about growing up and talked about our grandkids.

Joe W.

I have been to the Shady Maple 7 times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The food service is over the top, and has a nice selection of desserts. The shop downstairs is huge and unique. The gift shop is where my wife and I started our Grinch collection. We are planning to make another trip soon.

Monica S.

My grandson loves Shady! When he hears we go without him, he gets upset! He has had many firsts there. He has a tree nut allergy, so when we ask about how dishes are made, we are always informed what has nuts and what is nut-free. Everyone who works there is always pleasant. Of course he always...

Rachel U.

My favorite memory of Shady Maple is coming up for Mother's Day! It was always nice to go and see my mom get flowers in addition to a great meal, but now I get to go as a mother myself and get the flowers with my mom. It's a special experience and one I look forward to every year!

Bruno S.

Every time my family visits from Brazil, we head to Shady Maple. It's a favorite of ours and always delivers new memories with each visit. Wishing you continued success!

Christopher M.

My family comes every year on my birthday. It is a special memory of fantastic food, wonderful family, and great memories. Thank you so much shady maple.

Gerald T.

I went to have dinner with my old friends and my wife on her 61st birthday. I have not seen my friends in 45 years; we rekindled at Shady Maple! We go every year on our birthdays.

Nikki A.

Many years ago, my birthday fell on a Friday. As our usual routine, we headed to Shady Maple for my free meal. Lucky for me, it was seafood night (which I love). While my husband and I sat enjoying our dinner, a violin player came to our table and played "Happy Birthday" to me on the violin! Who...

Barbara B.

I would say that every Shady Maple Smorgasbord visit is truly a favorite experience. We have been coming to Shady Maple since the 1980"s (forty years) when the restaurant was in the old building. We totally enjoy coming to Shady Maple as it is an experience in itself. The smorgasbord has...

Kari M.

I had been to Shady Maple as a teenager while on a trip with my best friend's family. It is a memory that stuck with me because of the amazing food there. As an adult in 2023, my husband and I made a trip to the area specifically to go to Shady Maple with our one-year-old. Our son had the BEST...

Sharon S.

We visit the area each Fall for a weekend vacation and make it a point to stop at Shady Maple not only for the great food but also for the awesome gift shop. We're looking forward to our visit again this year, and we're so glad we found this place.

Nicole M.

My favorite memory at Shady Maple is when I went for the first time with my church family. We each got so many different foods, shared what we liked and what we didn't, and fellowshipped together.

Danny R.

We are local and have fond memories of coming to the dutchette, as the food was always fantastic!

Martha P.

Every year for my birthday, I go to Shady Maple! It is the best buffet. I really enjoy with my husband and my family

Chad H.

We decided to take my mother-in-law out for supper. Since she always said about going to Shady Maple, we decided to surprise her with it. We drove the 2 hours down on a Thursday. The service was fast and friendly as it always is. The food was outstanding, The fried shrimp was fabulous as was all...

Karlee F.

We love Shady Maple. It's the highlight of our yearly vacation to Lancaster, County! 12 years going strong! It's worth the 4.5 hour drive!!!! We come here just for the roasted corn and Harvard beets!

Carolyn S.

I go to Shady Maple with a bunch of my family members over the new years holiday. Fabulous food and fellowship!

Daniel G.

My favorite Shady Maple memory is when my friend and I were out doing the ""Pursue Your Scoops"" ice cream trail event and randomly decided to stop at Shady Maple for lunch. Much to my surprise, the weekly feature was duck! My absolute favorite! That is all I ate, paired with all my favorite...

Julie B.

All my visits to Shady Maple are my favorites. It's always great food, a great atmosphere, great company, and a great experience.

Kathy N.

My nephew and his wife came from Glenie Burnie, Maryland, to celebrate my and her birthdays. We didn't know we had the same birthday. He is a chaplain in the Army. They will be getting deployed, so we won't be able to see them for a while. It was the best birthday.

