A First-Timer's Guide to Eating and Drinking in Bethlehem
The greatest hits, from historic Main Street to the brewery-lined SouthSide, for your first real night in town
New to Bethlehem? This is the hit list. The city splits its personality between the cobblestone charm of historic Main Street and the craft-beer energy of the SouthSide, and this guide pulls the best of both into one first-timer's tour.
We chose a spread that shows off the range: an Italian table with real polish, a Michelin-of-the-Lehigh-Valley pub, a Spanish tapas spot, a French creperie, a late-night taqueria, and a local brewery institution. Come hungry, wander between neighborhoods, and get a feel for why locals are so loyal.
Emeril's Italian Table
Italian · Bethlehem
Emeril's Italian Table is a marquee stop for a first night in Bethlehem, a trendy Italian room with a name that draws a crowd. The mood is current and lively, built for a dinner that feels like an event. Start your tour here when you want to lead with something memorable.
Good to know: Plan for a leisurely sit-down here rather than a quick bite, then head downtown for a post-dinner stroll to walk it off.
McCarthy's Red Stag Pub
Bethlehem
McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub channels easygoing pub energy: lively, casual, and built for unhurried hangs. When the weather behaves, outdoor tables add fresh air to the mix. Settle in for a pint and a chat, or pop in for a quick round before wandering on. Simple, sociable, and welcoming.
Good to know: Pair a pint with a Main Street wander; when temps drop, this is an easy warm-up stop between shops.
Tapas on Main
Spanish · Bethlehem
Tapas on Main brings a Spanish rhythm to the evening with casual, shareable plates meant to mix and match. Order widely, linger, and pass bites around the table. When it’s nice out, outdoor seating suits the graze. Relaxed, social, and a smart pick when your group wants variety without fuss.
Good to know: Snag an outdoor table for prime Main Street people-watching as you share plates.
Cachette Bistro & Creperie
French · Bethlehem
Cachette Bistro & Creperie leans French and just a little romantic, a casual bistro with outdoor seats and a menu built around crepes both savory and sweet. It's a charming change of pace on the tour, ideal for a lighter meal or a lingering dessert. Small, warm, and easy to fall for.
Good to know: Make it a late-afternoon crepe stop and linger outside on temperate days, or end the night with a sweet crepe before a quiet walk by the Lehigh.
El Jefe's Taqueria
Mexican · Bethlehem
El Jefe’s Taqueria keeps the night moving with a lively, casual buzz and a late-night streak. It’s built for quick cravings: step up, order tacos, and get back to the fun. A dependable stop when plans run long and you still want bold Mexican flavors and a bit of momentum.
Good to know: Perfect pit stop when bar-hopping on the SouthSide—order tacos fast and get back to it.
Fegley's Bethlehem Brew Works
Bethlehem
Fegley’s Bethlehem Brew Works is a lively, casual stop for local beer and an easy hang. When the weather warms, outdoor seating adds to the draw. It’s a natural first-night toast in town, whether you’re posting up for a round with friends or sampling a couple of house pours before moving on.
Good to know: Easy SouthSide meet-up for groups who want local beer before or after other stops.