Frites
Lehigh Valley Mall
823 Lehigh Lifestyle Center
Whitehall, PA
484/442/0580
Hours:  Mall hours



Spoon Rate:

The Lehigh Valley can now experience fries on a whole new level.  Local natives have brought an international delicacy to our local mall to totally enhance your next shopping meal or snack..   I had the privilege of sitting and dining with CEO, Richard Scott and his son, William, to learn the history of this recently-opened business, their passion for excellence, flavor and unique eating.  

Richard Scott ended his career in corporate America in May, 2013.  Looking for a change, he joined William, Penn State finance graduate, in this new endeavor.  Richard, born in England, had the opportunity to travel many places as a young boy, exposing him to the diverse expression of food around the globe.  At age 11, he lived in Brussels, Belgium and was exposed to one of their delicacies, pommes frites, meaning "apple of the earth."  Found in "street food" stands, pommes frites was served in cones with a side of mayo. 


Scotts' vision was to have a fast, casual eatery committed to local, fresh products.  While emphasizing the french fry, they wanted it to be distinct, accompanied by the entire dining experience.  Frites (pronounced Freets) seeks to offer us an authentic cultural experience, yet in a setting and delivery that appeals to American taste.  I respect this philosophy and it does not take long to recognize they have achieved their initial purpose.  Greeted by friendly, helpful staff and a clean, bright, modern surroundings, the atmosphere mirrors their personal commitment to excellence.   

A behind-the-scenes tour impressively revealed there is "nothing frozen" and "nothing from a can."  In fact, they removed the freezer upon obtaining this prime location at the Lehigh Valley Mall.   What is the secret ingredient that makes these fries extraordinary?  The time and care committed to each fresh USA Russet potato.  I learned that "sugar is the enemy of frying." The process of washing, cutting the ends, evenly slicing and rinsing the potatoes removes excess starch that could lead to burning.  Preparation of these potatoes is a 16-24 hour process.  This gives a whole new meaning to the expression "made with love!"  After soaking overnight, there is a two-stage frying process.  Cook, blanch, drain, and cook again.  Fries are made to order and served at room temperature.  After fried to perfection, they are placed in a "Frites tosser", imported from Europe.  The holes on the bottom of this special creation allow them to be tossed with delicious sea salt and maximum grease removed.  Quality ingredients, these fries are also gluten free, and vegan/vegetarian-friendly.

If you are not yet convinced that these fries are worthwhile and memorable, let's review the menu.  One can receive the traditional cone of frites (small, large or double, ($4.99-8.99), with your choice of 1 dipping sauce, or 2 dipping sauces for the double order.  I recommend taking a friend and ordering the double so you can try 2 of their 17 dipping sauces.  Also made fresh on location, each sauce is bursting with flavor and creativity.  Only one of their options is not housemade, the frite sauce, imported from Holland.   While hard to narrow down a favorite, curry ketchup and pow pow (a thai sauce) were my preferences.  Garlic parmesan and ranch are  two more traditional sauces for the less adventurous palate.    

Frites again achieves superiority with their meal options, a Bowl or Frita.  The Bowl ($6.49-8.99) combines fries topped with fresh toppings.  We sampled the Mexicano ($6.49), topped with black beans, vegetarian chili, jalapenos, pico de gallo and cheddar jack.   This bowl is bursting with flavor and a beautiful combination of sweet and spicy.  If you are looking for the most unique offering on the menu, I would recommend the poutine bowl ($6.99).  This provides a sampling of the unique Canadian delicacy of Wisconsin cheese curds, gravy and bacon.  Scott, describing himself as a "voracious researcher," found the best local supplier of cheese curds, remaining true to his commitment of excellent, fresh, and local products.

All menu options can also be made into a Frita, their unique sandwich version, a grilled pita stuffed with fries and toppings.  Pita bread, a sturdy successful carrier of these ingredients, is from a New Jersey supplier.  I was thrilled to try the Barbecue Brisket frita ($8.99).  Supplied by Big Papa's Backyard BBQ, we sampled freshly smoked brisket and locally made BBQ sauce, also topped with coleslaw.  Undeniably wonderful.

This father-son duo are ambitious and have a vision to see at least 3 more locations in the LV & B region.  They have done their part in contributing to the LV Eating Scene....now it's up to us to appreciate, support and enjoy their efforts towards frites excellence.

Wash your meal down with one of their unique teas, including a seasonal option.

