Friday, May 27, 2011

Breakfast Month #3: Jumbars



Bethlehem, PA
610-866-1660

My only regret related to Jumbars, is not visiting sooner.  When Evans Eats’ began breakfast month reviews, I was reminded by 2 dear friends of my need to include Jumbars, what I have come to believe may be one of the best kept secrets in the Lehigh Valley.  While I spoke so highly of Blue Sky Café and remain loyal to that review, this overall experience is quite a rival. The beautiful weather enticed outdoor seating, but the cozy indoor environment is too good to   pass up for a first time guest.  

Every table was filled in the inconspicuous house with a small sign—adding to the thrill of the best-kept secret.   The crowd included all ages and both genders—a good sign for appealing to all.  Solo parties could be seen reading a book or magazine while enjoying a cup of delicious fair trade and organic coffee or a fresh house made baked good with one of their variety of flavored hot or iced teas.  Some groups were spotted pairing up after running into each other there…the treasure of a well-done local spot: encouraging community!  Beyond the crowd, so many small touches enhanced the overall comfortable and enjoyable feeling—from the colorful vintage fiestaware, to the sturdy farmhouse water glasses, to the bar overlooking the display of baked goods, to the shelves of book for perusing pleasure.  

It's a privilege to have my friend and guest blogger, Meghan share her perspective in yellow:  
One of life’s simple pleasures, a gift from God, is a slow Saturday morning. A morning without a to-do list, tedious errands, and numerous events. This past Saturday I had one special engagement, with mentor and a friend. A smile exploded on to my face, Friday night, when I was invited, the next morning, to brunch with Heather Evans.
Nestled outside historic Bethlehem, Jumbars is a small brick home which possesses a character and a style all its own. The delight of the dining room is only complimented further by Jumbars homemade entrees, pies, and breads.

Stepping through the restaurant’s front door, the room held the warmth of my Grandmother’s own kitchen. After seating ourselves, Heather and I, eyes wide, scanned the yellow and green walls posted with today’s gourmet specialties. The quaint, but colorful dining room held you like an old friend. The springtime sun flooded the room and conversations swirled through the air. Friendliness seemed to reach out from the walls. I was too busy smiling to set eyes on the menu.
When the waitress came up to us, for the third time, I figured I better order something. How can you choose between an Asparagus, Mushroom and Provolone Quiche or a Pork Roll Sandwich with farmer’s cheese on a toasted house-made english muffin? As much as I’d like to say I ordered both, I chose the pork roll sandwich and a shared a side of colorful fresh fruit. 
 
(I, Heather, enjoyed customizing an omelette, accompanied by daily fresh house-made bread and potatoes, but could not pass up the fresh fruit cup, especially since they support local produce.   

The unique feature that melted my heart was the selection of their jams—again house made—I was sure to try 4 different kinds: blueberry, orange marmalade, peach, and strawberry-rhubarb!  Bread loaves and jars of jam can be taken home, along with the wide assortment of baked goods.  The gourmet lunch menu looked enticing with a variety  of unique salads and sandwiches,  Their breakfast menu is simple, classic, yet thoughtful.) 
 
Jumbars prides it’s cafe on a sense of community and “fresh, hand-crafted cuisine.” What you see is what you get, and my there is so much to see. Tables around you are filled with fluffy hot-cakes, an assortment of omelets, decadent pie slices, soups and salads. Light, fresh smells glide into the air off of warm plates. Bright and vibrant colors assure a crisp, unprocessed meal. There is beauty in the simplicity and ease in the atmosphere.
After another a cup of coffee and a few more minutes of positive conversation, I encourage you to grab a brochure before you leave to uncover the name, the women, behind the gem that is Jumbars.
Will I return? Without a doubt!  I wish it were closer—as this has and will be a deterrent—but I am looking forward to sharing this with some other breakfast lovers!

Open for Breakfast and Lunch, closed on Mondays


Jumbars on Urbanspoon

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Breakfast Month #2: Morgan's Restaurant

3079 Willow Street
Allentown, PA 18104
(610) 769-4100


I can only remark about the breakfast experience at Morgan’s, but consider it a highlight of the Lehigh Valley when it comes to a warm atmosphere combined with an excellent menu.  For me, an eatery is noteworthy when the mutual effort of aesthetics and creative eating conspicuously greet you and remain throughout your dining experience.  From the moment you pull into the parking lot, you will observe historic and stately charm, including the dining room’s exposed wood beams and stone.  If you are fortunate, you will be seated  by their fireplace—perfect for a winter morning.

