Ernie’s Texas Lunch

If you read the front of ernie’s menu, you’ll see that they been in business since the 1920s. Amazingly, they’ve maintained much of this charm to the present day. The interior is cozy and the menu has many diner staples. Breakfast and lunch are their specialities, although they do serve dinner as well. I typically wouldn’t recommend going for dinner unless you’re in the mood for a dog or burger or fried chicken.
They’re known for their dogs, though. Of course, I’m a Gettysburg native, so I’ve been to ernie’s many times. But it’s been about 12 years or so since My last visit. Until today.
The dogs and chili cheese fries are still very good. My only gripe is that they’ve changed out their grilled, traditional Texas toast hot dog bun for a rather bland conventional bun. This was pretty jarring, since it had been a staple since I was a child. But, it’s also of little consequence to a first time visitor, so no penalty marks there. The food is still good for what it is and the place is a local institution… and one of the oldest (and at onetime, only) beer-​serving establishments — granted, domestic cans. But still a nice option in what is an otherwise backwards state alcohol policy.
If you’re looking for a good dog, burger, or even diner-​style breakfast, give Ernie’s a try.

Not very good. Food was average and plain. I downgraded another star because there was a noticeable number of flies flying around.

I felt I went back in time, when there was segregation, the feeling of your not welcome… Maybe it was out Waitress, don’t recommend monitories to eat here. The food was not the greatest. What diner doesn’t make milk shakes?!! Smh.

When we walked in, although there were several restaurant personnel standing behind the counter, they seemed a little unsure as to who should seat us, although one of them stepped forward eventually.
They had plenty of seating for our largish party. However, the benches had what felt like an abnormally straight back and the chairs had an uncomfortably large pair of seams. However, I’m told it’s authentic ‘50s décor.
Despite the slightly uncomfortable seating, my overall eating experience was lovely. I ordered the California Cheeseburger, which has lettuce, caramelized onions, tomato, and mayo. It was quite good and came quickly like the drinks had. I also ordered a regular fries, which was a mistake as I could not finish them myself. I recommend just ordering the small fries if you are getting them as a side. They offer one free refill with the sodas and lemonade.
Overall, it was a good experience and I would eat at Ernie’s again.

Food was simple but very good. Was a nice little diner with very friendly people. Would go back again and suggest it for anyone with simple taste and not in a bad way. It is easier to pick from a more simple menu.

The Texas winer with everything. Order it. Then get a side of fries with gravy on the side. Now finish it off with a root beer. Rub your tummy, say ‘OH MY GOD THAT WAS GOOD’, pay bill (tip well), say thank you and leave. Return again as soon as possible, and repeat.

it was pretty good I got a grilled cheese and ham sandwich and a Texas weiner with side of fries and it’s fairly cheap like $ 9 for it all. The hostess was really nice. if you come here I would definitely say give it a try.

Loved Ernie’s! It’s a small diner that reminds you of days gone by. The food is excellent. I got a Pennsylvania favorite called scrapple and it was just as good as what my mom used to make. We were there for breakfast but my husband got the hotdog that they are known for (can’t remember the name of it) and he said it was delicious. My daughter got the ham and bean soup and since that’s a favorite of mine I had to try it — it was perfect! I only wish we had enough time in Gettysburg to go back there again as I am a sucker for a good, greasy burger and their looked incredible!

Very nice breakfast joint. Divey, but tasty. Hit it for breakfast before visiting the battlefield.

Ernies is our usual breakfast destination when in town. The staff is always friendly and attentive. Ernie seems to have a lot of locals and that give it that small town feel. Refills of coffee and hot chocolate came without asking. I haven’t tried their lunch items but they look very good.

Just great! Fries were good! Coffee was hot and tasty ! Waitress was very friendly and fast!

A Gettysburg stable. Been going here for over 20 years. Always good food and service. If you are a tourist, you need to visit Ernie’s.

Ernie’s Texas lunch. A staple in Gettysburg. 1970s prices for a great lunch is nothing to complain about. It’s the kind of food you would expect from a place called Ernie’s Texas lunch. Burgers, hotdogs and grilled cheese sandwiches etc. The food is basic but good. The staff is very friendly and quick. The Decour is vintage 1950s. One of the places you must try while in Gettysburg.

Great breakfast, friendly service and very clean. I asked our hotel where to eat and this was one of two suggestions, described as a greasy spoon but it wasn’t. It’s just one block down from the traffic circle. I had eggs, bacon, small home fries and English muffin, not greasy at all. We will be eating here again tomorrow.

Excellent, casual old fashioned diner. Extra nice staff,
If you want something easy, casual, kid friendly, this is it.
Overall awesome

My daughter and I were in Gettysburg looking at the College and the Battlefield and we found Ernie’s completely by surprise. The quality and flavor of the food, the history, the quick service, all of it made this restaurant one of the best we have been to in awhile. The chipped beef gravy is amazing, the home fries cooked just right, and the coffee is damn good to boot! Stop by and enjoy!

Talk about a «old school» diner-​restaurant. We had the good fortune to stop at Ernie’s Texas Lunch while visiting a friend’s farm in Littlestown PA (a few miles from downtown Gettysburg). Stopping in for breakfast, there were five of us in the party.
Unlike diners us «city slickers» are use to, it’s very small and quaint in comparison. As we walked through the door, the counter was to the left, lined with stools. There were small tables lining the wall to the right, and a large table for 8 at the back of the restaurant.
I ordered three scrambled eggs, toast with bacon. I shared Arlene’s pancakes. Not only was I famished, but the breakfast, while considered standard by any means, was delicious. Our server delivered the food to our table quickly. Unfortunately, my wife and another in our party was served the wrong breakfast. They were told to keep it on the house while the cook prepared the correct dishes.
Just because of sheer charm, and the delicious breakfast, I hope to return again in the future — this time maybe for lunch.
Thank you, Ernie’s.

Chili cheese fries, onion rings and bacon cheeseburger after a day on the battlefield hits the spot.

Sign on the door said open at 7, went in a little after 11am for an early lunch and not a soul in sight! Lights and everything were all turned off, but door was open and the sign said they were open. Bad business. Luckily it forced us to try the Blue Gray bar and grill and had an EXCELLENT meal!
Oh, and PS, this was on Memorial Day and the streets were packed, I can only imagine the business they lost by being MIA during prime hours.

It’s been 15 years since my last visit, and a dinner stop at Ernie’s after a day at Ski Liberty was a no-​brainer. 15 years, and Ernie’s has lost nothing. It’s been there since 1921– or so the pictures on the wall show– but the décor is more along the lines of 1950. My years at Gettysburg College taught me that there was no order better than «two with on one” — two chili dogs, smothered in mustard and onions– with a side of fries with gravy. No, I don’t usually eat that way, but come on… this is permissible, at Ernie’s. Food came out quickly, and service was great. Total bill for me and the boy was $ 15. Can’t beat that with a stick!
And yes, Ernie’s now apparently takes credit cards. Or, at least, they took mine.
It doesn’t get any more real than Ernie’s. These hot dogs will live on in my mind– and arteries– for some time!