April C

My husband took me here while on our honeymoon. We have gone here every year on our anniversary for the past 2 years. We will be here for at least lunch, if not breakfast, while we are in Lancaster. We have since added an addition to our family since we were last there and can't wait to share the...

Brandi E.

On November 26th, 2010, my now husband took me to Shady Maple for dinner. We were sitting at one of the booths, and while I was coming back to our table to get something more to drink, my husband reached into his pocket and pulled out a small box. He then proceeded to propose to me. I, of course,...

Alyssa F.

I have great memories coming with my grandparents growing up and now with my own kids. The picture I attached is one of my favorites, my daughter's first time enjoying Shady Maple.

Briana H.

It was a crisp autumn morning, and my family and I had embarked on a pilgrimage- yes, a pilgrimage- to the one place where dreams are served on oversized plates: Shady Maple. My stomach had been preparing for this moment for days. I skipped dinner the night before, drank only water, and even did a...

Keith F.

We had heard about Shady Maple on YouTube and knew we had to check it out for ourselves. It was all we expected and more! We were blown away by the size of the building. Every item we had to eat was delicious. After our meal, we headed down to the basement to check out the gift shop. The selection...

Michelle S.

Going to Shady Maple has been a family tradition. My parents have passed, but the tradition continues with my husband and myself. We make it a point to get there at least one time per year!

Jennifer M.

We have been coming to Shady since I was a young girl. We celebrate every birthday, Mother's Day, and Father's Day there every year. We come at least once a month. We even got our daughter always wanting to go!

Shelby S.

I went to Shady Maple for breakfast before a huge surgery that will affect how much I'm able to eat, definitely the best last meal possible and I can't wait to come here again!!

Penny B.

My daughter wanted to come to Shady Maple for her 17th birthday. Knowing that I really couldn't afford it, she saved her hard-earned money so she could pay for us to celebrate with her!

David M.

My favorite Shady Maple memory is the first time I took my mother there for dinner. She was absolutely overwhelmed. She couldn't believe the size of the restaurant, and when she went to the buffet line, she got lost and couldn't find her way back to our table. I had to go rescue her. Shady Maple...

Kelly A.

We were so completely overwhelmed the first time we visited! Oh my, there was just food everywhere we looked, and needless to say, we ate WAY too much!! Everything was so good, and we started planning our next visit before we left the table.

Sarah M.

I have so many fond memories of vacations in Lancaster with my grandparents and going to Shady Maple for dinner. My grandfather, who was my entire world, would always have us eat our desserts before our meal. I now continue the tradition with my husband and son.

Diana W.

This is a very good restaurant I have been there for my birthday and other people’s birthdays. It is very clean and a lot of great food. One I found this place I fell in love with it! The staff is kind and polite.

Lisa M.

My favorite memory is enjoying my birthday one year with my husband and niece at Shady Maple. We had spent the day hiking in the area and had a fabulous meal to top it off.

Claire R,

Shady Maple is definitely one of my favorite places to visit! Anytime we have a special occasion, guests visiting, or we just want to take a little drive, we always think of Shady Maple. A lot of food and a little shopping- it doesn't get any better than that!

Jena B.

I have been coming to Shady Maple since I was a little girl, and I'm 42. My grandparents were the first to bring me, and they remember when it was a farm stand. My parents brought me, I brought my kids, and now I bring my granddaughter. 5 generations have been enjoying your store. I have way too...

Linda W.

We enjoy visiting whenever we are able. My first time there was with the Retreads Motorcycle group in 2014. We felt so welcomed by the staff which is always a good start. I was amazed by the amount and variety of food. I actually got lost on my way back to the room we were in, but a very nice...

Kayla F.

When I was around 8, my dad would take my great-grandmother, grandma & pap, and us kids out to eat every year for my great-grandma's birthday. I have so many memories of spending the day with them.

Amy R.

