While this may be our 18th annual Restaurant Awards, there is always something new to dig into. From brand-new restaurants to first-time winners to debut categories, we’re pretty certain you’ll find something special here.
Want an easy way to access our Restaurant Awards on the go? Save our list to reference when you are out and about around the Valley and need to find somewhere to dine!
FAVORITE INDIAN
Aman's Indian Cuisine
Too often, Indian restaurant food is associated with lunch buffets. But it can be more than that—and at Aman’s, which specializes in North Indian Punjabi cuisine, it certainly surpasses all expectations. And that’s a result of careful, dedicated intent.
“We are not like the typical Indian restaurant where many things are half cooked and come out in less than 20 minutes,” says Baljeet Singh Bansal, one of the owners.
Everything at Aman’s, which has been located in Downtown Easton since August 2019, is scratch made. It’s family run—say hello to Baljeet, Sukhjeet, Amandeep, Jasmeet and Gagandeep Bansal the next time you’re in for some butter chicken, lamb korma, saag paneer or Madras veggie curry.
“What makes our restaurant different is our commitment to using high-quality, fresh ingredients, some which are sourced locally based on seasonal availability. We grind our own spices, make our own marinades and bases, even all our appetizers are made in house. We take this a step further with fresh, made-to-order entrées, breads, rice and tandoori (clay-oven baked) entrées. It takes a bit longer to prepare, but 99 percent of guests love it and will wait for the food to come out,” says Bansal.
During the pandemic, Aman’s distinguished itself by conducting fundraisers to benefit food pantries in the region, delivering more than 300 family grocery bags and donating more than 4,000 meals. It’s a core tenet of their Sikh faith—Vand Ke Chakna, “to help those in need from the fruits of our labor,” says Bansal.
“We are ever so grateful to the community and our patrons who have constantly supported our restaurant and enabled us to continue paying it forward,” says Bansal.
336 Northampton St., Easton | 484.298.0400 | amanseaston.com
FAVORITE KOREAN
Little Miss Korea
There is nothing like walking past the dumplings sizzling on the portable grill of Little Miss Korea’s farmers’ market stand. It’ll stop you dead in your tracks if nothing else will—and there’s a lot of competing delicious aromas.
It all started in May 2018 when proprietor Lobynn Cha had the opportunity to buy the former Bada Bingg space at the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers’ Market. “Opening a Korean restaurant has been a dream of mine since I was 12 years old,” she says, and credits her mother with much of the vision of opening her shop.
“We emigrated to the U.S. in 2004 and my mother never lost touch of her culinary roots,” she says. You can find evidence of those culinary roots at the Emmaus Farmers’ Market and the Downtown Allentown Market—and, up until recently, the Easton Farmers’ Market (they had to stop due to staff shortages). Menu items vary based on the location, but you’ll find build-your-own bowls, bao buns, kimchi fries, Korean fried chicken, bibimbap, kimchi jjigae and bulgogi beef cheesesteak—and so much more.
1825 W. Chew St., Allentown 610.841.3444 | 27 N. 7th St., Allentown
484.664.8907 | littlemisskoreaallentown.com
FAVORITE MEXICAN
Casa Toro Mexican Grill & Mojito Bay Cuban Lounge
Sure, the fare contains Mexican favorites, but Casa Toro really offers well-executed Latin cuisine, with Caribbean, Argentinian and Cuban influences, among others. Both the interior and the food are colorful—and the vibe couldn’t be more warm or welcoming. Don’t miss their legendary margaritas.
7001 PA-309, Coopersburg | 610.282.8888 | casatoromexgrill.com
Photo by Marco Calderon
The Bayou's Mo Taylor & Cristian Duarte
FAVORITE CAJUN
The Bayou
We have The Bayou to thank for bringing some Southern flair to the dining scene in the Lehigh Valley. Classic favorites such as fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread and dirty rice sit alongside inventive dishes such as lobster pierogis and those flash-fried spicy chickpeas.
702 Hawthorne Rd., Bethlehem | 610.419.6669
64 Centre Sq., Easton | 610.829.1700 | datbayoulv.com
FAVORITE MODERN AMERICAN
Grille 3501
It’s sophisticated but not off-putting, the menu varied but accessible, with elements of French, Mediterranean and Asian fare. Lots of indoor and outdoor seating—all of it in a welcoming environment. You’ve been warned: the cocktail list is epic.
