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.)

The Stoned Crab is the perfect place for any seafood lover – with a little extra money to burn or parents in town.  Although pricy, the Stoned Crab has a great menu of appetizers, salads, and entrees (almost all include seafood), not to mention a full service bar.  If you're not in the mood for clams or oysters, try the filet mignon or their delicious Portobello fries as an appetizer.  (Open Su-Tu 11:30a-9p; W 11:30a-10p; Th 11:30-11p; F 11:30-1a; Sa 4p-1a.)

Don’t worry, the tasty food at the Starfish Brassiere more than makes up for its less-than-tasty décor (bright neon sign, starfish window decals, fish statues…you see what we mean).  On Sundays, the chef prepares a three course meal for $27.50.  On other days of the week, order from the eclectic menu a la carte.  Not surprisingly, the restaurant offers plenty of seafood options to choose from (tuna, salmon, Sea bass, even Australian Barramundi) – all priced around $23.  (Open M-Th 11:30a-2:30p, 5p-9:30p; F 11:30a-2:30p, 5p-10p; Sa 5p-10p; Su 5p-8p.)

Here’s a laid-back locale featuring authentic Japanese cuisine—along with a bit of flare. Robata of Tokyo specializes in a Japanese style of grilling known as hibachi. And the chefs cook up more than just food, entertaining diners with their technique as they prepare entrees right before their eyes. (While it’s possible to spend a solid amount of money here, the chicken hibachi includes a heaping portion of chicken, fried rice and veggies, as well as soup and a salad, for just $13.) If you’re in the mood for something else, check out Robata’s extensive selection of appetizers, entrees and sushi. Also, don’t forget to browse the drink menu. The banzi bomber—24 ounces of fruit-and-booze deliciousness—is a house favorite despite its $10 price tag. (Open Tu-Su 5p; closing times vary.)

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.)

Hellertown may be a bit of a drive, but this quaint, modest eatery makes the trip well worth it. Self-described as the only authentic Hungarian food in the Lehigh Valley, Paprika's serves up delicious, home-cooked meals. Start with the Perogies – a mixture of scrumptious fried dough, potatoes, and sour cream for just $3.  There’s also the Chicken Paprika's ($7), chunks of chicken and Hungarian noodles in a pool of cream sauce that’s so good you’ll be soaking it up with bread. Stop whining, and get in the car. (Open W-Th noon-8p; F-Sa noon-9p; Su noon-7p.)

Don’t let the small restaurant fool you—this place has huge flavor. The walls are pepto pink (a foreshadowing of the medicine you may need later), while tacky chandeliers and fake plants hang from above. Thank goodness that their authentic Indian cuisine more than makes up for the lousy interior decorating. Nawab is a three-time winner (in 2000, 2001 and 2002) of Lehigh Valley Magazine’s “Best in the Valley—Indian Restaurant Award.” (Okay, it’s not a Nobel Prize, but it’s gotta count for something, right?) Start with samosas, then try lamb rogam josh for a spicy challenge (order plenty of nan—bread—to relieve your taste buds), or the chicken tikka masala for something milder. Vegetarians, don’t despair: There are plenty of meat-free meals, tasty enough even for carnivores. Be sure to bring your ID (students get 15% off lunches and dinners). (Open M-Th 11:30a-3p, 5p-10p; F 11:30a-3p, 5p-11p; Su 11:30a-9:30p.)

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.)   


Think Melt when your taste buds are longing for a trendy twist on traditional Italian cuisine.  Dining on one of Melt’s three floors, you’ll have your pick of creatively prepared salads, pizzas, pasta and grilled entrees.  Be prepared, though, to spend some cash (entrees are pricey) and possibly leave hungry (portions are small).  But hey, where else can you find a restaurant with stunning décor reminiscent of coastal Europe just a few doors down from Old Navy and LL Bean?  (Open M-Th 11a-11p; F-Sa 11a-midnight; Su 11a-10p.)

