The stomach growls and we can do little but answer the call. Fortunately, the Valley has ripened into a veritable food lover's paradise with its high-end restaurants, back alley bistros and specialty confectioners. Here's what LVS readers told us they're loving this year.
Photos by Alison Conklin
Favorite New
Full of Crepe
Though the tongue-in-cheek name of this quirky little creperie is sure to elicit a giggle or two, make no mistake: Ashley Caldwell, the force behind this diminutive storefront, means serious business.
Like their Parisian counterparts, these paper-thin pancakes are available in sweet and savory varieties, with customers lining up at the often cramped counter for popular, imaginative crepes like ‘Nuts and Berries' (a confection of Nutella and strawberries) and ‘The Kid' (a savory blend of tangy goat cheese, spinach and bacon with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar).
Surely Bethlehem residents would prefer that this culinary gem remain a secret but the crepe's out of the bag—this is the next big thing. Speaking of big, beware that tackling one of these over-sized beauties might be an exercise in futility; take a few of your best amis along to share.
335 S. New St., Bethlehem | 610.419.6400 | facebook.com/FullOfCrepeLLC
Photos by Donovan Roberts Witmer
Favorite Atmosphere
Cosmopolitan
There's probably never been a more apropos naming of a restaurant; this Allentown monolith is floor-to-ceiling chic with an urbane elegance that makes people swoon. Once they recover from the initial awe, “classy” and “upscale” are the usual descriptors from customers.
Housed in the space previously occupied by the legendary Sal's Spaghetti House, the restaurant was completely overhauled and included a grand ballroom in its renovation. Despite its sophisticated transformation, Cosmopolitan pays homage to its predecessor every Tuesday night by serving spaghetti that uses the original recipe that made Sal's famous.
Co-owner Myron Haydt doesn't want this bit of homage-paying to cause any confusion as to the restaurant's identity. One of his goals when opening the restaurant was to pay respect to local legends so diners could experience a taste of the past in new, swank environs. In fact, Cosmopolitan's sweetest tribute to date is their re-creation of former upscale department store Hess's mile-high strawberry pie.
22 N. 6th St., Allentown | 610.435.3540 | ourcosmopolitan.com
Photos by Donovan Roberts Witmer
Favorite Vegetarian
Horns
If you find it odd that a place that caters mainly to vegans and vegetarians calls itself Horns, don't fret. In addition to a rotating seasonal menu of inventive, meatless dishes, there are a number of non-vegetarian options as well, and even carnivores are known to go crazy for the veggies here. What makes this veggie haven unique is that it doesn't relegate vegetables to the side dish corner—it elevates them to rock star status in dishes like the Asian-inspired, tofu-studded Samurai Stir-Fry and the MacDaddy Eggplant, a clever take on classic eggplant parmigiana.
New owner Taylor Zervos is adamant about the restaurant's commitment to its conscientious philosophy of using ingredients from local purveyors and farmers. Much of its produce, dairy products, bread and even honey is sourced within a 50-mile radius, making Horns a locavore's dream.
123 W. 4th St., Bethlehem | 610.867.5818 | hornsfood.com
Photos by Donovan Roberts Witmer
Favorite Bakery
Easton Baking Co.
Mention this Easton bakery to local residents and you're sure to hear more than a few nostalgic tales but ask them when this institution opened and temple-scratching ensues as everyone seems to remember it being around forever. The point is, the beloved bakery has been a mainstay on the Valley's food scene for decades, satisfying the sweet (and savory) tooth of its patrons since its opening.
What everyone agrees on, though, is the friendly service and the bakery's familial atmosphere where, like TV's "Cheers," everybody knows your name—a feeling customers find as warm as the loaves of fresh-from-the-oven bread that line the baking racks.
Among its selection of delicious, inexpensive baked goods, the cakes, doughnuts and cookies rank most popular, but it's the tomato pie on which the bakery has built its reputation. The Italian-American treat is simply a doughy crust topped with a rich tomato sauce and can best be described as a cheese-less pizza. The line of people clamoring for this delicacy usually snakes its way out of the door, making an early arrival imperative.
