2013 in Review:

The end of 2013 brought time for reflection & thanksgiving...the Lehigh Valley really does have a lot to offer the food scene--our year of eating included Mexican, Turkish, Middle-Eastern, French, Southern BBQ, Jamaican, Spanish/Portuguese--to name just a few.   Locally grown products, health-friendly, comfort food--old and new spots include it all.  While we have our favorite spots we continually return, we want to share just a few categories to reflect some of our favorite eating in 2013.  What have been your most memorable meals? We'd love to read your comments!

Favorite Mexican:  Fiesta Habanero

Favorite BBQ:  Tex's Smoking BBQ

Favorite Ice Cream:  milkshakes at MOO

Noteworthy addition to the Lehigh Valley & Beyond:  Full of Crepe

Favorite Thai:  Charly's

Favorite Find:  Damascus

Favorite Comfort Food:  Paprika's

Most Memorable Meal:  Europa Barbeque

 

Round 2 of Mexican Spots-Week #3: Tijuana Tacos

Tijuana Tacos
216 W. Broad St.
Quakertown, PA  18951
215-536-0444
Hours:  Sun 8a-0p; M-Th 10a-10p; F & Sat 10a-11p

There is an interesting strip in Quakertown that my brother has coined "Little Mexico" due to a few restaurants and a grocery store with a Latin American flare.  I finally had the opportunity to try this taco joint with my husband and some foodie friends.  While it is modest in decor, the food was satisfying. 

I love the fusion of English/Spanish writing in the menu. The prices and selection (tacos, burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, platters, etc.) were also agreeable.  We were greeted with delicious tortilla chips and fresh guac.   Our table enjoyed a burrito ($7.99) 2 chicken sopes ($7) served with beans, lettuce, tomato, sour 
 cream; and chicken enchiladas (choice of mole sauce or green or red salsa $9.99), served with rice and beans.

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, it seems most people order take-out so if you dine-in, you'll have privacy.  It's a worthwhile spot if you value authenticity, quality food, generous portions and reasonable prices.


 

Round 2 of Mexican Spots: Week #2- La Placita

La Placita Mexico Deli
158 N. 12th St
Allentown, PA 
610-821-4549
Hours:  M, W, Th: 11a-8p; F-Sat 10-9:30p; Sun 10a-7p 
(Credit Cards not accepted)

Some time ago, I came across some reviews for La Placita.  It was evident that the Lehigh Valley has given its approval for authenticity--so one Friday night we ventured out to give it a try.  Upon driving by, my husband refused to stop, as it appeared to be a corner store with only 2 stools by a crowded window for seating.  While my adventurous spirit is willing to make anything work, he apparently wasn't in the mood to make these aesthetics our Friday night out.  When convincing could not work, I resigned  myself to the missed opportunity to try what could be a hidden gem.  Thankfully, not too long after this, 2 friends asked us if we had tried La Placita, naming it their favorite places in the area.  After confirming there was more seating in the back, this is the verification my husband needed to give it another try.  

A true lesson in judging a book by its cover.  Located in the heart of Allentown, this family-run business is like stepping into the home of a true Mexican madre.  I even pulled out my high school Spanish skills while reading the part- Spanish/part-English menu and ordering La Placita Special (a chicken taco and chorizo taco with refried beans and rice-($6.75).  One of the best features was the double-wrapped corn tortillas.  Mark ordered green chicken enchiladas ($7.75), deliciously topped with avocado, cheese, sour cream and sides of classic rice and beans.  His review: "very spicy, very good."  

 
The complimentary chips and delicious salsa were enjoyed while we waited in the cozy back amidst the store shelves.  They maximize their space, but seating is limited--a few nestled tables. 

If you have a large party, take-out is your only option. But this is the place to go to charm your friends with some of the most authentic Mexican in the Lehigh Valley.

Round 2 of Mexican Spots-Week #1: Cactus Blue

Cactus Blue
2915 Schoenersville Rd.
Bethlehem, PA  18017
610-814-3000
Hours: M-Th 11a-9p; F-Sat 11a-10p 
Reservations Suggested

Writing these blogposts is an encouraging reminder that the Lehigh Valley truly does have an increasingly wide variety of cuisine offerings for those who are willing to take the time to step out of the box and look for it.  One evidence of this is this month's second round of featured Mexican Restaurants.  Since our first round of reviews, we have been able to enjoy some others worth sharing. 