The Mangos experience is hard to define—one-part Caribbean casual and two-parts Mediterranean chic. The building is unassuming and unfortunately placed, wedged between a McDonald’s and a gas station, but once inside you might forget that you’re in Allentown at all. Stucco walls, brick floors, dim-lit lamps, romantic table candles, columns with archways, wood paneling, and deep reds, blues, and yellows evoke Barcelona. (Don’t neglect the intimate courtyard in warm weather.) Mangos is best-known, as it should be, for its tapas (appetizers that, combined, can serve as a meal) and rum bar. Try the Mojito, the restaurant’s most popular cocktail—it’s exceptional. The food is inventive (though occasionally a bit too salty); the paella is particularly good. The waitstaff is friendly, if a bit inefficient.  Good thing it’s worth the wait. (Open M-F 11a-10p; Sa 4p-10p.)

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.)

This secluded restaurant, in an old 19th-century country inn, certainly lets you escape the chaos of campus. The decor is surprisingly modern, though, and the food cosmopolitan. For an added twist, legend has it that a young woman (waiting for her lover to return from war) haunts the building. That may explain the short wait time between your appetizer and main course—maybe the host wants to get you moving before you encounter any wandering spirits. (Open Tu-Sa 5p-9p; Su 3p-9pm.)

Imagine the scene from the Disney classic Lady and the Tramp—two hound dogs sharing a strand of spaghetti with soft Italian music in the background—and you’ve got a perfect picture of the atmosphere at Louie’s. Established by the Belletieri family in 1958, under the moniker of Gino’s, Louie’s is the quintessential Italian family restaurant. Recently moved to Allentown’s South Side from its longtime 12th and Chew location, Louie’s has had a face-lift. Black and white family photos still stare down at long tables covered with checkered tablecloths. The main attraction, by far, is the cuisine: The Belletieri’s traditional home-style sauces set Louie’s apart from all of its old country imitators. The sauces are so good that they sell them under the Belletieri product line. The desserts are frightfully tasty. The Italian rum cake, chocolate moose and chocolate peanut butter pie, in particular, should be illegal. (Open M-F 11a-10p; Sa 4p-10p; Su 4p-9p.)

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.) 

The new Tex-Mex restaurant Johnny Mañana’s adds a welcome splash of color to the reviving downtown, The place is easy to miss, set back in the glass-and-steel PPL Plaza, but once you’re inside, you’ll find yourself thinking you’re not in Allentown anymore. With its sky-high ceilings, deep mustard-yellow walls, rich, floor-to-ceiling red curtains and brightly outfitted tables, Mañana’s is, well, the anti-Allentown. And the food is tasty, in a Tex-Mex sort of way. Try the la fiesta fajitas ($18)—an “especial de casa mañana”—and the guacamole appetizer ($7), perfectly seasoned. J The restaurant boasts two bars, one with a temple to flat-screen television, and daily drink specials like $3 margaritas on Mondays, $3 mojitos on Tuesdays, and $3 cosmos on Wednesdays.

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.)

It might not be obvious from the name, but this “steakhouse” is more of an el restaurante mexicano. You almost feel as if you’re at one of those touristy restaurants in the heart of Cancun – in a good way. This family-friendly eatery along the strip in the Valley Plaza is very spacious (though you’d never know it from the outside). There’s a perfectly sized bar towards the front and plenty of tables and booths (some large enough to fit 10 people) in the back. Their extensive menu – from Mexican dishes like fajitas, burritos, and tacos, to a variety of steak and seafood dishes – is bound to have something for everyone. If you’re in a seafood mood, we’d recommend the grilled shrimp or the crab cakes (since they’re famous for their crabmeat).  So here's the bottom line:  it’s no five star restaurant where you'd wine and dine in style, but it’s perfect for those nights when you’re in more of a TGI Friday's state of mind but can’t bear the thought of Friday’s. (Open M-Th 11:30a-10p; F-Sa 11:30a-10:30p; Su 11:30a-9p.)

Here’s a place to treat yourself to some fine dining. This out-of-the-way location, complete with a small dining room and a bar, has an intimate feel thanks to its old-world decor and fireplace.  While the atmosphere is relaxed, the dress is formal (so be prepared to look the part).  The Inn offers classic dishes with an original twist, like baked Brie in a caramel glaze and flank steak garnished with balsamic ice cream.  The meals are expensive but the portions large, presentation impressive, and food excellent. The service is good but very slow, so if you’re going to the Inn for dinner, plan to make an evening of it.  (Open W-Sa 5p-9:30p.)