34 N. 7th St., Easton | 610.252.6343
Photos by Donovan Roberts Witmer
Favorite French
Maxim's 22
Call Josh Palmer a jack-of-all-trades or, at the very least, culinary genres. In addition to French brasserie Maxim's 22, he is the executive chef/owner behind local Italian phenom Sette Luna and it is his skill in various cooking techniques that shows up in classic dishes like cassoulet or an expertly seared duck breast.
Diners can nurse their inner Francophile on timeless fare served in an authentic bistro setting where Palmer likes to occasionally hold special events. (We'd venture to guess Maxim's is the only area eatery where a frog leg eating competition appears on the calendar.)
No detail seems to be overlooked and, after a simple but elegant bite, it's hard to imagine that you're not dining in the sixth arrondissement.
322 Northampton St., Easton | 610.252.2622 | maxims22.com
Ohoto by Alison Conklin
Favorite Bar/Tavern
Bethlehem Brew Works
What's not to love about this brewpub? From its inception, a host of craft and seasonal beers have been brewed on-site and paired with a menu of elevated fare. Going beyond typical pub grub, the menu features a varied line-up of creative appetizers (don't skip the pierogie casserole), pastas, seafood and hearty entrees.
Discerning suds lovers delight in the brewery's rotating list of brews; among its most popular offerings are the Dark Wheat, the stout and the seasonal Pumpkin Ale and Summer Saison. The brewery also hosts a number of entertaining events throughout the year—a winning combination for patrons who like a side order of fun with their beer.
569 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.882.1300 | thebrewworks.com
photos by alison conklin
Favorite Seafood
Beck's Land & Sea House
Who says the best seafood can only be found at the Shore? Lovers of Beck's would much rather forgo a traffic-riddled beach trip in order to snag a seat at this seafood house. Sure, it's a bit out of the way, but those who make the trek are handsomely rewarded with award-winning crabcakes (try the Baltimore crab bake—a mixture of jumbo lump crabmeat with Cooper sharp cheese) and the balsamic-glazed scallops. The famous bisque, a silken, lobster-studded affair, has garnered its own league of loyal devotees over the years.
Husband-and-wife duo Cheryl and Randy Beck take pride in knowing that their family-owned business has such a devout following. “We're hands-on, working owners,” says Cheryl. “Our pasta is made in house and we grow many of the herbs in our home garden that we use in the kitchen.”
Beck's is no slouch in the land department, either, as evidenced in its beautifully seared steaks and other non-sea options. The fresh seafood and family atmosphere keeps bellies full and customers coming back for more.
997 Bushkill Center Rd., Nazareth | 610.746.7400 | beckslandseahouse.com
Left Photo by Kelly Planer Photography | Right Photo by Alison Conklin
Favorite Foodie
Laurin Fegley
He's a local legend and a foodie that needs no introduction, but on the off-chance that you don't know Laurin Fegley, you've no doubt attended an event he's catered. His company, Simply Smooth, is known for what Fegley calls “traditional with a twist” food thanks to a fresh, locally-sourced approach and partnerships with area farmers. Having been in the event planning industry since the age of 19, he's learned over the years that a successful event involves more than an exceptional menu and he takes great care to be involved in all aspects of a client's experience.
From conceptualization and design to floral arranging and transportation services, Fegley prides himself on not only listening to his clients' needs but anticipating them as well. His soup-to-nuts approach to event planning makes him one of the most sought-after caterers in the area and he shows no signs of slowing down.
With an extensive checklist in hand, this über-planner always makes sure that fun is included in every event he caters.
1524 W. Linden St., Allentown | 610.434.3900 | simplysmooth.com
Photo by Alison Conklin
Favorite Italian & Favorite Wine List
Molinari's
The much-adored Italian eatery has everything going for it; a beautiful interior, warm ambience and a reputation that was built—in part—by a stellar menu of unforgettable food. Real Italian cooking is about properly executing simple ingredients and the crew at Molinari's follows this philosophy to a tee. A sundry selection of antipasti, house-made pastas and cracker thin-crust pizzas complement an extensive, carefully curated wine list. While elastic waist pants may be in order by the end of meal, dessert is not to be missed. The sorbetto and gelato lists offer exotic combinations, but it's the sea salt-sprinkled dark chocolate budino that leaves guests licking their spoons.