We always loved Shady Maple. I was very pregnant, and a trip to the buffet was the last trip before our little one joined us. The meal was delicious and now we bring her to enjoy the meal too.

Carolyn H.

We brought a group from work, eating plate after plate until we were so full. Some of the co-workers who had never been there really enjoyed it and have been there several more times. Thank you for the excellent, delicious food.

Jeffrey J.

My mother passed away in the 1980s at the age of 42. My father started the tradition shortly after my mother passed away to have some special memories of having Christmas Eve brunch with him, myself, and my 3 other siblings. That tradition lasted about 13 or 14 years till my father passed away in...

Lauren H.

It was the year I turned 37 years old. I went out to Shady Maple for dinner with all of my family. My kids, my husband, two brothers, their girlfriends, and my dad and my in-laws (not pictured) all came to celebrate with me! It was probably the first time we all got together like that, and it was...

Bradley R.

The hum of the highway tires was a steady drone, a soundtrack to our anticipation. My fiance, Sarah, sat beside me, a smile already playing on her lips. It was her birthday, and the grand destination Shady Maple Smorgasbord. A 90-minute trek from Baltimore might seem extreme for a buffet, but...

Christine F.

For years, my sister, brother-in-law, brother-in-law, and niece have come together at Shady Maple for our birthdays from December through March. It's become a tradition, and we just love coming together as a family, enjoying the best food around, and celebrating our birthdays!

Judy C.

Our first visit was about 30 years ago! It was in the old building. We were in awe at the size of the building back then, the fabulous handcrafted wall decorations and the totally blown away by the selection and quality of the food. We have introduced many friends and family members and celebrated...

Rhonda B.

My first time at Shady Maple was a few years ago when my son came from Marine Boot Camp, and I took him there to eat. We all had a wonderful time there, and I would love to come back for more delicious food.

Chloe J.

I would often go to Shady Maple with my parents and grandparents.I have really fond memories of my family all together eating such great food. Although some family members are no longer with us to go to Shady Maple, the fond memories of them remain every time I step foot into the establishment.

Beth S.

We would go all the time for our birthdays; one year, it happened to also be the Saturday before Mother's Day. The day was to celebrate my sister's birthday, but we also got to celebrate Mother's Day for my mom. There were four generations of our family there and it was such a nice day.

Kelly P.

Our whole family goes for each person's birthday! Love shady maple!

Tracy A.

My sisters, my Aunt, and my Mom would take at least one annual road trip to Shady Maple from Emmaus PA. We would stuff ourselves and walk it off in the gift shop, market, and Goods. We also found other places to shop along the way. Many good laughs with the ladies.

Lorraine B.

Growing up, my family and I enjoyed going here to celebrate birthdays. Now that I'm married, I enjoy going here with my son and husband to celebrate birthdays and walk around the gift shop and market.

Regina T.

Our first visit was for my daughter's 12th Birthday. She was so excited and we loved the food and the gift shop. Coming from Mahanoy City and driving the back country roads was a beautiful experience.

Heather S.

My family loves Shady Maple. We really enjoy coming for special events. We came for our first midnight gladness last year to do some Christmas shopping. It was so crazy; we couldn't believe how busy it was. But my favorite Shady Maple memory actually took place outside of Shady Maple. We drove to...

Star P.

I first started my journey going to Shady Maple when we took my sister there for dinner on Mother's Day. It was such a great experience. The food was delicious and fresh; I'd never tasted something so close to home before. They have a variety of food there, from dessert to beverages to breakfast...

Desirae S.

Our first visit was my youngest son's birthday in July of 2022. He turned 8 then. The look on his face was pure joy. He said it was like waking up on Christmas. We were also shocked at how gorgeous the store was, and the food was fantastic. Now we come every year for his birthday.

Sandy L.

We love to go to Shady Maple to eat. The food there is so good. We try to go there at least two times each year. I love the specials they have for either birthday. I also like how each day you have a different theme for your food. I have been going there for a lot of years!!

