This stunning farm is the perfect family compound, weekend getaway or full-time estate. The main house, guest house & converted barn present an unparalleled opportunity. Offered for $6,700,000
French Country Splendor
European influences are evident in the stunning fieldstone & brick exterior, dramatic cedar shake rooflines, & captivating turrets. This prestigious home is centered on 2.5 acres. Offered for $4,950,000
Build to Suit Saucon Valley Legacy
Nestled on 4.6 acres, the house and grounds have been proudly cared for, and recently updated with a stunning addition and renovations, taking every advantage of its incredible environs. Offered for $3,500,000
Wrought-iron gates frame a quaint courtyard garden leading you to the entry and into an exquisite interior, re-imagined to create an open, flowing floor plan with a separate guest wing. Offered for $1,250,000
Like a blank canvas which begs for an artist’s dreams, these premier lots provide the setting for your ideal estate, custom crafted by builder Myron Haydt. Packages start at $3,495,000
This luxury, detached condo is part of a lovely six home enclave within walking distance to the Weyhill Golf Course of the Saucon Valley Country Club. Offered for $995,000
An elegantly remodeled home located within the private roads of the Saucon Valley Country Club, boasting panoramic views over 22 acres of meticulously tended grounds. Offered for $3,950,000
Pocono Mountain Hideaway
This sprawling 13,000 sqft estate includes fine craftsman and modern amenities, including an indoor pool, commercial size gym & expansive kitchen. Offered for $2,300,000
Main Street Extension
This bright and sunny fieldstone cape offers exceptional curb appeal, custom finishes, & a prime Lehigh Valley location near Monocacy Creek and Park. Offered for $899,000
THE OCCASION
Erwin Forrest Custom Home Builders President Keith Hoeing & Foreman Alex Brochu
Tom Garrity Compass Point Family Business Consultant
For five decades, Gross McGinley’s Litigation Group has helped businesses, individuals and institutions navigate disputes in and beyond the courtroom. Rooted in the Lehigh Valley and supported by offices across Eastern Pennsylvania, the team is known for practical judgment, careful preparation and a steady presence from the first demand letter through trial and appeal.
Drawing on a deep bench of civil litigators, this powerhouse group handles matters ranging from commercial and construction disputes, land use and landlord–tenant issues, and collection and judgment enforcement to insurance, health care and trusts and estates litigation. Their work often intersects with the firm’s business, real estate, municipal, tax and education practices, giving clients access to a coordinated, full-service group that understands both the broader business context and the details of courtroom practice.
Clients turn to Gross McGinley’s litigators for clear, candid guidance and advocacy that is calibrated to both cost and long-term impact (not just the next hearing date). Whether serving as primary counsel or local counsel for companies outside the region, the group focuses on developing strategies that protect what matters most to clients: their reputation and often their operations. As the Lehigh Valley continues to grow, Gross McGinley’s Litigation Group remains committed to delivering thoughtful, results-driven representation.
GROSS Mc GINLEY Litigation Practice Group
With offices in Allentown, Easton, Stroudsburg and Philadelphia, Gross McGinley is positioned to serve clients across the region with experienced attorneys, dependable service and personal attention.
SARAH HART CHARETTE
JEFF FLEISCHAKER ZACHARY FOWLER KAITLYN FURST
ERIC HARAKAL
ANNE MANLEY
VERONICA HOGAN JESSICA KACZINSKI ZEINAH LATEFA
PHILIP LAUER
KELLIE RAHL-HEFFNER
JASON ULRICH VICTORIA STRUNK
ALLEN TULLAR
ALEX WARD GEORGE WESTERVELT
SAMUEL COHEN
SEAN DUFFY
ADRIAN COUSENS
MICHAEL BLUM
ROBERT CAMPBELL
The Best Around
You couldn’t imagine the amount of love that was poured into this edition. I mean, every edition is a love letter to the Lehigh Valley, but there’s so much joy that goes along with the celebration of our readers’ favorite businesses. This year’s Best of the Lehigh Valley feature has more categories than ever—160!—and each one was handled with care, from the vote tabulation, to the notification of the winners, to the planning of writing and photography, to the feature design that lets each of these businesses shine. It’s such an honor to present this feature to our readers this year, highlighting so many winners that help make the Lehigh Valley the special place it is. Check out our full list of winners starting on pg. 42, and keep the celebration going by
joining us at our annual Best Of party! Enjoy food, drinks, music and a night of all the best things on Thursday, July 16 at The Centennial Catering & Conference Center in Center Valley. Get your tickets now at bestofthelehighvalley.com! And just because our other content isn’t featured in Best of the Lehigh Valley, it doesn’t mean it isn’t awesome. Curl up with your new favorite read at Semicolon Books on pg. 26, swing by Jay’s Local for a frosty summer treat on pg. 88, learn all about gazing at the summer night sky on pg. 29, check out lymphatic massage with Paula Bernhardt on pg. 33 and meet stroke survivor and local author José Rosado on pg. 37, plus more in our July edition of Lehigh Valley Style
our publisher, Pam Deller, is looking forward to this month! pdeller@lehighvalleystyle.com
29 Stargazing on a summer night!
The Best party of the year on July 16!
Nachos at La Maya!
We’re excited to announce The Suites at Fellowship Community, luxurious independent living apartments scheduled to open in 2027.
Enjoy spacious, open floor plans with contemporary finishes you can customize to reflect your personal style.
Nestled on our beautifully landscaped, pet-friendly campus, The Suites offer access to a tranquil park, walking paths, and a peaceful pond with a soothing water feature.
Learn about the portun ies available to live your best l e!
For more information, scan the QR code or contact Laura at 610-769-4332.
VOLUME 26, ISSUE 7
President/CEO
Paul Prass
Vice President/COO Lisa Prass
I can’t wait to try a hoagie (or hero, as he calls it) at Luca and Sons! He seemed so genuinely excited to win!
I’m so excited for Hair by Harley— only one year after opening his own space he’s earned the honor of Best Men’s Haircut (but he offers cuts for everyone!).
I’m excited to celebrate Belleville Market for winning Best Home Decor Shop! We love spending weekends there and finding cutesy items for the house. I also love supporting all of the amazing small businesses there.
I can’t wait to check out La Maya for a (rare!) date night; I love exploring new-to-me places in the Lehigh Valley.
Publisher Pamela Deller
Managing Editor Angela Vennemann
Digital Strategy Director Brianna Berner
Production Coordinator Eleanor Anderson
Graphic Designers
Eleanor Anderson, Thomas Körp, Elaine Wyborski
Marketing & Events Coordinator Jaiden Vazquez
Marketing Advisors
Denise Lichty, Arielle Solliday, Pam Taylor
Client Specialist Emily Markovich
Contributing Writers
Heather Mayer Irvine, Amy Unger, Daisy Willis
Contributing Photographers
Marco Calderon, Matthew Cannon, Alison Conklin
Editorial Intern Maggie Wilson
Marketing Intern Ava Janny
Proofreader Lori McLaughlin
Accounting Jobelle Aleño, Leza Ovten
What Best Ofwinning business are you excited to celebrate?
I can’t wait to take the kids for ice cream at Owowcow!
So excited to celebrate Stoke’s espresso martini! It’s the best!
As a barre3 instructor I may be slightly biased here, but I can’t wait to celebrate barre3 Lehigh Valley for winning Best Barre! It is truly such a special community of kind, driven people. We’re one big family! Not to mention, it’s an incredible workout that leaves you feeling so connected to your body and mind.
ANGELA VENNEMANN Managing Editor
Our Best of the Lehigh Valley feature was a labor of love for sure, and we had so many great, creative people pulling it all together. I’m really proud of our team for all the hard work they put in!
JAIDEN VAZQUEZ
Marketing & Events Coordinator
Working on Best Of this year has been such an exciting and rewarding experience!
From analyzing more than 13,000 voter submissions to planning the Best of the Lehigh Valley party, it took a lot of time and hard work, but seeing everything come together makes it all worth it. It is so fulfilling to celebrate the amazing winners and local businesses that make our community so special. Let’s party!
Style I nsider Happy Hour
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1 | Corey Dandridge, Terrance Wilson and Tom Gallagher
| Robert Sorge and Peter Gourniak 3 | Baljié Minhas 4 | Mike Pierce, William Savage and Al Schaffer 5 | Lori Starnes, Gail Christ and Penny Zaun
Gi Kobordo, Lisa Koza and Sheri Bayne 7 | Nicos Elias, Bob Burns, Genny Elias and Diego Veras 8
Mary Jane Kloss, Virginia Ellen, Nolan LeBlanc and Joe Kloss 9
Kayra Gokce, Handan Gokce and Alara Gokce 10 | Scott Jones and Rita Tatasciore
| Leonard and Elaine Luba
| Andrea Brock and Sarne Brewster 13 | Justin Keiper, Nick DeJesus, Kate Young and Jonathan Quier 14 | Al Schaffer, Cindy Billera, Kim Kerstetter and Jill Schaefer
1 | Adam and Erin Stauffer, Kelly Cusick, Joe Cusick, Hilary Bonenberger and John McElroy 2 | Michael Yoder and Dr. Nicole Yoder
3 | Susan and Mark Lopez 4 | Tara Cole, Patti Nappi and Heather Kowatch 5 | Patrick Rooney, Jason Tatum and Karl Kowatch
6 | Jeff Kelly, Diane Kelly, Stephanie Grin and Grant Grin 7 | Marina Puzakova and Dr. James James III 8 | Keri Angelozzi and Gino Angelozzi
9 | Jill D’Alessandro and Robert D’Alessandro 10 | Jessica McLane and Adrienne Fors 11 | Dr. Meredith Birsner and Roark Birsner 12 | Dennis Pfleiger and Karen Pfleiger 13 | Mark and Kelly Chando, Shannon Gooley and Meagan Beck 14 | Ryan Beck, Hillary and Ryan Quay and Tanner Turner-Rush
Arts Designer Showhouse Preview Party
| Scott Rothenberger, Glenn Neiman, Victoria O’Rourke, Lauren Sanders and Howard Schaeffer 2 | Ty Cundey and Anthony Sierra
In a time when remote work, streaming, gaming, and side projects all run at once, fast WiFi is expected What’s less expected? A bill that stays the same.
Instead of another short-term promo, Astound locks in your price on Gig WiFi for as long as you keep the service. Price for Life delivers lasting value while reinforcing our commitment to transparency and customer choice.
BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL
The Best—Again
Tally one more USA Today 10Best win for the Lehigh Valley— Shankweiler’s Drive-In has taken home the top honors for best drive-in theater in the country! The Orefield theater has been open since 1934, making it the oldest continually running drive-in in the world. shankweilers.com
New Location
The closure of the Downtown Allentown Market in 2025 couldn’t stop the owners of Zahra. The beloved fast-casual Middle Eastern concept has a new home on South Cedar Crest Boulevard and is serving up shawarma, falafel and more in stylish digs designed by Spundesign. zahralv.com
OH LÀ LÀ!
Your favorite croissants, pastries and macarons are on the move to a larger location— Sophistiqué French Bakery is heading to 10 th and Hamilton in Downtown Allentown this summer. With the new space, the bakery will begin to offer drinks and indoor seating. sophistiquefr sophistiquefrenchbakery
Reopening
This Southside Bethlehem restaurant is a literal phoenix rising from the ashes—Mister Lee’s Noodles is now open once again following the 2025 fire in the Five 10 Flats. Stop in for the farm-to-ladle ramen and handcrafted cocktails you’ve been missing on 3rd Street. misterleesnoodles.com
Celebrate
Ring in America’s 250 th birthday with an extraspecial Easton Heritage Day on Jul. 11, with a day full of history, including reenactments, as well as recreation and music. Start your celebration with the Bachmann Block Party on Jul. 10 with even more live music. heritageday.org
LET'S TACO 'BOUT IT
Get the flavor of Mexican street food in Downtown Easton at Tia B’s Street Tacos, where they’re now serving up handcrafted tacos, award-winning carnitas and slow-braised barbacoa, all made from the freshest ingredients for the boldest flavors. tiabsstreettacos.com
COURTESY OF TIA B'S STREET TACOS
COURTESY OF SOPHISTIQUÉ FRENCH BAKERY
THANK YOU TO OUR INCREDIBLE COUPLES FOR TRUSTING US WITH YOUR LEGACY. YOUR DAY. YOUR STORY.
ZEKRAFT
NEW CAFE OPENS IN FORKS
Zeke and Elaine Zelker, the husband-and-wife co-owners of Zekraft, have had quite the journey with their cafe and prepared meal business. “We’ve been kitchen nomads of sorts,” they say, noting that they’ve moved their operations four times in the past five years due to everything from flooding issues to their landlords selling their spaces out from under them. But now Zekraft has found a new home—very near their own home—and the Zelkers are settling into their new cafe and central kitchen. Hungry customers can visit the cafe for a wide array of pastries, coffees and sandwiches, plus grab-and-go options like salads, soups and entrées. “We will be rotating the menu seasonally with some customer faves staying on the menu,” the Zelkers say. Their new central kitchen will support the continued operation of Zekraft’s home meal delivery and catering services as well as their spaces at Lehigh Valley International Airport and Promenade Saucon Valley. Despite its history of playing musical kitchens, Zekraft has amassed a loyal following, and the Zelkers say they’ve received overwhelming support for their new location. “The community has welcomed us with open arms […] People are excited, which humbles [us].”
