If you haven't found that special someone yet, maybe you're just not looking in the right place. There are some great hot spots for singles to meet in the Lehigh Valley, and we've picked out some of our favorites for singles of all ages!
Photos by Donovan Roberts Witmer
More for 40+
Not all restaurants and cocktail spots are created equal when it comes to sophistication of clientele.
There are two locally that offer classy options to socialize along with great atmospheres and tasty menus: The Apollo Grill in Bethlehem and Blue Grillhouse & Winebar in Easton.
The Apollo Grill in Bethlehem is a local favorite that offers a lively vibe along with a variety of innovative cocktails. They also create special occasions to mix and mingle, like “Treat Yourself Tuesday” which happens every week at the bar and dining room where guests can select half-price bottles of wine and enjoy the food from the regular menu. If you're looking for an affordable first date, Apollo's “Restaurant Week Wednesday” offers a delicious four-course prix-fixe menu for $30.14. Lastly, the Apollo offers its own version of happy hour with “Therapeutic Thursday” from 5 p.m.-7p.m. with a $7 signature martini and $5 glasses of cabernet and chardonnay. Also, twice a month there is a Celebrity Guest Bartender for charity. Remember, events draw in crowds, and with crowds come opportunities for meetings of chance.
85 W. Broad St., Bethlehem | apollogrill.com
Blue Grillhouse in Bethlehem offers another opportunity for mature patrons to relax and enjoy a specialty cocktail or a glass of wine from their extensive collection. This spot is known to kindle relationships fireside by the main bar or on the patio. During the warmer weather months the patio is THE place socialize with its ambient fire pit and awesome happy hour specials Monday through Friday from 5 to 7 p.m., where a tasty menu of $6 appetizers and drinks are offered.
4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem | bluegrillhouse.com
Young Fun
For younger crowds a few new choice meeting spots have recently been added that are a cut above the typical college bar haunts. Broadway Social opened in Bethlehem a little over a year ago, and it's proven to be one of the best places for nightlife excitement in the City's south side. Lehigh students have been regularly hitting up this spot, so young Bethlehem locals can look to meet some fresh faces. This party location has two floors for hanging out, and many nights there is a cool guest DJ in the house. Buy your date a new beer they've never tried before, or a unique signature cocktail. Broadway Social brings a variety of people together to meet, provides an amped atmosphere and even a kickin' menu to share with your new friends.
217 Broadway, Bethlehem | thebroadwaysocial.com
Looking to add a little cultural flare to your night out? Voted “Best Place for a Casual Date” by Lehigh Valley Style readers in 2014, Tapas on Main in Bethlehem is the perfect place to enjoy small tasty plates as they do in Spain with a side of occasional live entertainment. On Fridays and Saturdays there is even a late night menu offered from 11 p.m. until midnight, in case your long night of socializing leaves you hungry for more. Try new things with new people, such as the multiple flavors of sangria that are offered on the menu. The intimate atmosphere at Tapas on Main allows guests to relax and chat easily because while the vibe is fun and fresh, it isn't so loud that you need to shout to have a conversation. Happy Hour runs during the week from 5 p.m.-7 p.m., and 3 p.m.-5 p.m. on the weekends. Once the warm weather arrives enjoy café seating outside on Main Street—which makes this an excellent venue for street scoping, as well. With all the specials and entertainment this downtown gem has to offer, you're sure to make some new acquaintances.
500 Main St., Bethlehem | tapasonmain.com