Kristen B

This Valentine's Day, my boyfriend surprised me by taking me here. This is not our first time, but it definitely made this time special. We enjoy getting our family together and taking the beautiful scenic view from Carlisle to Lancaster. The food is always on point, and I can tell it was made...

Jamie S.

I always go for my birthday meal and other family members' birthdays. The food is so delicious that I feel full every time. I definitely enjoy the brisket, Cajun catfish, and their various desserts.

Donna B.

My favorite Shady Maple experience was from 2 years ago when we introduced our son, daughter-in-law, and 3 grandchildren to the greatest smorgasbord ever! We had such a fun time watching them explore all the delicious options. We now look forward to going with them each summer when we visit...

Beverly H.

Great friends and great food!

Olivia F.

We've been going to Shady Maple every year for family reunions since I was a child! I even lost my first tooth at Shady Maple! I am looking forward to continue coming to Shady Maple with my family for years to come.

Dawn M.

I love going and making memories with my kids; we love Shady Maple and the goods store! Every time we visit, there is always something new and exciting to keep us wanting to come back for more! It is my favorite place to visit, no matter what season it is. Shady Maple always has great activities...

Katie P.

I remember going to Shady Maple almost every year when I was young. The HUGE buffet looked even bigger through my child eyes. So much amazing food, and a dessert bar fit for a king! And to top it all off you can get birch beer to drink! We can't get it where I'm from so that was always a special...

Joanne P.

Shady Maple has the absolutely best donuts. We have to drive over 45 miles to get there, and all I think of is your donuts along the way!

George K.

All my kids surprised me for my birthday a few years back, and we all got together and chowed down on the great food there.

Elisabeth B.

We held our wedding reception at Shady Maple, and it was an absolute dream experience! We got married in April 2021, so Covid was still an issue, but Shady Maple made sure we had an absolute dream experience, despite the state of the world. Choosing Shady Maple for our reception was one of the...

Richard L.

17 years ago, my grandfather was battling cancer, and he ended up losing the battle. and this ended up being the last time we went out for a meal with him as he lived several hours away. Because of the treatment and steroids he was on, he had quite an appetite, and he was so happy eating all the...

Cassandra B.

My grandparents used to take us camping down in Lancaster since me and my sister have been very young. Shady Maple became a staple for us to go eat at. My sister, who was an extremely picky eater- LOVES the mashed potatoes offered at the buffet. She used to eat plate after plate. My grandfather,...

Jennifer D.

My favorite memory is going with my family for birthdays. My Gram loved going there. We would rent a room in the back area for our family and have birthday parties. Free meals were always nice.

Elaine P.

I love to eat at Shady Maple! I travel about 75 miles to eat there. I also love to shop at the supermarket, and I try to go there once a month.

Aaron R.

Many memories of coming here for birthdays with the entire family and having the best breakfast in the area!

Bobette M.

My favorite memories are the birthday breakfast we would take turns celebrating every year while working at Habitat for Humanity in Coatesville! We so enjoyed them! 10 great years!

Kim E.

My best memories are of going to Shady Maple with my Mom on Mother's Day weekend. My Mom would get very excited about the free plant, only she could never make up her mind! She would have to look at every one, picking one only to put it back and pick another. This would go on for about 30...

Jen H.

A group of 20 of us came to celebrate my daughters birthday. We had an amazing time seated in the back dining area. Shady Maple is our family get together spot for all birthdays and special occasions.

Jennifer V.

In the early 90's, my father, who was a pastor at a small church in Reading, would take the senior citizens group from the church to Shady Maple every other month or so for lunch. My grandmother would often go with the group. That tiny, little woman would eat SOO much! She'd get a big salad, soup,...

Kylie Z.