THE ATLAS & ELLIE EMPORIUM
ARTISAN VENDOR MARKET NOW OPEN
The Atlas & Ellie Emporium is the culmination of a decade spent building connections with vendors and fostering community through art. “ My favorite part has always been the vendors—the connections we build, the sense of community and the way we collaborate to showcase not only our individual talents but also a larger idea: that art is for everyone,” owner and vendor Kathryn Zuber shares. Driven by a desire to make an impact, Zuber chose Northampton as the perfect home for her vendor market. “As a former Northampton student, I naturally looked to my hometown—and I was lucky to find 1813 Main Street. It was perfect: nearby, and an opportunity to breathe new life into the town.” The emporium’s mission is to champion handmade, locally sourced goods and support local artisans. “ We believe in the power of shopping small and the meaningful impact it has on our community,” Zuber says. From candles and self-care products to jewelry, woodworking and children’s items, Atlas & Ellie offers unique finds. Popular items include local honey, eco-friendly goods and personalized gifts. With workshops and events on the horizon, it’s a hub for creativity and connection. “ People love knowing they’re supporting local makers and finding something truly unique,” Zuber adds.
1813 Main St., Northampton | 610.732.8115 | atlasellieemporium.com
CIRCLE CAFE ON MAIN
NOW OPEN IN NAZARETH
Getting tired of your typical chain store latte? Circle Cafe on Main is now open in the heart of Nazareth and is a place made for personal connections rooted in community. Owner Jennifer Lai says her hope is “that people feel comfortable the moment they walk in—that Circle Cafe on Main becomes a place to pause, connect and enjoy thoughtfully prepared food in a way that feels familiar and genuine.” The cafe opened in a historic building in Nazareth’s Center Square in April with a menu featuring must-try items like espresso-based drinks, particularly the brown sugar shaken espresso, and deviled eggs with specialty variations. “Everything is designed to feel intentional and welcoming,” says Lai. “Opening Circle Cafe on Main has been a major pivot and a leap out of my comfort zone, but also one of the most meaningful decisions I’ve made.” After her career shift from corporate sales, Lai has created a space meant for “slowing down, feeling at home and remembering what it feels like to truly connect again.” Lai is excited to be sharing this journey with her community and her loved ones. “On a personal note, my mother is my foundation. This journey is as much hers as it is mine.”
INDULGE DESIGNER RESALE BOUTIQUE
LUXURY AND SUSTAINABILITY NOW IN NAZARETH
Nestled in Downtown Nazareth, Indulge Designer Resale Boutique was born from a passion for fashion, sustainability and community. Owner Regina Sussick initially launched her business in East Allen Township to bring luxury within reach by giving a second life to pre-owned designer pieces from brands like Kate Spade, Tory Burch and Louis Vuitton. “I opened my boutique seven years ago out of a passion for bringing new life into designer pieces for someone else to enjoy at a more attainable price,” Sussick shares. The move to Nazareth was a natural choice—“It’s home for me. My husband and I have built other businesses here and wanted to bring something special to beautiful Downtown Nazareth.” Indulge blends pre-owned designer items with new, on-trend clothing and accessories, creating a welcoming space for women of all ages. Indulge leans into an eco-friendly approach to keeping luxury accessible.“My boutique supports sustainability by giving designer pieces a second life,” Sussick says. “They’re reloved and worn again, which helps reduce waste and overproduction in the fashion industry.” Visit Indulge for a thoughtfully curated experience, either shopping for something new to you or selling your own gently used designer items. 143 S. Main St.,
ZEN SOCIAL LOUNGE
COCKTAILS, MUSIC AND VIBES
Nightlife in Easton just got hotter with the opening of Zen Social Lounge, located on the ground floor of The Marquis. Owner Angel Ramirez worked for more than a year to bring this new space across the finish line, and now revelers can kick back with a handcrafted cocktail in a stylish atmosphere filled with music, late nights and good times. “Zen is a from-scratch, farm-to-glass craft cocktail lounge” that uses the freshest local ingredients, Ramirez says. Mixologist Frank DeFelice has developed the bar program to include classics, modern favorites and award-winning cocktails that Ramirez calls approachable. “We don’t rely on sweets, or any one flavor note. We achieve balance through proper technique and understanding how to use each piece of produce,” he says. “Everything is made fresh, from scratch and by hand, every single day.” Zen also offers upscale small bites from its sister restaurant next door, Amigos Mexican Grill. Every Thursday through Saturday, you’ll catch DJs spinning tunes from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m., and there are plans for live music, wine and cocktail pairing dinners and karaoke nights. For Ramirez, a longtime Easton resident, “it is truly a blessing to open up this wonderful bar and lounge in my hometown with my best friends,” he says.
Baumer Wealth Management
Christopher S. Baumer, CRPC™, C(k)P® Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor
Breanne N. Pfeffer, CRPC™, AWMA™ Vice President, Senior Business Manager
Tiffany A. Nguyen , CRPC™ Registered Wealth Management Client Associate
Emily Kern Wealth Management Client Associate
BE PART OF THE STORY!
Is there a category that you’d like to see included in next year’s Best of the Lehigh Valley survey? Email editor@lehighvalleystyle.com! DID YOU KNOW?
You can view the entire issue for free online at lehighvalleystyle.com!
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GET THE GOODS
Semicolon Books
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
The act of hitting pause on your busy existence to curl up with a good book is way up there in the self-care echelon. Whether you’re a D-1 bookworm or just need a fun read for your beach trip, you can count on Semicolon Books to have something to scratch your literary itch. Owners Charles Debski and Udval Yun share their story with us.
QTell us about the journey to opening Semicolon Books! We had wanted to create something of our own for a while: a space with a warm atmosphere and cozy environment where people could take a pause from the rush of everyday life. We felt that a bookstore was exactly what we wanted since it carried all the elements of the relaxing spaces we found ourselves in: a pleasant smell, gentle music and a recess from the rest of the world through a book. We got right to it once we decided—found the perfect location, carefully selected every single detail, started building the space, curated
our selection and opened what we have to the public today. We both have gained a huge appreciation for how much work and thought go into running a bookstore and love seeing everybody enjoy the bookstore exactly as we intended!
What kinds of books do you carry?
We carry all kinds of books for all ages: fiction, nonfiction and children’s books! We also carry local titles to support the authors in our area. If someone can’t find what they’re looking for, or if they’re super excited for an upcoming book, we are more than happy to order the title.
How do you curate the books you sell?
We curate with a mix of our reading interests, instincts, community awareness and purpose. We select titles that we enjoyed reading and want to read, what people are already looking for and what they didn’t know they needed yet. We keep an eye on industry media and news, and research and read books to understand what readers are both currently enjoying and looking forward to reading. It’s important to us that we carry a good mix of new releases and unique books so that readers have something new to read when they visit our store. We also curate with the customer experience in mind, in terms of how they are presented on our displays, staff picks and themed tables to guide the readers toward connection and discovery. In addition to our process, we also welcome our customers to recommend books to us. We’re always happy to learn more about the people who come into our store and expand our evergrowing knowledge of all the great books out there!
Besides books, what else can customers expect to find in your store?
Customers can find stationery items like cards, journals, notepads and pens along with other small items like locally grown teas, keychains and candles. When they are done browsing the store, they can also take a seat in our little nook to read or chat with friends while enjoying a nice cup of coffee or tea to settle down before going on about their day.
Do you host any events or book clubs?
We definitely plan to start hosting events like author signings and readings in the coming months. We also want to pop up where we can at local events and venues. In the meantime, we are launching our flagship book club soon where we’ll read all sorts of fiction based on monthly themes. We hope to have many other clubs spawn from it!
What has been your favorite part of the customer experience at Semicolon Books?
Our favorite part has been meeting new people and learning about them. It’s been really enjoyable listening to people share their favorite authors and books, what’s going on in their lives or anything else that’s on their mind. We feel a deeper connection with the community when we meet people from the area, and that’s important to us.
Tell us about the importance of independently owned bookstores.
Independent bookstores are important because they foster readers, promote connections and conversations and build communities. Indie bookstores thoughtfully
curate their book selection and host events so readers are exposed to a diverse range of voices, especially debut authors, small/local authors and publishers and underrepresented perspectives. Indie bookstores are also natural gathering places. They foster the community through readings, book clubs and community events while also inviting connection and conversations with friends, neighbors and other readers through casual browsing. There’s also an element of warmth and care when you are recommended a book based on the taste and knowledge of people who know their readers. Each indie bookstore has its own distinctive aesthetic, touch and curated selection, so they create a sense of belonging and community that cannot be replicated.
What do you love about your location in Downtown Bethlehem?
We feel like we’re in the center of everything and an addition to the vibrant and unique charm that Downtown Bethlehem has. There’s a constant energy from both
locals and visitors between the food and arts scene, live music and various events. We also love being surrounded by other local, independent businesses. We feel the shared spirit and collective effort to support and promote each other!
559 Main St. Suite 007, Bethlehem 484.262.9598 | semicolonbooks.co
AMATEUR ASTRONOMY
BY DAISY WILLIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
Eric Loch
LEHIGH VALLEY AMATEUR ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
The recent expedition of Artemis II reminded us all how cool space is and has always been. To feed your fascination with the night sky, Lehigh Valley Amateur Astronomical Society’s Eric Loch has advice for breaking into this hobby and stargazing effectively.
SLOW DOWN AND LOOK UP
For most of our history, the patterns in the night sky guided us in planting and harvesting, navigating and myth-making, and they still hold the power to remind us of our place in the cosmos. When Loch concludes a Star Party at LVAAS’s planetarium at their South Mountain observatory, he always ends on Carl Sagan’s famous Pale Blue Dot, the astronomer’s thoughts on the famous photograph of Earth from space with the humbling message of our world’s precious fragility. Conversely, in the light of a distant supernova that exploded 16 million years ago, our daily stresses become insignificant. In a world of dopamine blitzes, stargazing is one of the growing “slow” hobbies like snail mail and fiber arts that reward an exercised attention span.
THE STUFF OF GETTING STARTED
You don’t need a NASA-sized budget to start seeing stars. Loch warns against cheap telescopes, “hobby killers” that are discouragingly difficult to use, but a decent pair of binoculars at around $150 and free apps like SkySafari or Stellarium can reveal wonders.
Taste the West Coast. Crafted in Pennsylvania.
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A new digital telescope called the Seestar uses GPS and Wi-Fi to transmit images onto a number of screens for easy viewing at under $500. Instead of taking turns at an eyepiece, a whole family can sit around a campfire with their tablets, watching a distant nebula materialize in real time. To dabble in more professional gear, get to a LVAAS Star Party to try out powerful telescopes, available for members to rent.
THINGS TO LOOK FOR
Mapping the sky overhead, apps help you quickly find planets and constellations and even track the movement of space traffic. Planes blink their way across the sky while satellites appear as steady dots. “These dots fade out mid-sky as they pass the Earth’s curvature and no longer reflect the sun,” Loch says, offering a lesson in orbital geometry. He advises spending time in the backyard with your children, learning the difference between planes and satellites. You can likely catch the International Space Station with the help of one of the apps as well. It can be as bright as Venus!
Kids quickly take to the spotting of constellations in the sky and will enjoy a test of eyesight employing the Big Dipper. The middle star in its handle is actually two, very close together. “In Native American days, it was a vision test” to be able to pick them out, Loch says.
THE COST OF CONSTANT LIGHT
We’re ready to reclaim this tradition, but because of light pollution, getting a good look when we step outside can feel a bit out of reach. It takes 30 minutes for our eyes to adjust to the dark, and even then, “only twenty percent of Americans can see the Milky Way,” Loch says.
An overabundance of artificial lighting combined with traffic emissions has created a haze that snuffs out our view of the stars. Light pollution disrupts not only our enjoyment of space, but also animal migration, insect populations and our circadian rhythms. As it’s not formally acknowledged as pollution, grassroots efforts toward regulations face an uphill battle.
“We still have [a] caveman fear of the dark,” Loch laments. “Astronomers aren’t against lighting, but let’s keep it where it belongs.”
GETTING OUT OF TOWN
If your neighborhood is too well lit, Loch suggests side roads by the State Game Lands, or a rural friend’s backyard, avoiding parks that close at dusk. “It’s not uncommon for amateur astronomers to be approached by police,” he says. You’ll need plenty of time undisturbed if you want to stake out the Perseid meteor shower taking place in ideal new moon conditions next month.
An internationally known dark-sky site is only a four-hour drive away in Potter County at Cherry Springs State Park, a pilgrimage you may find yourself making to experience the unsullied sky or achieve goals like Loch’s personal best of eleven galaxies in one eyepiece. On the Bortle scale, measuring the darkness of the night sky from 1 to 9, the ABE area is generally a 7 or 8, while Cherry Springs hits an inky, crystalline 2.
JOIN A STAR PARTY
For anyone wishing to explore the cosmos, LVAAS offers an open invitation, with monthly planetarium shows and handson telescope time guided by dedicated volunteers passionate about outreach. “It’s easy to become a member, relatively inexpensive,” Loch notes. “Come to public nights, work with world-class telescopes and see things you couldn’t otherwise.”
Membership grants access to both the society’s South Mountain and Pulpit Rock sites, where visitors can stay all night undisturbed if they choose. During the pandemic, LVAAS membership doubled, and hasn’t tailed off.
Whether you plan a visit or just download an app, it’s never been easier to start your relationship with starlight. lvaas.org
R. NICHOLAS NANOVIC
Partner | Gross McGinley LLP
R. Nicholas Nanovic is a partner at Gross McGinley and Chair of the firm’s Wills, Trusts, and Estates Practice Group. He provides estate planning and tax law counsel to individuals and business owners. Having attained the designation of an Accredited Estate Planner® by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils and LLM in Taxation, Nick is uniquely qualified to handle complex legal matters at every stage of life.
