Have you ever wanted to travel around the world in 30 minutes? Three days each week (Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays), the Allentown Fairgrounds hosts the legendary Farmers Market, a mini version of Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market. The self-proclaimed “most modern old-fashioned-style market in the East,” the Farmers Market is condensed Allentown goodness. The sixty-plus vendors who set up temporary shop here cover all the food groups and then some—there’s pizza, Chinese and Mediterranean food, amazing BBQ chicken and ribs, pies and pastries, deli meats and fresh breads, cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables. As if that weren’t enough, there are also candles, flowers, gifts, wine and an on-site flea market. Prepare for sensory overload: hand-painted Amish farm signs compete for space with down-home murals and Allentown’s elderly. Ninety-thousand square feet never felt so small. We thought we’d take you on a brief (and selective) tour, starting at the market’s far west end. As you enter, you can't miss Charlie K's Pizza, great for takeout but also your source for bake-you-own pies. Around the corner, you'll find Ribs N' Things, where the soup-genious cook prepares over 60 varieties each week for $5 - $6 (try the Jambalaya). Walk past Pearl's Smoke Shop to Danny D and Denise's Fairgrounds Luncheonette, for delicious cheesesteaks and burgers. Buy a few dozen kiffles (PA Dutch pastries) at the Kiffle Kitchen Bakery, and drop in for some local wine at Clover Hill Winery store. Head back past the Luncheonette, turn right, and behold the truly startling variety of hormone-free sausage and poultry at the Mr. Bill's. On your right, you'll pass fried fish at Bobby Mo's, Italian specialities at Uncle Angelio's (try the fresh-baked calzones), and prepared Mexican dishes at the Sweets Grill. Don't be intimidated by the cheese selection at Wittman's World Cheeses on your left, but do try a barrel-drawn pickle from New York Pickle, on your right. Just a bit further along, Mink's Candies is a dentist's nightmare, across from Berghold's Produce, with the freshest, greenest produce in Allentown. (They supply most of our fine dining establishments.) Down the ramp, fight the crowds at Dan's Bar-B-Que, where you must stop, sit, and consume BBQ chicken and cornbread. Turn right, and around the corner you'll find Souther Delights, our favorite spot for black eyed peas and collard greens. As you continue east, be sure to try the crab cakes at Atlantic Oyster Co. Across from Atlantic are the Valley's best donuts, from Mary Ann Donut Kitchen. Don't tire yet! Further east is Fan's Asian Flavors, with delicious sushi, which is across from Allentown's gyro heaven, Foods of the Mediterranean. Miss you mother's pierogis? Try Gdynia Polish Market, just beyond Fan's. What are you waiting for? Get off you ass and walk somewhere for once! (Open Th 9a-8p; F 8a-8p; Sa 8a-6p.)

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.)

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.)

For those who want to skip the mall’s chain restaurants, the Sunset Grille provides great food, attentive service, and affordable prices. Housed in an old inn, this restaurant and its friendly wait staff make you feel like a guest in a Texas home. While you won't see obnoxious cactuses or sombreros, the Sunset Grille keeps the theme with brick-red, rich blue, and teal-patterned curtains and tablecloths.  Muted TV’s in the corners of the dining room make the atmosphere more casual without creating a lot of distraction.  The “Southwest” options (fajitas, quesadillas, and the like) are traditional favorites, but you certainly don't need to have a taste for Mexican food to fall in love with this menu—the char-grilled steaks, homemade crab cakes, and tender ribs are just a few of the great alternatives. Sunset Grille may have tried to branch out a bit too far, however, with items such as the Chinese chicken salad, so avoid these oddballs and you won't be disappointed. The bar area, while small, allows you to sit with friends and enjoy the best of both worlds- great drinks and delicious food. (Open M-Sa 11a-2a; kitchen closes at midnight.) 

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.)

