PENNSYLVANIA — A nationwide survey of 3,024 self-described foodies has ranked Lancaster as Pennsylvania’s leading destination for affordable, high-quality dining, placing the city ninth overall in the country. The survey, conducted in September 2025 by loan provider Advance America, highlights Lancaster’s Central Market and its growing restaurant scene as proof that eating well does not require breaking the bank.
“Lancaster is more than Amish quilts and rolling fields — it’s also a rising culinary hub,” the report noted. The Central Market, one of the oldest continuously operating markets in the nation, offers fresh, local ingredients at fair prices, while cafés and restaurants across the city focus on quality meals that remain accessible to everyday diners.
Two other Pennsylvania locations made the national list: Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market, ranked 24th, and Pittsburgh’s South Side, ranked 40th. Both destinations were praised for combining variety with affordability, making nutritious meals available to a broad range of residents and visitors.
Nationally, Athens, Georgia claimed the top spot, followed by Riverside in Jacksonville, Florida, and Downtown Greenville, South Carolina. Each was recognized for its blend of farmers’ markets, independent restaurants, and community-based food traditions that keep dining costs manageable without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
For many Americans, the survey found, rising food prices have made it increasingly difficult to balance taste, nutrition, and affordability. But these communities have established reputations for stretching food dollars while fostering strong culinary cultures.
“Eating well isn’t just about what’s on the plate — it’s about access, affordability, and real-life schedules,” said Laura McCutcheon, vice president of marketing at Advance America. “These spots show that dining well doesn’t need to be complicated or costly — it just needs to be part of the community fabric.”
The recognition places Lancaster alongside some of the country’s most celebrated food destinations, underscoring the city’s role as both a historic and modern example of how communities can make healthy, flavorful meals attainable for all.
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