Widow Brown (the building’s last tenant) wouldn’t know what hit her. While the décor hasn’t changed much (it’s still a mix of homey and ski lodge), the food certainly has, and all for the better. Hunan Springs serves up dishes a step or two (or three) above your typical Chinese restaurant. Whether you’re taking out or eating in, you’ll have your pick between an impressive array of seafood, pork, beef, duck and lamb options, not to mention several chef specials. Try the Bo Bo Platter appetizer for two ($13)—a delicious assortment of egg rolls, BBQ ribs, shrimp toast, chicken wings, teriyaki beef and cheese puffs, served around a towering flame. This is not your father’s Chinese. (Open M-Th 11:30a-10p; F-Sa noon-11p; Su noon-9:30p.)

Though billed as "Fine Dining," a trip to Henry's is similar to voyaging to a tavern on the lower deck of a boat.  Complete with ship lanterns, portraits of captains and cork wreaths, Henry’s nautical atmosphere not-so-subtly hints at their specialty: seafood.  The menu features scallops, shrimp, flounder, crab and lobster.  Land-lovers are not forgotten, and can pick between steak and chicken dishes.  (If nothing strikes your fancy, they'll fix up a special request if they have all the ingredients.)  All entrees come with a trip to the salad bar, a potato dish and vegetables.  While it sounds like a tremendous amount of food, moderately sized portions allow you to save room for their creamy peanut butter pie. So if your in the mood for the taste of the ocean, take a short trip over to Henry’s, where you’ll be sure to find what your looking for. (Open M-Th 4:30p-9p; F-Sa 4:30p-10p.)

If you’re expecting a casual and noisy Texas Roadhouse, you’re in for a surprise.  Housed in a historic building from the 1820s, the Hanoverville Roadhouse has a warm and homey feel: you’ll be tempted to look for a doorbell as you walk across the porch and reach the old wooden door. The Raodhouse proudly displays the past with exposed beams and portraits of Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin.  It’s gourmet but not exotic – the dishes are traditional American fare and include prime rib, shrimp scampi, and chicken marsala.  The place is a bit pricey (although well worth it) and attracts a classier, more mature crowd than the typical college joint. (Open M-Sa 11:30a-3:30p; 4p-9p; Su 3p-8p.)

“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!)

Who doesn't like a good gyro now and then? (We don’t know how to pronounce “gyro” either.) This family-owned restaurant, hideen in a CVS-anchored strip mall, is a real gem.  Don't be fooled by the bland décor and fake flowers: the Greek/Middle Eastern dishes are great – especially the kabobs.  (We were less than impressed, though, with the Greek salad and wish there was more than just baklava for dessert.)  For a big fat Greek good time, check out the private party belly dancer. (Open M-Sa 11a-9p; Su noon-8p.)

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.)

With its proper staff, limited entrees, and high prices, the Farmhouse is cstriving for (accent please) f-i-n-e d-i-n-i-n-g.  We found the atmosphere a bit stuffy and better suited for the AARP crowd. The real find is the Farmhouse’s downstairs bar.  The space feels like an old wine cellar, with dim lighting and rustic stone walls.  It’s got a romantic, almost mysterious vibe, along with a wide array of beers, wines, and spirits—a great backdrop for a date. (Open Tu-Th 5p-9p; F-Sa 5p-10p.)

El Castillo is unique to say the least. Its mix of a hectic take-out business and casual, bright-lit dining atmosphere makes for a bizarre ambiance, though the service is friendly and welcoming. The dining room is small, but the portions large. If you stop by El Castillo only once, order the paella ($15)—you will thank us. Some of the seafood can be pricey; seafood soupy rice is $23, and the mashed fried green plantains with octopus is $12. Meat dishes, on the other hand, are inexpensive; the mashed fried green plantains with chicken is $4, and the BBQ pork ribs is $5. If you’re looking for lighter fare, the lettuce, tomato and avocado salad ($3.50) is tasty as an appetizer or a meal. These Dominican dishes are full of flavor and color and definitely worth a try. (Open daily 7a-11p.)

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.)

Is your inner carnivore screaming for steak? For some of the best in Allentown, saddle up and head out to Charlie Brown’s Steakhouse—part of the New Jersey-based chain. Prime rib’s their specialty, but they also dish out chicken, seafood, and tasty burgers. (Vegetarians, you’re limited to ravioli and a plentiful salad bar.)  Drink specials include $1.50 margaritason Tuesdays and $2 pints on Thursdays. The space is almost as delectable as the meat—special rooms for larger parties, a bar and lounge area and a cozy fireplace. The main drawback are the crowds at this popular spot, so be sure to reserve a table in advance. (Open M-Sa 11:30a-10p.)

