Downtown Allentown has quietly become one of the Lehigh Valley’s most exciting dining destinations. With chef-driven menus, inventive cocktail programs, and everything from upscale American fare to Japanese-inspired cuisine, the city center offers a culinary scene that rivals much larger cities.
The Dime
Craft cocktails & elevated small plates at the Renaissance.
Located inside the Renaissance Allentown hotel, The Dime is a stylish cocktail bar and restaurant that has become a downtown staple. The space features rich interiors, an impressive spirits collection, and a menu of shareable plates designed to pair perfectly with their handcrafted cocktails. Whether you’re winding down after a show at PPL Center or starting a night out on Hamilton Street, The Dime sets the tone.
Okatshe
Japanese-inspired cuisine in the heart of Allentown.
For something truly unique, Okatshe brings Japanese-inspired flavors to downtown Allentown. With a menu that balances tradition and creativity, this restaurant offers fresh sushi, robata-grilled dishes, and Asian fusion plates in a sleek, modern setting. It’s a standout addition to the city’s dining scene and a must-visit for anyone craving bold, complex flavors.
The Now Bar at Moxy Allentown
Creative cocktails in a social, lounge-style setting.
The Moxy Allentown’s lobby bar — known as The Now Bar — is more than just a hotel watering hole. It’s a full-fledged social destination with creative cocktails, local beers on tap, and a menu of shareable bites. The atmosphere is lively and casual, making it perfect for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night gathering with friends.
Beyond the Hotels
Hamilton Street & the ArtsWalk District.
Step outside the hotels and you’ll find a thriving corridor of independent restaurants, cafes, and bars along Hamilton Street. From farm-to-table bistros to authentic international kitchens, downtown Allentown’s dining scene continues to grow. The ArtsWalk district adds galleries and cultural spaces to the mix, making it easy to pair a great meal with an evening of art and entertainment.
With over 150 restaurants, shops, and attractions within walking distance, you could spend an entire weekend exploring and never eat at the same place twice.