I came to Shady Maple about 8 years ago as my first visit. It was my Pappy's birthday, and he loved Shady Maple as his birthday lunch/dinner. We shared so many laughs and great memories that I now cherish as he has passed on. I hope I get to visit Shady Maple again to remember his favorite eating...

Herb F.

My Dad and his ex-fiance got reacquainted through social media and Skype calls when both were widowed and in their late 80s. Since Dad was in the Northern New Jersey area and she was in a Baltimore suburb we decided Shady Maple was the perfect place to take them to meet up in person. And what a...

Robert F.

Found this place while traveling for work, had to keep coming back just for the food and atmosphere!

Shauna S.

We took advantage of a breakfast buffet special. My kids and my MIL got up early and made the 2 hour drive for breakfast, then spent the day shopping making memories together.

Tiffany L.

Back in 2019, my husband, daughter, niece, and I drove 2 hours to come for dinner. It was the day after my birthday and we were celebrating a year I was cancer free!!! 🙂 it was wonderful and we still talk about making the drive back one day soon. It was a long day/evening driving- eating to...

Terry W.

In August of 2024, I had breast surgery and believed that my life would end shortly. My wish was to make it to Shady Maple one last time. I had surgery in the SPU and immediately left Philadelphia for a "Heaven on Earth" delicious meal. My family did not think I would be able to make it, but the...

Giovanni M.

Shady Maple is always my go-to place for a nice breakfast every time I go to Dutch Wonderland and Lancaster County. I typically go there at least three times a year. The choices are very endless! The staff are friendly! The food tastes wonderful. I can have scrambled eggs with real eggs! I love...

Karen Y.

I have lost count of how many years we have been coming to Shady Maple. So many memories of family times together. My mom has been in Heaven for many years. When we were able to come and enjoy the buffet, my mom would just rave about your baked Lima beans. Thank you for some of our family's best...

Jessica S.

My husband and I got married in May 2024. In June, the following month, we had our honeymoon. We kept it local - or I should say within the state - and ever since we saw a video of your buffet on TikTok, we've wanted to come and enjoy the buffet. Well, the honeymoon came around and we planned to...

Donna K.

My favorite story about eating at your restaurant was when my son came home after eating there and said Uncle Paul had a free ticket to eat at Shady Maple. He didn't have to pay! We chuckled and knew instantly that Uncle Paul paid by using a credit card. Our son had never seen anyone pay with a...

Cindy B.

This journey started by bus trips to Sight & Sound Theatre with a stop at Shady Maple. Now we drive about 65 miles from home to visit on our birthdays & more. Homemade flavored pancake section is the best.

Lance C.

We love to spend every birthday at Shady Maple. We show up in numbers each time. We get a large table, eat, talk, and celebrate. At the end of dinner or lunch, we sing "Happy Birthday". The birthday recipient then is given an opportunity to get an item or two from the basement store. We then,...

Karen S.

We have been coming here ever since the restaurant was in the small building across the parking lot. Love the variety. Breakfast is excellent and dinner is amazing. We drive 90 minutes just for breakfast!! We brought my brother and sister-in-law, who were visiting from Florida for the first time,...

Amy G.

I've spent so many birthdays at Shady Maple. After my birthday meal, I buy a special Christmas NeQwa Art glass piece in the gift shop. They are displayed in my curio cabinet. This year was extra special as I celebrated my 60th birthday with my husband, sister & brother-in-law. As I was waiting...

Melissa M.

My husband and I were married on the morning of May 31, 2022, and went to Shady Maple right afterward for a celebratory lunch buffet! It is now our anniversary tradition!

Donna L.

I have been coming to Shady Maple since the 80s when it was in the original building, which is now the furniture store. I have so many fond memories of all the birthday celebrations we have had here over the years. Now, I am there most Saturdays for breakfast. We have met so many nice people along...

Jennifer K.

I've been coming here since I was 1 year old and I am now 37! This has been and will always be a family tradition to come here every year and enjoy the memories we have made and will continue to make while eating a delicious meal!

