Zandy’s doesn’t have a website. Zandy’s street-strangled orange stucco structure is flat-out ugly. Inside, Zandy’s resembles a neglected, fifties banquet hall. The truth is, we wouldn’t have it any other way; we like our Zandy’s old school. Where else can you get a burger for $2.35? (Be prepared to shell out another 15 cents for cheese!) A sprawling cheesesteak for $3.85?  A full plate of buffalo wings for $3.60? When you crave no-nonsense grease for almost nothing, head to this family-owned South Allentown legend. You can’t miss the orange stucco. (Open Tu-Sa 10a-10p; Su noon-9p.)

Like a bad elementary school joke, Yocco’s, the Lehigh Valley’s “Hot Dog King,” is serious about its wieners. And these aren’t your ordinary wieners. Since 1922, Yocco’s has been dishing up dogs—cooked Texas-style, served on a bed of chopped onions, and lathered in heavy-duty mustard and a liberal application of “secret” chili sauce—to adoring fans. The now-chain began as a single shop at 625 Liberty Street, and was founded by the brother of former Chrysler CEO Lee Iacocca. (“Yocco” is locals’ mispronounced version of the family’s last name.) Beyond its famous tubes of mystery meat—actually shipped worldwide—Yocco’s also serves the standard fare of hamburgers, cheeseburgers and cheesesteaks, seven days a week. A truly decadent culinary experience… just don’t forget to pack a roll of Tums for the car ride home. (Open M-Th 10a-10p; F-Sa 10a-11p; Su 11a-10p.)

Perhaps no other word besides "eclectic" can do the Wildflower Cafe justice.  There’s a giant bamboo bar with a “happy days” sign, vintage sofas and chairs strewn throughout the small room, and artwork covering every last inch of the walls.  With a menu including everything from PB & fluff to vegetarian chili to ambrosia to home-made cookies, the Wildflower feels more like your parents’ basement than a music lounge and coffeehouse.  While the food is nothing you couldn't make in your own kitchen, Wildflower is a great venue for live music.  And if you’re a musician yourself, make sure to stop by for their open mike nights on Monday and Tuesday.

From the outside, Wert’s Cafe looks like a stucco-covered block plopped down in the middle of a parking lot. This less-than-promising exterior only makes the charm hidden inside more of a welcome surprise. Walk through the doors and you enter a country ski lodge, with wood-covered walls and small tables and booths. It’s almost always crowded, but don’t let that deter you, since you’ll be seated in no time. And the hordes are all there for good reasons. In addition to typical pub fare, Wert’s also serves up plenty of appetizers, including unique creations like sweet potato fries, pretzerella sticks (pretzel-covered mozzarella sticks) and an ungodly mound of stringy onion “rings.” The waitstaff is friendly and doesn’t mind special requests or split bills. (Open daily 11a-10p.)

Do you like sandwiches but haven’t found a deli that makes the perfect one? Well, nobody’s perfect, but Wally’s sure comes close with its hogalicious sandwiches, great salads and famous “Wally’s Chips”—their own take on waffle fries. You can mix and match ingredients to concoct your own sandwich or order one of the Specialty Hogs (try a “Texas Tommy,” a “Squealer” or a “Surfin’ Turkey”). Be careful: The deli is snuggled next to a seafood store and behind a Citgo, so it’s easy to miss. Don’t be turned off by its cramped quarters—its food portions are big enough to fill even the most demanding stomach. And besides—size doesn’t matter anyway… (Open M-W 9a-6p; Th-F 9a-7p; Sa 9a-6p.)

This family-run establishment—half Turkish market, half Mediterranean restaurant—is definitely one of Allentown’s buried treasures. Certainly not noted for decor—a few paintings, a hanging carpet and a TV showing the latest in Turkish entertainment—the place is charming thanks to the friendly chatter of regulars and staff. And then there’s the food: so good it’s worth the wait that’s typical at this popular spot (so don’t show up starving), and very reasonably priced. (Entrees are all under $16 and sandwiches range from $1.35 for a burger to $4 for a lamb pita.) Whet your appetite with a hummus platter, and be sure to try the kebabs (prepared with a secret and truly “special blend” of spices). (Open daily 11a-11p.) 