As any good Sicilian knows, a meal is better when it’s made with a family recipe, lots of garlic and a touch of love. Carrabba’s founders used just that philosophy when they first set up shop in Houston. They’re regularly packing ’em into the Allentown outlet, a low-lit, comfortable space with Frank Sinatra singing in the background. Appetizers like the crab cakes, seared in a cast iron skillet and served with a roasted bell pepper sauce will leave you begging for more. You'll need a healthy appetite to finish one of the main courses, but irresistible choices like the lobster ravioli served in a white wine cream sauce or the pollo rosa maria chicken, stuffed with fontina cheese and prosciutto are worth the "need to nap in the car before driving home" feeling of fullness and satisfaction. (Open M-Th 4p-10p; F 4p-11p; Sa 3p-11p; Su 2p-9:30p.)

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.)

Tucked away in a beautiful two-story, Victorian home, the Café can easily be missed in your quest for that romantic date-spot. Now you’ve got no excuse! The Café’s elegant, yet homey décor provides a lovely backdrop for any meal. Thanks to both American and Thai chefs, its kitchen cooks up a unique range of generously portioned lunch and dinner items. If your palate enjoys a spicy kick, the Café will not disappoint. Don’t skip the appetizers here: the chicken satay, spring rolls, and spicy soups are out of this world. Most dishes, like rack of lamb, filet mignon, and salmon, can be served in either an American or Thai style. The menu also features strictly Thai dishes such as delicious shrimp pad Thai, and chicken curry. You will definitely want to leave room for the frightfully tasty homemade desserts. At the end of the meal, the pleasant and knowledgeable wait staff will show you into a smaller room that acts as a pastry shop. Here you can choose from an array of cookies, cakes, pies, and tarts. (Open Tu-F 11a-2p, 5p-8:30p; Sa 5p-9:30p.)

Cactus Blue is one hot tamale.  Voted best Mexican food in the Lehigh Valley in 2005 and 2006, this hole-in-the-wall more than earned the accolades.  The service is outstanding, the food is delicious and fresh, and the colorful décor and atmosphere round out the experience.  Complement a flavorful dish—we’d suggest the enchiladas or chimichangas with beef so tender you won’t even need a knife—with a refreshing Mexican mango soda.  And end your meal with a bang thanks to Cactus Blue’s banana cream-filled churros.  When you go (and you must!), don’t forget to arrive early or make a reservation because the cantina fills up quick. (Open M-Th 11a-9p; F-Sa 11a-10p.)

With its gaudy, gold-framed photographs, its large, color-bulbed Christmas lights and oversized plastic cakes on the walls, this deliciously kitschy Italian restaurant is so tacky it’s fun. There is a Pope Room, complete with a bust of the pontiff in the middle of a round table, and music playing overhead from great Italian-American singers like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. The bathrooms take the experience to the next level: You’ll find pictures of naked people, and hear the opposite sex speaking Italian over the stereo system. For dates? Not so much. But Buca is perfect for large groups, because the dishes are served to be shared, family-style, right down to the desserts. When you’re being seated, you’re led through the kitchen and greeted by everyone—even the chef. Check your diet at the door, as the food here is high-calorie and high-carb, but every bite is worth it. You can’t screw up your order, but the macaroni rosa and chicken parmigiana are favorites. If, by some miracle, you have room, the bella festa is a cake-and-ice-cream masterpiece. (Open M-Th 11a-10p; F-Sa 11a-11p; Su 11a-9p.)

The Brass Rail has put the “f” in family reastuant since 1917, when it opened as a hotdog and hamburger stand in downtown Allentwon. Technically an Italian restaurant, the Rail serves something for everyone:  pasta dishes, fish, steak, burgers, pizza, famous cheese steaks (hailed as the best in the city) and drinks (check out the specials). Though very diner-esque, with the large menu, low prices, and cash register up front, it has a far more homey feel: a fireplace with fake logs burning, paper holiday decorations—the exact ones you swear your Mom puts up at home—and a waiting room full of small children and old ladies with walkers. We certainly endorse the Brass’s motto (proudly displayed on a variety of merchandise): “Get off your brass and come to the rail!” Oh, and don’t be surprised if you hear the place break into a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday to Grandma!”—trust us, it’s bound to happen. (Open M-Th 7a-midnight; F-Sa 7a-1a; Su 8a-10p.)