Douglas B.

My first time at Shady Maple was utterly fantastic! I had never seen or smelled so much great food! I loved having the food I grew up with from my grandparents. Now, my family goes down at least once a month.

Kelly S.

It just so happens that my birthday is during your anniversary celebration every year. I live 1 1/2 hours away, so I try to get there to celebrate with friends or family. I hope to get there this year as well.

Faith A.

My favorite memory of Shady Maple is going here for the first time. I really enjoyed the meal, and it was a great first experience.

Jeffrey W.

We love coming to Shady Maple for our birthdays! We go to the smorgasbord, the gift shop, and the farm market. We make it a fun family day trip!

Nicole A.

For my birthday (St.Patrick's Day), my family and friends gather at Shady Maple for breakfast. We dress up crazy and have so much fun. The workers are always excited to see us and take pictures for us! Others and I have come to look forward to it! It has become a tradition, and it brings me so...

Cynthia U.

My granddaughter was 9 years old when we came to Shady Maple last year. She was so impressed with the buffet, that it is now her favorite restaurant. When we ask her where she wants to go to eat, Shady Maple is her first choice. The whole family loves it there.

Nick C.

For Christmas 2024, I treated my dad to a hotel stay in Ephrata, along with breakfast and dinner at Shady Maple Smorgasbord. It was his first time, and he loved it so much. We probably ate about six plates each, plus dessert. We enjoyed it so much that we’re coming back for his birthday this...

Kaitlyn C.

Growing up, my family always made a yearly trip to Shady Maple for an amazing meal. We always left groaning and hurting but never complaining about how good the food was—the pain was always worth it!

Debbie B.

It was all our first time there when my sister and I took my nephew there for his birthday. My nephew ate 4 steaks. I've never seen anyone eat that many steaks in one sitting!! He really enjoyed it, and I loved all the food I tried. Well worth the money!

Skelton S

I used to go to Shady Maple for my birthday every year. My grandfather, who has now passed away, loved it there. For each special occasion, my grandfather and grandmother would pick us up after school. We would do our homework in the car while going to Shady Maple. When we got there, we would all...

Kayla F.

I first went to Shady Maple as a young kid with my mom and her friend. Since then, I've returned several times as an adult to celebrate there or just enjoy the delicious food. Always so many tasty treats and too much to enjoy on our trip.

Rick B.

My wife and I had our first meal at Shady Maple last year, and I can say it was the best buffet we have ever been to. There was a huge selection of food. The shop downstairs was amazing, too. I can't wait to come back again!!

Elaina H.

We are a family of 4 with two boys living with DMD (Duchenne muscular dystrophy). It causes progressive muscle weakness, starting in the legs and spreading to the upper body, affecting the lungs and heart. We visited Shady Maple fairly often. Our favorite event was the Midnight Gladness right...

Richard W.

I remembered my father and friend from the lodge going to visit the retirement home in Elizabeth town. We joked that they went up there so they would stop at Shady Maple on their way home.

Eric B.

I've enjoyed sampling each of the hundreds of different desserts over the years!

Kim G.

My first time enjoying your smorgasbord I was meeting my family from OBx there last year. Our 4-year-old great-nephew could not believe the ice cream and sprinkles I loaded onto his tray. Now, I look forward to a second visit. I just finished chemotherapy for breast cancer and hope to visit again...

Lauren B.

My mom, grandmother, aunt, and I started coming on Holy Thursday or Good Friday when I was in elementary school. I'm now 35 and it is still a yearly tradition, even though my grandmother has passed away. I look forward to our day trip every year!

Mary Ann L.

We love to take our three-year-old grandson there, he absolutely loves it!

Stew R.

Well, what's not to love about the best place on earth!? My sister (God bless and God rest) shared a video of a family going to Shady Maple Smorgasbord, and the next thing we knew - ROAD TRIP! We were off from Cleveland, Ohio to Lancaster PA one Friday early morning and have been hooked ever...