Machu Picchu Peruvian Restaurant

Machu Picchu
1330 E. 4th Street
Bethlehem, PA 18015
610/865/5838
Hours: M & T: Closed; W-Th 12p-7p; F 11a-8p; Sat & Sun 11a-10p
Spoons: 

Southside Bethlehem has an appealing variety of ethnic cuisine, including a family-friendly Peruvian restaurant in the heart of one of its neighborhoods.  To my knowledge, it's the only Peruvian restaurant in the region.  Having a wonderful experience at one in New York City with our Peruvian friend, we were curious to see what Machu Picchu brings to the LV & B.  

Though the atmosphere temperature was a little too cool for comfort on the cold evening we visited, the dining room is spacious, clean and ready for many local guests.

Although we didn't try the traditional Peruvian dish, ceviche, (a raw fish cured in citrus juices), we were eager to select from the appetizing traditional menu options.  We always appreciate the authenticity of a restaurant when the menu is primarily Spanish, with English Translation.  Of course I attempted to resurrect my rusty Spanish from high school education as I order.  The menu includes a variety of beef, chicken and fish ($6-$15, depending on portion size)  Entrees served a variety of sides, including rice, french fries, fried bananas or beans.  I ordered Pescado Frito Filete Arroz con Yuca ($10-fried fish fillet with rice and cassava).  The meal was simple, but delicious and comforting.  An accompanying housemade green sauce, that appeared to include oil, parsley and garlic, was a key addition for flavor.
My husband ordered pollo a la brasa con papas fritas y ensalada de lechuga ($9-chicken with french fries and salad).  His selection was flavorful, tender and generous in portion. 

As we dined, the tables slowly filled on an early Friday evening.  Some came in for take-out orders, while other groups of all ages, including families, joined us for dine-in service.  
Our meal ended with leftovers and a full satisfaction from South American hospitality and comfort cuisine.    

Our next visit will definitely bring a sampling of their ceviche and something from their dessert menu, like crema volteada (flan).

Daddy's Place

Daddy's Place
650 Northampton St.
Easton, PA 18042
 610-438-4442
Hours:  Sun 12p-9p; M-Th 7a-9p; 7a-10p



Spoon Rate:   

A highlight since starting this blog is having friends and family make recommendations for local restaurants to review.  A friend invited me to join her at Daddy's Place.  It could be because she knew the owner that we received such honorable treatment.  However, the hospitality we received is a true depiction of the pride and love that encompass this family-owned restaurant in downtown Easton.  Relatively new to this city, it has much to offer the Lehigh Valley & Beyond.

An unexpected asset noticed upon arrival is ample parking in their lot.  The signs, outdoor and indoor renovations are artistic, modern and clean.  Outdoor tables for eating is to be expected upon warmer temperatures.  Inside, the open, bright atmosphere is energizing, with an at-home feel.  The owners and employees were working hard in the kitchen, already starting to prepare an appetizer sampler for us. A case is full of treats ranging from spinach pie to slices of cheesecake.  I hear wonderful things about the homemade cheesecake and baklava--which must be popular because they were out of stock that day. 

The name Daddy's place lovingly came from one of the daughters of the owners.  With a Lebanese heritage, the menu includes Mediterranean/Middle-Eastern Cuisine.  Their menu is vast, including a variety of American options for breakfast, lunch, & dinner.  We chose to have the authentic Lebanese experience.  

The impeccable service started us with 2 mini-pie sampler ($5.99).  This variety of pastry pies were stuffed with cheeses, spinach, meats and flavor.  To follow, we requested the fava bean salad and a sampler of hummus, baba ganouj, tabouli, and grape leaves.  Accompanied by their delicious thin flatbread, we experienced the robust flavors of these classic dishes.  Their hummus was exceptionally smooth with a distinct hint of lemon.

We tried to pace ourselves so we could enjoy an entree.  All entrees are accompanied by a choice of 2 sides (salad, soup, rice and grilled veggies.)  We were recommended to try the lamb ($18.95).  My friend enjoyed the unique rice, tender lamb with an accompanying, flavorful sauce.  She commented on the authenticity of each recipe.  In her words, "Most middle eastern places serve the lamb kabobs a bit too chewy but the lamb there had the perfect balance of being char-grilled on the outside and tender on the inside. The rice was made with a roasted traditional Lebanese noodle, which gave it a comfort food flavor to it."  I chose the falafel with grilled veggies ($13.99).  Large portions and plenty of food left us beyond satisfied with many leftovers to enjoy the next day.  Our meal ended with a delicious cup of Turkish coffee.($1.50)

Not only does Daddy's place provide cuisine that makes you feel at home, it also serves as a beer distributor.  Said to have the largest selection of beer in the Lehigh Valley (over 600), it provides both imported and local brews to drink in-house or take home.  

