Shady Maple Smorgasbord menu with prices presents Pennsylvania Dutch country’s largest buffet with farm-fresh offerings. If you are planning a visit to this iconic Lancaster County eatery, you want to know exactly what you are paying for and what dishes await. This guide breaks down the full menu, current pricing, and tips to make the most of your meal.
The Shady Maple Smorgasbord is not just a meal; it is an experience. Spread across over 200 feet of buffet tables, the selection changes daily but always includes classic Pennsylvania Dutch favorites. Understanding the menu and pricing before you go helps you plan your budget and your appetite.
Shady Maple Smorgasbord Menu With Prices
Before we dive into the specific dishes, let’s look at the general pricing structure. Prices can change seasonally, so always confirm on their official website before visiting. However, as of the latest update, here is what you can expect.
Current Pricing Breakdown
Shady Maple operates on a pay-per-person basis. Children under a certain age eat for less. Here are the approximate price ranges:
- Adults (Lunch): $22.99 – $26.99
- Adults (Dinner): $28.99 – $33.99
- Seniors (60+): Slightly discounted, usually $2–$3 less
- Children (4–12): About half the adult price
- Children (Under 4): Free
These prices include the full smorgasbord, not just a few stations. You get access to everything from salads to desserts. Beverages are usually extra, but coffee and tea are sometimes included with dinner.
Breakfast Buffet Pricing
Breakfast is served daily and is a fantastic value. The breakfast buffet includes made-to-order omelets, pancakes, scrapple, and more.
- Adults: $14.99 – $17.99
- Children (4–12): $8.99 – $10.99
- Seniors: $12.99 – $14.99
Breakfast is available until 11:00 AM on weekdays and 1:00 PM on weekends. If you come for brunch on a Sunday, you get a mix of breakfast and lunch items.
What You Will Find On The Buffet
The Shady Maple Smorgasbord menu with prices is vast, but the food is what keeps people coming back. The buffet is divided into several stations. Each station focuses on a different type of dish.
Salad And Appetizer Station
This section is not just a few leaves of lettuce. You will find a full array of cold salads and starters.
- Pennsylvania Dutch Potato Salad
- Cole Slaw (both creamy and vinegar-based)
- Macaroni Salad
- Pickled Beets and Eggs
- Fresh Garden Salad with multiple dressings
- Deviled Eggs (a local favorite)
- Relish trays with pickles, olives, and peppers
Many visitors fill their first plate entirely from this station. The flavors are tangy and refreshing, perfect for balancing the heavier main courses.
Main Course Station
This is the heart of the buffet. The selection changes daily, but you can always count on a few staples.
- Roast Beef (carved to order)
- Fried Chicken (crispy and juicy)
- Ham (often glazed with brown sugar)
- Meatloaf
- Fish (such as haddock or salmon on Fridays)
- Pork Chops or Roast Pork
Each main dish comes with its own gravy or sauce. The roast beef is particularly popular, often served with a rich au jus.
Side Dishes And Vegetables
Pennsylvania Dutch cooking is famous for its hearty sides. You will find plenty of options here.
- Mashed Potatoes with gravy
- Scalloped Potatoes
- Corn (often creamed or on the cob)
- Green Beans with bacon
- Buttered Noodles
- Stuffing (especially on weekends)
- Macaroni and Cheese
- Baked Beans
Do not skip the chow chow, a pickled vegetable relish that is a regional specialty. It adds a tangy crunch to any plate.
Bread And Rolls Station
Freshly baked breads and rolls are a highlight. The bakery on site produces everything daily.
- Soft Dinner Rolls
- Cornbread
- Biscuits
- Apple Butter and Honey
- Butter (real butter, not margarine)
Many people grab a roll to soak up leftover gravy from their main course. It is a simple pleasure that feels very authentic.
Dessert Station
Dessert at Shady Maple is an event in itself. The selection is enormous and changes regularly.
- Whoopie Pies (chocolate and pumpkin)
- Shoofly Pie (a molasses-based classic)
- Apple Pie
- Cherry Crumb Pie
- Pudding (butterscotch, chocolate, vanilla)
- Ice Cream (soft serve and scooped)
- Cakes (red velvet, carrot, chocolate)
- Cookies (chocolate chip, oatmeal, sugar)
You can easily fill an entire plate with just desserts. Many visitors recommend saving room for at least one slice of pie.
Seasonal And Special Menu Items
The Shady Maple Smorgasbord menu with prices changes with the seasons. During holidays, special items appear.
Holiday Buffets
Thanksgiving and Christmas are especially busy. The buffet adds traditional holiday dishes.
- Roasted Turkey with stuffing
- Cranberry Sauce
- Sweet Potato Casserole
- Prime Rib (on Christmas)
- Special Desserts like pumpkin roll
Prices are slightly higher during holidays, usually $5–$10 more per person. Reservations are strongly recommended for these days.
Summer And Fall Specials
In summer, you might find fresh corn on the cob and local tomatoes. In fall, pumpkin and apple dishes dominate.
- Apple Cider Donuts (fall only)
- Pumpkin Pie (seasonal)
- Fresh Watermelon (summer)
- Grilled Corn (summer weekends)
These seasonal items keep the menu exciting even for repeat visitors.
How To Make The Most Of Your Visit
Getting the best experience at Shady Maple requires a little planning. Here are some practical tips.
