As its name implies, authentic Spanish eatery Tapas on Main occupies a prominent corner on the main thoroughfare in the heart of downtown Bethlehem and has been drawing crowds of food enthusiasts since its inception. Ironically, one of the restaurant's most popular items, the flourless chocolate cake, doesn't necessarily speak to chef/owner Rafael Palomino's Latin heritage though it is kissed with a touch of Kahlua—a Mexican coffee-based rum.
First things first, restaurant manager Cara Capobianco wants people to know is that the oft-requested dessert is not “one of those chocolate lava cakes” that seems to be so ubiquitous these days. “It's something completely different,” she insists. “The rum really brings out the flavor of the chocolate and makes it something special.”
The restaurant does many iterations of the rich, decadent confection; occasionally it's served with seasonal berries, topped with a citrusy drizzle or served with a quenelle of blackberry Cabernet sorbet.
No matter how it's served, its universal appeal is a certainty—the cake is flourless and gluten-free which broadens its allure to patrons.
500 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.868.8903 | tapasonmain.com