Find Bargains at Amish Discount Grocery Stores
Many visitors who come to Lancaster County enjoy shopping at Amish farmers markets and roadside stands for the freshest produce, scratch-made baked goods, regional delicacies and handcrafted goods. If you're the kind of shopper who appreciates a good bargain, there are dozens of small discount grocery stores that offer savings on unique items you won't find anywhere else. Many of these little stores are unassuming shops that cater to the needs of Amish customers, or they are run by Amish and Mennonite families themselves. If you haven't shopped at an Amish grocery store, it's definitely something to put on your to-do list during your next getaway to After Eight Bed and Breakfast.
What can you expect at an Amish grocer? First of all, they're big on bargains — especially bulk foods from beans and grains to spices and candies. These small grocery stores also offer great deals on name-brand products that are close-outs and overruns or have damaged packaging. A majority of Amish grocery products are made in-house or produced right here in Lancaster County — eggs, milk, cheeses, salads and sandwiches. Freshly butchered meats come from animals raised on nearby farms. There will be plenty of delicious breads and pastries, too. Some Amish stores also have handicrafts and furniture.
Because many of these stores are either Amish-run or have a large Amish clientele, you'll notice a few other unique things. First, you might see more horse-and-buggies in the parking lot than cars. Most Amish don't use electricity, so some of these stores will utilize skylights for natural light instead of electric overhead lights, as well as pneumatic-powered fans for airflow. These stores also don't take credit cards, so remember to bring cash. And, like many places here in Amish Country, they are closed on Sundays and all Christian holidays. The absence of modern conveniences doesn't hinder the shopping experience but enhances it. While some may come for the fresh produce and unique goods, many leave with a newfound appreciation for simplicity, community and a slower pace of life.
We've compiled a list of our favorite small discount groceries stores, some just around the corner and others no more than a 25-minute drive from After Eight Bed and Breakfast. So if you're looking for a bargain on grocery goods unique to Lancaster County, definitely plan a shopping trip to one of the stores below, listed in order of their proximity to our historic inn.
Fairview Groceries | 96 Paradise Lane, Ronks, PA
Fairview Groceries carries an extensive selection of bulk foods — from a wide variety of legumes, pastas, flours and other baking essentials to family-sized quantities of nuts, spices and candies.
Esh's Discount Grocery | 3732 E. Newport Road, Gordonville, PA
Specializing in bulk foods including herbs and spices, baking mixes, and packaged dry goods, Esh's Discount Grocery, near the village of Intercourse, focuses on great prices and quality selection.
Centerville Bulk Foods | 3501 Scenic Road, Gordonville, PA
In addition to fully stocked aisles of bulk foods, Centerville carries a full variety of groceries and fresh, locally grown produce. They also feature deli, dairy and frozen food sections.
Homestead Groceries | 1046 Georgetown Road, Paradise, PA
This small, family-run grocery store is your destination for all your bulk shopping needs. Homestead Groceries also carries seasonal produce, fresh deli items and other grocery store essentials.
Lantz's Discount Grocery Store | 105 Horseshoe Road, Leola, PA
Lantz's is known for their bulk food items and cheeses. Don’t miss their cold room, behind a unique old door to your right after you enter the store, where you'll find dairy items, fresh produce and some meats.
Springville Foods | 5450 Friendship Lane, Kinzers, PA
Springville Foods is part grocery store, part country store, part farmers market and part health foods store. This hidden gem is your one-stop shopping destination for exceptional quality, good value and friendly service.
BB's Grocery Outlet | 581 Camargo Road, Quarryville, PA
This discount grocery chain started in 1986 on an Amish farm with the simple idea of providing quality groceries at greatly reduced prices. The store is large – more the size of a standard grocery store than an Amish “shop” – but definitely has an Amish feel.
Forry's Country Store | 820 Ivy Drive, Lancaster, PA
Forry's Country Store began as a bulk food store with a deli in 1993. This multigenerational family-run store specializes in fresh produce, prepared salads, and fresh-made subs and sandwiches.
Green Hills Farm Discount Grocer | 615 E. Newport Road, Lititz, PA
Serving the Lititz community for more than 25 years, Green Hills Farm Discount Grocer has developed a loyal following with its wide selection of bulk foods, fruits, vegetables, and specialty and gourmet items.