3501 Broadway, Allentown | 610.706.0100 | grille3501.com
FAVORITE CASUAL DINING
Union and Finch
Every neighborhood ought to have a place like Union and Finch—though it's admittedly a bit of a gamble for the establishment. “Everyone wants to be on Main Street,” says Ed Hanna, who runs the restaurant with his wife, Shahnaz. But being ensconced in a neighborhood gives you an edge, and if you’re doing it right—like Union and Finch is—the ability to really make a home for yourself among the people. And those are the people who come back several times a week.
Folks love Union and Finch for its elevated pub fare with a decidedly Middle Eastern bent, a welcome twist to the typical eatery. During the pandemic, they set up an outdoor patio and it’s here to stay. Come for the Burger and Beer special on Thursdays ($12 for a burger and beer or milkshake), or hang out and watch an ’80s movie in the background while you eat dinner, and forget what’s going on in the rest of the world for a little while. It’s casual, of course, so you can come as you are but you’ll leave transformed—a sign of a great eatery.
1528 W. Union St., Allentown 610.432.1522 | unionandfinch.com
FAVORITE VIETNAMESE
Pho Bowl
Pho Bowl is another example of the fact that sometimes the most unassuming places offer the most surprisingly good food. Order a steaming hot bowl of Vietnamese phở, a bánh mì sandwich or even some pad Thai. It’s all good.
524 W. Broad St., Bethlehem | 610.419.4484 | @phobowl
FAVORITE THAI
White Orchids Thai Cuisine
Every since opening at The Promenade in 2007, locals haven’t been able to get enough of the menu at White Orchids. Thai cuisine served in a fine dining atmosphere with thoughtful cocktails and warm service are the hallmarks. (Special kudos to owner Jeff Virojanapa and his family, who own Notch as well—also on this list.)
The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley | 610.841.7499 | whiteorchidsthaicuisine.com
FAVORITE GREEK
Yianni's Taverna
If the endless small plates, ouzo and specialty Greek cocktails and the bright blue interior don’t give it away, the Greek hospitality will. Yianni’s has become a mainstay in the Lehigh Valley with its standout seafood. Get a taste of everything with their happy hour specials.
3760 Old Philadelphia Pke., Bethlehem 610.410.9300 | yiannistaverna.com
FAVORITE ITALIAN
Fiamma Italian Grill
Pizza, pasta, flatbreads. Soups, salads and seafood. All fresh and authentic. Oh, and there’s an entire menu devoted to meatballs and another to risotto—that’s not something you see every day. This is how Fiamma does Italian food, for both lunch and dinner.
2118 Schoenersville Rd., Bethlehem | 610.419.6545 | fiammaitaliangrill.com
FAVORITE SPANISH
Tapas On Main
Food that comes at various intervals that’s meant to be shared at the bar while sipping, say, sangria, or among a crowd at a table, is our favorite kind of food. Papas à la Francesa are a total dream for potato lovers, but order the fried calamari, garlicky shrimp, salmon tartare and croquettes or empanadas—and call it a meal.
500 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.868.8903 | tapasonmain.com
FAVORITE AFRICAN
Coal Winery & Kitchen
West African fusion fare served in a contemporary space—along with house-made wine. For real! You could load up on starters and sides and that would give you plenty to crow about, whether it’s kelewele (fried plantains) or loaded yam fries (and yes, they’re really yams). Save room for the kebabs, indomie or grass-fed lamb.
81 W. Broad St., Bethlehem | 484.456.1192 | coalbethlehem.com
FAVORITE SOUTHERN
Family Chicken & Waffles
David and Queeana Thompson started as caterers in New Jersey before this beloved Southern soul food business was born in Easton in February 2020. Imagine collards, candied yams, cornbread fried fish and chicken. But we’re just getting started; it goes beyond that. David says their best sellers include their original seafood pot and their lobster pot, and the chicken and waffles (naturally), but a few dishes stand out even further.
It’s totally a family affair—the name is real. “Smack Your Mama and Cheese” is beloved creamy-dreamy baked mac and cheese, using a recipe from David’s late grandmother Marion Thompson. The Thompsons credit their 14-year-old daughter with Nene’s Honey Buttered Cornbread. Yes, please!
“Our food is unique because it’s cooked with genuine love. I feel we won because we’ve brought dishes that Northampton County taste buds have been waiting for. This is an excellent validation for our business,” says David.
1800 Sullivan Trl., Easton | 610.438.1882 | @familychickenwafflescatering
FAVORITE OVERALL VIBE
The Shelby
The Shelby is somehow both immediately modern and retro both in its feel and in its fare. It’s known for serving the kind of food you probably really like to eat—comforting and familiar—but with its own unique unexpected twists (that’s the modern part), in a space that’s fun and relaxed.