If you manage to make it out of bed before 3pm on Saturday, drag yourself out the door and down the street (to 22nd and Liberty) to Syb’s West End Deli. This down-to-earth deli—think flowery vinyl table cloths, friendly staff, freshly brewed coffee and country music—is the ideal place to reflect on the paper you’ve been putting off (and continue to avoid). Syb’s offers classic comfort food as well as a few breakfasts with a twist—like the superb challah French toast. Lunches range from turkey sandwiches to Reubens to tabouleh and matzo ball soup. With a location that’s literally right around the corner, Syb’s is a great break from the Garden Room—one with a little more local flavor. (Open Tu-Th 8a-5p; F 8a-4p; Sa 8a-3p; Su 8a-1p.)

Hidden away beneath the busy streets of downtown Allentown is the Sunlight Restaurant, serving up traditional Caribbean cuisine. The inexpensive prices (breakfasts under $4, sandwiches for $3 and dinners mostly between $6 and $12) may lead you to believe that the helpings are small, but don’t be fooled. The plates are piled high and every entree comes with at least one side. Make sure you try the yellow rice and finish up with flan for dessert. Just brush up on your Spanish before you go—so you can respond to the buenos dias you’ll be greeted with when you arrive. (Opening hours vary; call for details.)

Spooners Café, in the heart of downtown, serves up delicious homemade soups as well fresh salads, sandwiches and baked treats.  Opened in 2006, Spooners has a funky feel, with old posters, whicker seat chairs, and sleek hardwood floors.  The daily soup and sandwich specials are listed on a giant chalk board near the register.  We recommend the Jail House Chili – it’s meaty and delicious (but definitely has a kick, so keep the water close by).  Pair it with a half sandwich, like the roast beef and red pepper or turkey and avocado, and you've got a delicious combo.  And if you want to turn lunch into a full afternoon out, take advantage of the checkerboards and checkers at every table.  They’ve even got breakfast fare for those of you up early enough.  Eat in or take food to go (they also cater).  (Open M-F 7a-4p.)

For a quick and great-tasting meal, head to Slippery Pete's.  The atmosphere is cozy and patrons can watch the food being prepared while enjoying Pete's amazing complimentary pickles at this quintessential deli.  Breakfast is served all day and delivery is free.  Best of all, Pete's has a catering menu – something to keep in mind for those not-so-distant graduation parties.  Vegetarian?  Don't fret.  While the menu doesn’t offer tons of options, Pete's veggie wrap is fantastic.  (Open M-Tu 7:30a-3p; W-F 7:30a-4:30p.) `

Who says you can’t go back? This café makes time travel possible and worth the trip. The golden oldies on the radio and walls plastered with records and signed photographs make you nostalgic for the days when rock and roll was, well, rockin’. And if the ambiance doesn’t, the menu certainly will, with options like the “Mama Cass” hot ham sandwich, the “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” crab patty and “You Ain’t Nothin’ But a Hot Dog” (Elvis sighting, anyone?). Unfortunately, this cafe certainly does not rock around the clock—it’s closed by 2pm. But, if you’re up early (they open at 7am) or looking for a new lunch spot, it’s a fun and tasty place to try. (Open daily 7a-2p.)

Something cold and refreshing hit Pennsylvania in the summer of 1984: Italian ice! That year, the Tumulo family made PA a little sweeter when it founded Rita’s Italian Ice, which soon spread to cities up and down the East Coast, including Allentown. They claimed then to use the perfect recipe, and even today few could argue. In spring and summer, the overheated can’t wait to get their hands on a “wooter” ice (that’s “water” ice in Philadelphian), yogurt, custard or “misto.” You’ll pick from dozens of flavors, like passion fruit, peach and wild black cherry. A small will only set you back $1.15 with tax—and just one dollar more for a large. That may seem like a lot for ice and syrup, but it’s worth every penny. More outdoor stand than ice cream parlor, Rita’s shuts down for the winter. But when it’s open, Rita’s provides a uniquely chilling experience. (Open seasonal.)

