1
$$$Top Pick
The perfect neighborhood bistro. Creative comfort food, excellent cocktails, and a warm atmosphere. The brunch is legendary — get the chicken and waffles.
Allentown, Pennsylvania · The Queen City
Best Restaurants in Allentown
Our curated list of the 18 best restaurants in Allentown, PA. Ranked by Google reviews, local reputation, and our team's research. Updated for 2026.
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The Loft offers open-air dining with the same award-winning menu. Perfect for date nights or impressing out-of-town guests. The steak is consistently perfect.
3
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The clam chowder is legendary — creamy, loaded with clams, and tastes like it was flown in from Cape Cod. A Lehigh Valley institution for over 40 years.
4
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The lump crab cakes are 99% crab, 1% magic. Skip the chains and come here for the freshest seafood in the Valley. The broiled seafood platter is a must.
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Perfect pre-show dinner spot for PPL Center events. The burger is one of the best in town, and the cocktail menu is creative without being pretentious.
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They take "local" seriously — most ingredients come from within 100 miles. The seasonal menu keeps things fresh, and the whiskey flight is a journey through Pennsylvania distilleries.
7
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Over 100 years of serving oysters and seafood. The atmosphere is pure nostalgia — wood paneling, no frills, just incredible fresh seafood. A true Valley landmark.
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Huge portions at great prices. The margaritas are dangerously good and the fajitas arrive sizzling. Perfect for groups.
9
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Handmade pasta that rivals anything in Philly. The wood-fired pizzas are crispy and perfectly charred. A hidden gem.
10
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The go-to pizza in Allentown's West End. Thin crust, quality toppings, and fast delivery. Sometimes simple is best.
11
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Consistently great Chinese food for decades. The General Tso's chicken is crispy perfection and the lunch specials are a steal.
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Nearly 900 Google reviews and still going strong — the locals have spoken. Their lunch specials and family-style dinner platters are outstanding value.
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Nearly 1,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating don't lie — the curries here are exceptional. Regulars rave about the chicken tikka masala and lamb korma, and the naan is made fresh to order.
14
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Reliable Thai food that hits the spot every time. The curries are well-spiced and the pad thai is properly made with tamarind.
15
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The hidden gem that locals rave about. Tucked away in Coplay, this spot serves authentic Thai that rivals anything in the major cities. Once you find it, you'll be back.
16
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Solid Thai food on Tilghman with 255 Yelp reviews backing it up. The menu is extensive and the execution is consistent. A reliable choice when you're craving Thai.
17
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Self-proclaimed highest-rated Japanese in the Valley — and the reviews back it up. Fresh fish, creative rolls, and a staff that takes pride in every plate.
18
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The hibachi show makes it perfect for birthdays and celebrations. The sushi is fresh and the chefs put on a proper show at the grill.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best restaurant in the Lehigh Valley?
Based on our research, Bolete Restaurant in Bethlehem consistently ranks as the top fine dining destination, while Union & Finch in Allentown leads for casual dining with a 4.8 Google rating from nearly 3,000 reviews.
Where should I eat in Bethlehem, PA?
Historic downtown Bethlehem offers excellent dining options including Apollo Grill (rated #1 on TripAdvisor), Edge Restaurant at Hotel Bethlehem for upscale dining, and Bolete for a nationally-acclaimed farm-to-table experience.
Are there good seafood restaurants in the Lehigh Valley?
Yes — Marblehead Chowder House has served New England-style seafood since 1983, Henry's Salt of the Sea is famous for their crab cakes, and Youell's Oyster House has been an institution since 1923.