707 N. Krocks Rd. Suite 104, Allentown | 610.841.0808 | shelbyrestaurant.com
FAVORITE MEDITERRANNEAN
Forks Mediterranean Deli
Everything is fresh, homemade, incredibly flavorful and offered to you with a smile. Shawarma is a must, as is their fresh za’atar flatbread (get it right off the grill if you can), but you can also order straight-up deli sandwiches, too. The biz is stocked with tons of Mediterranean specialties, such as rosewater, tahini, bulk spices, nuts and dried fruits.
1530 Sullivan Trl., Easton | 610.250.0711 | forksmediterraneandeli.com
FAVORITE IRISH
McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub and Whiskey Bar
There’s very little that compares to the experience of Irish hospitality—it’s not a cliché, it’s a real thing. Come for a full Irish breakfast, a bowl of classic potato leek soup or Guinness lamb stew, or try the whiskey. Don’t forget to grab some scones for the morning.
534 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.861.7631 | redstagpub.com
FAVORITE HOTEL RESTAURANT
Historic Hotel Bethlehem
We’ve quietly known for years that Hotel B has a great restaurant, full of new American classics with thoughtfully sourced foods. If you have passed through the hotel on the weekend, you know the brunch buffet is legendary. We’re happy to see it gaining national attention, too; the Reader’s Choice Awards from USA Today named it Best Historic Hotel (number one in 2021; and number two in 2020).
437 Main St., Bethlehem | 855.264.2598 | hotelbethlehem.com
George Torrella, GT3 Jazz Standards
FAVORITE LIVE MUSIC
The Bookstore Speakeasy
Walking into The Bookstore, a Prohibition-era-styled speakeasy, is like stepping back in time. But what’s remarkable about the restaurant, apart from its revered hand-crafted cocktails and scratch-made food, is that the music never stopped throughout the pandemic. Not once.
“As long as we've been open throughout the pandemic, we have offered live jazz, every single night,” says co-owner Linda Barsik. That’s a feat worth commending, don’t you think?
And what’s on tap? Well, The Bookstore is known for its jazz. “We have a steadfast and very talented group of artists who have been with us long term,” she says. The hours have shifted throughout the pandemic, but the commitment to live music has not wavered. “Live music is one of our favorite things, and to keep it vital in this area while also offering our patrons a lively evening that fresh food, cocktails and live music provide,” she says.
336 Adams St., Bethlehem | 610.867.1100 | bookstorespeakeasy.com
Dean & Andrew Zannakis, Phillipsburg's "The Barbecue Boys"
FAVORITE PHILLIPSBURG, NJ
The Barbecue Boys
Just across the Free Bridge in Phillipsburg, next to a hot dog stand, you’ll find some of the best pulled pork, brisket and ribs—straight-up barbecue fare—around. Everything is smoked to perfection using a real smoker. “We don’t use that liquid smoke stuff. All our barbecue is authentic American barbecue, the way it should be,” says co-owner Dean Zannakis, who runs the spot with his brother Andrew.
Don’t let the new-ish status of this business, which opened in 2020, throw you off. The Barbecue Boys has likely been a long time coming. “My brother started smoking meats in the backyard when he was 10, and through trial and error, was able to master his craft around the age of 16,” says Dean. The dry rubs used, along with the sauces, are all house-made. Try their Texas barbecue brisket, as-is or on a sandwich; the latter, Dean says, is “a fan favorite,” along with its sweet cornbread, which is sold in loaves.
7 Union Sq., Phillipsburg, NJ | 908.777.0190 | thebarbecueboys.com
FAVORITE JAPANESE
Komé Fine Japanese Cuisine
When you want Japanese food with a serious flair for the dramatic, whether that’s atmosphere, presentation or execution—or all three—Komé at The Promenade continues to be the place to beat. Interiors feel decidedly contemporary; hibachi is available, too.
The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley | 610.798.9888 | komerestaurant.com
FAVORITE CHINESE
Hunan Springs
There’s a reason why Hunan Springs keeps winning. This restaurant keeps making the best, freshest Chinese and Pan-Asian food in the Lehigh Valley—with some Thai, Japanese and Taiwanese favorites, too. Owned and operated by the Ho family since 1995.
4939 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville | 610.366.8338 | hunansprings.net
FAVORITE FRENCH
Maxim’s 22 Bistro & Brasserie
All the customary dishes of French bistro-brasserie fare are present here, whether it’s foie gras, onion soup, cassoulet, charcuterie or steak frites. The atmosphere is classy but comfortable; the food only sounds like it’s fancy because it’s French.