33 S. Seventh St., Allentown 610.820.5450 | grossmcginley.com
DR. JILL CROSSON
Founder | All-In Precision Wellness LLC
Dr. Jill Crosson, founder of All-In Precision Wellness LLC, brings 15 years of expertise in sports medicine, orthobiologics and functional medicine. Board-certified in family medicine with a sports medicine CAQ and IFM certification, she targets root causes of pain, inflammation and performance issues. A former physician for the Phillies, IronPigs and US Ski & Snowboard, she delivers personalized care to optimize healing, movement and purpose.
229 S. 22 nd St., Easton | 484.544.3345 allinprecisionwellness.com
KELLIE L. RAHL-HEFFNER
Partner | Gross McGinley LLP
Kellie L. Rahl-Heffner is a partner at Gross McGinley and Chair of the firm’s Family Law Practice Group. She’s experienced in guiding individuals through sensitive legal matters including divorce, child custody and child support as well as the PFA process. She also assists her clients in designing pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements to provide clarity and confidence in major life moments.
33 S. Seventh St., Allentown 610.820.5450 | grossmcginley.com
ASHLEY HAYES
Founder & Principal Designer Swine Design
From new builds and renovations to the finishing touches, Ashley creates homes that are both beautiful and functional. Her process is detail-obsessed and rooted in joyful fulfillment, creating an enjoyable experience for clients by handling the moving pieces, trusted contractors, and hard decisions. Real life can be chaotic, and Ashley believes great design should make everyday living feel more fun.
by appointment 244 Main
610.554.2502 | swinedesign.com
SHOSHANA GOSSELIN
Principal Designer | Love Your Room LLC
Shoshana Gosselin, founder of Love Your Room, has spent nearly two decades helping homeowners confidently navigate remodels, new builds and home transformations. Known for trusted guidance, elevated design and a highly skilled team, she leads projects from vision to installation, creating deeply personal homes that are beautiful, functional and effortlessly livable.
610.387.6002 | loveyourroom.com
MANDI FOCHT
Senior Designer & Sales Manager Closet Factory
Growing up in the family business inspired Mandi Focht’s passion for custom design. As Senior Designer and Sales Manager for Closet Factory, she has specialized since 2011 in creating custom closets, offices, pantries, laundry rooms, entertainment centers and more. Mandi is passionate about transforming ideas into beautiful, functional spaces that reflect each client’s lifestyle while bringing organization, creativity and personalization into every home.
| closetfactory.com
Paula Bernhardt
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
SPECIALIST
Lymphatic drainage massage is getting a lot of attention lately, and it seems to be all the rage with celebrities and online influencers. Whether it’s for post-surgery recovery, to reduce swelling or to give a boost to your immune system, chances are that you can benefit from manual lymphatic drainage. Licensed massage therapist Paula Bernhardt of Lehigh Valley Lymphatics tells us about how (and why) it works.
QTell us about your professional background and how you came to specialize in lymphatic drainage.
I have been a licensed massage therapist for the past 23 years. I started considering lymphatic drainage years ago because of a congenital lymphatic insufficiency in my own body and took an online course. I followed a video on YouTube doing sinus drainage, and in 10 minutes I felt my sinuses drain—I was amazed. In 2022, I took a two-day intro class on manual lymphatic drainage and used what I learned on two of my clients. One was pregnant and had limbs that blew up like balloons. After a 90-minute treatment, her limbs went down by inches. The same happened with my knee replacement client. I was hooked! In 2024, I took a 40-hour course with the Academy of Lymphatic Studies and rebranded my massage business from South Mountain Massage Therapy to Lehigh Valley Lymphatics, and I have not looked back. The results for everything from wellness (detox) clients to injury and surgery recovery have been undeniable.
Can you give us a brief breakdown of the lymphatic system and what you do to improve its function in your clients?
The lymphatic system is an open-ended system of capillaries, ducts and trunks, unlike the circulatory system, which is a closed system. The capillaries lie just underneath the skin, and that is where lymphatic load is picked up from the tissues of the body. The lymph fluid moves to larger ducts, then into the lymph nodes, where the fluid is filtered and immune cells are deposited into the lymph fluid. From there, the lymph fluid makes its way to the lymphatic trunk and enters the bloodstream via the thoracic duct and the right lymphatic duct. The blood is filtered by the kidneys and is excreted through urine; the liver also uses the lymphatic system to detox the body. Lymphatic vessels require muscle contractions for the lymphangions to contract and push fluid along, or it can be done manually. My job is to use gentle movements to open the capillaries to pick up the lymphatic load and move it toward the nearest lymph nodes. The goal of manual lymphatic
drainage is to increase the flow by as much as five times the normal speed, which is about 12 pumps per minute.
Who is a good candidate for lymphatic massage?
Anyone who does not have one of the major contraindications (e.g., insufficiencies of the heart, kidneys or lungs, metastatic cancer, blood clots) can benefit from regular cleanouts—a few sessions in the beginning, scaling back to a monthly session, is optimal. Folks who have occasional edema in their limbs or swelling from an injury or surgery are also good candidates. Post-op recovery is greatly enhanced by having multiple treatments, since the body takes anywhere from months to over a year to recover. The longer lymphatic fluid sits in the tissues and becomes protein-rich, the more likely the tissue will become fibrotic. Also, when the body either has a lot of edema or a lot of fat, the lymphatic system becomes compressed and struggles to move fluids out. The only people
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
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I cannot treat are those who are diagnosed with primary lymphedema and need compression wrapping and wound care, which requires another level of education.
What are some of the benefits your clients see?
Clients feel lighter, more relaxed and sleep better. People with edema see and feel the reduction of fluids, which can also be pain-relieving; this is also true for muscle soreness after hard work. Since the body gets a detox, and immune cells are distributed through lymphatic flow, the overall immune system is strengthened.
How does lymphatic massage differ from other types of massage?
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Manual lymphatic drainage works at the surface of the skin and is a slow, rhythmic and very light touch. The goal is to clear the group of lymph nodes before clearing the area of the body that drains into the nodes. It’s a very specific technique: where you start, the direction of strokes, the pace, the pressure and what to do when there is an area that has been severed by surgery or injury.
What do you think people would be surprised to learn about lymphatic drainage?
They are always surprised at how delicate the strokes are and how effective they are at making them feel lighter, or how much drainage can happen in one session when there is edema. Also, people who say they cannot sleep usually fall asleep on my table and can’t believe it. Even people who are coming for post-op care ooze out of my office with a big grin and can’t wait to come back.
Tell us about your morning routine— what’s one thing you can’t start your day without?
The first thing I do is drink a big glass of water with lemon and ginger powder to set my stomach up for the day. This is both hydrating and astringent, which is great for drainage. To get the lymphatic system moving in the morning, I take my dog Chester for a walk, and sometimes
I jump on my bike trainer to get a sweat on and pump my legs for better drainage. I eat a high-protein breakfast of eggs and dark green veggies, or a plant-based yogurt bowl with fruit and hemp protein mixed in, and I love my black coffee!
How about your evening routine?
My evening routine involves making a healthy dinner: a protein of fish, beans or tempeh, and either steamed or roasted veggies, or a salad with lots of ingredients and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil mixed with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Sometimes I do my exercise routine after work, and I always take Chester for his evening walk after I have eaten dinner. Walking or other exercise right after eating increases metabolism greatly.
How do you relieve stress?
Usually, I read a book, but more recently, I reached out to some horse farms and asked if I could groom some horses. It has been a really nice way to reduce stress and get outside more. Connecting with horses in this way is a beautiful transfer of love energy!
What’s something you like to indulge in?
My guilty pleasures are watching a movie or TV series, dark chocolate and I love to go dancing at a good house party, but that doesn’t happen often!
What’s one takeaway you’d like to share?
If you are looking to live clean and are curious about lymphatic drainage and what it can do for you, plan to commit to hydration, eating clean, whole foods and a series of lymphatic sessions. One session is one session—kind of like going to the gym once and expecting to look and feel great. Support your body’s natural detoxing and recovery with healthy eating, exercise and hydration. That doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in other things from time to time, but if you want to experience your best self, make choices that support that. My mantra: “Every day, in every way, I’m getting better and better” (Émile Coué).
programming free to the public with scholarships available for individuals facing financial hardship.
Mission-focused, ArtsQuest has its eye on the future with a brand-new, state-of-the-art Cultural Center slated to be built in 2025 in addition to the renovation of the historic Turn & Grind Shop, located next to the Bethlehem Visitor Center on the SteelStacks campus. The Cultural Center will serve as a visible and creative gateway to Bethlehem’s SouthSide; provide much needed space, new programs and advanced technology that will double the number of students and families ArtsQuest currently serves; implement new partnerships as a Communications Career Pathway Program with the BASD; and further foster economic development and tourism across the Lehigh Valley, which will improve property values and further civic pride. The Turn & Grind Shop will allow ArtsQuest to significantly expand its private event space to further accommodate corporate events, weddings, proms and additional functions. Its beautiful and historical location and structure will significantly further travel and tourism to the Lehigh Valley.
HAVEN HOUSE: RESTORING HOPE, RENEWING LIVES
By creating a stigma-free community in which those with barriers can thrive towards independence and accomplishment
like your favorite pair of pants, your cozy couch or your morning coffee, we ensure that you are always comfortable, no matter the season. For all your HVAC needs, you have friends at Comfort Generation.
The need for community-based mental health services from organizations like Haven House has grown post-pandemic. Looking in from the outside, one wouldn’t know that over 70 staff members are working to keep seven distinct programs and countless partnerships running to support around 3,000 individuals in Lehigh and Northampton counties. Haven House continually searches for new opportunities to expand and improve access to services to fulfill their mission. In addition, Haven House takes every opportunity to further educate the public around mental health to foster a stigmafree environment. This year, Haven House plans to resume poverty simulations, grow group therapy options and host a gala-type event, in order to reach new and different audiences regarding community mental health. Please follow them on Facebook or subscribe to their newsletter to avoid missing any of their exciting updates.
and Laminate Doors Countertops Kitchen Storage Hardware
Members of the Haven House leadership team
ArtsQuest is a nonprofit with a mission of providing access to the arts for all. Its programs reach more than 1.9 million people annually. Fundraising events, sponsors and community partners allow ArtsQuest to provide over half of its
José Rosado
EDUCATOR, AUTHOR AND STROKE SURVIVOR
BY AMY UNGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN
There was a time not too long ago when José Rosado wasn’t sure he would ever overcome the events of January 5, 2022.
The educator, author and former Fountain Hill mayor, then 58 years old, had spent part of that January day doing what he did on many of his days: getting in a workout at the gym. Rosado had taken up boxing in his youth and stayed dedicated to a fitness routine in adulthood.
He had just finished the workout and a subsequent stretch session in the steam room when he noticed he was feeling weak and dizzy. He went to the sink, turned it on, and tried to use his hands as a cup for the cold water coming out of the faucet. “My left arm just went totally limp,” Rosado says. “I knew I was in trouble at that point.”
Even so, he drove home. He hadn’t yet noticed that his face was drooping on the left side, but his daughter took one look at him and knew what was going on. “She says, ‘Dad, you’re having a stroke,’” Rosado says.
He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors not only confirmed the stroke, but, after looking at scans of his brain, determined it was actually his second, which came as a shock to Rosado. “They said it was very clear, looking at the left frontal part,” he recalls.
It was a devastating setback for a tenacious, tough guy who was used to being active not only at the gym, but also in his community and on the job. Suddenly, he was on his back in a hospital bed, at the mercy of a medical condition he had no control over.
Now, more than four years later, Rosado is back on his feet. His workouts have resumed. But the journey from point A to point B has been trying, with despair nipping at his heels, and new and devastating setbacks lying in wait around every corner.
But Rosado, ever the fighter, has persevered. He’s also reconnected with a passion from his childhood that has provided a much-needed creative outlet during his recovery: creative writing. He published his first work of fiction, a steamy romance novel called …Caught You Looking!, in 2025. “I tell people all the time, writing this novel saved my brain,” Rosado says.
He was just a second grader in the Bethlehem Area School District when he discovered the joys of writing. He has memories of his teacher putting a picture or poster on the wall and asking the class to come up with a story about it. “Penmanship didn’t count, spelling didn’t count, it was just creative writing and I enjoyed it,” Rosado says.
Rosado calls himself a “happy kid” while recalling his early childhood in Bethlehem’s projects: “We were poor but we didn’t know any better.” Later, exposures to drugs, violence and problems at home turned that happy kid into an angry teenager. But getting involved in an amateur boxing program gave him an outlet; so did the connection he formed with his photography teacher at Freedom High School. He managed to graduate, fulfilling a promise to his mother, despite his frequent presence on the absentee list.
Rosado had no plans to go to college until a mentor and family friend encouraged him to give it a try. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from East Stroudsburg University and a master’s degree from Lehigh University. Over the years, he held several roles in the Allentown and Bethlehem school districts, with one
unifying theme: he always tried to advocate for students who were in danger of falling through the cracks, just as he once was. “I always felt myself, throughout my career, kind of just going against the system or going against the establishment when it came to working with young people that were exhibiting these negative, antisocial or disruptive behaviors, because I knew that these behaviors were just a mask, a facade, and what they were doing was just masking their pain and their anger,” he says.
While working in education, Rosado also served as mayor of Fountain Hill from 2011 to 2017. He was first appointed to the position to finish out the term of his predecessor, who resigned, and then was elected to two subsequent terms. He’s often cited as the first Latino to be elected to a mayoral position in Pennsylvania.
Rosado was working at Kutztown University as the director of the school’s Upward Bound program at the start of 2022 when he suffered the stroke. He tried to return to work later that year, but the rigors of his recovery were too daunting, and he was forced to retire.
But he needed something to do to fill his days. When he tried to get back into writing—he previously had written op-eds for local newspapers, along with two nonfiction books, Deliberate Injustice, about inadequacies in the public education system, and Being Good at Being Bad, about the factors that drive teenagers down the wrong path—Rosado hit another roadblock. “Every time I would try to write about these social justice issues, with anything that has to do with conflict, I would get a really bad migraine headache. My head would just pound.”
