Lehigh Valley Style November 2022

Read why locals voted Brü Daddy’s Brewing Co. as their favorite casual restaurant in the Valley, pg. 44

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Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School Thursday, December 15th 6:30 pm

family

New Street Twin

Built in the late 1800s, set on a tree-lined street, embrace sophisticated city living in one of the Lehigh Valley’s most sought-after neighborhoods. This brick twin is just a short walk to Bethlehem’s popular shops and restaurants. 4 bedrooms. $399,000

Atop Saucon Ridge

On one of the highest points in the community of Blue Ridge West Estates are two remaining lots at the end of a cul-de-sac. The properties offer both open and wooded land and allow you to position your home for a walk-out basement. 2+ acres, $315,000. 4+ acres, $425,000

Wind Hill

Tucked away at the end of a private drive, this expanded Cape is set amid 7.15 acres in Southern Lehigh SD. Exceptionally quiet and scenic, the rural location feels worlds away yet is close to shops, restaurants, and commuter connections. 3 bedrooms. $699,000

Barberry

A generous corner lot in Palmer Township’s Hillcrest neighborhood is the setting for this almost 2,600 square foot home. The quarter-acre lot is enhanced with mature landscaping, two paver patios, landscape lighting, and tall evergreen trees for privacy. $590,000

Santee Mill Estate

The lovely 22 acre estate sits up a long private drive, to the top of one of the few large parcels still remaining in North Bethlehem. This hidden gem was designed and built with care, needing only your TLC to recapture its original glory. 6 BDs, 5.5 baths. $1,395,000

This elegant 1939 estate is set down a long drive, centered amidst 22 acres. Living spaces include elegant formal rooms, family room, grand two-story pub room, custom theatre room & bar, elevator, game room & garden room with lap pool. Ten garages. $8,950,000

Belle Terre River Vista

This 5,000 sqft custom-contemporary cedar home overlooks the river through walls of windows, balconies, & decking. Sliding doors lead to the paver deck, where the river & surrounding wildlife can be enjoyed in equal measure. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. $3,100,000

’s Edge

Located in New Hope, this 0.21 acre parcel offers views of the Delaware River. Previously the residence of renowned local artist Dee Rosenwald & ready for a new owner to customize it. The property includes mature hardwoods, evergreens, ivy & honeysuckle. $1,900,000

Lookout

Cultivated farmland & woodland is the backdrop for your dream home. There are 2 parcels, subject to conservation easements. Each parcel has a 5 acre building envelope reserved out of the easement areas. 59+ acres for $725,000 and 39+ acres for $625,000

Go forth and live your dreams

At Magellan Financial, our goal is to help you achieve your goals with individualized, thorough, thoughtful, risk-based strategies designed to support your greatest objectives ... ...and provide you with the freedom to enjoy them.

in the same timeless way.

that’s both traditional

3 THINGS

our publisher, Pam Deller, is looking forward to this month! pdeller@lehighvalleystyle.com

The Food & Drink Issue!

If there’s one thing we know for certain about Lehigh Valley Style readers, it’s that you can’t get enough local food content. Our restaurant reviews, each issue’s Eat This or Drink This (don’t miss the Cranberry Hibiscus Red Velvet Latte on pg. 56) and any local chef recipe is consistently the most popular. You read the stories online at lehighvalleystyle.com, interact with the posts on social media and write in with what dish or eatery we should highlight next. You love food! And we do too. So when we get the opportunity to dedicate an entire edition to food, we celebrate it!

On pg. 42, our annual Restaurant Awards honor reader-voted winners in 46 different categories. From favorite live music and favorite overall vibe to favorite rooftop and favorite view, we’ve got you covered.

We hope you celebrate these winners with us all month long by making reservations, ordering takeout or sharing this feature with a friend.

The fun continues with Yocco’s, as they celebrate 100 years of hot dogs. Owner Gary Iacocca takes readers down memory lane and shares what’s next for the local legend on pg. 31.

But as this edition recognizes the region’s vast culinary offerings, we also emphasize the issue of food insecurity, highlighting local organizations that are working to help those without consistent access to enough food for their households. It’s a prevalent problem in this country and in the Lehigh Valley. Find out what you can do to help on pg. 38.

little retail therapy at

the

what I can do to help reduce food insecurity.

KRISTEN WAGNER

kwagner@lehighvalleystyle.com

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Professionally landscaped with mature trees and bushes. Spend lazy days on the covered front porch and cozy evenings around the backyard fire pit. Featuring hardwood floors and vaulted ceilings throughout the first level, a modern kitchen and large windows for natural light. 6 bedrooms, 3 full/1 half bath. $795,000

PRIVATE AND PICTURESQUE

MOORE TWP

Contemporary home features interiors awash in natural light. 12+ flat acres with panoramic views, large windows and vaulted ceilings, a stunning brick, double-sided wood burning fireplace, and new flooring throughout. Complete with a fencedin backyard oasis with in-ground pool and plenty of space to entertain. $799,000

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PEACEFUL COUNTRY SETTING WILLIAMS TWP

Custom-built home featuring hardwood floors, neutral tones and superior craftsmanship, sits on a manicured, park-like setting. Open yet private, with mature trees and a superb in-ground pool, this is the perfect spot for gatherings with family & friends.5 Bedrooms, 4 full/2 half baths. 2.22 acres. $955,000

CAPTIVATING VIEWS

LOWER SAUCON TWP

Surrounded by natural beauty on a private cul de sac in desirable Saddle Ridge, this stately stone home offers a flowing interior with hardwood floors, light-filled picture windows and plenty of space to spread out. Charming, terraced gardens and panoramic views. 5 bedrooms/4 full/1 half bath. 1.74 acres. $999,900

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BRIGHT AND INVITING LOWER SAUCON TWP

Beautiful colonial featuring a large family room with wood burning fireplace, cathedral ceiling, bright & airy skylights. Large eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances and center island. Stamped concrete patio area and full outdoor kitchen, great for entertaining. 4 bedrooms, 2 full/1 half bath. $465,000

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Brookhaven colonial with magnificent panoramic views. located in a private cul-desac. Mature trees and landscaping, expansive deck and beautiful in-ground pool. Plenty of room for entertainment. Hardwood floors and natural light throughout. 4 bedrooms, 2 full/1 half bath. $516,000

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SPEAKS

I’ve been a huge fan of Chef Steve Kershner for decades and love what he’s doing at Twisted Olive!

President/CEO

Paul Prass

Vice President/COO

Lisa Prass

Publisher

Pamela Deller

Editor-in-Chief

Kristen Wagner

Director of Creative Services

Erica Montes

Graphic Designer

Thomas Körp

I am always excited when the Savory Grille wins as it has remained one of the absolute best restaurants in the entire Lehigh Valley. The food, staff and the owners are always on point with whatever they serve.

A 2022 Restaurant Award winner I’m excited to celebrate is…

I have to rep my hometown and say Switchback! We love their pizza in our house—fresh ingredients and creative flavor combos, yum!

Senior Sales & Marketing Account Manager Kellie Bartholomew

Sales & Marketing Account Managers

Caroline Adams, Denise Lichty, Pam Taylor

Contributing Writers

Carrie Havranek, Amy Unger, Daisy Willis

Contributing Photographers

Marco Calderon, Matthew Cannon, Alison Conklin

Proofreader

Lori McLaughlin

Accounting

Donna Bachman, Sarah Varano

Circulation Manager

Andrea Karges

I’ve heard such great things about PA House and recently got to experience it with some out-of-town friends. In addition, you can never go wrong with The Bayou if you’re looking for some good Cajun comfort food and unique drinks.

©2022

3245 Freemansburg Ave., Palmer, PA 18045 Phone: 610.923.0384 Fax: 610.923.0390

In partnership with:

Daddy’s Place is amazing… I want everything on the menu piled in front of me!