If you’re willing to travel for a quality cheesesteak, you may want to go a bit further than this shady joint. The seating is uncomfortable at best, featuring cushions (if you can call them that) with a tacky floral print. The atrociously dim lighting gives you the “this place used to be a pub” feel (which, in fact, it was). Even if the ambiance doesn’t throw you, Philly’s probably isn’t your best bet for high-cholesterol fare. Take the “Philly Sampler,” advertised as an appetizer of two pierogies, four onion rings, four chicken nuggets, two mozzarella sticks, five breaded mushrooms and French fries. Actually, ours came with zero pierogies, six onion rings, four chicken nuggets, two mozzarella sticks, three breaded mushrooms and French fries. But who’s counting? Our final answer: Don’t go out of your way for this place; they definitely won’t go out of their way for you. (Open M-Th 11a-10p; F-Sa 11a-11p; Su 11a-10p.)

There’s a reason Parma Pizza is called Parma Pizza and not something a little more extravagant or inclusive. It’s true that the restaurant’s atmosphere leaves much to be desired. And while the menu has a decent number of options—ranging from traditional Italian favorites like pasta, calzones, strombolis, subs and steaks, as well as salads—few (if any) are as good as the pizza. The pizza, though, gets high marks. There’s a wide variety of toppings and specialty pizzas including taco or eggplant parmesan. Its wallet-friendly prices, close proximity to Muhlenberg (within walking distance for the car-less), and quick delivery make it convenient for students. In addition, the management is often happy to cooperate with on-campus organizations and programs. While not the choice for sit-down Italian fare, Parma Pizza is a reliable place to turn during any pizza craving. (Open Su-Th 9a-9:30p; F-Sa 9a-10p.) 

610-432-3221

www.panerabread.com

Panera is European café meets cozy ski lodge. There’s a fireplace in the main dining area, toasty on a cool autumn evening. The bakery is old world too, with a vast assortment of pastries, breads and bagels lining the wooden shelves. The sandwiches, soups and salads are inexpensive, and sometimes inventive: Try the soup in a sourdough bread bowl ($5) or the popular grilled panini sandwiches (around $7). Just don’t forget to order a café mocha and a caramel pecan brownie for dessert. We promise Dr. Atkins won’t come after you. (Open M-Sa 6:30a-9p; Su 7a-7:30p.)

O'Brien's Really Good Food may have overshot a little with its audacious name—we're thinking O'Brien's Not Bad Food may have been a bit more appropriate. The decor of this deli reminds us of a hospital cafeteria, with muted pink, green, and beige walls and random tchotchkes arranged on each table. The elderly staff are very sweet but slow-moving. The deli selection at O'Brien's is ordinary, and the size of the kitchen leaves you disappointed that they don't offer more choices—though several homemade soups are featured each day on a rotating basis.  Overall, O'Brien's is a decent mom-and-pop kind of deli if you need a break from GQ (and who doesn't ?); just don't expect that you'll be getting anything extraordinary. (Open M-F 7a-2p.)

Hidden in a plaza with chain giants like Subway, Friendly’s and Carrabba’s, this small Italian eatery is quite a find. The crackling brick-oven fire and warm orange walls create a welcoming feeling, and small tables and smiling waitstaff add to the cozy atmosphere. The menu ranges from strombolis to large stuffed pizzas to Mario’s specialty, hot panini sandwiches. Best bargains at Mario's are the pasta dishes, served with a salad and basket of garlic bread, each costing 10 bucks or less. We also suggest trying the strombolis, but be forewarned-the medium can feed a small army. Whether you’re taking out or eating in, Mario’s is a great alternative to another evening meal at GQ. (Open M-Th 10a-10p; F-Sa 10a-11p; Su 11a-9:30p.)   


If you're in the mood for some Mexican/Spanish/Caribbean cuisine and don’t feel like going far, it’s Mambo to the rescue.  Located just a few minutes from school at 19th and Allen Streets, Mambo offers great service and never-ending dining options – owner Johansen Hernandez is happy to tailor meals to your liking even if they’re not on the menu.  Start with a sample of the seasoned homemade chicken, steak, or pork.  And we’d suggest the black bean with chicken soup as an appetizer and the enchillada, burrito, and tostado combination for your main course—it’s a delicious and huge amount of food, all for under $10.  Mambo is BYO but, if you should forget, there’s a liquor store right next door.  (Open M 11a-8p; Tu-Sa 10a-11p; Su 11a-8p.)