Think country dining with a sophisticated flare. Morgan’s flagstone walls and fireplaces give it the feel of a cozy cottage—not surprising since the building used to be an inn and, before that, a B&B. Good luck choosing among their delicious homemade breads, dishes and desserts. We’d suggest starting with their French onion soup or bruschetta with lump crap herb salad and lemon sauce ($10). Entrees range from filet mignon and rosemary marinated lamb chops, to parmesan crusted halibut and pan-seared tuna. Our favorite was the molasses and garlic-marinated pork tenderloin with ginger applesauce. And our top pasta pick is the papparadelle Bolognese pasta ($10 for a lunch portion and $14 for an entrée). Even their sandwiches and salads are big enough to leave you satisfied. Early birds are rewarded well here: If you can make it to Morgan’s by 11am, you’ll get to enjoy several different kinds of frittatas ($5), fluffy omelets ($5), and the German Apple Pancakes ($5). (Open M-Sa 7a-9p.)

If you're heading downtown, make sure to pay a visit to this family-owned local favorite. Though the romantic music and table candles clash with the pizzeria-style open kitchen, Lo Baido’s redeems itself with its friendly service and delectable Italian cuisine. Although it’s BYO, expect to get a complimentary glass of their homemade wine. The food is freshly prepared with homemade sauces and salad dressings. Most entrees are served with a house salad—a mishmash of basic lettuce, ziti and raisins—and an intermezzo of homemade sorbet. The baked manicotti ($13) and the chicken marsala ($16) are especially good, as is the penne ala vodka con gamberi ($19). You won’t have room, but loosen your belt and try some of the inexpensive-yet-fabulous ice cream, made fresh on site. Lo Baido’s makes you feel like you’re in Little Italy, thanks to its fresh, homemade ingredients and superb staff. (Open M 11a-8p; Tu-Th 11a-9p; F 11a-10p; Sa noon-10p.) 

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.) 

Nobody does “full” like La Mexicana Grill. This festive restaurant—with mango orange walls and year-round Christmas lights—serves up a ton…and it’s all great.  The fajitas (veggie, chicken, beef or shrimp) bring words like “mountainous” to mind; entrees like the chicken mole ($13) are similarly huge and tasty.  And did we mention that all dinners come with two sides—like fried plantains, refried beans or sweet potatoes? We’d say save room for the main course, but that would mean missing out on the city’s best salsa (an on-the-house treat, along with chips) and homemade guacamole.  So just be prepared to roll your way out—it’s the kind of place that the “after dinner walk” was made for. (Open daily  11a-9p.)

Though its neighbors are Dorney Park, a mini-golf course, and several chain restaurants, the King George Inn manages to seem distant from it all.  Its traditional wooden chairs, uncovered ceiling beams and lacey white tablecloths transport diners to 1756, the year the historic landmark opened. Everything is Ye Olde English at the Inn, down to the stone building itself. Keep your upper lip stiff as you try the no-nonsense seafood and steaks, and watch your wallet: The steep prices don’t mean big portions . You’ll never go thirsty, though, as the wine list is exceptional. The small dining room gets packed by 7pm on a Saturday night, so reservations are a good idea.  Be sure to throw on a nice shirt and pair of shoes, too—diners didn’t wear hoodies at the Inn in 1756 and they shouldn’t wear them now!   So sit back, relax, and enjoy your expensive English meal, ol’ chap! (Open M-Th 11:30a-10p; F-Sa 11:30a-11:30p; Su 3p-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.)

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.)

For a little high-end dining without the trek to New York City, try Grille 3501. The food’s exceptional—from appetizers like the crab and mango spring rolls ($10) and creamy crab soup ($7), to entrees like the braised beef short ribs ($22) and the char grilled filet (cooked to perfection) ($27). Legal drinkers can wash it all down with something from the extensive martini bar (how about a Staten Island “Mar-Tony”?) or classic cosmopolitan. It’s a good thing the edible options are so delicious, though, because the service isn’t—particularly for younger customers.  (Open Tu-F 11:30a-10p; Sa 4p-10p.)

