Whether it’s for a date, a night out with friends or simply a casual dinner somewhere other than Rathbone, these five nearby restaurants will certainly take you “out of the bubble.”
(Pricing runs from $ to $$$$)
Mama Nina’s Foccacheria
Personal gourmet pizzas are a local favorite at Mama Nina’s on Main Street. (Nadine Elsayed / B&W photo)
A family-run restaurant on Main Street on the North Side, Mama Nina’s offers traditional Italian cuisine with a BYOB option. The menu ranges from crumbled gorgonzola salad to fried calamari to Tour of Italy pasta and even gourmet pizza. Enjoy a taste of Italy under a European ambiance of twinkling lights and the smooth sounds of classical music.
Price: $$
Attire: Casual or Dressy
Melt
Melt resides on the other side of South Mountain in the heart of the Promenade Shops in Saucon Valley. With dimmed lights and a sophisticated atmosphere, Melt provides not only a two-floor restaurant, but a classy rooftop bar with an outdoor club section as well. Dress in your finest and lounge on the elegant seats while choosing from a varied menu of dinner, desserts and cocktails.
Price: $$$$
Attire: Fancy
Apollo Grill
The Apollo offers outdoor seating in addition to the rooms inside on Broad Street. (Nadine Elsayed / B&W photo)
Voted the Best Restaurant in the Lehigh Valley for a record 13 years, Apollo Grill lives up to the award with an eclectic and international menu. Choose from a variety of fresh fish, steaks, salads, pastas and sandwiches all custom made to your preference. Sit outside during dinner and enjoy the sights and sounds of Historic Downtown Bethlehem, or opt for a quieter yet still vibrant atmosphere inside.
Price: $$$
Attire: Dressy
Strawberries, cheesecake, brownies, marshmallows and other sweets are provided with each chocolate fondue on the dessert menu at The Melting Pot. (Nadine Elsayed / B&W photo)
The Melting Pot
Referred to as “the fondue experience,” The Melting Pot splits its menu into two distinct sections: dinner and dessert. On the dinner side, you can choose from a variety of meats and seafood to cook and dip into an array of cheese fondue options. On the dessert side, an assortment of fruits, marshmallows, brownies and other delicacies are served with each chocolate fondue mixed especially for your order. Since customers dip their food into the same pot, the setting is quite a social one – so head out with a group of friends you can discuss great topics with over great food.
Price: $$$ (Dinner) $ (Dessert)
Attire: Dressy
Bethlehem Brew Works
Bethlehem Brew Works has front row seating to the sights and sounds of Main Street, Bethlehem. (Nadine Elsayed / B&W photo)
The Brew Works attempts to capture the essence of Bethlehem’s steel industry with its interior design of steel frames and brick walls. Take a tour through the 610 with the Christmas City salad, Steel Bridge fish tacos or the Bethlehem pasta all for a reasonable price. The basement hosts a bar, billiards and open-mic as well so walk down after your meal and feel like a true local.
Price: $$
Attire: Casual
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