Living by the motto, “we cook what we want to eat,” the chef at Black Orchid serves up a smorgasbord of fusion food that’s hard to pigeonhole. While the no-frills exterior and floor-to-ceiling mauve walls inside might not excite the senses, the food comes to the rescue. With colorful appetizers like collard green dip, served with warm, homemade tortilla chips, and soul food-inspired entrees like tamarind baby back ribs and Creole shrimp, everything on the menu is full of vibrant spice and flavor. The portions start out big, but each dish also comes with a choice of two sides. We recommend the collard greens, corn pudding, and especially the candied yams. Even the macaroni and cheese is a creamy delight. No matter what you order, make sure to wash down your meal with a sweat tea—theirs is spectacular. Regardless of what you’re in the mood for—Southern or Caribbean-inspired, even Italian—the chef at Black Orchid is ready to prepare it from scratch. Just plan on a wait—home-cooked meals take time!  (Open Tu-Su 11a-2p, 5p-9p.) 

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.)

After you’re seated deep within the bricked grotto, you’ll forgive Bacio for its office park setting.  Shadow-boxed candles line sections of the wall, while music from crooners like Frank Sinatra and Andrea Bocelli plays in the background. Obsess over the menu while enjoying a complimentary serving of bruschetta and fresh mozzarella with tomatoes. Bacio’s entrées range from traditional dishes like gnocchi to less conventional fare, like the incrostato filleto di manzo (grilled beef tenderloin with gorgonzola topping and chianti-pecorino sauce, $24).  Popular pasta choices include the ravioli di manzo (ravioli with meat, $14), and the ravioli dolce creama (ravioli stuffed with shrimp, crabmeat, spinach and ricotta).  Serving sizes are generous (you can always opt for a half portion at half price) but leave room for dessert – the tiramisu or triple layer chocolate and peanut butter cake are too tempting to pass up.  Our only advice:  wear an adjustable belt. (Open M-Th 11a-10p; F 11a-11p; Sa 5p-10p.)

If this is your first time, you probably just passed Amigo Mio. Turn the car around, and drive more slowly this time! Yes, it’s in a plain fow house, and no, there isn’t a parking lot. But trust us: it’s worth it. The Mexican here is tasty and there’s nothing remotely Tex about it. You’ll be seated in Amigo’s single, living-room sized dining area, and suprised to find a full bar and warm yellow walls. All entrees are reasonably priced at $3 to $4 but surprisingly small so don’t be afraid to order two.  If your satisfied stomach is brave enough to take on desert, try the flan. This is no ordinary flan – it comes in flavors like double chocolate and pumpkin. So fire up your GPS and remember to bring cash. (Open W-F 5p-9p.)

Okay, so while it’s a little sketchy from the outside, Aladdin is amazing on the inside…jaw-dropping really. The ceiling is low and starry, and the walls are covered in richly colored tapestries. Camel statues line the lower alcoves of the walls and pillows make the seating extra comfortable. While it’s a little pricy, the food is definitely worth every penny. Anyone new to Middle Eastern food should start with the falafel—it’s a classic, and especially delicious here. If you plan on drinking, be sure to bring your own, and don’t forget to bring an extra $2.50 on Saturdays for the Belly Dancing cover charge. (Open Tu-F 11a-2p, 5p-10p; Sa-Su 5p-10p.)

No, this Japanese steak house has nothing to do with A1 Steak Sauce, but just like the sauce it is quite yummy.  Head past the serene mini-waternalls and the not-so-serene pink and purple neon to one of five rooms—four for hibachi-style dining and one for sushi. Regardless of what you order, you’ll be impressed—and not just by the food (though the fried rice is painfully good). Expect the cook to throw around some knives, do some fun tricks with fire, and even toss some shrimp your way. If you act like a seal, you may just catch a shrimp in your mouth, to the applause of a table full of strangers. What a perfect combination: playing with knives and fire. (Open Su-Th 11a-10p; F-Sa 11a-11p.)