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.)

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.)

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.)