Where It All Began: 

Fay’s Country Kitchen has served the Carlisle community for more than 50 years. Since opening in 1973 under owner Fay Boychock, who died in 2018, the diner has embraced a classic, old-school feel, complete with nostalgic décor and retro charm.

After more than two decades under the same ownership, the business was eventually put on the market. In March of 2024, Cristina Morales stepped in as office manager. Despite the transition, the restaurant has kept the same name, menu and overall style that customers have known for years.

The Secret Sauce:

Fay’s Country Kitchen is known for its home-style cooking and generous portions. Nearly 90% of its business comes from breakfast, with pancakes standing out as a popular favorite among locals. Served nearly plate-sized, these pancakes come in creative varieties like red velvet, lemon blueberry, and chocolate Dubai, each quickly becoming a hit among regulars.

When the new ownership took over, one of the goals was to increase lunch traffic while maintaining the restaurant’s strong breakfast identity. As a result, the diner expanded the lunch menu to complement their unique breakfast menu, introducing chicken chipotle tacos, country fried steak, and carnitas skillet. 

Morales explained that because Fay’s is a community place, major changes are not realistic. “Everybody knows this place, that’s why we want to continue doing the same thing,” said Morales. The restaurant continues to operate as a cash-only business, maintaining its classic, traditional feel while reducing the cost of payment technology.

A Place of the People: 

Fay’s draws a wide range of customers, including families, senior residents and students from Dickinson College. On any given morning, customers can find typical morning coffee drinkers, pancake and waffle lovers or perhaps catch a local sports team gathering for a team meal before a big game.

Many employees have worked at the restaurant for years, creating a strong rapport between employees. “We work together like family,” Morales said. “It’s a lot of responsibility. We want to continue working for the community and the area.” 

Go check Fay’s out: 

https://www.restaurantji.com/pa/carlisle/fays-country-kitchen-/ 

203 S Hanover St, Carlisle, PA 17013

(717) 243-5510

Monday – Saturday, 6:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.