Lehigh Valley Style (ISSN 1540-0867) is published monthly by IDP Publications, 3245 Freemansburg Ave., Palmer, PA 18045-7118. Annual subscriptions are $19.95 (Canadian and foreign one year rate is $40, U.S. funds only). Single copy price $3.95. Postage paid at Easton, PA 18045 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Lehigh Valley Style P.O. Box 2548, Orlando, FL, 32802-2548.

All contents copyright © 2022 Lehigh Valley Style Nothing contained herein may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The publisher disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors. Lehigh Valley Style and its owners are not liable for claims made by any advertisers or any inaccuracies or intentional copyright infringements. All rights reserved. This magazine welcomes, but cannot be responsible for, unsolicited manuscripts, contributions or photographs. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Printed in USA.

ALISON CONKLIN

Contributing Photographer

I love this time of year when we are celebrating some of the best and most yummy restaurants in the Lehigh Valley! For this edition, I was able to visit a few places I had never been to before and I can’t wait to go as a patron. How lucky is the Lehigh Valley is to have such diverse wonderful restaurants? I recently went to Tapas for the first time as a human and not as a photographer, and I was blown away!

HELP YOUR CREATIVE SOAR

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

KRISTEN WAGNER

Editor-in-Chief

This year, we added some new categories to our Restaurant Awards, including favorite healthy fare and favorite gluten-free!

Eight Oaks Farm Distillery

Looking for a unique gift this holiday season? Eight Oaks Farm Distillery has it covered! Eight Oaks Farm Distillery grows what they drink: award-winning Pennsylvania craft whiskeys and spirits. Made from grain they grow in the Lehigh Valley, Eight Oaks’ original American spirits are crafted to revive the tradition and lift the spirits of everyone who shares in their enjoyment.

7189 Route 309, New Tripoli 484.387.5287 eightoaksdistillery.com

Notch Modern Kitchen & Bar

Notch is the perfect place to host a celebration or special event this holiday season. Gather in their private room that seats 65 or opt for the more intimate dining experience at their exclusive Chef’s Table for 10. Locals love Notch, voting the restaurant friendliest service, most innovative cuisine, best in Allentown, best ambiance, best bar and best happy hour (The Morning Call Reader’s Choice awards).

5036 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown 610.841.4610 | notchmknb.com

McCoole’s

at the Historic Red Lion Inn

Step back in time, just for a moment or for a while. That’s what happens when visiting McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn. Named after the original owner, Walter McCoole, who owned the tavern in 1747, McCoole’s has something for everyone. From the crab cakes with no filler to the all-natural beef burgers, their farm-to-table kitchen serves dishes prepared to order and to one’s liking.

4 S. Main St., Quakertown

Madeline’s

Offering something for everyone, Madeline’s is where friends gather. Guests enjoy the covered outdoor patio, cozy dining rooms and beautiful banquet facility with private bar and patio deck. Enjoy upscale dining in a relaxed atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails, an extensive wine list and creative seasonal menus with daily chef’s features. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, plus Saturday and Sunday brunch.

1250 Turnstone Dr., Fogelsville 484.277.2250 | madelinesfogelsville.com

Yianni’s Taverna

Get together with friends and loved ones for an evening of laughter, drinks and, most of all, plates of delectable Greek food: Fresh whole fish, grilled lamb chops and kebobs, saganaki (flaming cheese), pastitsio (Greek-style lasagna) and baklava ice cream! Welcome to the epitome of Greek-style dining in the Lehigh Valley.

3760 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bethlehem 610.410.9300 | yiannistaverna.com

Twisted Olive

Twisted Olive opened in 2013 as a casual bistro offering unique cuisine based on fresh local seasonal ingredients and classic culinary techniques. Herbs and vegetables often come from Chef Steve’s own bountiful garden, bringing creativity and attention to detail to every dish. Twisted Olive also has some of the best house-infused liquor and creative cocktails, taking the experience to a whole new level.

51 W. Broad St., Bethlehem 610.419.1200

WOMEN’S NETWORKING EVENT

PRESENTED BY MEMBERS 1ST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Located at The Club at Twin Lakes Lehigh Valley Style hosted the 2022 Women’s Networking Event on Thursday, August

at The Club at Twin Lakes. The night kicked off with a pre-event panel discussion sponsored by Julie Knight of Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC, featuring Nicole Hantas-Emanuel of 21 Seeds Tequila and Jessica Young of BUBBLE. Guests enjoyed sampling of 21 Seeds Tequila, a DIY succulent bar with Sterner’s Stems, empowerment cookies from Sugar Mere, photo-opps with St. Luke’s University Health Network and Audi Allentown and pop-up shops by The Curious Plantaholic, Isasuma, Lara Bly Designs and The Perfect Fit for Working Women Resale Boutique. A portion of event proceeds were donated to The Perfect Fit for Working Women, a program of the YWCA Allentown dedicated to empowering women entering the workforce by providing career clothing and job readiness skills training.

CHECK OUT THE

WOMEN’S NETWORKING EVENT VIDEO RECAP

FALL feeling

Embrace the season with these cozy essentials.

Cuddle up by the fireplace with a chunky knit blanket handmade by Joint Goods, based in Nazareth. It’s available in two sizes and more than a dozen different cozy colors. jointgoodspa.com

Do we even have to remind you about Cake & Corolla’s famous cinnamon rolls? This season, we’re all about the pumpkin, but the signature never disappoints either. cakeandcorolla.com

recently celebrated its fall launch, featuring scents like apple cider, cozy flannel, cinnamon-pumpkineastoncandleco.com

Roasted’s cold-weather pancake specials include caramel apple, pumpkin and cinnamon bun. Stop by this month to see what they’re serving up! roastedbethlehem.com

A chill in the air and warm ramen in the belly—we’ll use any excuse to visit Mister Lee’s Noodles in Southside Bethlehem. misterleesnoodles.com

We’ll be sipping on Franklin Hill Vineyards’ mulled Sir Walter’s Red wine until spring! franklinhillvineyards.com

SPIN

CYCLEFIT LEHIGH VALLEY

Owning a cycling studio has been a dream of Allie Grantz’s since she started instructing 20 years ago. “Losing a very close friend recently gave me the courage to act on that dream,” she says. “It makes me super happy to be able to share my love of indoor cycling and fitness with others.” Cycling is low impact on the joints without being low intensity, which, according to Grantz, allows riders to really push themselves without experiencing some of the discomfort associated with other fitness disciplines. As a music lover, Grantz appreciates how a song can make her go a little faster or climb a little higher. “Indoor cycling really is for everyone,” she says. “It takes a couple classes to learn the language, but then you’re set.”

1800 Sullivan Trl. Suite 145, Easton

Bubble Launch PICTURESQUE PICNICS

After exploring other career paths, traveling and living in a couple of the best cities in the world, Genamarie Rosado found herself back in her hometown. She once thought she had to be in a big city to find happiness and success, but quickly realized she found gratitude at home with family, friends and community. “I love where I grew up—the tranquility, the wildlife, the adventure and views,” she says. “It shaped me into who I am today.” When Rosado was introduced to the idea of luxury picnics, it became her love letter to the community, and she launched Picturesque Luxury Picnics in June 2021. “Curating unique and unforgettable moments for people on their special occasions is what fuels Picturesque. No matter how big or how small, we deserve to treat ourselves.” This fall/winter season, Picturesque is excited to launch a new bubble tent picnic offering. “You can enjoy the outdoor luxury picnic experience with the comfort of an enclosed, warm space.” Indoor picnics are also an option. Check out their website for standard packages and enhancements, and keep an eye out for more opportunities as 2023 approaches.