The menu changes regularly to include featured specials.  One can join their mailing list to receive these in advance. On our last visit, our party enjoyed:
Zucchini Frittata with "health bread" toast
Chicken Fajita Omelet
  • Chicken Fajita Omelet—which earned approval for the “fluffy” eggs, just as described in the menu 
  • Zucchini Frittata, a nice alternative to an omelette, combined with "cottage fries" and hearty "health bread" toast.  (Don’t you respect the toast that has some depth to it?)    
  • Pumpkin Spice Waffle, topped cinnamon butter-outstanding!                                          
Pumpkin Spice Waffle with cinnamon butter
 We resisted our temptation to order the specialty French toast stuffed with chocolate, coconut and too much sweetness for 8:00 in the morning. Unfortunately, we enjoyed our meals so much there was no room for "dessert!"
Along with the quality food, the service was “quick, friendly and not rushed.”  Coffee inevitably accompanied this breakfast—bold yet not too strong for the conservative Lehigh Valley folks, served in a “Morgan’s” mug.

If you are looking for a special occasion meal, try Morgan’s.  Their capacity is an advantage, sure to fit a family gathering or a party of friends. 

Will I return?  Occasionally-saving it for a special occasion breakfast date.

Morgan's on Urbanspoon

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Breakfast Month #1--Blue Sky Cafe


22 W. 4th Street
Bethlehem, PA
610-867-9390

Breakfast: What may be the most underrated meal of the day proves to be my favorite.  So where are the local hotspots to enjoy breakfast?  While the “Coop D” or other local diners are typically the first place many consider, this month will give you a few more options.  It is with great pleasure, that I introduce you to Blue Sky Café, which happens to be in “Evans Eats overall Top 5 faves.”

While you’ll be sure to enjoy their lunch menu, I have found this to be the Best breakfast in the LV & B.  What makes this South Bethlehem such a hot spot?  The crowds, including local Lehigh University students, faculty and families, speak volumes of the food quality, efficient service and ideal ambience.  One diner said it well by commenting on the good vibe of the crowd and the atmosphere mirroring a New York Upper West side café.
Sweet Potato Quesadilla
 

Sure to have something for any preference, it provides your standard breakfast items with an ideal gourmet flare—using creative and artistic combination of flavors and products.  I’ve been there several times, but I’ve returned more than once to a house special:  sweet potato quesadilla, topped with scrambled eggs, black beans, salsa, and a side of sour cream.  Before you scoff, challenge your rigidity and trust their adventurous judgment—a hugely satisfying meal, bursting with creative flavor. 

Steel City Omelette
Homefries are “real” potatoes cut with love, not a frozen shredded product, and the toast is heartier than your usual diner bread.  Omelettes and frittatas offer a variety of cheeses such as asiago and fontina—consistently pushing you to broaden your horizon.  The coffee is a notch above your standard coffee.

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with a Blueberry compote syrup
For the sweeter breakfast, I recommend their French toast, specifically the banana bourbon is topped with sliced bananas and a rich caramel glaze—but this caramel is legit—not from a Smuckers squeeze bottle!  One member of our recent breakfast party claims the lemon ricotta pancakes drizzled with a blueberry syrup, “did not disappoint.  The blueberry was sweet but not overpowering”-a subtle touch to the tart lemon.
Sausage Frittata

Another of our party stated he was “on the fence” with his overall satisfaction.  “Although I loved its pesto highlights, the sausage frittata let me wanting more…”  In spite of this honest review, If you are looking for a ‘trendy, small, brunch and family place”—attempt Blue Sky.

Blue Sky hours:
Tuesday - Thursday: 7am-3pm
Friday - Saturday: 7am-5pm
Sundays: 7am-2pm


Blue Sky Cafe on Urbanspoon

Friday, May 6, 2011

Steaks & Sandwich Month Week #5


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.