Hinkle's Restaurant: A Dining Tradition in Columbia, PA

Not many businesses can say they've been around for more than 130 years. But Hinkle's Restaurant in Columbia has withstood the test of time. With a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, this beloved establishment has been serving up delectable dishes and warm hospitality for generations. When you stay with us at B.F. Hiestand House, we encourage you to grab a bite to eat at Hinkle's, where stepping through its doors is akin to taking a journey through time.

Samuel Hinkle opened Hinkle's Pharmacy and Restaurant in 1893 on the corner of Third and Locust streets in downtown Columbia, where it stands today. The business survived many waves, including the Great Depression and two world wars, staying in the Hinkle family for four generations. In 2017, Hinkle's was on the brink of closing when it was bought by Don and Becky Murphy and given new life. No longer a pharmacy, Hinkle's Restaurant seats about 200 at tables, booths and a counter. There's also an old-fashioned soda fountain and a gift shop and general store.

In the restaurant, diners can choose from 120 scrumptious menu items for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The dishes are classic and comforting, and favorites have remained on the menu for good reason — they're delicious! From Chesapeake Eggs Benedict that includes a house-made crab cake to Chicken Croquettes that are made using the same recipe and in the same way as they have been for years, Hinkle's menu items are made to order with fresh ingredients. And no meal at Hinkle's Restaurant would be complete without indulging in one of their decadent homemade desserts from behind the large glass case, such as rich chocolate cake or peanut butter silk pie.

As part of their renovations and updates, Hinkle's current owners brought back a nostalgic and authentic experience for customers — an old-fashioned soda fountain. It's a refashioned 1930s soda fountain with an antique dipping cabinet from Green’s Dairy. Bow-tie wearing “soda jerks” scoop Turkey Hill ice cream into cones and dishes or create sundaes, shakes and malts. Traditional sodas are made with an assortment of 10 syrups. If you're up for a challenge, order the Great Gatsby — 20 scoops with all the toppings and a cherry on top!

After you eat, stop in the gift shop called Murphy’s Mercantile & Co., located next door to the restaurant in part of the former pharmacy. The gift shop was inspired by old-time general stores and sells a variety of gifts, candy and other items that bring customers back in time. Murphy’s also takes pride in working with local artisans and makers who contribute handmade products to the shop.

In a world where restaurants come and go with alarming frequency, Hinkle's Restaurant stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition and community. It's easy to see why — delicious food, welcoming ambiance, and rich history. It's no wonder that generations of diners have made Hinkle's a beloved fixture in Columbia. So the next time you find yourself in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, be sure to stop in at Hinkle's Restaurant and experience a taste of history for yourself.