The Glasbern Country Inn, set on a one-hundred acre historic farm-turned-conference center and B&B, is a welcome change of scenery. Think beams, candlelight and stone-wall rustic elegance (“smart casual” attire is required)—for a price. You’ll dine on pasture-raised meats, and fruits and vegetables grown on-site.  (The menu changes with the seasons to include and highlight produce that’s currently available.)  You order a la cart Sundays through Fridays but are limited to a four course prix fixe menu ($55 per person) on Saturdays.  While everything’s good, we strongly recommend the Glasbern salad and the oven-roasted Glasbern chicken.  (Open daily 5:30p-8:30p; reservations required.)

This casual chic establishment is anything but an all-American eatery. The Grill is an oasis downtown—zebra-print bar stools, window-pane mirrors and understated twinkle lights give off a soothing, eclectic ambiance. The menu changes daily, featuring a refreshing twist on familiar cuisine: award-winning steaks, seafood and pastas. Downstairs you’ll find a full smoking bar, complete with over three-dozen brands of cigars to choose from. If balancing a cigar with a martini glass isn’t your skill, head upstairs to the dining room—great for a night on the (Allen)town. When it’s available, order the deep yellow, richly flavored carrot soup, or the pepper crusted hay tuna, delectable if sushi-grade fish does it for you. The lunch menu is lighter on your wallet, and includes burgers, salads, and a light alternative to French fries called “tobacco onions.” (Open M-Th 11:30a-3p, 5p-10p, F 11:30a-3p, 5p-1a; Sa 5p-1a.)

Flawless food, graceful service and a modish air. If that’s what you’re looking for—and if you’re willing to leave Allentown—then Edge is your place. Edge, in historic downtown Bethlehem, bills itself as a dash of New York in Pennsylvania, and we can see why. Start your cosmopolitan evening with, well, a cosmo, as the bar mixes some of the best. Not 21? You can still dine Manhattan-style. Start with the prosciutto San Danielle ($10) or the baby field greens with toasted walnuts, Roquefort cheese, and a roasted shallot vinaigrette ($9).  For your main course, we suggest the New York strip steak ($30 and just what you’d expect from Luger’s) or the handmade cavatelli with rock shrimp ($22).  And the Normandy apple tart and Valrhona chocolate cake (both $9) are some of the best desserts you’ll find this side of the Lincoln Tunnel.  So hail a cab and enjoy big city dining right here in the Valley. (Open M-Th 5p-10p; F-Sa 5p-11p.)

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.)  

$$$ Italian

MIN 1243 Tilghman St.
610-770-7717

On one of the busiest streets in Allentown lies a quaint garden courtyard, filled with Roman statues and fountains. At Bellisimo, you reward your senses long before the food’s brought out. (Inside, too: The dimly lit, tiled dining room is a long way from the chaos of Seeger’s.) Each meal begins with Italian rolls dipped in hot garlic and oil. Don’t skip the appetizers here: The hot antipasto, with Italian meats, cheeses and fish, is particularly good. The entrees are generously portioned, and rarely disappointing. Tuscan wine, elegant music, the soft gurgle of a fountain: It’s easy to forget—and depressing to remember—that you’re a few car lots away from campus. (Open Tu-Su 11a-10p.)

While there are cheaper options for a tasty meal, it’s definitely worth forking out a couple extra bucks for the Bay Leaf. The décor looks more like an airport lounge than a fine restaurant, but the food more than makes up for it. Begin with any of the reasonably priced starters or salads, such as the inventive Mango Napoleon, which combines a tropical salad with crab meat. Entrees range from Thai-inspired creations to seafood and veal dishes, which are all equally delectable. The Bay Leaf proves that culinary excellence can be found without leaving downtown Allentown. (Open M-F 11:30a-2p, 5p-10p; Sa 5p-10p.)