322 Northampton St., Easton | 610.252.2622 | maxims22.com
FAVORITE SEAFOOD
Henry’s Salt of the Sea
The long-running cozy Allentown restaurant is beloved for so many reasons, whether it’s the French-inspired seafood menu, the broiled twin lobster tails or maybe the broiled sea scallops. Everything is expertly and lovingly prepared—and the food is always fresh.
1926 W. Allen St., Allentown | 610.434.2628 | henryssaltofthesea.com
FAVORITE MIDDLE EASTERN
Aladdin Middle Eastern Cuisine
The family behind this Allentown restaurant has been working together tirelessly for more than 30 years to bring you the best Middle Eastern dishes in a warm and welcoming environment. Whether it’s kebabs, grape leaves, hummus or anything else, you can’t go wrong—it’s all homemade.
651 Union Blvd., Allentown | 610.437.4023 | aladdinlv.com
FAVORITE GERMAN
Dunderbak's
This mall mainstay has been serving up classic, filling German fare since 1977 in a humble, casual environment. It’s the spot for all the wursts, your favorite beers, potato pancakes and pierogis. You won’t leave hungry.
121 Lehigh Valley Mall, Whitehall | 610.264.4963 | dunderbak.com
FAVORITE BAR
Social Still
The bartenders at this beloved distillery restaurant are constantly innovating—that’s one component to Social Still’s excellence. But you have to start with excellent spirits—that’s the other equally strong component needed, and Social Still’s vodka, bourbons, rye whiskey, gin, rum and specialty vodkas provide endless fodder for experimentation.
530 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem | 610.625.4585 | socialstill.com
FAVORITE DESIGN/DÉCOR
Torre
One step inside this stunning Mexican restaurant at The Promenade, and you’ll understand why it’s won for your favorite design/décor. Whether it’s the wall of colorful sugar skulls or the tequila tower behind the bar, Torre offers a flair for the dramatic—with food that matches.
The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley | 610.841.9399 | torrerestaurant.com
FAVORITE BETHLEHEM
Apollo Grill
Apollo Grill earns a special place on our list for having won this award almost too many times to count. But the consistently excellent food, the endlessly shareable appetizers and the fantastic hospitality speak for themselves. It’s hard to beat.
85 W. Broad St., Bethlehem 610.865.9600 | apollogrill.com
FAVORITE EASTON
3rd and Ferry Fish Market
There’s a reason fish and seafood are delivered six days a week at this Easton favorite owned by Mike and Rebecca Pichetto. Sip a Bloody Mary at the copper-topped bar—the drink is absolutely epic, but so are the ceviche, the Oyster Tower, the lobster roll and the Market Fries with crab. It’s all good!
56 S. 3rd St., Easton | 610.829.1404 | thirdandferry.com
FAVORITE ALLENTOWN
Notch Modern Kitchen and Bar
Between the food and the cocktails, Notch has redefined what a modern American restaurant with serious Asian influences can look like—and what its food can taste like. Don’t miss the bao buns, or maybe the kimchi hummus to start, but the fried chicken is a revelation and the Drunken Bolognese will make you rethink pasta.
5036 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown 610.841.4610 | notchmknb.com
FAVORITE BATH & WALNUTPORT
A Ca Mia
With a name translating to “at my house,” this spot features Northern Italian cuisine cooked in an open kitchen. The menu is so extensive, with seafood, fish, endless pasta dishes, along with chicken and veal, you’ll have to come back several times to really experience all of its culinary charms.
4330 Lehigh Dr., Walnutport 610.760.3207 | acamiapa.com
FAVORITE MACUNGIE & FOGELSVILLE
Gio Italian Grill
Do you like pizza? Do you like pasta? Gio delivers across the board but happens to excel in those areas. The open-flame fire deck oven makes sure their hand-tossed pizza cooks fast and furious—and perfect, whether you’re ordering a nine-inch or 13-inch pie.
6465 Village Ln. Rte. 100, Macungie | 610.966.9446 | gioitaliangrill.com
FAVORITE NORTHAMPTON & CATASAUQUA
Assante Ristorante Italiano
We kind of have a thing for Italian food around these parts, and folks love this one from the Assante family. Order a glass of wine and splurge on some lobster ravioli, or opt for comfort food such as lasagna or spaghetti and meatballs—you won’t leave hungry.