Turn your head for a second and you’re bound to drive right by Little Saigon, so pay attention. And you’re not at the wrong place, so don’t lose faith once you enter. (The Formica tabletops and sea shell wallpaper are hardly typical Asian restaurant decor.) But the friendly service and outstanding Vietnamese and Chinese fare are as authentic as they come. The Vietnamese egg roll (a non-fried version of its Chinese cousin) is an excellent appetizer choice. With the rest of the menu full of large-portioned entrées for about $6, Little Saigon is bound to appeal to both your stomach and your budget. (Open W-M 11a-8:30p.) 

If you’re downtown for lunch, drop by chef Lee Reinhard’s eponymous bistro, just off Hamilton Street in the shadow of the PPL Building. The place is cheerful—bright yellow walls and checkered floors—but the main event is the fresh and delicious fare. Try the bagels, muffins, and pastries, but save room for the “city-style” sandwhiches (double the meat) or the succulent Angus burger ($6.25).  The local-produce salad bar is full of brightly-colored freshness, and the coffee, Seattle’s Best, is joined by a full espresso bar. For breakfast, try “Lee’s Famous bull’s eye egges” ($2) or the syrup-drenched French toast with powdered sugar ($2.50).(Open M-F 6:45a-4p.) 

Latin Flava has replaced the troubled nightspot Shorty’s, and now the polished wood bar is one of the best places in town to enjoy pastellilos and alcapurria (both $1). Cheerful yellow and red paint, streamers and flags serve as shout-outs to this corner restaurant's Puerto Rican heritage. The menu varies daily—the friendly owner-chef is justly proud of his rotating Puerto Rican specialties, including boiled banana (75 cents) and “canoes” (long, open-faced sweet bananas packed with beef, $1.50). All of the lunch and dinner platters, including beef stew, are a steal at $5.50, and come with rice and beans. (Even the pig’s feet and chicken gizzards are $5.50!) Definitely try the potato ball, a little gem of fried mashed potatoes and ground beef. The colorful, dimmed dining nook is a great place to set up with coffee or hot chocolate and your Intro to Democracy reading. (Open M-Sa 10a-7p.)

It’s a 1950s diner, Cuban style. At Las Palmas, the portions are big (and cheap!) and the service is friendly.  Try the Cuban sandwich with pork, ham, and cheese ($4), or the carnes de res frita (fried flank steak) ($8), or the tostones (fried sweet plantains) ($4). They also have delicious milkshakes – made with real fruit – and traditional chicken soup if you want to stick to something a little less exotic.  Get ready to test your conversational Spanish skills and don’t forget to bring cash (since they don’t accept plastic).  (Open daily 7:30a-9:30p.)

Who would have guessed that the best Mexican restaurant in Allentown is a cramped grocer? It’s true, and we’re not kidding about “cramped”: La Placita squeezes in just three snug tables at the end of a narrow passage lined with hanging produce. (A sign, for the 8th Hole (“Par 4”), taunts the claustrophobic.) Prepare for sensory overload: Mexican music bounces off the flag-green walls, while tamales, sausages and baskets of avocado all compete for scarce counter space. The food makes it all OK. Trust us. The enchiladas verdes de pollo ($6.75) are divino, and we’ve never tasted anything quite like the cecina con nopales (cactus with Mexican dried beef, $7.50). The $2 tacos—try the spicy pork—are blessedly affordable. La Placita put the hole in the wall, and we’re damn grateful. (Open M-Sa 9a-5p.) 

Rincon Salvadoreno is certainly cause for celebration: The unassuming Salvadoran restaurant is kind on the stomach and the wallet. The empanadas are delicious ($1-$1.50), and the fried sweet plantain platter ($5.50) is the best we’ve tasted. The light blue walls, the long Formica counter, the plastic folding chairs, the cheerful regulars—they come together, somehow. There’s a warmth to Rincon Salvadoreno—it’s Cheers with a Salvadoran accent. (Open daily 10a-10p.)

