Fresh Face: The Imperial

The newest hotel in Lancaster combines old-world charm, artful decor, and locally sourced food served in a comfortable, unique, and luxurious environment. The Imperial, opening at The Hotel Lancaster later this month, is an important part of the culmination of a five-year project by real estate developer John Meeder and his partner Sam Wilsker.

The restaurant’s executive chef, Richard Norton, comes from the luxury resort and restaurant Caldera House in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. His rotating menu reflects his Central PA roots and classic American favorites combined with global influences from around the world.

The bar has a nostalgic, elegant allure and features outdoor seating on Queen Street. John and Sam envision The Imperial restaurant to be a gathering place where neighbors and hotel guests can come casually for breakfast, but also enjoy a cocktail at the bar after an event in their finest evening attire.

Although many locals remember the original Brunswick hotel that was raised in the late 1960s, in the 1800s the hotel located on this site was named The Imperial Hotel. While it is unlikely that George Washington slept there, Abraham Lincoln gave a speech from the second story balcony on Chestnut Street in the early 1860s.

Noelle Turco, local artist and owner of Red House Design Company, decorated The Imperial’s interior with eclectic, historic flare. “There isn’t a bad seat in the house,” offers Noelle. “Everywhere you sit in the restaurant you will get a taste of history and art to accompany your meal”.

The Hotel Lancaster, soon to be Holiday Inn Downtown Lancaster, will also include two gorgeous ballrooms that can accommodate large or small weddings, company parties, and more. The Imperial Grande and The Imperial Blue ballrooms will open in spring of 2019 at about the same time the newly renovated rooms will fly under The Holiday Inn flag. The Ballrooms are currently taking bookings.