Melting Pot Month-Week #4 Paprika's

Paprika's
1180 Main Street
Hellertown, PA  18055
610-838-6570
Hours:  M & T Closed; W & Th 12-7:30p; F & Sat 12-8:30p; Sun 12-6:30p
Spoon Rate: 

Dozens of times have I driven by & overlooked the only Hungarian restaurant in the Lehigh Valley & the ultimate source of comfort food.  Thankfully our good friends & Hellertown residents introduced us.  It was a truly enjoyable evening because it was so different from our normal weekend fare.

It brought me back to my childhood--we do not have Hungarian roots--but I recall many meals of noodles embedded in warm, creamy comfort.  Now I have a deeper appreciation for an opportunity to embark in the cultural heritage of this family-operated restaurant.  

We were greeted warmly and served joyfully.  The meal contains classics:  pierogies ($6.50); cabbage & noodles (appetizer size:$5.75-suitable for a smaller appetite; dinner: $10.75)   chicken or beef paprikas ($12.75, special sauce served over homemade noodles); halupkis (stuffed cabbage also served with mashed potatoes, $12.75); hungarian cottage cheese with noodles & breaded pork chops ($15.99); hungarian goulash ($11.75)--to name a few.  Dinners are served with rolls and soup or salad.  The portions are HUGE, adding to the comfort--nothing like a second experience of leftovers the next day. 

The casual atmosphere encouraged taking our time and enjoying conversation. Beyond the satisfying dinner, we saved room to sample their coffee & crepes.  Apricot & strawberry/nutella were our selections amongst at least 8 options.  Slightly thicker than the thin French crepes I have tried in the past.  Definitely a worthwhile ending.  Paprika's is family-friendly, non-pretentious home-cooking dining.