NOW AT DAM

KHANISA’S PUDDING BAR

“It has truly been a tenacious journey,” says co-owner Sean Darby of the business’s last few years, which culminated in a transition from Easton to Allentown. “Our final decision came from being in a position of need. Needing to take care of family, to provide the Khanisa’s experience for all of our customers.” Khanisa’s pudding bar landed at the Downtown Allentown Market in October 2022, offering the majority of the items from their previous menu. “Milkshakes and waffles are going to become a standard, where other flavors like Sweet Potato Pie and Red Velvet will become seasonal items.” New to the menu are their alcohol-infused puddings, which Darby promises will be amazing. This fall, he recommends trying the waffle sundae and the hot chocolate, both of which can also be purchased as mixes for at-home enjoyment.

Picturesque Picnics has a new bubble tent offering for the fall/winter season.

Shelbie Pletz

After leading field organizations, primarily in apparel, for more than 35 years, Ann Marie Supinski decided to take the leap and open her own shop. “I loved making clients feel as good on the inside as they did on the outside with

looks I helped them choose,” says Supinski. “I also felt there was an opportunity in the Lehigh Valley for a boutique where the sophisticated woman could shop a unique curated collection of apparel and accessories.” She says her passion for fashion has never waned, and AM Luxe is her vision come to life.

Along the way, Supinski says the most important lesson she learned was to believe in herself: “As women, we often are focused on what we can do better instead of embracing what makes us unique and special.” She’s learned to be confident in her talent and remembers that doing so does not make her arrogant. In an industry where executive positions are primarily led by men, Supinski realized she had to be vocal when she knew how to drive success. “I often thought everyone knows what to do, so would not always speak up,” she says.

At her shop, women support women, and Supinski could not be prouder of that. “I love the community of women that are clients of AM

Luxe and now friends to me,” she says. “We celebrate, we laugh, we cry, knowing we are a community of women that will be there for each other.” And nothing is more rewarding to her than the smile on a client’s face when they leave her store and she knows their day is better because they stopped in. Supinski loves being part of the Bethlehem community. “It is so rewarding to work, volunteer, socialize and support this community.”

When asked her advice for young, aspiring entrepreneurs, Supinski says: “Do not let fear be your compass. Failure will happen to some degree. Your ability to pivot and adapt is the true measure of success. Stay focused on the end game. There will be good days and bad. Don’t hang your success on a day. Embrace the journey.”

Looking ahead, she plans to continue to expand AM Luxe’s curated collection to meet the lifestyle of the client. Last year, the store even added men’s apparel to its offerings.

Watch

NATURAL BEAUTY

DN ORGANICS

Cory and Nicol Varona are sisters redefining how curly hair products are created in order to help women love their curls and themselves. “We are immigrants from the Dominican Republic who underwent hair assimilation. We straightened our hair to feel beautiful, and plenty of damage resulted,” they share. “Curl love is a metaphor and mirror for the Latina self-love journey.” Their curl journey led them to design luxe products made for women with curly hair using the highest quality and cleanest ingredients. Based in Reading, DN Organics was launched in March 2021, and all products are made right here in Pennsylvania. Shop their Ultra-Defined Curls Leave-In Cream and Ultra-Defined Styling Gel at dnorganics.com . Cory and Nicol are excited to expand their collection with an innovative shampoo and conditioner focused on scalp health.

Mr.

Photos by Maya Serres

Barton’s

Win It

Enter to win a 100 th anniversary gift basket, a $100+ value, which includes a doggy pac certificate, gift book, T-shirt, magnet and doggy doll, courtesy of Yocco’s. Visit lehighvalleystyle.com/ share-with-us to enter!

LVS Weddings

Head to lehighvalleystyle.com to check out our favorite local wedding Instagrams of the week! Want to see your post featured? Use #lvstyleweddings to catch our attention.

lehighvalleystyle.com

BE PART OF THE STORY!

Is there a category you’d like to see added to next year’s Restaurant Awards? Email editor@lehighvalleystyle.com for consideration!

DID YOU KNOW?

You can view the entire issue for free online at lehighvalleystyle.com

Subscribe and listen to our editorin-chief’s podcast, The LV Edit , to go behind the scenes at the magazine, hear conversations with contributors and celebrate life in the Lehigh Valley!

SCAN TO LISTEN

CONNECT WITH STYLE :

PHOTO

THE SECRET’S IN THE SAUCE

Coming

For the Girls

THE PERFECT FIT

Owner of For the Girls, Sandra Prothman expands her Easton offerings with a place where locals can shop clothing, accessories and more.

Prothman expanded her retail space in June.

SANDRA PROTHMAN Owner

BY MARCO CALDERON

Tell us about the decision to add a separate clothing boutique to your store For the Girls!

As a specialty bra fitter, my clients come to me with the desire to look and feel their best. Often, we would have conversations about fashion and clothing in the Lehigh Valley and we would lament the limited amount of clothing and shopping options available. So many of my friends and clients urged me to expand into clothing that it felt like the next “perfect fit.”

What was the renovation process like?

We took over the space in May and, after renovations and setup, we opened our doors in June. We expanded by opening the wall between our existing space and the space next door. The building is over 100 years old and had previously been one space, so it seemed like a wonderful time to bring it back to its entirety.

Tell us about the natural transition of including clothing in your offerings. When we started offering clothing, we initially brought in a one-size smoother from Tina Stephens. So many of our clients were trying to find functional shapewear that accentuate their curves rather that squishing them, and those are just the ticket! Eventually, we were asked to solve other

clothing dilemmas, especially for our clients returning to the work force after working from home. The one-size travel pants completely fit that bill, providing comfort as well as polish.

Tell us about your offerings!

I really wanted to bring in clothing that can be worn over and over, creating different looks depending on your mood—stylish, functional and timeless investment pieces that are unique and exclusive… not something you can grab just anywhere, but rather pieces that are as chic and individual as the wearer.

What are some of your favorite offerings?

I adore all of the brands we carry but I must confess I do have three favorite clothing lines I find myself being drawn to over and over. Joseph Ribkoff has beautiful and timeless fashion pieces that pair seamlessly together season after season. Their collections radiate glamour and polished precision.

Tina Stephens’ Tees by Tina is a wonderful Italian line that is perfect for travel as well as work.

Her travel pants are a one-sizefits-most and have the comfort of a legging combined with the look of a polished pair of slacks making them extremely comfortable to wear. I also adore our Hammitt handbags. They are extremely functional and made with beautiful quality materials.

What other brands do you carry?

We carry French Dressing, Inoah, Vanite Couture, Bevy Flog, Zibi London, Powder UK, Cosabella, Commando, Tempo Paris, Lattelier, PJ Harlow and Elie of London, just to name a few. We are constantly searching for high quality, new unique brands that might not be accessible in the Valley.

Is there a particular item that just flies off the shelves?

Our Bevy Flog pants are addictive!

They are super comfortable and stylish and they flatter every shape. They can take you from day to night with effortless style. Wear them casually with sneakers or dress them up with heels and feel confident, stylish and beautiful.

BY AMY UNGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN

Yocco’s Celebrates

100 YEARS

The vast majority of the Lehigh Valley’s current populace has never known a time when quieting a hunger pang with a Yocco’s hot dog was not an option. It’s been

100 years since founder Theodore Iacocca served up his first hot dog (grilled to well-done perfection, never boiled or steamed) in center city Allentown. To put that in perspective, when that very first Yocco’s hot dog was being gobbled up in 1922, television had not yet been invented, Warren G. Harding was in the White House and a gallon of milk cost about

35 cents. And consider all that’s happened since then: wars, recessions, triumphs, tragedies and advancements in science and technology that keep the world moving along at a frenetic pace. So perhaps it’s comforting that the Yocco’s of today takes pride in keeping the Yocco’s experience as close to Theodore’s original vision as possible.

A classic Yocco’s dog is slathered with mustard, chopped onions and that famous chili sauce, and nestled in a steamed roll.

