While spring is moody this year — summery and hot one day, cold and rainy the next — the signs and the calendar are clear about one thing: warmer weather is here. That means al fresco dining season is here.
And sure, many restaurants have a patio with umbrellas outside that call it a day. But maybe you’re in the mood for something a bit more than the patio setup.
Here’s a list of some of the most interesting places to eat in the Lehigh Valley under the sun or stars.
The Wooden Match
61 W. Lehigh St., Bethlehem
610-865-1777
www.thewoodenmatch.com
The historic downtown Bethlehem restaurant sits near the Central Railroad of New Jersey and steps away from the D & L Trail. That, combined with the cheerful outdoor lantern lights and greenery of the area makes The Wooden Match a homey and welcoming spot to grab a drink (or a cigar?) and dinner outside.
The Shelby
707 N. Krocks Rd.
Lower Macungie Township
610-841-0808
www.shelbyrestaurant.com
The Hamilton Crossings anchor has been a local favorite for a few years now, with its new Americana menu and — during the pandemic — outdoor tent with lush plants, seating, and indoor fans for muggy days. That elevated outdoor dining setup will have a permanent spot at The Shelby come May, when the restaurant unveils its permanent outdoor seating area. Seating approximately 100 with screens to invite or block the elements and a combination of dinner tables and lounging areas by fire pits for moodier nighttime hangs, The Shelby hopes to make the new outdoor seating area a (nearly) year-round fixture.
Wanderlust Beer Garden
1600 Sullivan Trail
Forks Township
610-438-1093
www.wanderlustbeergarden.com
This destination is the epitome of eating outside and having fun. Within Wanderlust’s expansive ground, the beer garden gives you and your crew a choice of seating: German-style tables, Adirondack chairs, or classic American picnic tables. Wanderlust also has spots for everyone from cozy couples on dates to families out for a summer night. Live music, outdoor games, and food that elevates classic fairground or campground food complete a fun night out.
West End Taproom
2114 Tilghman St.
Allentown
www.illuminationbrewing.com
The former Greenhouse Enoteca spot is going to become a taproom come May by the owners of Emmaus’s Funk Brewing Company at 518 Bank St. (also a great place to chill outdoors with locally crafted beer on a balmy summer evening). That means locally made craft beer and snacks that will kick off summer evenings with pizazz. But even more fun is the fact that the owners plan to keep the greenhouse of its predecessor and make it open to diners and musicians alike. Imagine the magic of being in a summer rainstorm while having a beer and listening to some good music while in a greenhouse?
Thyme Rooftop Grille
100 Northampton St.
Easton
610-510-0309
www.thymeeaston.com
Thyme’s location on the seventh floor of the Commodore Building meant it got instant fans for its awesome, sweeping views of the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers. But the fine dining restaurant when one step further with the unveiling of a covered terrace featuring a fireplace, swingy plants, and covered and exposed seating, all with that same fantastic view. And here’s a bonus mini entry to this list: If Easton isn’t your destination but the vibe of Thyme is, their sister location Zest bar + grille at 306 S. New St. in Bethlehem has a similar terrace area that peers over into the vibrant south side strip.
Rising River Brewery
1955 Willow Lane
Lower Macungie Township
www.risingriverbrewing.com
This one is an al fresco dining fan favorite in the area. For one, it has a tropical-themed deck for steamy nights, complete with a tiki bar and palm trees (yes, in Pennsylvania). And for another, the brewery features a section called The Holler, with a lawn area bordering the Little Lehigh Creek. With a vibrant, rotating list of live music and food trucks, this place was made for warm weather hangouts.
Ye Olde Spring Valley Tavern
1355 Station Ave.
Upper Saucon Township
484-851-3594
www.oldspringvt.com
This quaint, 18th century tavern has a rule breaking past, becoming a Prohibition-era hotspot nearly 100 years ago. Today, though, it’s much tamer, but still as cute, thanks to a spring that sprouts out from under the main building into a pond, and the tavern’s signature fresh trout. A gazebo houses standard picnic tables, but if the night gets chilly, heating is available.
Eight Oaks Farm Distillery
7189 PA-309
New Tripoli
484-387-5287
www.eightoaksdistillery.com
This charming farm is no-nonsense and casual, surrounded by those famously rolling Pennsylvania hills. The distillery takes the phrase “farm to table” literally, growing its own grain, barley, and corn to create its own homemade spirits, all available for purchase and on-site consumption. Think bourbon, rye whiskey, vodka, and gin. Kids will love the open space, and adults will enjoy the live music and folksy setup. The menu is short and sweet but conscious of different diets and both kid and adult friendly. Most importantly, diners can decide to sit inside an open air room or venture out onto picnic tables.
