When it comes to buffets, most of us picture a few dozen trays and maybe a carving station if we’re lucky. But Shady Maple Smorgasbord in Lancaster County takes that expectation, drives it out to the countryside, and triples it!
Located in East Earl, PA (about an hour and 15 minutes from Philadelphia), Shady Maple isn’t just a buffet. It’s an experience. Spread over 110,000 square feet, it’s the largest buffet in America, serving over 200 dishes every single day and over 1.2 million people per year.
That means you could pile your plate differently at every meal for weeks and still not repeat the same combination twice.
🍱 What makes Shady Maple so big?
Size isn’t just about square footage here, it’s about scale in every sense.
Shady Maple can seat up to 1,200 guests at once and regularly feeds thousands of hungry visitors in a single day.
The buffet stretches as far as the eye can see, with stations for breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring everything from Pennsylvania Dutch classics to international dishes.
Think made-to-order omelets in the morning, slow-roasted prime rib by evening, and dessert tables that look like something out of Willy Wonka’s dreams.
The bakery churns out fresh bread, pies, and cakes daily, and the soft-serve ice cream machine never stop swirling.
There’s even a selection of seasonal specialties, like pumpkin bread in the fall and strawberry shortcake in the summer.
đźš™ Why it’s worth the trip from Philly
Indeed, it’s a pleasant drive. Just over an hour drive from Philadelphia, along the way you’ll encounter rolling hills, farmland, and the occasional horse-and-buggy crossing.
And while the buffet itself if the main attraction, the surrounding Lancaster County area offers a perfect day trip.
You can hit local farmers’ markets, visit Amish craft shops, or take in the scenic countryside before or after your meal.
Shady Maple also doubles as a mini landmark for road-trippers, with plenty of parking and a giant sign that you’ll spot from the highway.
And for the budget-conscious? Shady Maple is famously generous.
Prices vary by meal and day, but your birthday meal is free (yes, really), as long you bring your ID.
đź“‹ Know before you go
Important to note, reservations are not required for individuals, but large groups should call ahead.
Secondly, the menu features over 200 rotating dishes including:
- breakfast classics
- carved meats
- seafood
- pasta
- homemade desserts
- seasonal specialties
- vegetarian options
- gluten-friendly dishes
Lastly, Shady Maple is perfect for families, foodies, and those who love a great day trip.
Just a short drive from Philly, and you’ll arrive at America’s largest buffet.
📍 Where: Shady Maple Smorgasbord – 129 Toddy Dr, East Earl, PA
🕒 Hours: Monday–Saturday, doors open at 7 am; last seating at 7:30 pm; buffet open until 8:15 pm (closed Sundays)
đź’° Pricing: Breakfast from $13.99, lunch from $19.99, dinner from $23.99
🎉 Perks: Kids under 4 eat free, birthday meals free with ID, military and senior discounts available
đźš— Distance from Philly: ~ approx 75 minutes by car