Menu of The New Cloister Restaurant in Ephrata, Pennsylvania, USA

Menu Overview

The New Cloister Restaurant in Ephrata, PA, is a gem for anyone craving classic diner fare with a thoughtful twist. Located conveniently at 607 W Main St, this family-owned establishment offers a warm, inviting atmosphere, though it leans more toward a casual, eclectic vibe than the traditional American diner aesthetic. Still, what truly shines here is the food—flavorful, generous, and crafted with care.

The menu is a delightful mix of diner staples and Italian specialties, each dish prepared to satisfy hearty appetites. Among the standout appetizers, the French Onion Soup stands out with its rich, caramelized onion broth topped with melted cheese—a true comfort starter. Moving to breakfast, the 3 Egg Special and the Eggs Benedict are reliable crowd-pleasers, delivering classic flavors with light, fluffy eggs and well-balanced accompaniments. The Chocolate Covered Strawberry French Toast offers a perfectly indulgent way to start your day, where the sweet meets the savory in a harmonious blend.

For lunch and dinner, the sandwich lineup is noteworthy. The Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich with fries is a standout—the tender chicken breast layered with marinara and melted mozzarella, paired with crispy fries, is both comforting and satisfying. Equally tempting is the Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak, which blends the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with the classic cheesesteak format in a creative twist. The Fried Eggplant Parmigiana Sandwich serves up a perfect vegetarian alternative, with the crisp eggplant and rich cheese melding beautifully.

Italian specialties elevate the dining experience beyond the typical diner. The Tour Of Italy plate, combining meatballs, stuffed shells, manicotti, and cheese ravioli with your choice of soup or salad, offers variety and robust flavors in one hearty dish. The Seafood Cioppino and Seafood Fra Diavolo are exceptional for seafood lovers, boasting fresh scallops, clams, mussels, shrimp, and crab meat served over linguine with either a tomato red wine or spicy marinara sauce. These dishes display skillful seasoning and fresh seafood quality that impress even the most discerning palates.

Customers consistently praise the generous portion sizes, quality ingredients, and the friendly, attentive service. The staff’s hospitality creates a welcoming environment, with manager Oz and his team making every visit personal and enjoyable. The New Cloister’s commitment to community is evident—they open on most holidays to provide a gathering place for locals, showcasing their family-oriented spirit.

From a food reviewer's perspective, The New Cloister Restaurant strikes a fine balance between comfort and culinary authenticity. Each dish feels thoughtfully prepared, with clear attention to flavor depth and portion size. Whether you're stopping in for a breakfast classic or indulging in the rich Italian specialties, you get a satisfying meal without pretense. The family-friendly atmosphere, combined with quality and affordability, makes it a standout diner in the Ephrata area. It’s no surprise regulars return time and again, as this place offers not just food, but a connected dining experience.