About ten months after suffering the stroke, Rosado and his wife, Margarita, were on a cruise, where he observed an interaction between a man and a woman on the lido deck. “As I’m looking at her, she looks up, and I thought to myself, She caught me looking. And that’s what sparked the idea for the book.” He grabbed a legal pad he brought along for the trip and started writing. Three or four pages of content poured out of him. “It’s the first time that I had felt good about writing in a long, long time,” Rosado says.
Initially, he thought he’d make a short story out of it, but he kept going. A novel seemed more likely. It was a breakthrough moment; Rosado had found a way to
summon that second grader who loved to dream up entertaining tales. That was the good news. But it would take him another two years to finish the book because he was still contending with emotional fallout from the stroke: anxiety, depression, panic attacks. “Out of nowhere, I would just break down and sob,” he says.
The first time it happened, he was in the middle of a mundane trip to Walmart with his wife. He had to leave the checkout line abruptly. Another time, he was seated on a plane that was set to take off for Tampa, Florida, when he felt anxiety building to an intolerable extreme. He had to ask the flight crew to let him off the plane.
His doctors told him his brain was still healing itself. “I had to learn how to deal with these breakdowns,” says Rosado, “and it was difficult to do.”
Then came the insomnia and vertigo, the latter of which caused him to be bedridden for three months at one point. All the while, the headaches continued. Short-term memory loss was also a problem.
There have been dark days for sure. There might be more to come. The uncertainty of it all is one of the most frustrating parts of the recovery process, Rosado says. “I would feel good for one or two months, and I’m thinking to myself, I’m in the clear, I’m good. And then I would relapse again. The migraine headaches would resurface, the severe anxiety would resurface.”
But at the time of this interview in April, Rosado is in a good place, he says. “Right now, I’m just being very patient with myself and just kind of taking on different projects and doing them as I feel well.”
Rosado, who’s now 62 years old, with three children and seven grandchildren, has been sharing his journey—the good, the bad and the ugly—on his Facebook page, as well as on his website. “I’m able to be transparent and share with people my struggles, [for] other people that might be going through similar struggles,” he says. “I’m hopeful that inspires them or gives them hope to heal. Writing and working out was very therapeutic for me, but that might not be the thing that would be helpful for someone else. So I tell people, try and find that thing or that activity that that can serve as that light for you.”
joserosado.org
Summer Nights
BY DAISY WILLIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BCENDET / ADOBE STOCK
Lingering light and twinkling fireflies invite us out and about in the summer months—here are a few forays in the Valley to make the most of good weather and seasonal events.
The Velodrome celebrates its 50th anniversary season this year with exciting races all through the summer. This month marks an especially big night with two very different races: the blistering Keirin sprint and the stamina and strategy of the Madison relay. Bounce houses, food trucks and games keep the momentum going for the whole family between events.
Many breweries invite you to relax outside under bistro lights, but special recognition goes to Wanderlust Beer Garden in Easton, an eclectically styled, family-friendly hangout with food, music and a playground. Come to this colorful hodgepodge for a refreshing change from the industrial/beige barn aesthetic and sample the vibes for yourself.
3. PICNIC ON THE GREEN AT THE SHAKESPEARE CAFÉ
2755 Station Ave., Center Valley pashakespeare.org
Before delving into the theater for a captivating performance, the PA Shakespeare Festival invites visitors to enjoy live music in a garden atmosphere with a picnic on the lawn. Come 90 minutes early and bring your own spread, or preorder a basket with sweet and savory delectables to nibble as the lute strings sing.
4. ROOFTOP DINING
Zest bar+grille | 306 S. New St., Bethlehem | zestbethlehem.com
Southside Bethlehem’s Zest is not the only rooftop dining spot in the game. From a lofty perch on Easton’s shore, diners at Thyme Rooftop Grille can look over the lights of the city or the Delaware River on the brink of its confluence. There’s something special about watching the summer sun fade from a height, cocktail in hand.
5. FREE SUMMER MOVIES
Levitt Pavilion at SteelStacks 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem | artsquest.org
Screening classics like Aladdin (Jul. 15) and Monsters, Inc. (Jul. 29) along with stuffed bear phenomenon Paddington in Paddington in Peru (Jul. 22), the Levitt Pavilion’s free family movie series is just one of many held at community parks around the Valley. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and share in movie magic with your community.
THIRSTY TURTLE TAVERN
Thirsty Turtle Tavern offers an upscale casual experience where vibrant energy meets inviting comfort. With an extensive menu, craft cocktails and a lively, sophisticated atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for friends, family and colleagues to gather in Whitehall.
Lazeez Fresh Mediterranean Grill’s shawarma elevates Mediterranean dining with made-fromscratch, non-processed food. The team hand-builds its own shawarma cones daily, creating tender, authentic flavor. Fresh bowls, quality ingredients and true hospitality make this longtime Lehigh Valley favorite a standout among newer spots.
HEATHER MAYER IRVINE & AMY UNGER WITH ANGELA VENNEMANN & MAGGIE WILSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON & ALISON CONKLIN
The biggest Lehigh Valley Style feature of the year got even bigger in 2026! We added ten categories for a whopping total of 160, and we combed through nearly 14,000 votes from our readers to find out which Lehigh Valley businesses are the best of the best. Read on to find out this year’s winners!
FOOD & DRINK
BEST CHEESESTEAK SMP Mini Mart
They’ve only been around since 2022, but SMP’s cheesesteaks have taken the Valley by storm, so much so that they’re moving to an expanded location. Order the OG SMP (wiz, Cooper, onions) or try the “Didn’t Suck,” made with fresh ribeye. 1341 Mickley Rd., Whitehall | 610.443.3002
SMP Mini Mart
BEST HOAGIE Luca and Sons
The brains behind this operation is Masterchef winner Luca Manfè, so you know you’re getting a top-notch hoagie here. This Italian deli and butcher shop, located in the Easton Public Market, serves up not just hoagies but freshly baked breads, quick dinners, gourmet desserts and imported Italian specialties.
Old School’s rule: make everything fresh and in-house, all the time. Their sandwiches feature the finest cuts of meat from local butchers, all with no preservatives, and you can build your own or choose from one of their signatures, like the Mother Clucker.
7535 Windsor Dr., Allentown 484.290.0110
oldschoolsandwichcompany.com
BEST SALAD Penn Pizza Restaurant
Their menu boasts eighteen different salads, so it will take you a while to run out of options here. Every salad comes with onions, roasted peppers, olives, artichokes, fresh mozz and tomatoes.
BEST BURGER Wert’s Cafe
For nearly 60 years, Fred and Connie Wert have lived the dream of owning their own family restaurant. Connie, inspired by her parents who owned and operated the Village Inn in Allentown, and Fred, who tended bar at the Inn, opened Wert’s Cafe in 1968. With just 12 tables and nine employees at the start, the Werts have grown the Allentown cafe and its patronage. Today, the home of Lehigh Valley Style ’s Best Burger boasts 25 tables and 33 staffers. Wert’s Cafe “comes with a lot of traditions,” says Fred and Connie’s daughter Kathy Wert, a co-owner. “We have not only served food to our customers through the years, but we have built and are still building relationships with them.”
515 N. 18th St., Allentown | 610.439.0951 wertscafe.com
1251 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Allentown | 610.434.7366 orderpennpizza.com
La Maya owner and chef Rogelio Romero knows it’s easy to blend in with countless other Mexican-inspired restaurants in the Lehigh Valley. And most bars offer nachos. But he started La Maya with a simple goal: “To create a place where people feel welcomed, taken care of and excited about food and experience.” Standing out, he says, means he and his team are doing something meaningful. The restaurant’s nachos—mixed cheese, black beans, pickled jalapeño, pico de gallo, crema, queso cotija, cilantro and avocado salsa, served on crispy tortilla chips—and its other menu staples are a “more modern, elevated take on traditional Mexican comfort food,” Romero says. 650 Main St., Hellertown | 610.285.7230 | lamayarestaurant.com
Alison Conklin Photography
FOOD & DRINK
BEST HOT DOG & BEST PIEROGI Yocco's
Yocco’s has been serving up hot dogs in the Lehigh Valley for more than a century, so it’s no surprise that they’re often singled out as the best of the best. This time around, though, Yocco’s is also getting props for its pierogies. Third-generation owner Gary Iacocca says Yocco’s sells nearly a million of them a year across its five locations. “It’s a big item, and it’s a great alternative to French fries because pierogies stay hotter longer,” he says. Whether it’s hot dogs, pierogies or anything else on the Yocco’s menu, it all comes down to using quality ingredients, Iacocca says: “I think that’s always been the secret to our business, is that everything is made fresh right in front of you.”
Multiple area locations yoccos.com
LOBSTER
ROLL
& BEST DIRTY MARTINI
3rd & Ferry Fish Market
Here it is: the perfect meal. Enjoy 3 rd and Ferry’s lobster roll, featuring a toasted croissant, a quarter-pound of lobster meat, butter and whole grain mustard aioli, and wash it all down with a Filthy Viking, complete with blue cheesestuffed olives.
rd
Of course the Flying V has the best fries—you can get them covered in scratch-made beef gravy and cheddar cheese curds. Or try the Parm Truffle Fries, tossed in truffle oil, parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. rd 610.419.2530 flyingvpoutinerie.com BEST
MAC & CHEESE &
HAPPY HOUR blue grillhouse
The covered patio and drink specials, featuring seasonal cocktails, make blue a no-brainer when it comes to happy hour choices. Make your happy hour happier by adding a side of Asiago Crab Mac ’n’ Cheese to your drink order.
Here you can enjoy premiumquality, dry-cured semolina pasta, imported from the oldest pasta factory in Italy. With classic pasta options like baked rigatoni and seafood dishes like linguini shrimp scampi, these are carbs worth splurging for.
Alison Conklin Photography
Armetta’s
Italian Restaurant & Pub
Here you can find traditional and Sicilian pies, plus plenty of specialties like the Southwest Pizza (chicken, steak, ranch dressing and barbecue sauce) and the best-selling Tuscan Pizza (white pizza with mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes and garlic).
301 Main St., Emmaus 610.967.3050 armettaspizzarestpub.com
BEST GRILLED CHEESE
McCall Collective Brewing Company
Two slices of Wonder bread and a Kraft single is fine, but what you really want is McCall’s gourmet grilled cheese, made with fresh sourdough, Gouda, sharp cheddar, bacon jam and citrus-dressed arugula. Oh, and it’s all toasted in garlic truffle butter.
102 E. Susquehanna St., Allentown | 610.973.5403 mccallcollectivebrewing.com
BEST WINGS PJ Whelihan’s Pub + Restaurant
These wings are fresh, never frozen, and come in classic and boneless options. You could order them naked, but their signature sauces add a lot of extra kick, with flavors like Korean BBQ, Flamin Pickleback and Mexican Garlic.
BEST BUTTER CHICKEN Aman’s Artisan Indian Cuisine
Butter chicken is perhaps the most popular dish in Indian cuisine. The way it’s prepared varies, depending on where in India the recipe originates. Naturally, it’s on the menu at Aman’s Artisan Indian Cuisine, and, naturally, the popular Downtown Easton spot’s version does not disappoint. “Ours is a personal take on the original butter chicken found in Delhi,” says co-owner and executive chef Jasmeet Bansal. “A velvety smooth sauce, tender chicken and just the perfect blend of spices.” It’s like elevated home cooking with a side of hospitality. “We focus heavily on the food, but the ambiance and service are a big part of your culinary journey,” Bansal says.
Bella Sanchez, manager of KOMÉ, situated in the Promenade, works tirelessly to maintain freshness and quality that has earned the sushi spot a Best Of accolade. Since its opening in 2008, the team behind KOMÉ has worked to grow its patronage and embrace families who come in over and over again. “This recognition is based on our wonderful guests and everyone who has come to love KOMÉ as much as we love being here,” she says. Sanchez and her team particularly love family events season—Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations—when they’re reminded that of all the places in the Lehigh Valley, people choose to come to KOMÉ. “That is something really special, and we appreciate it deeply.”
2800 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley 610.798.9888 | komerestaurant.com
Each steak here is seasoned with a house blend of salt and spices and served on a 500° plate with plenty of melted butter. Make it your own by adding sauces, shrimp, lobster tail, bleu cheese crust or ordering it Oscar-style, with jumbo lump crab meat, asparagus and béarnaise.
323 Northampton St., Easton | 610.559.5510
threeoaksteakhouse.com
BEST CHINESE TAKEOUT U & Tea
Save yourself the headache of dirty dishes and enjoy their traditional Chinese cuisine in the comfort of your own home. Popular options include pork potstickers, scallion pancakes, soup buns and pineapple fried rice.
119 E. 3 rd St., Bethlehem 610.866.4900 uandtea.com
BEST BREAKFAST SANDWICH
Back Home Bagels
There’s no better way to start your day than with an expertly crafted bagel sandwich. Create your own, or choose from one of Back Home Bagels’ signature creations like the Squad Car Sandwich— Boar’s Head pastrami, applewood bacon, fried egg, sharp cheddar, tomato and Thousand Island dressing on a pumpernickel bagel.
4041 Rte. 309 Suite 103,
FOOD & DRINK
BEST CHICKEN AND WAFFLES & BEST BRUNCH MENU Union and Finch
Loads of great brunch options are available on Saturday and Sunday, from savory options like Breakfast Poutine to sweeter treats like Waffles Foster. But top on our list is the Chicken & Waffle, which arrives at your table with arugula, pickled celery and honey aioli. 1528 W. Union St., Allentown 610.432.1522 unionandfinch.com
BEST BARBECUE
The Barbecue Boys
What started as two brothers and a smoker in their backyard has grown into a full-fledged restaurant and catering business. Their smoked meats include brisket, beef sausage and pulled pork, and you can build your own sandwich or bowl with fresh sides and house-made sauces.