Cactus Blue has often been mentioned to us.  We had two previous attempts of going but each time there has been a long wait (They suggest reservation on their website!)  Last night we hit it early enough that we were seated.  It was a perfect opportunity to support Bethlehem's Restaurant Week and determine why it's so popular.


We both have agreed that it must be the aesthetics and not the authentic cuisine that have added to the hype.  The food was decent but didn't leave me with the impression that I was walking into an authentic Mexican kitchen.  Of course, the service may have added to our impression that Cactus Blue was overrated.  Our server was definitely fast-working, but so fast that he failed to listen to our correct drink and food orders.  


One of us chose the 3 course restaurant week feature for $20 so we enjoyed an appetizer and dessert with our entrees.  After our guac and the complimentary salsa fresca, generous portions of our entrees' supplied us with an extra meal of leftovers of our fish tacos and chicken mole (was supposed to be enchiladas de mole but I figured I had my share of tortillas with our appetizers so I didn't send it back).   I enjoyed the mole sauce, a mexican tradition with a touch of cocoa to add to its rich, dark, dense coloring and flavor.  The side of black beans and rice were a fitting touch--but again did not ring true compared to us other spots in the area that I look forward to sharing with you in future weeks.

             We chose the chocolate bread pudding which came with the Restaurant week feature.  Delicious ending. 

What is your favorite Mexican Restaurant in the LV & B and what makes you choose it?  We value authenticity over aesthetics but would love to hear the opinions of others.

Mexican Month-Week #4: Mexico Lindo

Mexico Lindo
720 Main Street
Bethlehem, PA  18018
610-691-5141
Hours:  M-Th, Sun 11 am-9pm; Fri-Sat 11 am-10 pm


Away from the hype of downtown Main Street, is an inconspicuous dining opportunity that receives Evans Eats LV & B award for "Most authentic Mexican kitchen experience."   A relatively small dining area in a renovated home is combined with a family-owned and operated feel.  While the service was on the slow side, it allowed for a quiet evening of conversation and the hot, fresh meal displayed the time, effort and love of a Mexican mother.

Their menu reflects a traditional and thorough cuisine.  Our meals were satisfying, generous portions full of flavor and spice.  This restaurant is for those who value authenticity over ambience.

Mexican Month/Week #3: Fiesta Habanero

Fiesta Habanero

500 West Broad Street

Quakertown, PA  18951

215-538-2228

This post brings both sad and hopeful news. Sad news:  Previously reviewed, Empanadas Argentinas has closed.  We are disappointed to say good-bye to those pockets of goodness.  Good news:  Fiesta Habanero, a pleasing new business to downtown Quakertown, has taken its place.

 

Within weeks of opening, the husband and wife duo are hard at work pumping out a reasonable and tasteful sampling of Mexico's finest.  You can't beat a Chorizo taco for $1.75, served on a corn tortilla with cilantro, onion and salsa on the side, or a Tamale with red or

green sauce for $1.50 each.  

Menu includes a full selection of burritos ($5.95), flautas ($6.75), quesadillas ($3.50), including a vegetable or intriguing squash flower.  
  
My husband enjoyed the enchiladas with green sauce accompanied by rice and beans ($8.95) while I stumbled upon a grilled chicken torta ($5.95), a mexican sandwich served with beans, lettuce, tomato, avocado, cheese and jalapenos.

Served fresh with caring service, we enjoyed every bite.  Not everyone's idea of a Friday night out, but we thoroughly enjoyed ordering at their walk-up window and informal seating on a warm spring evening.  Welcome, Fiesta Habanero--we wish you a successful business and look forward to a return visit!

Mexican Month-Week #2: Fiesta Ole'

the original Emmaus locati

Fiesta Ole'

3 Lehigh Valley Locations:

1116 Chestnut St. Emmaus, PA 18049  610-966-5522

1808 Macarthur Rd. Whitehall, PA  18052  484-664-7109

2955 Linden St.  Bethlehem, PA  18017  610-625-4554

Fiesta Ole' offers the most spacious, family-friendly Mexican Restaurant in the LV & B.  Although it has now opened 3 locations and has an expansive menu, it does not lose the authenticity of a modest ethnic kitchen.  With reasonable prices and selections for all-size appetites and preferences, it is a safe option for the less-than-adventurous diners.

Complimentary chips & salsa will curb your appetite as you decide on your entree.  

Some recommendations include:

• Burrito Fiesta Ole'

• Chicken or Steak Fajitas

• Spinach Quesadilla

• Combination Lunch & Dinner which enables you to have a sampling of Mexican traditions including  tacos, chalupas, enchiladas, tamales, or chile rellenos. 