Though billed as “Gourmet Thai Food Delivery,” Kow Thai’s takeout leaves something to be desired—the gourmet Thai food. The limited menu offers entrees “flavored” with curry, Thai dressing or sauce, but the dishes are mostly bland—even the $7 chicken pad Thai. Besides, a takeout that requires someone to “buzz” you in does not help make the wait comfortable. The chicken satay ($3.25) is the only must: Not too spicy but flavored with a zippy peanut sauce, this chicken-on-a-stick is the closest that Kow Thai comes to gourmet. (Open Tu-Sa 11a-9p.) 

When they say “Welcome to Jumbars,” they’re not kidding. The inviting atmosphere—think buttercup yello walls adorned with watercolor paintings—and the fact that every patron seems to know one another offset any discomfort from the cramped quarters.  The breakfast menu includes the standards – French toast and pancakes – along with homemade bread.  The whole-wheat waffles topped with strawberries and bananas ($7) are amazing.  If you go for an omelet instead, be sure to add caramelized onions ($5).  For lunch, both the grilled ahi tuna salad ($9) and pulled pork panini ($6.50) come highly recommended by the regulars.  And don’t fight dessert – it’d be a hopeless battle considering the counter is laden down with everything from sticky buns to chocolate cake.  Trust us, pretty soon Jumbars will be a place where everybody knows your name, too. (Open W-F 8a-3p; Sa-Su 8a-2p.)

This small and modest but very tasty restaurant right off of Hamilton Street offers a variety of Dominican dishes. The menu is limited and similar to other Dominican restaurants' but the portions are hardy. The roasted chicken with rice is your best bet and we’d recommend the pig’s feet or hen stews for the more adventurous eaters.  While the restaurant is geared toward takeout customers, there is a dining area (complete with a telenovella blaring in the background).  The wait staff is friendly but service overall is only adequate. (Open daily 11a-11p.)

Tucked away in an old row house on 19th Street, this funky coffee shop is the soul of the emerging 19th Street “bohemia.” Industrial beams hold hundreds of hanging mugs; the checkerboard, tiled floor makes you think you’re in a country cottage kitchen one second and an elegant ballroom the next. If you’re hungry for brunch or a light lunch, they’ve got homemade pies, muffins, bagels and scones to quell your appetite. Most important, though, are the brews. They know their coffee, and serve up an array of blends as well as fancier lattes and cappuccinos. Time your visit so you’re not arriving with the crowd emerging from the neighboring Civic Theatre. You can bring a book, but the soothing classical music and dim lighting may be more conducive to catnapping than to getting that reading done. The menu proclaims that coffee's "far better...than wine" --- how true! (Open M--Th 8:30a-11p; F-Sa 8:30a-midnight; Su 10a-10p.)

“HamFam” is a party—at two in the morning when the only test you have to worry about is a breathalyzer. Although newly renovated, HamFam closely resembles a 1980’s Michael Jackson music video. Skip the slimy browning fruit, be warned that the cheese fries are a bit oily (make that soaked in oil) and know that your large orange juice—though delicious—will be the size of the shot glass you used earlier. Focus instead on their breakfasts for a solid midnight snack. It’s an experience, but don’t be surprised if your designated driver insists on staying behind the wheel. (Always open!)

This restaurant/snack spot/tea room is sure to make you lie back and think of England (or Ireland—whatever).  Voted “best tea in the Valley” by Lehigh Valley Magazine for the past two years, Granny McCarthy’s offers a homey ambiance with tasty treats.  A variety of soups, salads, pastries, shepherd’s pies, quiches, and hot and cold beverages are offered daily, and Guinness-battered fish and chips are available every Friday evening.  Pass the crumpets!  (Open M 11a-3p; Tu-W 11a-4p; Th 10a-8p; F 10a-9p; Sa 9a-5p; Su 9a-3:30p.)

When the late-night munchies strike, only a true diner will do—and the Gate 7 Diner, downtown, is the real deal.  From its shiny silver siding to the classics on its menu to its 24/7 hours, the Gate 7 will satisfy the most discriminating diner connoisseur.  Seriously: what is bertter than 3am Guns ‘n Roses from your own, boothside jukebox?  (Always open.)