Anna Molinari, daughter of owners Fran and Cheri, says the secret behind the restaurant's success can be attributed to a family trip to Italy where they learned about authentic, rustic Italian food and brought those techniques back to the States.
“We grew up eating Americanized versions of Italian and there's nothing wrong with that—it was delicious but we wanted to learn about authentic Italian cooking.”
She also offers a nod to the local farmers and producers who supply much of the eatery's fresh ingredients—partnerships she acknowledges that help make their food all the more special and have kept loyal diners coming back time and again.
Now that's something that would make any Italian nonna proud.
322 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem | 610.625.9222 | molinarimangia.com
Favorite Deli
Josie's New York Deli
It takes some serious chutzpah to call a delicatessen a “New York deli” outside of the Big Apple, but founder Josie Koury (daughter Kathy is the current owner) has every right to do so. The classic deli menu rivals fare from any city-slicker outfit. A fixture on Centre Square for years, this place doesn't try to reinvent the wheel and that's a good thing; gargantuan sandwiches like pastrami and tuna salad are large enough to feed a small (very hungry) army.
The deli's real draw? Chicken Salad Tuesday—yes, the chicken salad is so famous that it's earned its own day. Though the secret recipe is kept under lock and key by the tight-lipped owner, what is known is that Josie's knows how to do deli right.
Everyone from local dignitaries to former residents coming back home to get their sandwich fix knows that if it's authentic deli fare you seek, it's Josie's you want.
14 Centre Square, Easton | 610.252.5081
Favorite Chef
Shawn Doyle—Savory Grille
2934 Seisholtzville Rd., Macungie | 610.845.2010 | savorygrille.comNo wonder he's always smiling; Doyle consistently ranks high in our annual DD polling!
Favorite Foodie
Simply Smooth Catering
1524 Linden St., Allentown | 610.434.3900 | simplysmooth.comLaurin Fegley will never let your dinner/event/cocktail party NOT be fabulous.
Favorite New
Full of Crepe
335 S. New St., Bethlehem | 610.419.6400 | facebook.com/FullOfCrepeLLCThis new kid on the block is making everyone re-think the crêpe!
Favorite Bakery
Easton Baking Company
34 N. 7th St., Easton | 610.252.6343
This Lehigh Valley staple not only serves up the best in baked goods, it's locally famous for its pizza and tomato pie!
Favorite Brunch
The Hotel Bethlehem
437 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.625.2219 | 1741ontheterrace.comBrunch at the Hotel B is far more than a late-morning meal—it's an elegant occasion.
Favorite Deli
Josie's New York Deli
14 Centre Square, Easton | 610.252.5081Hands down, the world's best chicken salad can be found at Josie's in Easton.
Favorite Diner
Billy's Downtown Diner
10 E. Broad St., Bethlehem | 610.867.0105 | billysdiner.comNow there's a Billy's Allentown location, too!
Favorite Café
Jumbars
1342 Chelsea Ave., Bethlehem | 610.866.1660 | jumbars.comThe classic café experience with a twist of homemade goodness.
Favorite Steakhouse
Shula's Steak House
The Promenade Shop at Saucon Valley | 610.841.5600 | shulacentervalley.comThis high-end steakhouse proves you don't have to be a legend to eat like one.
Favorite Farm-to-Table
Bolete
1740 Seidersville Rd., Bethlehem | 610.868.6505 | boleterestaurant.comConsistently first-class since the day they opened their doors.
Favorite Special Occasion
Blue Grillhouse & Winebar
4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem | 610.691.8400 | bluegrillhouse.com
The outdoor patio only enhanced this restaurant's brand and it's the first place diners think of when arranging a classy meet-and-greet.
Favorite Atmosphere
Cosmopolitan
22 N. 6th St., Allentown | 610.435.3540 | ourcosmopolitan.comAll of Allentown should feel this cool.
Favorite Vegetarian
Horns
123 W. 4th St., Bethlehem | 610.867.5818 | hornsfood.comEven if you're not Vegan or Vegetarian, this is a tasty place, indeed.
Favorite Italian/Favorite Wine List
Molinari's
322 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem | 610.625.9222 | molinarimangia.com
This restaurant has never lost its “new place” appeal and is the first thought for dining on Bethlehem's south side.