Bonny S.

I remember my first trip there. The beautiful drive through the countryside, looking at all the farms and scenery. I couldn't get over all the selections for breakfast. I went back three times to make sure I had tried everything.

Merry H.

The first time my children and I visited Shady Maple was an amazing experience. We came for breakfast and at first, were surprised by the amount of people in line. However, the wait was not very long to be seated or to get food. It was a great time for us to enjoy food and to converse with each...

Carol M.

I have several good memories of Shady Maple, so it's hard to choose just one. When my husband died in 2009, my brother and sister-in-law gave me a $100 gift card so I could treat my family. It happened to be your 25th anniversary, and not only did I win a prize the night we went, but I got the...

Dawn A.

I love going for the breakfast - they have everything and I almost waddle out of there!

Jarrod M.

I visited from Michigan a couple of years ago with my brother, and we were there for lunch time. Everything we ate was delicious! The staff and other guests we interacted with were all very kind and welcoming. We are already planning to come back in the summer of 2026! And we didn't leave hungry

Janelle B.

My family & I ate at Shady Maple for the first time several years ago for my mom's birthday and we were nothing but satisfied! We all left so full of all the delicious food & my daughter & niece loved the chocolate fountain! After our meal, we made our way into the shop & then...

Caleb V.

Every time we visit Lancaster County, my family and I come to Shady Maple. My 3 year old daughter loves the fresh doughnuts. She likes to take them off my wife's plate. It's a must. Everything is great when we go there, and then we go check out the gift shop after we finish our delicious meal.

Stephanie W.

My grandparents always made it a big deal to go to Shady Maple. We only were able to go a few times but they made each time special. Now, I have wonderful memories of Pap & Gramma taking us to Shady Maple, and we bring our kids to create new memories with them.

Todd B.

A friend of mine was an elderly retired pastor, and he would tell me stories of this wonderful place. He would describe it with such enthusiasm that we just had to see for ourselves and we did! We come back several times a year. He is no longer with us, but his memory remains to this day every...

Christopher S.

We heard about Shady Maple on TikTok. Due to some financial issues, we had to cancel our honeymoon destination and stayat home, doing day trips instead of a larger expensive excursion. One of our day trips was to Shady Maple Smorgasbord. It did not disappoint. Thank you for being a part of our...

John A.

We always enjoy the ride down to celebrate a birthday, holiday, special occasion, or just to get out. We love the recent improvements!

Sierra H.

We come yearly for our work meeting. It's always a great time and great food. I always look forward to it!

Amy B.

We love coming for our birthday meal when possible. We take the over-an-hour drive and make the day of it. Besides birthdays, we will come for day trips to eat and then shop downstairs and at the grocery store.

David S.

I went camping with friends, and we made specific plans to come over on a particular night for Steak Night. It was an awesome dinner and to this day is a trip that we reminisce about frequently!!

Gail B.

My hubby and I have been coming to Shady Maple since 1986. We used to eat In the building where the current furniture store is. My absolute favorite memory is the first time we entered the current location. It was brand new, and I was so amazed and impressed by the massive chandeliers and gorgeous...

Angela F.

I love coming to Shady Maple every May and October when we are Racing at Maple Grove. I share fun times and great food with race friends and family, especially the ones who are visiting for the first time.

Jennifer F.

Growing up my family would always enjoy a great lunch after shopping at Green Dragon Farmers Market. I got to spend Valentine's Day this year with my 2 favorite guys, having lunch at Shady Maple and making new memories while remembering the memories past.

Julia J.

When I was a child, my whole family, including grandparents, would travel from Burlington, NJ to Lancaster, PA every October. My grandmother's birthday was in October. We loved this time of year because of the leaves changing colors and the weather was usually not bad. We would travel around to...

James K.