Mere vegetarians are such wussies! At Balasia, vegans run the show, and even  the carnivores among us are grateful.  Balasia is set in a fabulous Victorian mansion in nearby Emmaus, though the homemade dishes are even more beautiful—a kaleidoscope of fresh and artfully arranged vegetables. The vibe is earhty, with bamboo placemats and scented acors at every table. Your host is also the owner and cook, and she’ll happily recount her travles through India, studies of botany, and 11-year commitment to vegan foods. Her menu changes every day and the drink specials are all organic (including everything from red peach soda to Kombucha, a Himalayan tonic).  Make sure you try the Peanut Butter Bombe, so rich that you would never know it isn’t chocolate. Down with the lactose-industrial complex! (Open Tu-W 11a-4p; Th-F 11a-4p, 5p-11p, Sa 5p-11p.)

It’s really your pick when it comes to a night out at the Apollo Grill.  The place is a combination of fancy restaurant and sports bar; a dimly lit, slightly overcrowded dining area full of beautiful paintings adjacent to a bar with a television screen for ESPN.  The food, wherever you end up, is delicious.  Like the crowd and atmosphere, the menu is split between affordable fare and items to save for a night when you’re planning to step up to your “A-game.” While entrees typically run $11 to $25, there’s plenty to fit the college budget:  the appetizers, club sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, and pastas are all priced from $7 to $11.  For the older crowd, there’s a dizzying array of martinis and wines.  Beware the dessert menu you’ll get before receiving your bill – it’s hard to resist. The Apollo Grill is nice but not over the top—the perfect place to take first dates, long-time loves, and parents. (Open Tu-Sa 11a-10p.)

Paris has its Eiffel Tower. For London, it’s St. Paul’s Cathedral, while New York boasts the Statue of Liberty. Here in Allentown, we have the Brew Works. We jest, yes, but only slightly: the 400-seat, $7 million brew pub has quickly become, since its 2007 opening, the nerve center of life downtown. One payoff: we no longer need to slog to the Fegley family’s original outpost, in Bethlehem (see page XX). The Brew Works occupies four enormous (wide-planked) floors of an old silk factory, and “soaring” seems a feeble description of the steel-beamed ceilings. The food—look out for “beer-enhanced” dishes—is much better than your typical pub fare. We like the pizza special ($9) and the juicy “bacon me bleu” burger ($8.50), though our first love is the mysteriously delicious chicken cheesesteak ($8). And then there are the beers, all brewed on site: five standbys (our favorite is Hop Explosion) and a rotating cast of seasonal offerings (like the high-alcohol Rude Elf Reserve). You could easily get lost here: the ground-floor space, with its underlit bar and glimmering stainless steel brewing tanks, opens onto an outdoor “Biergarten.” Downstairs is the “Silk Room,” with its L.A. hipster vibe—low-slung black leather couches, votive candles, and a startling two-way mirror (you have to see it). Take the wide staircase to the second floor “High Gravity” bar and dining area, which hosts live music on the weekends and comedy on Tuesday nights. Thursday is “College Pub Night,” so bring your Muhlenberg ID for specials. And don’t forget to leave with a “growler” ($3, $8 to fill) of craft brew. (Open daily 11a-2a.)

Abruzzi on Main might be hard to find since it’s located in one of the houses in the sleepy town of Coopersburg.  That look and feel holds inside, too —eating here is like dining in the living room of your home. We found ourselves paralyzed by the news. For appetizers, you can’t go wrong with the bruschetta, calamari, or pear salad (all $8).  Our top picks for entrees:  the filet mignon with a side of pancetta mashed potatoes ($28) and the shrimp with creamy risotto ($24).  And be sure to save room for crème brulee for dessert. Abruzzi on Main is serious about wine—they’ve got an extensive wine list and even offer wine tasting courses on Wednesday nights. Their motto—now our motto—is drink what you like. (Open Tu-F 11:30a-3p, 5p-9:30p; Sa 5p-9:30p.)