For those groggy, slightly hungover mornings where the last thing you want to do is see someone you know, the DogStarr Cafe provides quality food with a side of guaranteed privacy.  Adjacent to the Allentown Symphony Hall, the café has been serving local business people for over ten years. It’s got an exceptional (and reasonably priced) menu of breakfast and lunch items, from bagels to salads and sandwiches. And who needs a mainstream Starbucks when the funkier Dogstarr has everything a coffee- or tea-lover could wish for? You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the list of lattes and cappuccinos, flavored coffees and Chai and regular teas. And no one will judge you for your sweats. (Open M-F 8a-4:30p.)

Sensational shwarma, mouthwatering hummus and don’t even get us started on the fried eggplant… While the decor’s a bit spare at this family operation, they’ve got some of the best Middle Eastern food in the area—a huge variety of Syrian specialties, including plenty of vegetarian options. (They also serve a few more conventional dishes—like chicken sandwiches and burgers—for less adventurous eaters.) Since entrees average $8 and pitas less than $4, you won’t have to spend a fortune to get a truly fantastic meal. (Open M-Sa 9a-9p.)  

There’s south, and then there’s south. The friendly chefs at Caribbean Delight fry up soul food and Jamaican fare—so you can get your curry goat ($7) with a side of collard greens ($2). The xeroxed menu divides straight down the middle, but it’s all cheap. Frightfully cheap, actually: The delicious jerk chicken dinner is only $8, and comes with salad and a steaming pile of rice and peas. Soul food, too: With the fried chicken platter ($8)—greasy and proud—you get two sides (yams, for example, or mac & cheese) and cornbread. The place is definitely dress-down (when in Jamaica...), festooned with kitschy island decor. Tissue-paper palm trees crowd the ship-style wood panelling, as a giant, smiling Bob Marley mural overlooks the modest, plastic-topped tables. It’s not spring break exactly, but it’s as close as you’ll get in Allentown. (Open M-W 11a-9p; Th-F 11a-11p; Sa noon-11p; Su 1p-9p.)‘

The quintessential surfer food must have gotten lost on the way to the Jersey Shore, because it has nestled itself at Cali Burrito, here in the Valley.  Offering multiple variations of San Franciso-style burritos and tacos, Cali Burrito is that rare fast food place that uses fresh ingredients and vegetarian options.  The prices are student-, appropriate, though the waves—they’re still two hours away. (Open M-Sa 11a-9p; Su 11a-3p.)

Billy’s Downtown Diner is diner grub taken to the next level. Located in the heart of historic Bethlehem, Billy’s is a place where they might not know your name, but Billy himself may very well greet and seat you. The menu has an eclectic mix of dishes all under $10.  Our favorites are the omelets, served with home fries and toast and priced around $5. This isn’t, sadly, the place to get brkeafast for dinner—Billy’s closes at 4pm on weekdays and 3pm on weekends. (Open M-F 7a-4p; Sa-Su 7a-3p.)

Allentown is a burgeoning center of Latin American cuisine. Allentown? Yes, and Awilda’s is the newest reason to venture downtown for cheap, delicious Latin fare. The Dominican newcomer sits in a stately 19th-century row house, the former home of the Century Cafe. This means that you get to savor your fried green plaintains ($2) in wood-paneled, stained-glass elegance. Take an old wood booth, or sit along the walnut, wrap-around bar (but bring your own beer). Awilda’s portions sprawl across the plate, and each dish gets served with steaming piles of rice and beans—for the price of a Happy Meal. The beef stew ($4.50) comes in tender, delicious shreds; try it with a beef-stuffed sweet plaintain ($3). We’re told that the goat ($6) and oxtail ($6) stews are especially tasty. We’ll take their words for it. (Open  daily 8a-1a.)

The Amazon Café calls itself a healthy alternative to fast food. It’s certainly more figure-friendly than next-door neighbor Johnny Mañanas. The menu , along with a giant toucan mascot, includes nutritious soups, paninis, wraps, salads, and pastries.  But it’s their delicious signature smoothies—like Paradise Lust, The Coldblaster, and Bananaramathat make the drive downtown worthwhile. Keep in mind that the Amazon Café is pretty cramped—it’s only got a counter with some stools, a pair of tables, and a couch—so take your smoothie to the fountain-filled plaza outside. Be warned that resistance to a fountain drenching is, in fact, futile.