An enjoyable addition to the city of Easton, I look forward to sharing the hospitable, delicious experience with my friends and family!

     

Destination Month-Week #3: Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia, rightly famous for its deliciously comforting soft pretzels and cheese steaks, has becomingly increasingly known for its brunch spots.  Many of the hip, up-and-coming neighborhoods' restaurants are part of a growing competition for where the locals will frequent each weekend.  True to the character of the city of Brotherly Love, each of these is earth, art, vegan/vegetarian-friendly.  Here are a few I've enjoyed:

Honey's Sit 'n Eat
800 N. 4th St.
Hours: M-Th 7a-8p; F & Sat 7a-9p; Sun 7a-5p
(note: Cash only restaurant)

Serving breakfast, lunch & dinner, there is a perpetual out-the-door line during brunch hours.  Honeys' offers a casual down-home, country farm environment in the middle of Northern Liberties.  Committed to using local ingredients whenever possible including the free-range eggs, produce & bacon, it has a wide menu whose highlights include:

Enfrijoladas ($9-Two flour tortillas filled with scrambled eggs & beans, topped with salsa verde, black bean puree, sour cream, queso fresco, red onions, radishes and mixed micro green salad
Add Chorizo, Veggie sausage, Breakfast meat or substitute tofu for an additional charge)

Savory Tofu Scramble ($9-Green peppers, onions and tomatoes, served with hand-cut fries)
 
Whole Wheat Pancakes ($9-Filled with granola and berries, with maple syrup)

All eggs come with choice of cheese & onion potato latke, homefries or grits, & hearty bread selection:  buttered challah, country white, wheat, rye, corn muffin or biscuit)

Coffee is bold & delicious--and an outstanding feature is their fresh-squeezed orange juice--squeezed in sight behind the counter.  Certainly a fun vibe and tough-to-beat meal at Honeys'.


Sabrina's Cafe
3 locations:  Italian Market-910 Christian St. 
Hours: T-Th 8a-9p, F-Sat 8a-10p, Sun-M 8a-4p

 

Fairmount/Art Museum Area-1804 Callowhill St Hours: T-Sat 8a-10p; Sun & M 8a-4p

University City Drexel Campus:  227 N 34th St Hours: T-Th 8a-9m; F-Sat 8a-10; Sun & M 8a-4p

University City location

Visiting the Italian Market location, provided a quiet brunch spot with quaint outdoor seating.  University City offers the college campus vibe in a historic, picturesque building.  I especially enjoyed sitting in a room with large windows and generous natural lighting.  

Coffee was vibrant and delicious.  Menu highlights include:

Tofu Scamble

Tofu Scramble: ($7.89 spiced tofu, sauteed onions, shallots, garlic, peppers, spinach and mushrooms, with a side of Philly famous LeBus Multigrain bread and fresh fruit.

Egg white primavera Frittata:  ($9.99 made with assorted vegetables)

Stuffed french toast specials

Green Eggs Cafe



3 locations
N. Liberties: 719 N.2nd St
S. Philly: 1306 Dickinson St.
Midtown Village: 212 S. 13th St.
Hours: 8a-4p daily
cash only

Speaking only for the Northern Liberties location, I thoroughly enjoyed the hip, urban, open-air atmosphere.  Friendly staff serve high quality, delicious food.  Green Eggs has an earth-friendly philosophy--including recycling all paper products, glass, plastic and aluminum and composting all food and organic waste.  From their website I learned the grow herbs & spices in-house on a rooftop garden! 

Delicious coffee accompanies a superior menu with these recommendations:  

Veggie Benedict:  ($9-Portobello mushrooms, sauteed spinach and roasted peppers on toasted brioche rounds topped with two poached eggs and a rich hollandaise sauce  (all eggs served with an excellent choice of signature or rosemary potatoes)

 
Stuffed French Toast ($10-Brioche slices stuffed with fresh berries, ricotta cheese topped with Chantilly cream, fresh berry compote, and blackberry coulis) 

Quinoa Porridge ($6-Agave nectar, cinnamon, cardamom, golden raisins, and cream topped with fresh berries and fresh berry compote, vegan option available)

Granola ($6-Artisan made mixed berry or coffee chocolate chip granola with fresh fruit, sweet berry compote and greek yogurt)

If you have another favorite Philly brunch spot, include a comment with your suggestion!