Yocco’s bills itself as "The Hot Dog King” of the Lehigh Valley, and Gary Iacocca currently holds the keys to the kingdom. He’s Theodore’s grandson, and the thirdgeneration owner of what is now a mini empire of six different locations. He can easily rattle off the dates, names and events that collectively tell the story of his family, which is also the story of Yocco’s.

When Italian immigrant Theodore Iacocca (his true Italian name was “Diodoro,” Gary says) first settled in Allentown, he tried his hand at a few different jobs—including deliveryman for A-Treat soda, and elevator operator for the Americus Hotel—before he took over a small store at 711 Liberty Street that sold things like cigars, candy and soda, but not hot dogs; it took a chance encounter with a beautiful woman for Theodore to see the potential in what would become his biggest seller. As the story goes, that woman, whose identity remains shrouded in mystery all these years later, stopped at the store and asked Theodore if he sold hot dogs. He told her no. “Too bad,” the woman said, and left with a wink. “The next day he went out and got hot dogs,” Gary says.

The woman never returned, but lots of other customers did. Theodore’s little store became a favorite of Allentown factory workers looking for a quick and affordable lunch spot. But it should be noted, they technically weren’t flocking to “Yocco’s” just yet. The iconic moniker would come later, courtesy of a mispronunciation that caught on with the locals. Instead, those hungry patrons were getting their fill at

Liberty Grille, as Theodore’s place was known

Although the name would change, there was a constant from day one: the chili sauce. Gary says his grandmother Susan (Italian name: Assunta) was instrumental in coming up with the recipe that’s still used to this day. But why put chili sauce on a hot dog, anyway? “It was probably more of an Italian thing,” Gary explains. “Italians love to put sauce on things. Of course, this was not a tomato sauce, this was a meat sauce. We consider it a condiment.” So, what’s in that famous Yocco’s sauce? Hamburger and spices. “And that’s it,” says Gary. That’s as lengthy an explanation an outsider can hope to get. “It is a secret recipe, it is a family recipe,” Gary says. “I

On any given day, if you were there at lunchtime, there were people lined up down the street.

have not varied from that.” People do ask for other toppings, of course, and Yocco’s is happy to accommodate them, but ketchup connoisseurs, take note: Yocco’s didn’t offer the red stuff until the 1950s or ’60s. “It was a sin to put ketchup on a hot dog,” Gary jokes. A classic Yocco’s dog is slathered with mustard, chopped onions and that famous chili sauce, and nestled in a steamed roll. And true fans know that a Yocco’s hot dog should always be washed down with a cold glass of chocolate milk.

Gary’s father, Julius Iacocca, got involved in the family business in the late 1940s. He and his brother, Albert Iacocca, get the credit for putting the rather ho-hum “Liberty Grille” appellation to bed for good. “While [Theodore] was gone my father had the name Yocco’s painted on the window because everyone called it Yocco’s.” And that’s because the predominantly Pennsylvania German population had a tough time pronouncing “Iacocca.” It came out sounding more like “Yo-co-ca,” which then became Yocco’s. “Forevermore it was Yocco’s, which is so much better than Liberty Grille,” Gary says.

By the 1950s, the store had moved to 625 Liberty Street, and business was brisk. “On any given day, if you were there at lunchtime, there were people lined up down the street,” Gary says. He began paying his dues at the

shop when he was a boy, cleaning tables and collecting the glass bottles that needed to be returned to vendors. But it wasn’t a forgone conclusion that he’d be running the show someday. He worked in marketing and advertising for many years before returning to the Yocco’s fold full-time. He bought out his father and uncle to become the sole owner on January 1, 1991. “I’ve worked very hard to modernize the business, expand the menu, but at the same time continue doing what my grandfather and father did before me,” Gary says.

There are currently six Yocco’s locations spread across the Lehigh Valley, and while the hot dog remains its signature item, the Yocco’s faithful can also gobble up cheesesteaks, chicken sandwiches, sausage sandwiches, pierogi, French fries and more. And for Lehigh Valley natives who have left the nest but still have a hankering for a hometown favorite, the “Doggie Pac” offers the Yocco’s experience in traveling form, with a dozen dogs and all the fixings that can be prepared and enjoyed anywhere. The company says the boxes have made their way to every corner of the globe.

Whenever Gary, 68, decides it’s time to retire, there’s already a fourth generation of Iacoccas waiting in the wings. His oldest son, Chris, is vice president of operations. Gary has already entrusted him with the secret chili sauce recipe. They prepare it regularly in a 60-gallon steam kettle. But what—besides that chili sauce—is the secret to Yocco’s century-long success? “We’re fast food and we do it really well,” Gary says. “Even when we have lines at the door, you’re in and out of there very quickly.” And Gary says Yocco’s always strives to serve quality products, starting with a hot dog that’s made from beef, pork and spices—no fillers.

Hot dog allegiances run strong and deep around here, but for many Lehigh Valley denizens, only a Yocco’s hot dog will do. “We have customers who are in their 70s, 80s, 90s, and they’ve been coming here since they were kids,” Gary says. “The best compliment I get is when people come and say, ‘I haven’t been here in 20 years but it’s still the same great hot dog.’”

That’s not to say the past 100 years have been a breeze for Yocco’s. Theodore Iacocca had only been in business for nine years when the Great Depression threw the nation into an economic tailspin. Gary says his grandfather had to use

as a substitute for a little while when his regular hot dogs were unavailable. More recently, the pandemic, supply chain issues

staffing shortages have been the source of Gary’s headaches. But, like his father and grandfather before him, he’s adapted. “Whatever you had to do to stay alive and stay in business. That’s kind of what the story of Yocco’s is. We’ve been through a lot. And here we are.”

Happy 100th, Yocco’s!

The pandemic squashed plans for a major celebration at the beginning of this year, but never fear, Yocco’s fans, this milestone will not go unrecognized. Gary says there will be contests, giveaways and pop-up events into the spring of 2023. There will be merch, too— think T-shirts and magnets.

Yocco’s did mark the occasion with a somewhat grand gesture over the summer; the company donated $100,000 to the Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania to create an endowment for Allentown’s Mercy School for Special Learning, which has served children and young adults with special needs for 68 years. It’s just one of the many causes near and dear to Gary’s heart. “I believe a good business has a responsibility to give back to the community,” he says.

Find out how to enter to win a 100th anniversary gift basket from Yocco’s on pg. 26.

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A LOCAL LOOK AT FOOD INSECURITY

BY AMY UNGER

The face of food insecurity is one you might recognize. It’s the elderly man who lives down the street who has to support himself with a fixed income that doesn’t keep pace with inflation. It’s the single mother who lives across town who wonders how she’ll feed her three kids when school lunch programs are on hiatus. It’s the young man you pass in the grocery store who’s trying to figure out how to make his SNAP benefits stretch to cover him and his mother, who is disabled, for the remainder of the month. Perhaps it’s even the face you see when you look in the mirror.

Feeding America defines food insecurity as a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life. It’s a problem that’s prevalent across the country and in the Lehigh Valley.

According to the USDA, more than 38 million people, including 12 million children, experience food insecurity in the United States.

According to the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, one in 10 people in the Lehigh Valley are food insecure.

Governor Tom Wolf's office says that nearly one in 20 Pennsylvanians were newly food insecure in 2020.

By xxxxxxxxxxxx

· Recently, Second Harvest Food Bank of the Lehigh Valley and Northeast Pennsylvania has been distributing between 11 and 12 million pounds of food annually.

WHAT CAUSES FOOD INSECURITY?

