For over 15 years, John J. Jeffries has partnered with small, organic family farms across Lancaster County and beyond. Chefs Sean Cavanaugh and Michael Carson have turned their passion for sustainable sourcing into a fine dining legacy. By prioritizing pastured, grass-fed meats, organic produce, and responsibly sourced seafood, they ensure that every dish tells the story of Lancaster’s rich agricultural roots.
If your idea of romance includes savoring a perfectly prepared steak or indulging in a creative seafood dish, you’ll be thrilled with their menu. The offerings change with the seasons, reflecting the freshest local harvests. Whether it’s winter root vegetables or summer’s juicy heirlooms, every bite is an ode to nature’s bounty.
Make A ReservationHoused in a beautifully converted tobacco warehouse, the ambiance of John J. Jeffries perfectly complements its culinary ethos. The exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and intimate dining spaces create a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. It’s a setting designed for connection—whether it’s a first date, an anniversary, or just a night to celebrate love.
Even the restaurant’s name holds historical significance. During renovations, workers discovered a floor beam stamped with the name of a tobacco inspector, John J. Jeffries, dated November 5, 1890. This nod to history adds to the charm, reminding guests of Lancaster’s vibrant past.
Dining at John J. Jeffries isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a choice that supports sustainability and ethical practices. The chefs use cooking fats like tallow, butter, and duck fat, avoiding industrial seed oils. Their seafood is responsibly sourced, and their coffee is organic, fair trade, and roasted locally. Even the water is filtered in-house for maximum purity.
These thoughtful touches extend to the bar menu, where wines, beers, and cocktails are selected with the same seasonal and sustainable philosophy. Whether you’re toasting with a crisp local white wine or a handcrafted cocktail, you’ll feel the love and care that goes into every sip.
The team behind John J. Jeffries is as impressive as the dishes they create. Chef Sean Cavanaugh, with decades of culinary experience spanning from Vail to Washington, D.C., brings his expertise back to Pennsylvania, creating dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Chef Michael Carson, a Central PA native, adds his own flair, honed through years of working at prestigious restaurants like Charleston in Baltimore.
Together, these chefs have created more than just a restaurant—they’ve built a community hub where guests can enjoy extraordinary meals while supporting local farmers and sustainable practices.
Make this Valentine’s Day weekend one to remember by pairing your romantic getaway at Hollinger House with dinner at John J. Jeffries. Both venues offer a blend of historical charm and modern sophistication, ensuring a seamless and special experience. Imagine starting your evening with a stroll through downtown Lancaster, followed by an unforgettable dinner, and ending the night in the cozy elegance of Hollinger House.
Reservations are a must, especially for this special weekend. Visit their website or use Tock to secure your table. And don’t forget to check out their gift cards—they make a thoughtful surprise for your partner or a way to plan another visit in the future.
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to escape the ordinary, indulge in delicious food, and create lasting memories. At Hollinger House, we believe every romantic getaway deserves an equally romantic dining experience, and there’s no better place for that than John J. Jeffries in downtown Lancaster, PA. Known for its farm-to-table philosophy, exceptional service, and seasonal menus, John J. Jeffries offers a culinary experience as unforgettable as your stay with us.
At John J. Jeffries, every dish is a celebration of the seasons, the land, and the love that goes into their preparation. Whether you’re sharing a hearty steak, savoring a fresh seafood dish, or sipping a handcrafted cocktail, you’ll find that every moment at this Lancaster gem is as warm and inviting as the memories you’ll make.
This Valentine’s Day, let Hollinger House and John J. Jeffries help you create the perfect romantic escape. Book your stay, reserve your table, and prepare to fall in love all over again—with each other and with Lancaster’s finest dining.
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in Lancaster County, the Strasburg Rail Road is a must-visit. As the oldest continuously operating railroad in the United States, Strasburg Rail Road offers a journey back in time with its fully restored steam locomotives and historic wooden passenger cars.
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