2050 Main St., Northampton | 610.262.1301 | assanterestaurant.com
FAVORITE CENTER VALLEY & COOPERSBURG
Top Cut
If steak is your thing, then Top Cut is already in your rotation. But if you’re still looking for a classic steakhouse experience, do it up big at this top-floor restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views. Dine on USDA Prime while sipping a classic cocktail or one of its many high-quality wines.
The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley | 610.841.7100 | topcutsteak.com
FAVORITE NAZARETH
Birthright Brewing Company
Beer and pizza are always perfect together. But wood-fired pizza with great toppings (plus great apps that come out of there), along with ever-changing beer lists sporting ever-changing quirky names, is something special at this brewery headed up by award-winning brewer Wayne Milford.
57 S. Main St., Nazareth | 610.365.2225 | birthrightbrewingco.com
FAVORITE EMMAUS
House & Barn
Can’t decide whether you want warm rustic space or an old farmhouse vibe that happens to put together some seriously good burgers? You can start at the Barn and nibble on apps such as Barn-BQ-Nachos and take in some live music, and end up at the House for some killer burgers. The choice is yours!
1449 Chestnut St., Emmaus | 610.421.6666 | houseandbarn.net
Chef Justin Cogan
FAVORITE ROOFTOP
Zest Bar & Grille
This SouthSide Bethlehem restaurant offers unique views and contemporary décor. The menu, like that of its sister restaurant Grille 3501, is New American, and the best part—the three-season terrace—means that only the coldest of days will keep you from sky-high outdoor dining.
306 S. New St., Bethlehem | 610.419.4320 | zestbethlehem.com
FAVORITE SPECIAL OCCASION/FINE DINING
Three Oak Steakhouse
There’s no shortage of dramatic interiors and presentations at this high-end steakhouse in Downtown Easton. So, it’s no surprise people have voted it their fave for a special occasion or fine dining. There’s something unique about a steakhouse with a tree sculpture right inside.
323 Northampton St., Easton | 610.559.5510 | threeoaksteakhouse.com
FAVORITE WHITEHALL & COPLAY
My Tequila House
This colorful spot serves, you guessed it, all the tequilas you can imagine (which means all the margaritas you can sip), but that’s only part of what makes this place tick. Nachos, quesadillas, duck carnitas tacos, steak medallions al tequila, shrimp tequila—the list goes on.
1808 MacArthur Rd., Whitehall | 484.664.7109 | mytequilahouse.com
FAVORITE HELLERTOWN
Braveheart Highland Pub
This homey tavern has been serving up Scottish food since 2006. Think Scottish meat pie, mince and tatties—along with an extensive entrée menu ranging from steak and pork to pasta and salmon. They also have Smithwick’s, Boddingtons and Guinness on tap, for all your Celtic beer needs. Kilt optional.
430 Main St., Hellertown | 610.838.6555 | bravehearthighlandpub.com
FAVORITE PRIVATE DINING/PRIVATE ROOM
Blue Grillhouse
Blue has been a classy spot for fine hospitality and even better food, wine and cocktails for many years now, and it’s no surprise it’s recognized for its private dining. Private events large and small can be accommodated here, whether it’s corporate dinners, private parties or weddings.
4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem | 610.691.8400 | bluegrillhouse.com
FAVORITE QUAKERTOWN
McCoole’s at the Red Lion Inn
Pennsylvania’s got loads of old stone pubs, and McCoole’s is housed in a former inn that dates to 1799. There’s something for everyone on the menu (the influences are far flung, the dishes never unfamiliar, however), and McCoole’s strives to use humanely raised, antibiotic- and hormone-free foods from local farms.
4 S. Main St., Quakertown | 215.538.1776 | mccoolesredlioninn.com
FAVORITE VIEW
The View at Morgan Hill
You don’t have to be a golfer or a member of the community at Morgan Hill to slip into a table at this Williams Township restaurant. It’s really hard to argue with the view of the golf course (and beyond). And yes—they’ve got heaters and retractable screens to keep you dining and enjoying that view even as it gets a little chilly.
100 Clubhouse Dr., Easton | 610.923.8480 | theviewatmorganhill.com
FAVORITE FORKS & BANGOR
Surv
Situated in a strip mall, of all places, Surv is deceptive. It also manages to blend fine dining with excellent gourmet pizza—it’s available through the restaurant. Owned and operated by the same team that cooks up great fare at Edge in Bethlehem, fine food is a guarantee.
1800 Sullivan Trl., Easton | 484.544.0624 | surveaston.com