We spend every weekend from April to Oct. in central PA. Many of those weekends involve at least one meal at Shady Maple. We drive 1 1/2 hours one way to get there. Twice a year, we would bring my parents up from NC for a week. The last time we got to bring them up was in the fall of 2023. Our...

Michelle K.

We started coming to Shady Maple when they were still in the old building. I will never forget the first time I walked into the new building and saw how beautiful and massive it was. Then, walking over to the buffet area was like I died and went to heaven! There was so much glorious food. We come...

Daniel W.

We went there for my 74th birthday dinner. I never have had such a great Buffett, and I lived in Las Vegas. We also went the day before and had breakfast. It was the best breakfast ever. I tell everyone it's a must-go. Everyone should go there at least once. We came all the way from Hartford,...

Theresa M.

We love coming to Shady Maple with our family and friends and the look they give everyone when they see all the food choices they can choose from. The food is always delicious.

Kelsey B.

I remember the first time I visited Shady Maple—my, what a delight it was! The food was delicious, and there seemed to be a never-ending supply of options. The gift shop itself was amazing to see, What great memories were made.

Nancy F.

Every year for about 20 years, just after Christmas, our family meets up at Shady Maple with cousins that live far away for a delicious meal and time of "catching up." It's been a very special time for our family each year!

Tracey B.

Shady Maple has become such a tradition for my family and I have so many fond memories. In it's beginnings, my Grandfather would bring me there frequently to enjoy the seafood night each Tuesday night. My grandmother had recently passed away, and Shady Maple became our regular place for my...

Carolyn M.

Happy 40th Anniversary! My favorite memory of Shady Maple was when we were there with our grandchildren and the look on their faces when they saw all the food. Bentley said, "Nanny, don't ever come here again without me." A special memory l will always treasure.

Ariana D.

My family and I make it a point to visit Shady Maple when distant family comes from out of town. It really is a beloved part of our beautiful Pennsylvania that we love to share. The first time I ever saw an apple dumpling was at the delicious dessert bar! If you go, give it a try! You won't regret...

Alan R.

I took my granddaughter to Shady Maple for the first time and she loved all the sweet choices! She liked the ice cream the best!

Ciara S.

I remember coming to Shady Maple as a young girl with my grandmom. She LOVED it, and now I share that same love and would be there every day if I could!

Laurie F.

My last memory of Shady Maple is taking my mom there for her birthday. Sadly, she passed away 2 months later and didn't get to return. She loved going to Shady Maple. We went last week and it was bittersweet. It is heartbreaking knowing my mom is no longer with me, but I am grateful for the...

Sherri H.

My family and I go to your buffet for all of our birthday celebrations. I love breakfast the most. The food selection is beyond my wildest dreams and tastes great. I love the crispy bacon, turkey with sausage links, and the made-to-order pancakes and eggs. We enjoy celebrating every year and look...

Kim S.

My 1st time taking all 4 of my kids. It was crazy but priceless. Their jaws dropped. They had never seen a restaurant with a store attached, let alone underneath. We were meeting up with my aunt and cousin, whom I never see. My kids wanted everything in the store. They didn't want to leave. They...

Molly W.

My son has a January 18 birthday, so we love to travel from Connecticut to Shady Maple for a special birthday dinner. Some years the line is so long we wait nearly an hour to get in because it's also a holiday weekend. Totally worth the day trip or weekend adventure to continue the tradition my...

Lorie T.

We have had many special moments at Shady Maple. We each enjoy different things, and so many things to choose from make it easy for all to be happy. Enjoy the store underneath as well as the market. Glad we moved closer from NJ to MD. It's worth the drive no matter where you're from.

Shady Maple Smorgasbord

Shady Maple Farm Market

Shady Maple Gift Shop

Shady Maple Smorgasbord

Shady Maple Farm Market

Shady Maple Gift Shop

Shady Maple

Digital Contests

Share with us your favorite Shady Maple Smorgasbord memory!

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