Winston's

619 N. 7th Street

Allentown, PA  18102

484-221-9682

Hours:  M-Sat 11a-9p; Sun 11a-7p

Credit Card:  Accepted

Spoon Rate: 

Winston's brought us to a part of Allentown we might not normally visit or travel.  The online reviews were supportive that it was worth a visit.  To my knowledge, Winston (the personable owner), has a niche in the LV serving Jamaican or "West Indian & American" cuisine.   A no-frills ambience, reggae music playing in the background and authentic-looking, friendly employees greet you as you enter.  

We asked, "What's good here?  What do you recommend?"  He looked at us with confusion at our question and responded "ALL of it!"  His enthusiasm overshadowed his lack of assistance in understanding the simple menu.  Here it is: (see photo)  No paper menu.  No explanations...but the steady stream of customers, almost all getting take-out, all seemed to know exactly what to order.  We graciously accepted some free samples of the curry goat and oxtail.  He explained rice, beans, mixed vegetables and plantains come with every order (selections of fish, chicken or beef).  I like that.   Not to  mention, he guessed what I would order--jerk chicken ($8), a safe and standard option, for sure.  My husband ordered the curry goat ($10).   Now that we know the system--ordering would be a breeze.   

We dined in at one of the few tables--to get the full experience.  We enjoyed observing the friendly, neighborhood vibe.  The customers know a reasonable deal....as we were soon amazed by the portions.   The curry goat was tender--curry taste was not too overpowering.  Jerk chicken had a mild bite to it, but combined beautifully with the sides.  Definitely delicious, flavorful comfort food, with plenty of leftovers to take home. 

Our leftovers

Europa Restaurant & Barbecue
954 Pembrook Road
Freemansburg, PA  18017
610/814/6870
Hours:  T-Th 10a-9p; F-Sat 10a-10p; Sun 10a-7p
Spoon Rate:
 

 We stumbled upon this restaurant one evening.  While we were skeptical of the exterior (that reminded me of an American Legion Hall), the sign stating "churrasqueira" was intriguing.  It's always a good sign when you look in to see other customers.

Our choice to stay was affirmed by the extraordinary meal that we continue to talk about and recommend to others.  Serving a combination of Portuguese and Spanish cuisine, it is a family-friendly, modest-sized and decorated dining room.  While many chose take-out, its coziness gives it a homey feel as diners wait.  

Complimentary fresh Portuguese bread and black olives start off the meal.  We also shared a simple tossed salad ($6) for an appetizer.  The menu offers a variety of appetizers, sandwiches, meats and fish.  We decided to choose from the barbecue options, which included chicken, shrimp, ribs, pork or steak and some combos.  We chose the chicken and ribs combo ($14) which came with a side of fries and the chicken and shrimp combo ($15), which came with a side of rice.  We also ordered a side of black beans for the full experience.

Each bite was bursting with seasoned flavor and left you fascinated by how they made such a simple meal so delectable. As you can see by the pictures, the portions were large enough for more than 2 meals.  

 A satisfying meal and quiet dining experience.