306 S. New St. Unit 109,
BEST HUMMUS Aladdin Middle Eastern Cuisine
This family-run spot has been an Allentown mainstay for more than 40 years, and they pride themselves on offering the finest authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Their hummus is a blend of chickpeas, tahini, garlic and olive oil, and there’s an option to top it with ground lamb and pine nuts.
651 Union Blvd., Allentown 610.437.4023 aladdinlv.com
BEST TACO
El Jefe’s Taqueria
Build your own three-taco set by choosing from a huge selection of proteins and toppings, with everything nestled in double corn tortillas. Single tacos are available as well, but come on, you know you want to go big. Don’t forget to add a bottle of Mexican Coke to your order!
506 E. 3 rd St., Bethlehem 610.419.2000 eljefestaqueria.com
BEST FRIED CHICKEN
The Bayou
The Bird comes with five pieces of buttermilk fried chicken, sweet potato mash and house pickles. For a kick, try the Nashville Hot option, and don’t forget to add a side—Bayou’s fried chicken goes great with their collard greens or battered fries and voodoo sauce.
Cali Burrito promises to knock your socks off with the classic flavor combos featured in their signature burritos. They offer several options that are totally vegetarian, and their breakfast burritos are available all day long.
2149 Reading Rd., Allentown caliburrito.com
Courtesyof The Barbecue Boys
Courtesy of The Bayou
AlisonConklinPhotography
Photography by Kori Livingston
FOOD & DRINK
BEST AVOCADO TOAST Café 23
Café 23 opened in Emmaus in November 2024. “We are a faithbased, upscale brunch café,” says owner Rebekah Doyle. “We focus on scratch-made, thoughtfully sourced food that feels both nourishing and elevated.” Count avocado toast among those delicious, above-and-beyond offerings. “What sets our avocado toast apart is that we start with artisan sourdough bread, top it with perfectly seasoned avocado and elevate it with thoughtfully chosen ingredients that bring balance in flavor and texture,” says Doyle. Sound good? It’s known as the “Adam” on the menu: silky avocado paired with vibrant lemon segments, delicate microgreens and a
cafe23lv.com
You can’t go wrong with an order of traditional Pad Thai here, but don’t miss out on a few other iterations: Pad Thai Ramen (egg noodles, shrimp, mango, bean sprouts, scallions, crispy noodles and a fried egg) or Hawaiian Pad Thai, starring Thai pork sausage and fresh pineapple.
2985 Center Valley Pkwy. Suite 200, Center Valley 610.841.7499
whiteorchidsthaicuisine.com
BEST RAMEN Mister Lee’s Noodles
Even a devastating fire last year couldn’t stop Mister Lee’s Noodles from turning out quality farm-to-ladle ramen. Their Easton Public Market location has kept the ship afloat on a sea of broth and noodles, plus quality ingredients from local producers.
325 Northampton St., Easton | 610.829.2799
512 E. 3 rd St., Bethlehem | 610.900.4888 misterleesnoodles.com
BEST HIBACHI
A1 Japanese Steak House
Who doesn’t love dinner and a show? Enjoy Japanese fare cooked right in front of you for a fun night out. Their hibachi dinners include soup and salad, vegetables, two pieces of shrimp and your choice of protein, plus white rice, fried rice or noodles.
3300 Lehigh St., Allentown
It’s not just a clever name— customers love this Vietnamese joint famed for its delicious soups. There are plenty of choices for proteins, including brisket and eye of round steak, and their pho comes loaded with rice noodles, scallions, onions, cilantro, bean sprouts, jalapeños, lime and Thai basil.
319 S. Cedar Crest Blvd.,
Alison Conklin Photography
BEST CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE
The Modern Crumb Bakeshop
Professionally trained pastry chef Kathryn Gaffrey knows what she’s doing, but you all already knew that. Visit their location inside the Easton Public Market for an expertly baked cookie, but don’t stop there—they also offer freshbaked breads, croissants, scones and more.
Live your best life by building your own froyo bowl, with tons of flavors and toppings to choose from. All of Menchie’s frozen yogurt flavors come from sustainably sourced, real California milk, and they offer vegan sorbet flavors as well. 943 Airport Center Dr., Allentown | 610.841.4913
353 S. Cedar Crest Blvd.,
BEST POKE BOWL
A healthy meal never tasted so good. Build your own bowl with sushi rice, cold noodles or spring mix, then add fresh proteins like tuna, salmon or free-range chicken, and top it with up to six of their many vegetable options. Don’t forget to pick a sauce!
1403 N. Cedar Crest Blvd. Suite 140, Allentown 610.351.9230 | chopfin.com
BEST CUPCAKE
Sweet Girlz Bakery
It’s the law—you’re not allowed to have a bad time when you eat a cupcake. Sweet Girlz Bakery aims to keep you happy with endless flavors of beautifully decorated specialty cupcakes. For a quick hit of something sweet, try one of their Little Darlins mini cupcakes. Glutenfree and vegan options are available too!
40 N. 3 rd St., Easton 610.829.1030 sweetgirlzbakery.com
BEST CAKE
The Farm
Bakery & Events
No matter the occasion, from weddings to birthdays to just because, this family-owned bakery promises to deliver the proverbial cherry on top of your event with their cakes, always made with love from as many locally sourced ingredients as possible. 2475 W. Zion Hill Rd., 215.645.9343 meyersfarmbakery.com
Alison Conklin Photography
Photography by Shelbie Pletz
BEST MACARON The Modern Bakery
Marissa Guarriello had never tasted a macaron before she taught herself how to make them in her own kitchen. “What began as curiosity quickly turned into a deep passion for perfecting the process and creating something elevated and approachable,” says Guarriello, the owner and baker of The Modern Bakery. This year’s Best Macaron award marks a three-peat for Guarriello. “That’s really special because it represents consistency,” she says.
“Macarons are one of the most technical desserts, so to be recognized repeatedly means the quality is there every single time.” Guarriello is a one-woman show, and she’s expanded her microbakery to include small-batch desserts with macarons, yes, as well as cookies and cinnamon rolls.
128 N. 3rd St., Easton 484.578.9040
themodernbakery.com
BEST MATCHA Gems & Joe
The matcha latte is one of the most popular drinks here, and for good reason. This family-owned shop allows you to customize your drink with plenty of flavor options, milks and cold foams for a hot or iced matcha that will brighten your day.
Alison Conklin
Photography
FOOD &
Mary Ann Donut Kitchen
A Lehigh Valley tradition since 1959, these little rings of perfection are the perfect boost to any morning. They bake more than twenty varieties fresh every day, and they’re now serving coffee and espresso drinks from local partner Mad Catter Coffee Roasters.
1601 W. Liberty St., Allentown | 610.439.9985
1825 W. Chew St., Allentown | 610.434.6456
maryanndonutkitchen.com
BEST ICE CREAM
Owowcow
You can’t go wrong with an ice cream shop that regularly lands on national best-of lists. They stock twelve signature flavors plus twelve more rotating flavors, all hand-batched and made with ingredients from their local farm partners. We’ll take two scoops!
1262 Simon Blvd.
BEST SMOOTHIE Playa Bowls
This extensive menu delivers smoothies for every mood, whether you’re looking for something packed with protein, a boost of energy or a sweet treat that’s dairy-free or vegan. With four Lehigh Valley locations, you’re never far from your next sip.
Multiple area locations playabowls.com
BEST BREAKFAST SPOT
Billy’s Downtown Diner
Comfort food was never so delicious. Using the freshest ingredients, Billy’s crafts everything from traditional breakfast staples like eggs and pancakes to elevated offerings like their famous French toast and the Zip City Benedict, featuring pork carnitas, ciabatta bread and chèvre cheese.
10 E. Broad St., Bethlehem | 610.867.0105
123 S. 3 rd St., Easton | 610.438.3100 billysdiner.com
SPECIALTY
CANDY Josh Early Candies
Fresh ingredients, smallbatch family recipes and five generations of expertise are what make this candy shop better than the rest. There’s no need to wait for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day to treat yourself to something sweet!
4640 W. Tilghman St., Allentown | 610.395.4321
610.865.0580
BEST COFFEE SHOP Bitty & Beau’s Coffee
It’s a great coffee shop, sure, but it’s so much more. Built on inclusivity, Bitty & Beau’s offers employment to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, creating a space where diversity isn’t just appreciated, it’s celebrated. Come in for a cup made with love, or grab a bag to brew at home.
74 W. Broad St., Bethlehem | 484.225.8358 | bittyandbeauscoffee.com
BEST SPECIALTY COFFEE
Nowhere Coffee Co.
The clever names for their specialty drinks are disarming, sure, but don’t let that distract you from the fact that they’re really, really good. Nowhere roasts their own beans at their 9 th Street location and makes their own syrups for a drink that’s perfectly crafted every time.
3127 Tilghman St., Allentown
BEST FRESHPRESSED JUICE Green Vida Co.
They’re committed to sharing the positive effects that a healthy diet with natural, highquality ingredients has on your health. Stop in to either location for a cold-pressed juice, made with organic fruits, vegetables and almonds, or go big and try one of their juice cleanses.
1800 Sullivan Trl. Suite 330, Easton | 610.438.4112
325 Northampton St., Easton greenvidacompany.com
Marco Calderon Photography
BEST WINERY
Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery
Grape planting started as a hobby for John and Pat Skrip in the 1970s. The fruit of their labor became Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery in Breinigsville. Now two of their children, Kari Skrip and John Skrip III, are carrying on the family tradition. “We take great pride in growing and producing our wines,” says Kari. “The best way to control the quality of wines is to start with good fruit. The best way to start with good fruit is to grow it!” But what’s a good bottle of wine without the appropriate ambiance? Sit back and sip on Clover Hill’s outdoor patio or inside its spacious, bright tasting room, where a knowledgeable staff awaits. “We hope guests can relax and enjoy all of the beauty our business has to offer,” Kari says. 9850 Newtown Rd., Breinigsville | 610.395.2468 1825 W. Chew St., Allentown | 610.439.3969 cloverhillwinery.com
BEST MOCKTAIL MENU
Bar Torino
A zero-proof drink is sometimes exactly what you want when you’re out for dinner. Bar Torino serves up beverages that taste just as good as their fully-leaded counterparts, like the Spicy Hibiscus No-Rita, made with hibiscus, lime, jalapeño, tonic and fancy salt.
56 N. 3 rd St., Easton 610.438.4460 bar-torino.com
BEST LOCAL DISTILLERY
Eight Oaks Farm Distillery
Not just a distillery, Eight Oaks creates spirits that are rooted in purpose and community. Sustainability matters here, and the difference is clear in everything they offer, from their flagship whiskeys to their readyto-drink cocktails and seasonal food menus.
7189 Rte. 309, New Tripoli 484.387.5287 eightoaksdistillery.com
BEST BEER MENU Yergey Brewing
They call themselves a nanobrewery, but their selection is anything but small. Yergey brews in small batches so the variety can be rotated regularly, and you’ll find everything from the lightest pilsner to the reddest ale to the darkest stout, so there’s always something for every beer fan.
235 Main St., Emmaus 484.232.7055
yergeybrewing.com
BEST COCKTAIL MENU Presley’s
Cocktail Bar
From expertly crafted classic cocktails to inventive creations you won’t find anywhere else, this intimate Easton spot is the “little bar that could.” Their menu rotates regularly, so you’ll always find something new to try. We can’t recommend their tequila-based espresso martinis enough!
Now with three Lehigh Valley taprooms, Lost Tavern is at the top of their game. Celebrating their tenth anniversary this month, they offer a wide variety of creative craft brews featuring everything from lagers to IPAs to fruited sours in cans or straight from the tap.
Multiple area locations losttavernbrewing.com
BEST APPETIZER/SMALL PLATE MENU
Apollo Grill
How many times will you need to visit before you’ve tried everything on their appetizer menu? We’re not sure, but it’s definitely more than one. With options like Asian Beef Short Rib Lettuce Wraps, Baked Brie en Croute and Tempura Fried Cauliflower, repeat visits are a must.
BEST VEGETARIAN/ VEGAN MENU
VegOut
Burgers, milkshakes, mac and cheese and cookies that are 100 percent plant-based? VegOut delivers on this tasty promise like you wouldn’t believe. These delicious meals allow you to splurge and feel good doing it.
1 E. Church St., Bethlehem 610.419.0126 vegoutbethlehem.com
BEST BAGEL SHOP
3 Men & A Bagel
Bagels are empty in the middle, but you won’t be after a visit to this bake shop. They bake nearly twenty varieties of bagels fresh every day, with plenty of flavored cream cheeses, butter and jellies available, or enjoy your bagel as an expertly crafted sandwich.
3350 Schoenersville Rd., Bethlehem | 610.868.5805
7150 Hamilton Blvd., Trexlertown | 610.366.9520 3menandabagel.com
BEST LUNCH SPOT & BEST PATIO/ OUTDOOR DINING
The Shelby
This wildly popular spot is always a winner, with weekly lunch features that are sure to please. The carefully curated menu boasts plenty of sandwiches, salads, mains and pizzas for the perfect midday meal, and when beautiful weather beckons, the pro move is to head to their gorgeous covered patio.
