Steaks & Sandwich Month Week #5

Cheesesteak Louie’s

1207 Chew Street

Allentown, PA 18102

610-432-8411

On the hunt for a quality cheese steak in the Lehigh Valley, I was eager to try Cheesesteak Louie’s.  The owner, Louie Belletieri, is well-known in the area for his Italian restaurant currently in Allentown (near Emmaus).  The site of his newly opened hub, was the previous location for his Italian restaurant, which has a family history.  I figured an Italian couldn’t go wrong with a good cheese steak.

Large cheesesteak

House favorite: tomato gorgonzola steak

We were not disappointed.  He describes his steaks as “Lehigh Valley Style”—which affirmed my previous observation that there is a distinction between a Philly and Lehigh Valley cheese steak!  I appreciate the reasonable prices ($4.49-7.49), the generous portions of the 2 sizes (regular/large), and the creative twists on this classic sandwich.  The most imaginative on the menu include: pepperoni cheese steak, tomato gorgonzola steak (termed the house favorite), scampi style steak and spinach ali oil cheesesteak.  Louie has earned my respect with his gourmet-flare! 

The menu includes some Italian specialty sandwiches (unfortunately, I didn’t see chicken parm), burgers, subs, wings, and salads. I enjoyed “Louie’s famous tossed salad” with my cheese steak, which included the house vinaigrette & gorgonzola cheese.

The new establishment was conspicuously swarming with newcomers as well as regulars who were confidently and quickly placing their usual order.  Service was serious and efficient, atmosphere full of seating but slightly stark.  Zandy’s atmosphere & Louie’s steaks would be an ideal combo.

If you are looking for an Allentown adventure, visiting Cheesesteak Louie’s is worth it. 

Large Buffalo Cheesesteak

Would I return?  Yes--especially since my husband said 2 times in the last 2 days: "When are we going back to Louie's?"  His heart was won.

Credit Cards accepted; Closed Sundays.