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.)

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.)

Awkwardly named, yes. Hard to find—it’s true. But we came for the seafood, and here we were impressed. The “famous” clam chowder deserves its acclaim—it’s some of the best we’ve tasted. The Maryland crab dishes, straight from the Chesapeake, are delectable. The place is named for its oysters, and they’re also tasty (and especially slippery). Our servers were friendly and astoundingly knowledgeable about the menu. (Ask about the chowder, and you’ll get a rapid-fire ingredient recitation.) Youell’s has a nautical elegance to its dining room, and it should: The prices here, though fair, will stretch the college budget. Parents weekend? (Open M-Th 4p-9p; F-Sa 4p-10p.)

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.) 

¿Habla español? No? Well, then, this might not be the place for you. This is not your ordinary taco and quesadilla hotspot; it’s a Dominican restaurant with Spanish-speaking regulars. Tu Casa, as the name suggests, is a casual joint, with televisions (and even a giant projection screen) blaring Spanish-language music videos and soap operas. The Spanish-only menu is potentially crippling for the monolinguists among us, but pictures of each dish make point-and-smile ordering possible. Whole fish, shrimp, octopus, steak and chicken (all mostly fried) are the menu staples, with side choices including rice and fried plantains. If you like Chi Chi’s, then stick to the strip malls. We’re more at home at Tu Casa. (Open M-F 11a-11p; Sa 11a-10p; Su 11a-9p.)

Located in the heart of Bethlehem, Tortilla Flat offers a wide range of Mexican favorites. We’d vote for the fajitas ($13).  The combo meals are a great deal but sometimes it’s hard to know what you’re eating or taste any difference between the dishes.  The changos ($4) – fried bananas with a caramel filling – are a must for dessert. The service is fast and helpful.  And the hand-painted murals and the doggy cantina make both two- and four-legged patrons feel welcome. (Open M-F 11a-10p; Sa 9a-10p; Su 9a-8p.)

We’re not sure what they were going for with the interior decorating at Teppan Hibachi Steak house and Sushi Bar – the bright red walls with multicolored squares scream mod but the tables adorned with bamboo plans and a wall mural with ancient geisha tea-servers, not so much.  Regardless, the wait staff is friendly and fast, and the menu has an infinite number of reasonably priced sushi combinations (accompanied by pictures just in case the Japanese names trip you up).  Try the Maki Combi, which includes three different types of sushi (all delicious), Miso soup, Ginger salad, and ice cream, all for just under $15. Teppan is the perfect fit for a lightweight alternative to the General's Quarters.

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.) 

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.)

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.)

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.) `

Ruffino’s isn’t shy about what it does best. The specialty here is brick oven pizza, and a whole lot of it. The restaurant serves Napolitano (thin crust), Sicilian (deep dish) and stuffed (where the ingredients are between two layers of dough). And it’s all cooked in an actual brick oven visible from the dining room. (Just drag your eyes away from the desserts on display and you’ll see it.) If pizza’s not your thing, there’s also a lengthy menu full of pasta, chicken and veal entrees, as well as calzones and other sandwiches. Plus, you can’t help but enjoy the atmosphere—very “Italian village” with service like you’d find in the classiest places. It’s a great date spot, especially on weekends when they’ve got live entertainment. (Open M-Th 10a-10p; F-Sa: 11a-11p; Su noon-10p.)

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.)

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.)

If you’ve been scouring the Lehigh Valley for a trendy restaurant where you and your friends can sip martinis and look hip, you may be in luck. But with pricey, mediocre fare and inefficient service, eating at Pistachio regularly would be…well, nuts. The décor is warehouse chic, complete with exposed pipes and art deco light fixtures. Echoing acoustics turn conversations into shouting matches. The menu is hefty but don’t be fooled—the salads (which occupy almost a full page) are all over $10 and a letdown. You’re better off with a pasta dish or the eggplant shelbourne, which is yummy AND huge. Even if you don’t have room for dessert, at least check out the tray. Worst-case scenario: You settle for a cup of Mexican hot chocolate. So if you’re feeling more SoHo than Allentown, head to Pistachio with a full wallet, earplugs and patience. (Open Su-Th 11:30a-midnight; F-Sa 11:30a-2a.)

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.)

If you're venturing downtown Hamilton Boulevard, consider Pasta Alla Rosa for an Italian lunch. The menu consists of typical lunch items, like wraps and salads, but also various chicken, fish, or shrimp entrées.  Dishes are served with pasta (with a choice of five sauces) or vegetables. Despite the crowds of lunchtime downtown employees, the place maintains a minimalist elegance, with framed Italian museum posters and checkered curtains. It's not necessary to make an exclusive trip here, but if you're in the area and craving Italian, it's worth the stop. (Open M-F 9a-4p.)

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.) 

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.)

Plain on the outside, Paola’s – a family-run Colombian restaurant – is downright manic on the inside, with bright yellow walls and a few tables with a view of the kitchen.  Go for traditional Colombian treats like grilled tongue or beefsteak "a caballo" or stick with a simple bacon cheeseburger.  The service is not that fast, but the televisions inside will keep you occupied until the huge (and cheap!) entree is served. (Open daily 7a-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.)

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.)

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.)

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 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.) 

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.) 

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.)

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.)