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture lists several causes of food insecurity. Among them are:

· Lack of transportation or lack of access to fresh, healthy foods

· Lack of awareness of existing community resources

· Economic difficulties, including job loss

· Shortcomings of supplemental benefits, like SNAP

There may also be hesitancy about seeking help. “Food insecurity is something that people just don’t talk about,” says Susan Dalandan of the Lehigh Valley Food Policy Council. “There’s a lot of reasons. If it’s a family, a lot of times they won’t talk about food insecurity because they’re afraid their children will be taken away from them.”

THE PANDEMIC MADE IT WORSE

In 2014, the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley pledged to reduce food insecurity in the community by 50 percent by 2022. Dalandan says that goal was well within reach. And then, the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Job and wage losses increased Americans’ dependency on food pantries. But even now, as the pandemic seemingly moves to an endemic phase, the need for social service programs that combat food insecurity has not diminished.

“It’s really a challenging time,” says Allison Czapp, Second Harvest’s associate executive director. Many of the government safety nets put in place during the pandemic have been yanked away, including the expanded child tax credit and federal eviction moratorium. Record-high inflation and elevated housing costs also have exacerbated the problem. Czapp says, as of August of 2022, Second Harvest was serving 19,000 households, a 60 percent increase from January. Chris Moran, development officer for The Lehigh Conference of Churches, also reports a summertime spike; in July alone, they served more than 5,000 meals. “We’re doing everything we can in our facility to try to help those individuals as best as we can,” says Moran.

Food insecurity is something that people just don’ttalk about

“ ”

INCREASE FROM JANUA RY

WHO’S LEADING THE CHARGE TO MAKE A CHANGE?

The Lehigh Valley is fortunate to have a number of dedicated organizations that provide resources for those who need them, while exploring solutions to chip away at those troubling food insecurity statistics. Among them:

The Bethlehem Food Co-Op broke ground on its longawaited grocery store in May. Its location at 250 E. Broad Street was chosen specifically for its accessibility. “We’re in a neighborhood, we’re on a bus route,” says Board Chair Carol Ritter. “People can walk to our store. People will be able to ride their bikes. We’re going to be providing reliable access to affordable, nutritious food. That’s who we are.” They’re aiming for an August 2023 open date, and they’re also hoping to be able to offer delivery service. bethlehemfood.coop

With roots that extend back to 1982, Second Harvest Food Bank now serves 200 agencies in a six-county area: Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton, Pike and Wayne counties. It has programs tailored specifically for at-risk groups, such as veterans, senior citizens and children. Czapp says being able to offer more fresh produce is one of the agency’s major goals for the future: “The demand is so high for it. We don’t have enough to give to everyone who wants it.” shfblv.org

New Bethany Ministries was the brainchild of several people from different faith communities who wanted to do something about poverty and related issues in South Bethlehem in the early 1980s. One of the services it currently offers is its Choice Food Pantry, open Monday through Friday. newbethanyministries.org

Six Allentown pastors joined forces to create The Lehigh Conference of Churches in 1954. Its Conference Kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, Monday through Friday. The meals can be eaten on-site or taken to go. “There’s no questions asked,” says Moran. “Anyone can stop in at any given time.” The agency will observe Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week from November 12–20 with a variety of activities, including a special podcast focused on advocacy from The Official Brunch Boys (November 15) and a prayer vigil (November 18). lehighchurches.org

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley marked its 100th anniversary in 2017. According to its website, United Way supports more than 100 community programs in the Lehigh Valley, including initiatives aimed at increasing food access to families in need. In 2015, United Way was one of the co-founders of the Lehigh Valley Food Policy Council, a collaboration of nearly two dozen community members and organizations working to support local farmers, help the local food economy thrive and reduce food insecurity. lvfpc.org | unitedwayglv.org

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Two words: volunteer and donate. Many food pantries are in need of monetary donations and manpower. In the latter category, volunteers are needed to do everything from stock shelves to sort supplies to help out at distribution events. More details can be found on their websites.

But if you’re truly looking to get your hands dirty, check out The Seed Farm in Emmaus. The farm, which is affiliated with Second Harvest and Community Action Lehigh Valley, aims to train the next generation of farmers while increasing access to fresh food in the Valley. Volunteers are needed for basic manual labor and also to help with plant sales and other fundraisers. theseedfarm.org | communityactionlv.org

FAVORITE ITALIAN

Sette Luna

Pasta, pizza, salad and delicious Italian cocktails… what’s not to love?

219 Ferry St., Easton | 610.253.8888 setteluna.com

FAVORITE JAPANESE Komé Fine Japanese Cuisine

Komé promises fresh sushi and gourmet hibachi in a warm atmosphere.

The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley | 610.798.9888 komerestaurant.com

FAVORITE THAI White Orchids Thai Cuisine

Bringing the best tastes of Thailand to the Lehigh Valley, the dishes at White Orchids are scratch-made and full of flavor.

The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley | 610.841.7499 whiteorchidsthaicuisine.com

FAVORITE SPANISH Tapas on Main

Think meats, cheeses, soups, salads, flatbreads and, of course, endless tapas to share.

500 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.868.8903 tapasonmain.com

FAVORITE MIDDLE EASTERN Aladdin Restaurant

There’s nowhere else like it in the Valley. Aladdin invites locals to lounge on plush pillows while dining beneath a starlit sky, and on Saturdays, there’s live belly dancing!

651 Union Blvd., Allentown | 610.437.4023 aladdinlv.com

FAVORITE INDIAN Aman’s Artisan Indian Cuisine

Specializing in North Indian Punjabi cuisine, Aman’s invites locals to “keep calm and curry on!”

336 Northampton St., Easton 484.298.0400 | amanseaston.com

FAVORITE MEDITERRANEAN Daddy’s Place

Family owned, the team at Daddy’s Place believes that heathy homemade food equals a healthy life.

650 Northampton St., Easton 610.438.4442 | daddysplaceeaston.com

FAVORITE KOREAN KOJA Cuisine

KOJA combines Korean and Japanese cuisines. Don’t miss their Korean BBQ options.

1061 S. 25 th St., Easton | 610.258.4657 kojacuisine.com

FAVORITE MODERN AMERICAN

Twisted Olive

Chef-owner Steve Kershner has been feeding people in the Lehigh Valley for several decades, and knows well how to put together a menu that is by turns surprising and creative. As Kershner describes it, “The menu offers a variety of flavors (Asian, European and classic American) with our very own twists we pull from around the world.” Think French onion soup dumplings, short rib ravioli, crab cakes and beef brisket. Kershner also grows a ton of organic produce and herbs in his garden (ask about the fig trees!); much ends up on the menu, including the seasonal, weekly Garden Cocktail.

51 W. Broad St., Bethlehem | 610.419.1200 | twistedolivebethlehem.com

Brü Daddy’s Brewing Co.

At Brü Daddy’s, it’s easy to understand why their mantra is “good beer, real food, cool vibes,” as it’s that ethos that’s earned them this honor. It’s the kind of place where you go with a mess of friends, order all the scratch-made fare that sounds appetizing (good luck deciding), and share, share, share. “We have a large shareables section on the menu with items that are great for sharing but can also be the main event for one person,” says CEO/President Rich Ryan. This means inventive pizzas made in a wood-fired oven, apps such as pretzels and pierogi and, of course, the beer.

732 Hamilton St., Allentown | 610.351.7600 brudaddysbrewingcompany.com

FAVORITE BETHLEHEM

Social Still

Social Still is not just a restaurant, a bar or a distillery, it’s a destination. Dine, drink and tour inside this Prohibition-era bank building!

530 E. 3 rd St., Bethlehem | 610.625.4585 socialstill.com

FAVORITE FRENCH Maxim’s 22

Experience Maxim’s take on comfortable French cuisine. There’s baked brie en croute, moules frites, steak tartar, escargot, duck confit… and those are just the appetizers.

322 Northampton St., Easton 610.252.2622 | maxims22.com

FAVORITE EASTON Three OAK Steakhouse

Described as a multistory, handmade marvel, Three OAK leaves an impression.

