Ham loaf is one of those old Pennsylvania Dutch comfort foods that seems to fade away everywhere except right here in the heart of Lancaster County and beyond. It shows up as a loaf or as those famous ham balls, usually with a sweet glaze, and it tastes like a Sunday dinner from a farmhouse kitchen.
If you grew up on it, you know exactly what I mean, and if you never have, you owe yourself a plate. I rounded up eight real spots across the state where this dish still holds a proud place on the menu.
Some are giant smorgasbords, some are cozy cafes, and a couple are tucked inside busy farm markets. Grab a napkin and start planning your drive, because this list is built for hungry travelers.
1. Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord, Bird in Hand, PA
Right along Old Philadelphia Pike at 2760, this Lancaster County landmark has been feeding travelers Pennsylvania Dutch home cooking for generations. You can go the smorgasbord route or order a la carte, which makes it easy whether you want one plate or several trips back to the buffet…