707 N. Krocks Rd. Suite 104, 610.841.0808 theshelbyrestaurant.com
Alison Conklin Photography
Alison Conklin Photography
Matthew Cannon Photography
BEST APEROL SPRITZ PA House
On the banks of the Saucon Creek sits PA House, and owners Franco and Rachel DiCarlo pride themselves on creating a place that “feels low-key but premium,” Franco says. From the beginning, they’ve focused on doing the classics—food, drink, hospitality—well. PA House’s friendly atmosphere and laid-back location make it the perfect home of an Aperol spritz. “The Aperol spritz is a simple drink,” Franco says. “But in Italy, it’s closely tied to aperitivo, a time to slow down and ease into the evening.” And summer evenings are PA House’s time to shine: “The warmer months are always a great stretch for us,” Franco says. “We look forward to guests enjoying time outside, spritzes in hand, settling in and slowing down.”
662 Front St., Hellertown 484.851.6662 thepahouse.com
Stoke Coal Fire Pizza & Bar
The Style staff may or may not have popped in to celebrate the Stokepresso Martini’s win in this category. It’s made with vanilla vodka, espresso liqueur and brewed espresso, and Licor 43, a citrusy, sweet and botanical liqueur, and presented in a way that makes it too pretty to drink. Almost.
This Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market vendor has been a beloved mainstay since 1992, offering premium poultry cuts as well as specialty products like stuffed chicken breasts, chicken and turkey sausages and more.
1825 W. Chew St., Allentown | 610.432.1108 mrbills.com
If it comes from the sea, you can probably find it here. Pick up your own fish and shellfish to cook at home, or spring for The Can, a seafood boil including clams, lobster, snow crab, shrimp, potatoes, corn on the cob and kielbasa.
711 N. 17th St., Allentown
BEST SPECIALTY GROCERY STORE
Frey’s Better Foods
From organic meats, produce and dairy to supplements, personal care items and cleaning supplies, Frey’s offers products that are good for you and good for the planet. Check out their website to shop online and access wellness tools, recipes and their event calendar.
1575 Main St., Hellertown
610.838.6989
freysbetterfoods.com
BEST GOURMET FOOD SHOP
Grazia’s Italian Market
This family-owned and -operated shop is your go-to for imported Italian specialties like premium olive oils, artisanal pasta and cured meats and cheeses. Besides pantry staples, they also offer breads, sweet and savory pastries, and prepared foods that are ready to heat and enjoy.
2112 Schoenersville Rd.,
BEST SANGRIA Tapas on Main
Available in a glass, a pitcher or a flight, Tapas on Main’s sangrias are the real deal. Their menu rotates with the seasons, but there’s always a classic red and classic white option available. Give your sangria a little extra oomph by adding cava, a Spanish sparkling wine.
500 Main St., Bethlehem
610.868.8903
tapasonmain.com
BEST FOOD TRUCK Cactus Blue
You don’t have to be in Emmaus to enjoy Cactus Blue’s Mexican cuisine. Their food truck travels throughout the Valley (and beyond!) for both public and private events, so your favorite tacos, burritos, enchiladas and nachos are always within reach.
610.814.3000
cactusblue.biz/food-truck
FOOD & DRINK
BEST DRINK FLIGHT Joey B’s
There are drink flights, and then there are Joey B’s drink flights. They’re famous for their sangria options, but check out their inventive themed cocktail flights—four adorably miniature drinks centered around holidays, seasons and pop culture phenomena.
638 Delaware Ave., Palmerton | 610.826.6620
joeybsbar.com
BEST BUTCHER Saylors & Co
This Hellertown staple offers the finest meats, including prime beef and local chicken and pork, all raised without hormones or antibiotics. While you’re picking up protein for dinner, don’t forget to check out their prepared foods, bakery items and gourmet dry goods.
1105 Main St., Hellertown
610.838.6363
saylorsandco.com
BEST LOCAL PREMADE MEALS Zekraft
At Zekraft, they get it: life gets busy. But eating well shouldn’t be hard, and that’s where they come in. Their weekly premade meal delivery service offers an ever-changing (but always delicious) menu of entrees, soups, salads, desserts and even meals for athletes in training.
zekraft.com
Alison Conklin Photography
Alison Conklin Photography
HEALTH & SELF
BEST BARRE barre3 Lehigh Valley
Brittany Morse was craving connection when she opened her first barre3 studio. “I figured if I was searching for this, others in the Lehigh Valley probably were, too; they just hadn’t discovered barre3 yet,” she says. barre3 blends strength, cardio and mindfulness into functional fitness. It’s certainly a good body burn, but it’s not meant to be intimidating. “barre3 is incredibly accessible,” says Morse. “Every class is designed for all bodies and all fitness levels.” She sees her clients’ physical and mental transformations happen firsthand at barre3 Lehigh Valley’s locations in Allentown and Bethlehem.
BEST FITNESS COMMUNITY
The Void
With a philosophy of “When you know better, you do better,” The Void promises an experience leading to a change in how you feel. Yoga, Pilates, strength training and hot fitness classes offer members a choice in how they find the path back to themselves.
BEST SPIN/CYCLE 6ycle
More than just a place to work out, 6ycle promises a community where people can connect and transform together. Their high-energy cycling classes challenge your body and boost your mood, and they offer remote training programs and meal plans customized to your needs.
Marco Calderon Photography
BEST FITNESS CLASS CycleFit
Lehigh Valley
Training is simplified here with classes geared toward cycling, lifting or a combination of both. CycleFit is committed to small class sizes that ensure you get the personal attention you need without having to share equipment, so you can focus on achieving the results you want.
1800 Sullivan Tr. Suite 145, Easton | 610.360.3518 cyclefitlehighvalley.com
BEST YOGA STUDIO
The Valley Om
This welcoming yoga community is on a mission to provide good, functional yoga and bodywork classes geared toward each client’s individual journey. Count on them to guide you through hatha and vinyasa flows that will align your body, mind, heart and spirit.
1247 Simon Blvd. N102, Easton | 484.548.0030 thevalleyom.com
BEST NUTRITIONIST
Morgan Hamler
If you’re an athlete or just someone who’s active, you need someone who knows how nutrition ties into your overall health and fitness to keep your body at its best. Hamler is a board-certified registered dietitian who uses clinical expertise to create a fueling strategy tailored to your goals.
TRAINING Forward Thinking Fitness
Private, semi-private and small group training options mean you’re out of excuses—Forward Thinking Fitness can help you be your best self in any setting. They offer expert coaching, personalized instruction and the support, comfort and confidence you need to improve your fitness.
6750 Iroquois Trl. Suite 12, Allentown | 610.395.9595 ftfstrong.com
Free Will CrossFit
Their one-hour classes are guided by experienced coaches who create workouts incorporating elements of weight-lifting, cardio and gymnastics. Personalized attention and a strong sense of community set the tone for a CrossFit experience that will transform your fitness journey.
100 Keystone Ave., Emmaus
CrossFit
Lehigh Valley
Here, they make it easy to get back into fighting shape with workouts that are designed for busy adults, with modifications that allow you to make progress consistently and safely. Their coaches come from sports performance backgrounds and make sure you always feel supported.
They offer a one-stop shop where you can personalize your approach to health, with highly trained and credentialed staff there to guide you through personal training, group classes, performance training and nutrition.
Multiple area locations slhn.org/fitness
Courtesy of Forward Thinking Fitness
BEST PILATES Physical Methods Pilates
Instructor Stacey Redfield says, “Your body needs to last a lifetime.” Why not take action to keep it firing on all cylinders? At Physical Methods, Redfield utilizes reformers in small classes with personal attention to help her clients achieve the results they deserve.
670 E. North St. Suite 202, Bethlehem | 610.814.0603 physicalmethods.com
BEST COUNSELING CENTER/THERAPY PRACTICE
Anwari Counseling Services LLC
With an extensive counseling staff offering multiple therapy modalities, Anwari (from the Arabic word anwar, meaning light) helps clients heal by bringing light to their difficult experiences. They help individuals, couples and families regain a sense of balance on the path to healing.
BEST MEN’S HAIRCUT Hair by Harley
Harley Detrick spent 15 years building his clientele before opening Hair by Harley in Emmaus. Though his Best of the Lehigh Valley win is for men’s cuts, Detrick emphasizes that his work is gender-neutral. “I like to consider myself a hybrid of barbering and hair styling, capable of using clippers, scissors and the straight razor,” he says. That’s by design: Detrick wants his business to be a safe and welcoming space for trans and queer clients. “I want everyone to feel welcome in my chair and amazing when they leave,” he says. “I don’t cut hair for men or women but simply for humans.”
203 Franklin St., Emmaus | hairbyharley.com
BEST LIFE COACH Kathleen Tucka
If you’re a professional who feels stuck in a career rut, Tucka offers guidance to help you recalibrate your direction, realign your career and design your next chapter. Sessions over Zoom, phone, email and text make it easy for you to change direction and achieve your goals.
sunnylifecoach.com
KathleenTuckaSunnyLifeCoach
BEST WAXING The Glow Bar
Get smooth for summer with waxing services from The Glow Bar, where you can think small (brows and face) or go big with back and full-body services. Combo packages like the Smooth Start (Brazilian, underarm and lower leg) make getting ready for swimsuit season a breeze.
35 E. Elizabeth Ave.
It’s the best of everything— sun-kissed color from vegan ingredients in the comfort of your own home, without taking the risk of getting burned. This mobile service run by licensed estheticians makes sure you get a naturallooking glow with a luxury experience.
267.946.7763
Marco Calderon Photography
Marco Calderon Photography
HEALTH & SELF
BEST HAIR STYLIST Briana Kuehn
Briana Kuehn has been a hair stylist for fifteen years, and her enthusiasm for the job hasn't dimmed since the first time she picked up a pair of scissors. "In my opinion, this is the best industry out there," she says. "There aren’t many jobs out there where you get to go home every day being able to say you made someone’s day.” She's currently working her magic at J. Morgan Salon, which has locations in Bethlehem Township and Lower Nazareth Township. Blended color, custom color, short cuts, long cuts, clipper cuts: she does it all, and she does it well. “I want everyone to walk out feeling confident, healthy and like I’ve exceeded the experience they were hoping for,” Kuehn says.
This salon goes beyond crafting beautiful hair—they foster a community that brings together inclusivity, kindness, empowerment and honesty. The environment at Maven & Mane will leave you feeling beautiful inside and out, with cuts, color, styling, keratin treatments and facial waxing and threading.
6750 Iroquois Trl. Suite 4,
BEST BARBERSHOP
Jimmy’s
Barber Shop
This classic barbershop has long been trusted for quality service, offering regular cuts, fades, hot towel shaves and even kids’ cuts. They pride themselves on providing top-notch grooming services at affordable prices that keep their customers coming back again and again. 822 N. 19 th St., Allentown | 610.841.4773 jimmysbarbershopallentown.com
BEST MANICURE & PEDICURE
Summer Breeze Salon
Feel good about feeling beautiful with Summer Breeze Salon’s nail services, including dip powder, which is gentle on the nail plate, and Dazzle Dry polish, made with nontoxic materials that promise a highperformance manicure that can last up to fourteen days without chipping.
7751 Glenlivet Dr. W.
Boutique
Enjoy a holistic experience without harsh products or treatments at Skinterest, where they focus on therapeutic facial massage, somatic release and globally respected product lines from South Africa and Korea. Facials range from 30 to 60 minutes and address a variety of skincare needs.
1274 Simon Blvd. G101, Easton skinterestskincare.com
Marco Calderon Photography
HEALTH & SELF
BEST MASSAGE
Healing Hands Massage and Wellness Center
In 1997, Healing Hands Massage and Wellness Center was just three massage rooms in the basement of their Main Street building in Bethlehem. The business expanded, and in 2013, owner Jennifer Burns took over the entire building, with massage, facials, foot soaks and colon hydrotherapy services. “Recognition is exciting, and knowing the recognition is driven by votes in the community makes it so special,” Burns says. Healing Hands launched a new facial menu last fall and a new massage menu last winter. This summer, clients can experience a new foot soak menu. “When your feet are tired from your summer activities, including Musikfest, this is the perfect treatment,” Burns says. healhands.com
BEST SPA DAY Spa at Wind Creek
Relaxation and rejuvenation await at the Spa at Wind Creek in Bethlehem. “Guests can indulge in exclusive Elemis Biotec treatments, renewing hands-on facials and signature wraps like Thousand-Flower Detox and Musclease Aroma, alongside Swedish, deep tissue and hot stone massages, Elemis spa manicures and pedicures, and expert barber services featuring precision cuts, hot towel shaves and deep-cleansing grooming treatments,” says Tiffany Alexander, communications specialist for Wind Creek Bethlehem. If that’s not enough to melt your stress away, other amenities include relaxation pools, swinging chairs over a wading pool, infrared saunas and aromatherapy steam rooms, all enjoyed while taking in breathtaking views of Bethlehem.
77 Wind Creek Blvd., Bethlehem | 877.726.3777 windcreek.com/bethlehem/ resort/spa
BEST MAKEUP ARTIST/STUDIO Makeup by Roxy
This studio is a perennial favorite in the Lehigh Valley, and they serve everyone from brides to beauty queens. Beginning as one of the area’s first dedicated makeup studios, Makeup by Roxy is now a full-service salon and offers on-location services to help you look your best on your big day.
Marco Calderon Photography
Courtesy of Wind Creek Bethlehem
BEST PERMANENT MAKEUP ARTIST/ STUDIO Cosmetink
What started as a small, local studio for permanent makeup has become a destination for the service, says Nikky Altemose, CEO of Cosmetink. That’s thanks to client trust in Altemose and her team, which includes her brother, Sean, as well as the business’s academy, which teaches and certifies students in permanent makeup techniques. Ten years ago, Cosmetink became the first targeted permanent makeup studio in the Lehigh Valley, and now it has plans to expand its academy training and franchise the business. “This is a huge step toward making high-quality, natural permanent makeup more accessible nationwide,” Altemose says. But Altemose and the Cosmetink team won’t forget where they came from: “What excites me the most [about winning this award] is knowing that our clients truly value our work, our expertise… Permanent makeup requires a huge amount of trust.” 3859 Nazareth Pike Unit 103, Bethlehem | 610.438.0764 studio.cosmetink.com
BEST HOLISTIC WELLNESS EXPERIENCE
NuHouse
Explore whole-body wellness at NuHouse, where you can experience fitness classes, recovery treatments, nutrition guidance, massage, acupuncture and chiropractic treatment. This all-in-one center gives you the tools you need to feel your best.