323 Northampton St., Easton | 610.559.5510 threeoaksteakhouse.com

FAVORITE FORKS/BANGOR Surv

The team at Surv wants every dining experience to be a memorable one, with their passion starting in the kitchen and ending at your table.

1800 Sullivan Trl., Easton | 484.544.0624 surveaston.com

FAVORITE VIETNAMESE

Pho-Nom1nal Vietnamese Cuisine

A restaurant that lives up to its name is worth celebrating, but we’ll forgive you if you haven’t been here yet. Pho-nom1inal opened in January 2021 but has been gaining a loyal following ever since for a variety of extremely fresh and flavorful Vietnamese fare including apps like spring and summer rolls, and the well-known banh mi sandwich. But you’re here for the pho, right? Choose your protein—eye of round steak, brisket, beef rib, chicken, shrimp, beef ball—and the rest writes itself. You can also order this in a vegetarian version with tofu, plenty of veggies and a vegetarian broth.

319 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Allentown | 610.477.1144 | pho-nominal.com

U & Tea

If you have not been to this restaurant on Southside Bethlehem, whose tagline reads “authentic Chinese cuisine and Hong-Kong-style food” please go. Order the shrimp dumplings, the Ma La Dry Hot Pot, the Peking Duck. It almost doesn’t matter what you order, as it’s all good. Be prepared for kind, attentive service. In operation since 2015, U & Tea is a revered spot for some of the best and freshest Chinese dishes we’ve tasted. The students at Lehigh know it. You should, too. While you’re there, order some bubble tea— there are plenty of fruity flavors to choose from.

Bethlehem | 610.866.4900 | uandteabethlehem.kwickmenu.com

FAVORITE IRISH McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub and Whiskey Bar

McCarthy’s is your ultimate Celtic destination, no passport required.

534 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.861.7631 redstagpub.com

FAVORITE CAJUN

The Bayou

Southern Kitchen & Bar

Experience a creative take on classic New Orleans cooking, with an atmosphere to match.

702 Hawthorne Rd., Bethlehem | 610.419.6669

64 Centre Sq., Easton | 610.829.1700 datbayoulv.com

FAVORITE GERMAN

Dunderbak’s

Having opened in 1977, Dunderbak’s is the longest continuously operated, independently owned business in the Lehigh Valley Mall. That’s worth celebrating—here, every day is Oktoberfest.

Lehigh Valley Mall | 610.264.4963 | dunderbak.com

FAVORITE ALLENTOWN Union & Finch

At this American-style bistro, diners can enjoy casual fare like comfort foods and familiar favorites with a twist.

1528 W. Union St., Allentown | 610.432.1522 unionandfinch.com

Maybe it’s the tableside guacamole, which you can customize with various add-ins (hello, fruit!). Maybe it’s the stellar margaritas that you can sip at the outside tables while partaking in some equally stellar people watching. Or maybe it’s just the fact that you can get some creative and delicious Mexican fare at Mesa—including a growing vegan menu, with tacos, nachos and burritos, too, made with a homemade avocado cream. Chef Rafael Palomino knows what he’s doing here, and so does his staff. “We take great pride in the quality and inventiveness of our menus,” he says.

42 S. 3rd St., Easton | 610.829.2101 mesamexican.com

FAVORITE SEAFOOD 3rd & Ferry Fish Market

Don’t leave without ordering The Crabby Mary or the lobster roll.

56 S. 3rd St., Easton | 610.829.1404 thirdandferry.com

FAVORITE BATH/WALNUTPORT Point Phillips Hotel

Embrace history at Point Phillips Hotel, built in 1806, and enjoy local cuisine and craft beers.

943 Point Phillips Rd., Bath | 610.837.1544 pointphillipshotel.com

MesaModern Mexican

HOZA African Restaurant

HOZA has made its mark on the Lehigh Valley in just a little over a year since it opened in Downtown Easton. Sibu Mafundikwa, the owner, grew up in Zimbabwe, and the menu is full of dishes from all over Africa and the African diaspora (Jamaica). A range of African fare is offered, such as peri peri (South Africa), egusi and fufu (West Africa), oxtail, jerk chicken, Jollof rice, goat curry and more. There’s also plenty of vegan options, too, such as peanut butter spinach and dishes with collards, baked beans and more.

349 Northampton St., Easton | 610.330.1000 hozarestaurant.com

FAVORITE HEALTHY FARE Green Vida Co

At this health-focused café and juice bar, transparency is key. Ingredients are listed clearly on the menu and the openconcept kitchen is designed so you can see your order as it’s prepared.

1800 Sullivan Trl. Suite 330, Easton 610.438.4112 | Easton Public Market 484.541.5309 | greenvidacompany.com

FAVORITE MACUNGIE/FOGELSVILLE Hops Fogelsville Hotel

There is truly something for everyone at Hops, from buffalo wings to cheesesteaks.

7921 Main St., Fogelsville | 610.395.3999 hopslehighvalley.com

FAVORITE HELLERTOWN PA House

Italian at heart, the PA House is not quite fine dining or casual—it’s a true hybrid.

662 Front St., Hellertown | 484.851.6662 thepahouse.com

FAVORITE NORTHAMPTON/ CATASAUQUA Assante Ristorante Italiano

Assante promises elegant dining and refined Italian cuisine from Mount Vesuvius!

2050 Main St., Northampton | 610.262.1301 assanterestaurant.com

FAVORITE WHITEHALL/COPLAY My Tequila House

From the Cocina to the Cantina, My Tequila House offers infinite Mexican favorites—and plenty of tequila to choose from.

1808 MacArthur Rd., Whitehall | 484.664.7109 mytequilahouse.com

FAVORITE PRIVATE DINING/ PRIVATE ROOM Blue Grillhouse

Blue is the perfect venue to host your next special event.

4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem | 610.691.8400 bluegrillhouse.com

FAVORITE SOUTHERN

Family Chicken and WafflesSeafood and Soulfood

At Family Chicken and Waffles, all of the food is made with a very special ingredient—love.

1800 Sullivan Trl. Suite 360, Easton | 610.438.1882 | familychickenandwaffles.com

FAVORITE CENTER VALLEY/ COOPERSBURG Melt

Melt prides itself on taking pasta to a whole new level, adding traditional sauces prepared with a fresh, modern twist.

The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley 610.798.9000 | meltgrill.com

FAVORITE PHILLIPSBURG, NJ La Bella Via

La Bella Via promises a truly unique pizza experience! Their secret? Imported Italian flour, an old family pizza sauce recipe, a blend of the finest cheeses and a custom wood-burning oven.

41 3rd St., Phillipsburg, NJ | 908.387.8070 labellavianj.com

FAVORITE MUSIC/LIVE MUSIC

The Beam Yard at Steel Club

Looking for live music? Head to Steel Club for its weekly Tunes on Thursday event.

700 Linden Ave., Hellertown | 610.838.7018 steel.club

FAVORITE BAR Notch Modern Kitchen & Bar

Pull up a chair at this 20seat bar and enjoy one of the most inventive cocktail menus around.

5036 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown 610.841.4610

FAVORITE DESIGN/DÉCOR

Westside Grill

FAVORITE QUAKERTOWN McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn

FAVORITE VIEW Slopeside Pub & Grill

Pick almost any seat at Slopeside and enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding Pocono Mountains.

1660 Blue Mountain Dr., Palmerton 610.824.1557 | skibluemt.com

FAVORITE SPECIAL OCCASION/ FINE DINING Savory Grille

Savory Grille promises to take guests back in time to when fine dining was an experience to be savored.

2934 Seisholtzville Rd., Macungie 610.845.2010 | savorygrille.com

FAVORITE HOTEL RESTAURANT Historic Hotel Bethlehem

Choose from the Tap Room and 1741 on the Terrace to enjoy one menu with two different views—Main Street or Historic Moravian Bethlehem.