Favorite Mexican
Cactus Blue
2915 Schoenersville Rd., Bethlehem | 610.814.3000 | cactusblue.bizAlways conveniently located—and festively cool.
Favorite Asian
Bamboo
345 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Allentown | 610.770.8899 | thebamboocuisine.comConsistently great food and service with a smile are served at this wonderful BYOB location!
Favorite Japanese
Komé
The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley | 610.798.9888 | komerestaurant.comSleek décor and fabulous sushi, with plenty of Japanese specialties for the non-sushi lover, too!
Favorite Chinese
Mi Chong's
3350 Schoenersville Rd., Bethlehem | 610.865.3065 | 3350michongs.com3112 W. Tilghman St., Allentown | 610.820.9555 | mi-chongs.comTwo great locations keep diners happy all around the Valley.
Favorite French
Maxim's 22
322 Northampton St., Allentown | 610.252.2622 | maxims22.com
A true French bistro in downtown Easton that feels like it belongs in an authentic Parisian neighborhood.
Favorite Middle Eastern
Aladdin Restaurant
651 Union Blvd., Allentown | 610.437.4023A wonderful experience for the diner who appreciates genuine Middle Eastern cuisine and entertainment.
Favorite Indian
Nawab
13 E. 4th St., Bethlehem | 610.691.0388 | nawabrestaurant.wix.com/homeOff the beaten path, but just the place to be when you want to spice things up!
Favorite Mediterranean
Yianni's Taverna
3760 Old Philadelphia Pk., Bethlehem | 610.867.8821 | yiannistaverna.comOpa! Need we say more?
Favorite Thai
White Orchids Thai Cuisine
The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley | 610.841.7499 | whiteorchidsthaicuisine.comSit at the bar (a Style staff favorite) and order lettuce wraps with your martini – or grab a table and enjoy Pineapple Fried Rice and Seafood Pad Thai.
Favorite Appetizer Menu/Favorite Bethlehem
Apollo Grill
85 W. Broad St., Bethlehem | 610.865.9600 | apollogrill.comAnything you order will be delicious and you'll also be sure to know someone at the bar!
Favorite Martini Menu
Looper's Grille and Bar
313 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem | 610.882.2424 | loopersgrilleandbar.comThe neighborhood bar with the most extensive martini list in town.
Favorite Bar/Tavern
Bethlehem Brew Works
569 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.882.1300 | thebrewworks.com
Comfort foods like pierogie casserole made them a dining staple. House-made micro-brewed beers put them on the map!
Favorite Place for Seafood
Beck's Land & Sea House
997 Bushkill Center Rd., Nazareth | 610.746.7400 | beckslandseahouse.com
In the tried and true tradition of the great sea houses, Beck's offers the ocean's freshest catches.
Favorite Pizza
Gio Italian Grill
6465 Village Ln., Macungie | 610.966.9446 | gioitaliangrill.comDon't be torn between the thick and thin crusts, order both!
Favorite Burger
Wert's Café
515 N. 18th St., Allentown | 610.439.0951| wertscafe.comOrder the sweet potato fries with a fabulous burger at this Allentown tradition!
Favorite Cupcake
Sugar Babe Cupcakes
14 W. Broad St., Bethlehem | 610.714.2252 | sugarbabecupcakes.comNo one holds a candle to these cupcakes. Another staff fave!
Favorite Place for a Cheesesteak
Matey's Crossroads Hotel
1443 Main St., Hellertown | 610.838.8278
Whether you order at the window or eat under the fish on the wall, this savory steak sandwich is a Valley institution.
Allentown Favorite
Grille 3501
3501 Broadway, Allentown | 610.706.0100 | grille3501.comTheir Crab & Mango Spring Rolls are Heaven on Earth!
Easton Favorite
Sette Luna
219 Ferry St., Easton | 610.253.8888 | setteluna.comThis continental older cousin of Maxim's 22, is a highlight of any tour of Easton.
Neighborhood Favorite
Gio Italian Grill
6465 Village Ln., Macungie | 610.966.9446 | gioitaliangrill.comDon't be torn between the thick and thin crusts, order both!
