I’m in the middle of a slackpack trip from just south of Carlisle to just north of Duncannon. I’ve read about the Doyle hotel and restaurant in Duncannon in just about every AT hiker memoir I’ve read (and I’ve read too many of them). So after my hike today I decided to stop there for lunch on the way back to the motel.
It turns out today is the first day the restaurant is open. I was surprised at the size of the dining area; I expected it to be larger. There were maybe 4 or 5 tables and also a few stools at the bar. I heard them say they are only open for breakfast and lunch but will be offering supper hours soon. Not everything is up and running. The frier should be up next week and they aren’t serving alcohol yet. The menu isn’t huge but it’s ok. I had a vegan burger and it was excellent. There are meat selections also.
I believe they are renting rooms already but much of the lodging area is still under renovation. They gave me a tour of the whole place. The second floor has a ballroom that already has as a wedding booked. The third floor has rooms with private bathrooms. The fourth floor will have rooms with a shared bathroom. There is street parking and also some onsite parking in the back. I noticed there was Wi-Fi while I was in the dining area but didn’t use it. My Verizon signal was excellent. I didn’t notice a tv in the room. Maybe ask if that’s important to you.
I’ve never been there before so can’t say if it’s better or not. I can say it looks great and I’m glad I stopped in.