437 Main St., Bethlehem | 855.264.2598 hotelbethlehem.com

FAVORITE OVERALL VIBE Easton Wine Project

Wine produced on site in a city versus in a traditional rural vineyard makes Easton Wine Project an “urban winery” with a rustic ambiance.

1247 Simon Blvd. Suite N103, Easton 610.438.2533 | eastonwineproject.com

FAVORITE ROOFTOP

Zest Bar + Grille

Visit Zest on a rooftop in the heart of Southside Bethlehem and enjoy three-season terrace seating.

306 S. New St., Bethlehem | 610.419.4320 | zestbethlehem.com

FAVORITE EMMAUS

Switchback

Pizza Company

Experience Switchback’s version of a Neapolitan pizza cooked at 900 degrees in a wood oven using 24- to 48-hour slow-fermented pizza dough. 525 Jubilee St., Emmaus | 610.928.0641 | switchbackpizza.com

CASA TORO MEXICAN GRILL $$

casatoromexgrill.com

Mexican restaurant and bar specializing in authentic, time-tested recipes and award winning margaritas. Lunch & dinner.

$$$

copperheadgrille.com

Copperhead Grille is a place where handcrafted recipes and sports merge to form the ultimate sports dining experience.

$$$

thedimeallentown.com

Breakfast, lunch & dinner.

$$

gioitaliangrill.com

Gio Italian Grill offers old world charm with a progressive twist. Centering around their woodstone open flame hearth, Gio uses produce mouth-watering flavors. Take-out and private parties available. Lunch & dinner.

$$$

2141 Packhouse Rd., Fogelsville, 610.285.2942, glasbern.com/dining.html

Enjoy pasture-to-plate dining at its best, with food that is locally Dinner.

$$$

grille3501.com

Upscale, yet unpretentious. Fine fusion cuisine. Extensive martini, Lunch & dinner.

$$ hopslehighvalley.com

Historic pub serving up all American classics with weekly Lunch, dinner & late night.

1945 W. Columbia St., Allentown, 610.437.3911, hopslehighvalley.com

$$

Come to eat, drink and have fun! Friendly, food-oriented sports Lunch, dinner & late night.

$$

houseandbarn.net

Two distinctly different restaurants, one spectacular setting, Brunch, lunch & dinner.

HUNAN SPRINGS ASIAN RESTAURANT $-$$

4939 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville, 610.366.8338

Authentic Asian cuisine with full-bar service and a fine dining

KOMÉ FINE JAPANESE CUISINE

The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, 610.798.9888, komerestaurant.com

A contemporary Japanese cuisine and hibachi. Extraordinary sushi, non-sushi dishes served in a contemporary, yet sensual

The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, 610.798.9000, meltgrill.com

Offering a sumptuous menu of contemporary Italian fare in its breathtaking 350-seat restaurant, with spacious and customizable Lunch, dinner & late night.

$$

1808 MacArthur Rd., Whitehall, 484.664.7109, mytequilahouse.com

Laid-back cantina providing down-home Mexican recipes, a large tequila list and lively happy hours. Lunch, dinner & late night.

N & BAR

notchmknb.com

Modern American with an Asian Twist. Lunch & dinner.

938 Lifestyle Center, Whitehall, 610.264.2194, poconobrewery.com

Authentic wood-fired pizza, imported meat and cheese boards, Lunch & dinner.

1801 W. Liberty St., Allentown, 610.437.4941, ringersroostpa.com

Family-friendly restaurant. Lots of parking. Friendly faces. Excellent food, from seafood to cheesesteaks. Great beer selection. Lunch, dinner & late night.

SAGE ALLEY BREWERY & GRILLE

$$

213 N. Main St., Coopersburg, 610.421.6029, sagealleybrewery.com

Coopersburg’s microbrewery offering great food in a relaxing atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor dining. Brunch, lunch & dinner.

SAVORY GRILLE $$$

2934 Seisholtzville Rd., Macungie, 610.845.2010, savorygrille.com

A culinary gem housed in the historic Seisholtzville Hotel, Savory Grille takes gives back to a time when fine dining was an experience to be savored. Dinner.

SWITCHBACK PIZZA $$

525 Jubilee St., Emmaus, 610.928.0641, switchbackpizza.com

Neapolitan pizza using local ingredients cooked in their Italian wood oven for guests to enjoy. Lunch & dinner.

THE TAVERN ON LIBERTY $

2246 W. Liberty St., Allentown, 484.221.8765, tavernonliberty.com

“Life, liberty and the pursuit of beer.” Check out other location in Reading called The Liberty Taproom. Open seven days a week. Lunch, dinner & late night.

TOP CUT STEAKHOUSE $$$

The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, 610.841.7100, topcutsteak.com

Classically inspired cocktails, exquisite wines and USDA prime steaks in a 1940s style rooftop atmosphere. Dinner & late night.

TORRE $$

The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, 610.841.9399, torrerestaurant.com

Classic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist in a fun, familyfriendly atmosphere. Enjoy Happy Hour gathered around the three-story tequila tower. Brunch, lunch, dinner & late night.

THE TRAPP DOOR GASTROPUB $$$

4226 Chestnut St., Emmaus, 610.965.5225, thetrappdoorgastropub.com

Upscale food in a fun, relaxed atmosphere with an extensive craft beer list. Brunch, dinner & late night.

UNION AND FINCH $$

1528 W. Union St., Allentown, 610.432.1522, unionandfinch.com

A casual American bistro serving lunch and dinner six days a week and brunch on weekends. Brunch, lunch & dinner.

WHITE ORCHIDS THAI CUISINE $$

The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, 610.841.7499, whiteorchidsthaicuisine.com

Authentic Thai cuisine in a contemporary and relaxed dining atmosphere. Signature seafood dishes, house specialties and classic Thai entrées. New bar and lounge area. Lunch & dinner.

YOUELL’S OYSTER HOUSE $$$

2249 Walnut St., Allentown, 610.439.1203, youellsoysterhouse.com

Sea to table since 1895. The region’s destination for fresh seafood and steaks. Dinner.

WESTSIDE GRILL $$$

621 Grange Rd., Allentown, 610.508.4500, westsidegrillpa.com

A modern steakhouse with prime steaks, seafood and specialty dishes as well as a great bar and cocktail menu. Brunch, lunch & dinner.

Northampton

A CA MIA $$

4330 Lehigh Dr , Walnutport, 610.760.3207, acamiapa.com

Unique, homemade, Italian cuisine made with fresh flavorful ingredients; served in a family-friendly atmosphere. Lunch & dinner.

APOLLO GRILL $$$

85 W. Broad St., Bethlehem, 610.865.9600,

BILLY’S DOWNTOWN DINER

Buon

BLUE GRILLHOUSE

& EVENT CENTER $$$

4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem, 610.691.8400, bluegrillhouse.com

From a party of four on the covered outdoor patio to a party of 400 in the newly renovated event center ballroom, blue delivers with prime steaks and seafood, a sprawling wine list and impec cable service. Brunch, lunch, dinner & late night.

BOLETE RESTAURANT & INN $$$

1740 Seidersville Rd., Bethlehem, 610.868.6505, boleterestaurant.com

Bolete is a fine dining restaurant where the team’s care and passion for what they do is evident in each carefully and skillfully prepared dish. Brunch, lunch & dinner.

THE BOOKSTORE SPEAKEASY $$

336 Adams St. (near 4th St.), Bethlehem, 610.867.1100, bookstorespeakeasy.com

Step back in time at The Bookstore, a 1920’S speakeasy. Dinner & late night.