Best Times To Go
Avoid peak hours if you dislike crowds. Lunch is busiest between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM. Dinner peaks around 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
- Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends
- Arrive right when they open for the meal period
- Late afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM) is very calm
If you come during a holiday, expect long waits. The restaurant does not take reservations for regular days, only for large groups or holidays.
Eating Strategy
With so many options, it is easy to fill up too fast. Use a smart approach.
- Start with a small salad plate to wake up your appetite
- Then move to the main course, taking small portions of several items
- Try a few sides, but leave room for seconds
- Finish with dessert, but only take what you can eat
Remember, you can go back as many times as you want. There is no shame in taking multiple trips.
What To Avoid
Some dishes are better than others. Based on visitor feedback, here are a few things to skip.
- The fried fish can sometimes be dry
- The macaroni and cheese is creamy but not extraordinary
- Some desserts are overly sweet, especially the cakes
Focus on the Pennsylvania Dutch classics like the pot pies, chow chow, and shoofly pie. These are the dishes the restaurant does best.
History And Atmosphere
Shady Maple has been serving guests since 1989. It is located in East Earl, Pennsylvania, right in the heart of Amish country.
The building is huge, seating over 1,000 people at once. The decor is rustic and cozy, with wooden beams and farm-themed decorations. You will see many Amish and Mennonite families dining here, which is a good sign of authenticity.
The smorgasbord concept comes from the Swedish tradition, but Shady Maple has made it completely Pennsylvania Dutch. The food is simple, hearty, and made from scratch.
Comparing Shady Maple To Other Buffets
How does Shady Maple stack up against similar places? Here is a quick comparison.
Shady Maple Vs. Miller’s Smorgasbord
Miller’s is another popular buffet in Lancaster County. It is slightly smaller but also very good.
- Shady Maple has more variety
- Miller’s has a nicer atmosphere
- Shady Maple is generally cheaper
- Miller’s offers more seafood options
If you want the biggest selection, choose Shady Maple. If you prefer a quieter, more refined setting, try Miller’s.
Shady Maple Vs. Dienner’s Country Buffet
Dienner’s is a local chain with several locations. It is less expensive but also less impressive.
- Dienner’s is about $5 cheaper per person
- Shady Maple has better quality ingredients
- Dienner’s has fewer dessert options
- Shady Maple is more popular with tourists
For a special occasion, Shady Maple is the better choice. For a quick, cheap meal, Dienner’s works fine.
Dietary Considerations
If you have dietary restrictions, you can still enjoy Shady Maple. The buffet has options for many needs.
Vegetarian Options
Vegetarians will find plenty to eat. The salad station is extensive, and there are many vegetable sides.
- Buttered Noodles
- Macaroni and Cheese
- Scalloped Potatoes
- Corn and Green Beans
- Fruit Plates
However, many dishes are cooked with meat broth or bacon fat. Ask the staff if you are strict about this.
Gluten-Free Options
Gluten-free diners have some choices, but it is not a dedicated gluten-free facility.
- Grilled Meats (without gravy)
- Salad Bar (watch for croutons)
- Vegetables (plain)
- Ice Cream
There is no gluten-free bread or pasta available. Cross-contamination is possible, so be cautious if you have celiac disease.
Allergen Information
The restaurant provides allergen lists upon request. You can also ask the chef at each station. Most staff are knowledgeable about ingredients.
Common allergens like dairy, eggs, and nuts are present in many dishes. If you have severe allergies, consider eating at off-peak times when the staff can give you more attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are common questions visitors have about the Shady Maple Smorgasbord menu with prices.
What is the price for children at Shady Maple?
Children aged 4 to 12 pay about half the adult price. Kids under 4 eat for free. Prices vary by meal period.
Does Shady Maple offer senior discounts?
Yes, seniors aged 60 and older get a small discount, usually $2–$3 off the adult price. You need to show ID.
Can I see the Shady Maple menu online before I go?
Yes, the official website has a sample menu. However, the actual menu changes daily, so what you see online may not match exactly.
Is the Shady Maple Smorgasbord open on holidays?
Yes, it is open on most holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas. Prices are higher, and reservations are required for large groups.
How much does the Shady Maple breakfast buffet cost?
Breakfast is around $15 for adults and $9 for children. It is served until 11:00 AM on weekdays and 1:00 PM on weekends.
Final Tips For Your Visit
Before you go, keep these last pieces of advice in mind.
Bring cash if you want to tip the carver or the dessert station attendants. Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but cash tips are appreciated.
Wear comfortable clothes. You will be eating a lot, so loose-fitting pants are a good idea. The restaurant is also kept cool, so bring a light jacket.
Plan to stay for at least an hour and a half. Rushing through the buffet is not enjoyable. Take your time and savor each plate.
If you have a large group, call ahead. The restaurant can accommodate parties of 20 or more, but they need advance notice to prepare.
Finally, do not forget to visit the bakery and gift shop on your way out. You can buy whole pies, whoopie pies, and other treats to take home. The bakery is open even if you are not dining in.
Shady Maple Smorgasbord is a true Pennsylvania Dutch experience. The Shady Maple Smorgasbord menu with prices offers incredible value for the amount and quality of food. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular, there is always something new to try. Plan your trip, bring your appetite, and enjoy one of the best buffets in the country.