EYEBROW ARTIST/STUDIO
The Divine Eye
Impeccable brows call for services from The Divine Eye, a three-time winner in this category. From tweezing to waxing, plus laminating and tinting, it’s easy to find a service here that will keep your brows in check and ready to wow the crowd.
3060 Center Valley Pkwy., 484.714.0449 thedivineeye.glossgenius.com
BEST LASH ARTIST/STUDIO
Lashes by Gab
Whether you want to work with what you’ve got or you want to add a dramatic flair to your visage, the talented team at Lashes by Gab can create a look you’ll love. Start simple with a lift and tint on your own lashes, or add length and volume with expertly applied extensions.
TATTOO SHOP
If you’re putting something on your body forever, you want a top-notch studio to make it perfect. The artists at Mind’s Eye can create any style you have in mind, from realistic portraits and anime-style illustration to American Traditional. 4740 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown mindseyetat2.com
Marco Calderon Photography
SHOPPING & SERVICES
BEST WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE nyche
Growing up inspired by trends yet limited by budget, Angela Case says she discovered early on that great style isn’t defined by a price tag: “It’s defined by how you own it.” That philosophy became the foundation of nyche, the boutique she opened in Easton in 2025. Owning a brick-and-mortar was always the long-term goal. “I wanted to create an experience that goes beyond a transaction, giving customers the opportunity to connect with the brand in a more meaningful way,” says Case. nyche is a place where city influence meets personal style, with pieces that help women build a wardrobe that feels timeless, versatile and uniquely their own, all at an attainable price point, Case says. 140C Northampton St., Easton | shopnyche.com
BEST MEN’S SHOP
The London Shop
Say cheerio to dull men’s duds— The London Shop has specialized in making you look your best since 1939. Their selection ranges from classic conservative to fashion-savvy, offering tailored clothing, dress shirts, outerwear, shoes and accessories to keep you looking dapper.
339 Northampton St.,
BEST BOOKSTORE
The End Bookstore
Fall in love with your next favorite read here, but don’t stop at just buying a book—join one of their many book clubs for children and adults alike, and check out the regular events hosted at the shop, including author visits and their annual Lehigh Valley Book Festival. 3055 W. Tilghman St., Allentown theendbooks.co
BEST FINE JEWELRY STORE Bixler’s
They pride themselves on being America’s oldest jeweler, which gives them centuries of expertise, and they proudly use ethical and sustainable materials and methods to craft one-of-akind pieces that will last a lifetime and beyond.
3900 Hamilton Blvd.,
BEST CHILDREN’S STORE
SonnyMoon
This adorable Downtown Bethlehem shop has everything you need to outfit the kiddos you love, from clothing to shoes and from books to toys. Their collection is carefully curated with quality in mind, so you know that everything you get is made to last.
459 Main St., Bethlehem
Marco Calderon Photography
BEST LUXURY RESALE Relux
Luxury consignor Relux tripled its space at the Promenade just six months after opening to offer a great selection of designer items to its clients. Hot-ticket items have included Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags and Rolex and Audemars Piguet watches. “We offer the highest commission splits on luxury items in the Lehigh Valley,” owner Coleman Nichelson says. Commissions start at 60 percent and go as high as 80 percent compared to 45 to 50 percent elsewhere. Nichelson is also excited about his team’s personalized and quick service: “We have your items authenticated and for sale usually within a day,” he says, compared with weeks or months for national brands. 2985 Center Valley Pkwy. Suite 204, Center Valley 484.863.4419 shoprelux.com
BEST ACCESSORIES STORE
Something Different Boutique
Whether you’re buying a gift for someone or looking for a little something for yourself, you’ll find it at Something Different, where they offer clothing, accessories and decor. Check out their huge selection of Kendra Scott and enewton jewelry to add the perfect polish to your ’fit.
BEST ECOFRIENDLY GOODS
Nature’s Way Market
Mother Earth is in good hands with Nature’s Way, where they stock a slew of local products, offer recyclable and biodegradable bags and compost and recycle everything they can. Load up on bulk dry goods, eco-friendly household items and natural body care products. 143 Northampton St., 610.253.0940 natureswayeaston.com
BEST HOME DECOR SHOP Belleville Market
This beloved vendor market has something for everyone, no matter your style. With over 100 vendors, many of them local, you’ll find what you need to style your home exactly the way you want it. Shop in person at their Easton location or online, from the comfort of your (beautifully decorated) home.
BEST ANTIQUE/ VINTAGE GOODS Salvage Goods
You don’t need to be on the hunt for anything in particular to discover a true gem, because Salvage Goods has it all. From vintage designer accessories to collectible toys to antique stained glass pieces and book sets, there’s always a treasure to unearth here.
24 S. 3 rd St., Easton 108 S. 3 610.258.8176 salvagegoodseaston.com
Marco Calderon Photography
BEST VINTAGE CLOTHING RESALE
2nd Base Vintage
First things first: 2nd Base Vintage is not a thrift store. “We work hard to source specific categories of preworn clothing from the ’70s through the early 2000s,” says owner Andy Po, who also operates Homebase Skateshop in Bethlehem. “Clothing from those eras was meant to last compared to what is mass-produced now.” Peruse the racks to reconnect with favorite or maybe not-so-favorite trends, or make a contribution of your own: “If you see anything in our store that's just sitting in a box in your basement, we would love to buy it off of you,” says Po. While fashion is at the forefront, 2nd Base supports other local entrepreneurs, too, through community shows and pop-ups.
This Downtown Bethlehem spot is the place to go to buy and sell clothing, accessories and jewelry, so you can always have a fresh rotation of fashion in your closet. All seasons of freshly laundered clothing are accepted year-round, and they regularly offer luxury items from brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel. 516 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.865.2210 | atticclothes.com
BEST CBD STORE
Homegrown CBD Store & Café
Find local, organic farm-to-table cannabis products here, with oils, tinctures, topicals and edibles available, and even oils formulated just for pets. Their Easton location offers organic cafe fare with optional infusions for food and drink, and everything is available without the need for a medical card.
Two Bethlehem locations mean that you’ll be sure to find the premium handmade cigars you’re looking for, with a knowledgeable staff and relaxing lounges to enjoy your purchases. Their Nazareth Pike location is available to rent for parties, and every square inch of this
484.895.3933
cigarsinternational.com
BEST HOME & GARDEN STORE
Lehigh Valley Home & Garden
Now’s the time to make your outdoor space shine, and there’s nowhere better to find everything you need. Their large showroom of patio furniture is rivaled only by their even larger garden center and nursery full of plants, pots, trees and flowers for the perfect outdoor oasis. 4220 Crackersport Rd., Allentown | 610.391.1570 lvhgc.com
BEST INDOOR PLANT SHOP Houseplanted
This small-but-mighty vendor in the Easton Public Market helps you add a little green to your life, with a variety of indoor plants and plant care items, plus expert advice to make sure you grow into the best plant parent you can be.
You dress your kids and by the time you turn around again, they’ve outgrown everything— time for a trip to Bears Repeating, where you can sell what doesn’t fit and buy highquality, gently used children’s essentials, all at a fraction of retail prices.
7617 Hamilton Blvd., Trexlertown | 610.398.7187 bearsrepeatingpa.com
A Furry Tail Come True
Grooming is a breeze at A Furry Tail Come True’s indulgent pet spas, with full-service options available in Nazareth, and bubble baths and nail trims available in Hellertown. Add grooming services to your doggie daycare or boarding plans so your pup comes home from their stay all fresh and clean.
What pet wouldn’t love a peaceful, upscale place to stay while you’re away? They offer cage-free luxury suites and private executive rooms for the utmost comfort, and their skilled team offers a mix of structured play, rest time and personalized attention to keep your pup happy.
BEST DOG TRAINING
Leader of the Pack Canine Institute
Sit! Stay! Speak… to a certified professional dog trainer who will make sure your best friend is on his best behavior. They offer group obedience classes as well as private sessions for behavior modification, from puppies all the way to old dogs who need to learn new tricks.
1200 Braden Blvd., Easton | 610.829.5757
6346 Farm Bureau Rd., Allentown | 610.366.8282 lopci.com
BEST PET BOUTIQUE
EarthWise Pet
Everything you could possibly need for Fluffy and Fido is here, from treats and toys to food and supplies. Their GroomBar helps you keep your dog and cat looking and feeling their best with a pet-centric, lowstress experience, and their DayCamp will care for your dog when you can’t.
BEST PET-FRIENDLY BUSINESS The Dining Dog & Friends
The founders of The Dining Dog & Friends started cooking fine-quality food for pets because of their own love for animals.
Owner Risa Krohn and her late partner, Althea Seeds, moved the operation from their home to the Allentown brick and mortar in 2014, launching a commercial bakery and kitchen. The upscale pet restaurant, so to speak, serves soups, stews, cakes and cookies for furry friends.
“This recognition reflects the impact we’ve made in improving pets’ lives,” Krohn says. Krohn and her team, which includes store manager Ada Aparicio Limon, pride themselves on their boutique, holistic approach to creating natural foods and treats for dogs and cats.
3245 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown thediningdog.com
FUN & GAMES
BEST AXE THROWING
Angry Jack’s
Axe Throwing Club
Have some serious fun while throwing sharp objects in this spot in the Outlets at Wind Creek. They have ten professionally designed throwing lanes and also offer knife throwing and archery, creating an ideal experience for parties, corporate outings and group gatherings.
77 Wind Creek Blvd. Suite 105, Bethlehem | 833.420.2799 angryjacksaxes.com/lehigh-valley
BEST ESCAPE ROOM
Captured LV
Escape Room
You have 60 minutes to get out, but these puzzles and themed rooms are so fun that you may not want to. Each location has four rooms with adventures ranging from murder mysteries to dinosaur escapades that you can enjoy in groups of up to ten people.
Bowling isn’t the only game you can play inside Bar-Don Lanes— stop into Rip’s Pub for Tuesday night trivia, promising prizes for first- and second-place winners.
BEST VIRTUAL GOLF X-Golf
Play on these state-of-the-art simulators for a fun outing or to work on improving your game. Join a league with twoor three-player teams, take lessons with a pro or host a private party and enjoy a full bar with food options and big screens with NFL Sunday Ticket.
Set ’em up, knock ’em down and do it all over again at Hampton Lanes, where you’ll find 24 modern lanes with new scoring and entertainment systems. Come once for a great time with friends or join one of their twelve leagues to keep the fun rolling week after week. 326 Main St., Northampton 610.262.6713 hamptonlanesbowling.com
BEST DATE NIGHT SPOT
Albanesi
Restaurant & Bar
Elegant, warm and inviting, this Easton restaurant sets the tone for a romantic night with your love. Their prix-fixe, threecourse menu offers plenty of dishes that are perfect for two to share. Enjoy a handcrafted cocktail or split a bottle from their extensive wine list.
Enjoy the most colorful activities around in the hometown of the world-famous crayons. New this year is the Model Magic Movie Studios, where you can create your own custom creature with Model Magic and watch it transport onto the screen in an animated Crayola episode!
30 Centre Sq., Easton 610.515.8000 crayolaexperience.com/easton
BEST KARAOKE NIGHT
Joe’s Tavern
Friday nights are made for singing your heart out at Joe’s, where the mics come out after the kitchen closes at 9 p.m. Grab a cocktail or a craft beer and take the stage to become “just a small-town girl/living in a lonely world”—we won’t stop believin’ in you!
12 W. Broad St., Bethlehem 610.868.3200 joestavern.com
BEST PLACE FOR FAMILY FUN
Bar-Don Lanes
Pack the whole crew into the minivan and head to Bar-Don Lanes, where you can bowl as a family, host a birthday party or hit up the arcade. Kids can try out one of the junior leagues, and during the summer there’s a youth/adult league where the
BEST STAYCATION
Bear Creek Mountain Resort
Get away from it all without really getting away at Bear Creek, where they have rooms that sleep two to twelve people, pools and hot tubs, a spa and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Plan your trip around the resort’s many events, like their summer concert series and car shows. 101 Doe Mountain Ln., Macungie | 866.754.2822 | bcmountainresort.com
HangDog Outdoor
Adventure
Make a day of it at HangDog, where they have the largest ropes course on the East Coast, ziplining and an on-site brewery that’s dog-friendly. The party continues after dark with their state-of-the-art night climbing experience, complete with DMXcontrolled sound and lighting. 410 Cedarville Rd., Easton
BEST INDOOR ADVENTURE FACILITY North Summit Climbing Gym
Bad weather? No problem— all the fun is inside at North Summit Climbing Gym. They have 35-foot walls, top rope and lead climbing routes and a dedicated bouldering area complete with a cave for prime indoor fun. Check out their climbing lessons for beginners and their birthday party packages!
Football, baseball, hockey, basketball, golf—if it’s a sport and it’s televised, chances are you’ll be able to watch it here. With so many TVs, every seat is the best one in the house, and regular drink specials mean you’ll be able to either toast your team’s win or drown your sorrows. 5737 Rte. 378, Bethlehem | 610.282.4600 1731 Airport Rd., Allentown copperheadgrille.com
Courtesy of Bear Creek Mountain Resort
FUN & GAMES
BEST DRIVE-IN THEATER
Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre
Not only is Shankweiler’s the oldest continually operating drive-in theater in the country, it’s also open year-round! Take in a newly released or cult classic film under the stars, and check their schedule for other events like theme nights and pop-up markets.