Rumor has it a mariachi band occasionally entertains an evening crowd.  While we have yet to experience this, we've enjoyed sharing this spot with friends while observing families and large parties celebrating over a shared meal.

And...there just happens to be a current Groupon available this week.

Mexican Month Week #1: La Lupita

Taqueria La Lupita

4 W. 4th St.

Bethlehem, PA  18015

610-868-5733

When it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine, La Lupita has become one of our favorite spots to share with others.  Though they have renovated in recent years, the concrete floors, color scheme, and wall hangings still give an atmosphere that matches its genuine menu.  It includes familiar dishes such as a burrito, fajitas and a taco salad. 

However, it has introduced me to some of my favorite picks:

Sopes:  3 fresh made tortillas with blackbeans, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, sour cream and meat. ($7.50 for a platter that includes rice)

Huarache

Huarache:  Large thick corn tortilla fresh made with black beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, sour cream, green sauce, and your choice of meat. ($7.50)

Garnachas:  3 flat tortillas topped with black beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, sour cream and cheese. ($7.50)

Choice of meat for all dishes includes:  chicken (pollo), Spicy Chicken (tinga), pork (carnitas), roast pork (pierna), Mexican sausage (chorizo), beef tongue (lengua), fried beef (suadero), steak (bistek). Sorry--can't speak to the beef tongue.

Fajitas

Burrito

Other recommended menu items include:

Tamal:  Corn meal stuffed with chicken wrapped in banana leaf and red sauce on top. ($2/each!)

Mexican Flag: presented as a mexican flag, this includes a sampling of their enchiladas and sauces.

Their reasonable menu offers vegetarian options and affordable selections to mix and match a $2 taco, $2.50 empanada or tostada and more.  Of course, delicious tortillas and salsa welcome you at each visit.

Enchiladas with Salsa Verde

Whether you are a local Lehigh University student or want to spend a day shopping in Bethlehem, service is reliable, efficient and friendly.   

Burrito Battle Month #4: Tulum & Hello Burrito

Within its quaint, serene downtown, Bethlehem, has its own burrito duel between 

Tulum                                                                                        Hello Burrito

17 W. Morton St                                                                       38 W. Broad St

Bethlehem, PA  18015                                                               Bethlehem, PA  18015

610-691-8300                                                                           610-882-2124

Tulum has the feel of a Tex-mex joint in Texas...small and cozy, colorful tiled walls and counters and a unique use of seating space.  It's the classic college-town stop, and hopefully provides a wholesome meal for a study break to many Lehigh students with its near-campus location.

Their menu is classic with a choice of chicken, beef, pork or grilled veggies.  Their intriguing menu has the burrito classified by sauce--with an authentic mexican mole and salsa verde.  They use some unique products on their burritos, including sweet potatoes on the Santana and pineapple and roasted corn on the Mayan.  Their signature burrito is wittily termed "the Beth-mex" with a classic red sauce.  If I recall, all burritos and tacos include a side of chips and salsa.  Another thoughtful aspect of their menu is the "miniritto"--a smaller-size portion for only $5.35!

Unfortunately, I have only been to Tulum once.  While my counterpart's impression is usually compatible with my own, this time he has referred to them as "weak."  That's the only quote I can obtain regarding why he refuses to return.  While it's not my favorite burrito in the Valley, I would definitely return to experience their synthesis of flavors and wholesome commodities.

Just over the bridge, Hello Burrito is a relatively new business promoting their commitment to fresh, non-fried, unprocessed and largely local products with an emphasis on burritos, quesadillas and soups.   Beyond the traditional "southwest" burrito, it features the fusion flare by having a variety of ethnic burritos represented on their menu including the mediterranean, thai and asian sesame.  While we haven't been there since it first opened, I remember enjoying the thai burrito.  My main suggestion is that they call themselves "Hello Wrap", which would seem to be a better representation of their product.  Their "burritos" (or wraps) come with a side of apple or bagged chips--a nice gesture, but to me screams "wrap" joint not "burrito" joint.  Rumor has it the owners also have a wrap business in Kutztown--so maybe that explains it.

The aesthetics are clean, bright, open and airy--though depending on your preference it may feel stark.  Hello Burrito does provide an enjoyable lunch spot with plenty of healthy options and has pleased many LV consumers.  Just think "wrap-burrito" fusion.

So, Who has your vote for Best Burrito in the Lehigh Valley?