BURGERS AND MORE BY EMERIL

$$

77 Wind Creek Blvd., Bethlehem, 877.726.3777, windcreekbethlehem.com

Chef Emeril Lagasse uses only the freshest and finest ingredients to create a mouth-watering burger customers will never forget. Lunch & dinner.

COPPERHEAD GRILLE $$$

5737 Rte. 378, Bethlehem, 610.282.4600, copperheadgrille.com

Copperhead Grille is a place where handcrafted recipes and sports merge to form the ultimate sports dining experience. Lunch, dinner & late night.

CORKED $$

515 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.625.9463, corkedwinebar.com

Up beat/high energy Vegas-style wine bar & steak house located in downtown Bethlehem. Offering 32 wines by the glass, 24 tap beers, 1 great menu. Lunch, dinner & late night.

DADDY’S PLACE $

650 Northampton St., Easton, 610.438.4442, daddysplaceeaston.com

Mediterranean Lebanese Cuisine, freshly baked bread, 1,100 craft and import beers and full bar. Lunch & dinner.

DIMAIO’S ITALIAN RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA $$

27 Main St. Shoppes at Hellertown, 610.838.8004, dimaios.net

Family owned since 1985. Serving southern Italian Cuisine. Known for home-made bread, Chicken Francese, DiMaio’s Creamy Clam sauce and NY style pizza. Lunch & dinner.

DINER 248 $

3701 Easton-Nazareth Hwy., Easton, 610.252.4300, diner248.com

Fine diner-ing at its best. Handmade, fresh food, craft beer, libations and desserts. Call ahead seating available. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner & late night.

EDGE RESTAURANT

74 W. Broad St., Bethlehem, 610.814.0100, edgerestaurant.net

$$$

An all-scratch kitchen “combined with a fun, relaxed atmosphere, you get edge.” Lunch, dinner & late night.

EMERIL’S CHOP HOUSE $$$

77 Wind Creek Blvd., Bethlehem, 877.726.3777, windcreekbethlehem.com

Indulge in a variety of irresistible dishes featuring tender steak cuts, mouth-watering prime rib and so much more. Dinner.

THE FLYING EGG $$

451 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.691.5100, theflyingeggbethlehem.com

Boutique diner serving breakfast all day & lunch in the heart of Bethlehem. Breakfast, brunch & lunch.

JUMBARS $$

1342 Chelsea Ave., Bethlehem, 610.866.1660, jumbars.com

Great food. Great atmosphere. Everything made fresh to order. Desserts are delectable! Breakfast & lunch.

KINGFISH

3833 Freemansburg Ave., Bethlehem, 610.691.1115, kingfishbethlehem.com

Modern American Cuisine including American and traditional Sushi. Innovative wine station. Elegant event room. Dinner.

NONNA SULINA’S $$

5000 Bath Pike, Bethlehem, 610.419.1051, nonnasulina.com

Sicilian Grill & Kitchen. Brunch, lunch & dinner.

THE MARKET GOURMET EXPRESS $

77 Wind Creek Blvd., Bethlehem, 877.726.3777, windcreekbethlehem.com

All the classic favorites in one place. Nathan’s hot dogs, burgers, pizza, salad, sushi, ice cream and coffee. Lunch, dinner & late night.

MAXIM’S 22 $$$

322 Northampton St., Easton, 610.252.2622, maxims22.com

Maxim’s 22 bistro and brasserie is the latest from the award winning Sette Luna team. Known for comfortable french fare in a casual setting. Brunch, lunch, dinner & late night.

MITZI’S TABLE $

3650 Nazareth Pike, Bethlehem, 610.730.1670, mitzistable.com

Retro dining—all day brunch—classic comfort food kicked up with regional and ethnic specialties. Breakfast, brunch & lunch.

PORTERS’ PUB & RESTAURANT $$

700 Northampton St., Easton, 610.250.6561, porterspubeaston.com

Porters’ Pub & Restaurant has been a landmark in downtown Easton for more than 25 years. Their food is definitely a cut above standard pub fare and moderately priced. More than 80 micros and imports. Lunch, dinner & late night.

SETTE LUNA $$

219 Ferry St., Easton, 610.253.8888, setteluna.com

Rustic Italian featuring wood oven pizza, homemade pasta, alfresco dining. The enoteca boasts the Valley’s most extensive wine and beer list. Private wine cellar and live jazz every weekend. Brunch, lunch & dinner.

THE SLATE PUB $

509 E. Main St., Pen Argyl, 610.881.4700, slatepub.com

Hometown pub known for its award-winning wings, cheese-steaks, original Belly Busters, nightly dinner specials, vegan and gluten-free choices. Enjoy an extensive cocktail and beer selection. Weekends include karaoke, DJs and live entertainment. Lunch, dinner & late night.

SOCIAL STILL $$$

530 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem, 610.625.4585, socialstill.com

Full plate American-fusion restaurant, craft distillery, craft beers, local wine and tasting room. Lunch & dinner.

STEELWORKS BUFFET & GRILL $$

77 Wind Creek Blvd., Bethlehem, 610.419.5555, steelworksbuffetandgrill.com

Experience a variety of fresh culinary dishes from around the world at Steelworks Buffet & Grill. Featuring live action cooking and a fully stocked bar, guests will enjoy a variety of fresh international culinary dishes at the all-you-can-eat buffet or choose their favorites from the a la carte menu, including artisan pizza, a pasta station, fresh-carved meats and more. Breakfast, lunch & dinner.

SURV RESTAURANT $$$

1800 Sullivan Trl., Easton, 484.544.0624, surveaston.com

Dual-concept restaurant with a New American menu and wood-fired pizza. Dinner.

THREE OAK STEAKHOUSE

323 Northampton St., Easton, 610.559.5510, threeoaksteakhouse.com

OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER

$$$

Classic American steakhouse with an extensive wine list and beautiful destination decor. Dinner.

TWISTED OLIVE $$$

51 W. Broad St., Bethlehem, 610.419.1200, twistedolivebethlehem.com

A casual, bistro-style restaurant with a world twist serving creative, casual cuisine, along with house-made infused cocktails. Lunch & dinner.

THE VIEW AT MORGAN HILL

100 Clubhouse Dr., Easton, 610.923.8480, morganhillgc.com

$$

Upscale casual dining with the best view in the Lehigh Valley. Brunch, lunch, dinner & late night.

YIANNI’S TAVERNA $$$

3760 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bethlehem, 610.410.9300, yiannistaverna.com

Authentic Greek restaurant specializing in the clean flavors of the Mediterranean and seafood. Brunch & dinner.

ZEST BAR+GRILLE $$$

The Rooftop at 306 S. New St., Bethlehem, 610.419.4320, zestbethlehem.com

A culinary and social experience offering a progressive menu that highlights the best of New American cuisine. Lunch & dinner.

Featuring Terra’s cranberry hibiscus looseleaf tea

Cranberry Hibiscus Red Velvet Latte

TERRA CAFE

Terra Cafe’s natural loose-leaf teas were the inspiration behind this hot beverage perfect for the season. “We wanted to introduce something warm and cozy while at the same time boosting our immunity during cold weather,” says owner Marcel Bedoya, noting that their cranberry hibiscus loose-leaf tea tends to be one of their most popular this time of year. The special launched in October and will be available through January. Bedoya recommends pairing the latte with any of their locally baked sweet loaves of bread or a toasty warm croissant.

Other specialties this season at Terra include a toasted marshmallow hot chocolate, peppermint mocha and pumpkin smoothie. At time of press, Bedoya was still experimenting with other new flavors to be introduced, such as sweet potato, a charcoal-activated variation and vanilla Madagascar.

321 Northampton St., Easton | 610.330.6900 terracafeeaston

READY TO TRY IT?

an evening of stories and song

performances by:

Jackson Dean Nate Smith Easton Corbin

Fletcher Hanna Ellis

Profitt

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