There’s always something new to enjoy here, with regularly rotating shows featuring the work of local artists. Their shaded rear courtyard is a hidden gem and is available to rent for your next event, which will be co-hosted by the gallery’s resident cat, Hank the Tank.
BEST SEASONAL FARMERS MARKET
Easton Farmers’ Market
This perennial favorite is producer-only, meaning that vendors only sell what they raise, so you can feel good knowing that you’re buying local. Most of the produce here is organic, and all meat and dairy products are antibiotic- and hormonefree. Prepared and ready-to-eat foods are on offer as well!
128 Larry Holmes Dr., Easton | 610.330.9942 eastonfarmersmarket.com
BEST PERFORMANCE VENUE
State Theatre Center for the Arts
This Easton jewel is set to celebrate 100 years of bringing the arts to the Lehigh Valley with a wide variety of shows, from Broadway tours to ballet, concerts and comedy acts. Spend some extra time in the theater admiring the elaborate frescoes and gilding, created in 1925 by local Italian artisans. 453 Northampton St., Easton | 610.252.3132 statetheatre.org
BEST FESTIVAL Musikfest
The iconic festival returns Jul. 31–Aug. 9, and more than 1 million people are expected to descend on Bethlehem to see more than 400 performers across 16 stages. Don’t miss this year’s headliners, including Train, AJR, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Third Eye Blind and
BEST CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
Unangst Tree Farms
Make a very merry day of it with the whole family as you celebrate the holiday season. Start with a ride out to their fields to cut your own tree (or select one of their precut trees), then grab a bite from a food truck, get a photo with Santa, shop their market and pet some animals.
BEST PICK-YOUR-OWN ORCHARD Grim’s Orchard & Family Farms
Get the freshest produce possible by picking it yourself through the spring, summer and fall. Grim’s produces apples, strawberries, cherries, vegetables and pumpkins, and you can even cut your own flowers to take home a fresh bouquet. In the fall, try not to get lost in their eight-acre corn maze! 9875 Schantz Rd., Breinigsville | 610.395.5655 grimsorchard.com
BEST PUMPKIN PATCH
Seiple Farms
This family-owned farm has a whopping 40 acres of pumpkins to choose from, and you get a free hayride out to the patch for the full fall experience. Stay for pony rides, amusement rides and visits with farm animals, and take home a few mums and straw bales to decorate your porch. 5761 Nor Bath Blvd., Bath
Courtesy of Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre
Courtesy of Easton Farmers' Market
Sumfoodie
Who has a better job than Sumer Moreau? The creative force behind Sumfoodie travels the Lehigh Valley and beyond to find the best bites and sips around. You can trust her to help you stretch the bounds of your comfort zone, and she just might help you find a new favorite meal. sumfoodie
610girlies
This account is a must-follow if you’re looking for hidden gems in the Lehigh Valley, and they post about all things food, beauty, wellness and fun. Supporting small businesses is the name of the game here, so make sure to follow along if you want to truly live local.
610girlies
BEST LOCAL TV PERSONALITY
Eve Russo, WFMZ-TV
Catch Eve Russo on WFMZTV’s 69 News at Sunrise every weekday from 5 to 9 a.m. so you can greet your day with the
No one likes getting up early, but if you have to, get up with Becca & Mike—what better way to start your day than with fun
beccaandmikeb104
BEST LOCAL PODCAST
Talkin’ Too Much with Hanna O’Reilly
You know that catch-up phone call with your best friend where the conversation can ping-pong from relationships to travel plans to fashion trends to your new Netflix obsession? That phone call you look forward to every week? Talkin’ Too Much is that, in podcast form. “I’ve worked on-camera TV jobs for a while, and I always loved any opportunity to show my personality,” says creator and host Hanna O’Reilly, who launched the series last year. It’s provided her with a platform to get personal, with stories and subjects mined from everyday life. “Throughout my weeks I am constantly jotting down things that happen, good or bad. I say, ‘Oh, that HAS to go on next week's pod episode,’” O’Reilly says.
Marco Calderon Photography
Alison Conklin Photography
EVENTS
BEST PARTY DJ DJ Brad Scott
He’s not the one you call to play the Cha-Cha Slide at your wedding. DJ Brad Scott, an Easton mainstay for more than a decade, is creating community around the dance floor with regular parties that feature everything from house music to ’80s new wave to pop-forward club anthems. “I play for people looking for an experience, not just a night out,” Scott says. He’s the resident DJ at The Lafayette Bar, where he hosts major events throughout the year as well as Coven, his monthly darkwave dance night. Scott, a four-time winner in this category, is grateful for the honor. “[It] means a lot because it comes from the community,” he says. “Their support keeps me inspired to push things
BEST CUSTOM BAKER
Let Them Eat Cake
Let Them Eat Cake is more than just a bakery; it’s an experience. Their cakes are not only beautiful but also delicious, served in a space inspired by elegance and a little drama. Whatever you can dream up, Let Them Eat Cake can create it.
112 S. Main St., Nazareth 610.216.9516 letthemeatcakeshop.com
BEST LOCAL BAND/MUSICIAN
The Weekenders
Ready to hear your favorite endof-the-week tunes? You want to rock with The Weekenders, who have won this category for the fourth year in a row! Book these veteran musicians for your special event, wedding or just to celebrate everyone’s favorite part of the week. theweekendersrock.com
BEST MOBILE BAR Hausbar
If you’re ready to elevate your event or wedding, it’s time to book Hausbar. Their full-service cocktail bars come to you to take care of all of the details so you can sip, laugh, savor and enjoy every moment. They collaborate with fellow Best Of winner Eight Oaks Farm Distillery for preferred pricing!
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER Alison Conklin Photography
Alison Conklin has always been around photography. Her parents were both hobbyist photographers, working in makeshift darkrooms in their apartment bathrooms. Conklin’s love for the art bloomed from grief— when she was 14, her mother died, leaving her to immerse herself in her mother’s legacy through a collection of prints and negatives. “Each image gave me insight into who my parents were and how they saw the world,” she says. Conklin believes strongly in the power of photography to tell a story that words just can’t. Whether she’s traveling the world with her husband, Geoff, to document weddings and events or capturing stories of her own family at home, Conklin sees her art as an extraordinary privilege. “It is not just photography,” she says. “It is preserving a life. There is no greater honor than that.” alisonconklin.com
484.809.6109 hausbar.us
Marco Caldeorn Photography
Photography by Geoff Conklin
BEST SPECIAL OCCASION FLORIST Rich Mar Florist
When a family business lasts into its fourth generation, there’s no doubt that they’re doing something right. But what’s the secret? “No big secret to our success,” admits Richard Morrissey. “Hard work and accommodating our customers’ changing needs. [We] always put the customer first.” That customer could be an elementary school in need of boutonnieres for a Veterans Day assembly, a bride in search of the perfect bouquet or something a little more high-profile—Rich Mar has provided florals for national events like the Breeders’ Cup and the US Open, and they proudly sponsor motorsports greats like Marco Andretti and Sage Karam. Multiple area locations | richmarflorist.com
CHARCUTERIE Gather & Graze
BEST EVENT PLANNER KLO Events
No matter what kind of event you’re hosting, KLO Events is ready to plan it. From fundraisers to galas to golf outings, Kristine will leave nothing to chance, ensuring that you have a stressfree experience.
29 Cooks is your go-to catering company serving culinary delights for every occasion! Whether it be an on-site or offsite gathering, they are ready for you with 12 different menus and packages for your special event, with gluten-free and celiacfriendly options always available.
Charcuterie
You can’t go wrong with charcuterie boards and grazing tables that boast seasonal ingredients, premium cheeses, artisan meats and unique pairings that bring people together. Their spreads double as the delicious centerpiece for
gatherandgrazechar.com
BEST BALLOON
1256 Simon Blvd. Suite J101, Easton | 484.560.4218 klo-events.com
BEST EVENT DESIGN/ DECOR COMPANY
Beyond Decor
Beyond Decor decorates events that leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Owner Nicol Green has a natural talent for decorating and planning, and she’s committed to making your event everything you dreamed of. 610.776.9065 beyonddecorbynicol.com
BEST VIDEOGRAPHER imagery.LIFE
Your wedding day wingmates, working to capture your special day in a cinematic film. They make films that are emotional and uniquely yours, ensuring that the memories of your
SPECIALIST/ARTIST Blueprint Creations
Balloons are up, stress is down. Blueprint Creations offers bespoke balloon designs that are made to complement your event no matter the theme, color or occasion. Balloon arches, bouquets, garlands and more tailored to your needs! 484.714.7748 blueprintcreations.net
BEST EVENT RENTAL COMPANY Action
Party Rentals
A one-stop shop for all of your party planning needs, from tables and tents to dinnerware and audio/visual equipment! Action Party Rentals is always updating their inventory to ensure no matter what you are planning for, they have the supplies for you. 620 Union Blvd., Allentown 610.435.8900
actionpartyrentals.com
Photography by Alex Garcia / GarciaPhotography
Courtesy of Rich Mar Florist
THANK YOU, LEHIGH VALLEY.
“When a guest comes to a Paxos restaurant, they’re out for more than just the meal. They’re here for an experience. The show is on and we have to perform. We believe in really providing the best that is available to all of our guests.”
–GEORGE PAXOS
From the beginning, we have made it our mission to offer only the best. A vibrant bar scene, inspired cocktails, exquisite wines, decadent deserts, savory sides, fresh seafood, patio seating to embrace the seasons—and, of course, choice cuts of USDA Prime Beef from purebred Black Angus cattle, hand-picked from the finest ranches in the American Midwest. Because these details matter—for us and for you, our guests.
bluegrillhouse.com 610.691.8400
VOTED BEST PERMANENT MAKEUP ARTIST/STUDIO
VOTED BEST PERMANENT MAKEUP ARTIST/STUDIO
BEST LIFE COACH! BEST LIFE COACH!
Initial and ongoing FREE fitness assessments FREE custom-tailored workout programs Philosophy of supported exercise
Founded in 2020 by Dr. Adila Cosgrove, PhD, LPC, NCC, Anwari Counseling Services is a Bethlehem-based practice built on compassion, inclusion and healing.
Dr. Adila created the practice to help break the stigma surrounding mental health, especially within diverse cultures and communities where seeking support can still feel difficult. The team is committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment where every client feels seen, heard, and understood.
What began as a solo practice has grown into a team of more than 16 therapists serving clients ages 5 and older through both in-person and virtual counseling across multiple states.
The practice specializes in trauma-informed care, EMDR therapy, grief counseling, play therapy, substance abuse support and couples counseling. The team is dedicated to meeting each client where they are and providing personalized support for every healing journey.
A Favorite for Little Ones
Timeless Treasures to Dress, Delight, & Inspire
Clothing from Teeny to Teen
Kaitlyn Rivera
READY TO TRY IT? Tag @lvstylemag when you do!
LOCAL FREEZE
BY ANGELA VENNEMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW CANNON
The heat of summer can really drag you down. Sweltering, sweaty, sticky—ugh. Time to reach for something that will cool you down, lift you up and, as an added bonus, satisfy your sweet tooth. Head on down to neighborhood staple Jay’s Local in Allentown’s West End and treat yourself to a Local Freeze.
Let’s go back to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Everyone was stuck inside, and local businesses were pivoting to creative solutions to stay afloat. Like so many other restaurants, Jay’s Local shifted to a takeout-only model. During the downtime between orders, the staff started experimenting, and the Local Freeze was born. Owner Lyell Scherline says, “We wanted something that felt like a treat, but also had a multitude of flavor profiles all in one cup.”
Speaking of flavors, there’s a lot going on here. You get vanilla ice cream, frozen cubes of homemade cold brew, Nutella hazelnut spread and banana, blended together in perfect ratios to create a drink that Scherline describes as “rich, creamy and refreshing.” But what’s a blended drink without a little whipped cream on top? How about a dusting of house-made coffee sugar crumble as a finishing touch? Done and done. Not big on caffeine? You can order the Local Freeze with decaf cold-brew cubes, or you can skip it completely for a drink that’s delicious and kid-friendly.
“It sits somewhere between a milkshake and an iced coffee,” Scherline notes. We think it’s the best of both worlds—and apparently, so do the customers at Jay’s Local. “Right from the start, it quickly became a favorite, especially among customers looking for something a little more indulgent than a traditional iced coffee,” says Scherline. The Local Freeze has been so popular, in fact, that it spawned the Local Freeze-Wich, an ice cream sandwich iteration complete with house-made coffeeinfused cookies, Nutella-swirled vanilla ice cream and crunches of frozen banana. Be on the lookout for this to make its return to Jay’s Local this summer.
If you’re looking for a drink and a bite to eat, Scherline suggests one of the restaurant’s lighter pastries, such as the pastel de nata, a Portuguese custard tart, or the West End Wake-Up breakfast sandwich if you’re looking for that sweet-and-salty balance. No matter how you enjoy the Local Freeze, you can be sure that it’s a delicious way to beat the summer heat.
2301 W. Liberty St., Allentown 610.351.3100 | jayslocal.com
Women are the backbone of our community – their health and well-being strengthen families, workplaces and everyone around them. Yet for far too long, women’s health care has been fragmented, inconvenient or simply not designed for the realities of their lives.
That changes now.
A first-of-its-kind in the region, Women’s Health Center at Tower Place is redefining women’s health care by bringing comprehensive, specialized care under one roof with thoughtful amenities –like a café and on-site child care – to remove barriers and help you prioritize … you. Put your health first.
Women’s Health Center at Tower Place 1420 Eighth Ave., Bethlehem LVHN.org/WHC
