ALLENTOWN, Pa. – A popular restaurant, offering Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches, tenders, loaded fries and more, has expanded its footprint with a new location in Lehigh County.

A new location of Mo Hot Chicken, offering Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches, tenders, loaded fries and more, opened Oct. 30 at 233 Hamilton St. in Allentown, owner Mohammad Mustfa told 69 News.

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The fast-casual eatery is a second location of Mo Hot Chicken, which debuted about a year ago at 825 W. Main St. in Lansdale, Montgomery County, Mustafa said.

The business, which has a tagline of “always more flavor,” serves up halal, Nashville-style hot chicken, which features a unique mix of seasonings for added spice.

Customers can choose their preferred “heat level,” including no spice, mild, hot, hot honey, hot lime, extra hot and lava.

“We’re officially open, and we couldn’t be more excited to be part of the Allentown community!” reads an announcement on the restaurant’s Facebook page. “…Bring your friends, bring your family, and come hungry!”

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A new location of Mo Hot Chicken operates at 233 Hamilton St. in Allentown.

Ryan Kneller

Around a dozen deals include the original hot chicken sandwich (coleslaw, pickles, cheese and Mo’s sauce) with fries for $9.99; two tenders with fries, pickles and Mo’s sauce for $12.99; a sandwich and tender with fries for $13.99; and a “mac triple” (mac and cheese with chicken, pickles, cheese and sauce) for $11.99.

Other menu highlights include chicken wraps, falafel wraps, shrimp sandwiches, loaded fries and various salads.

For individuals with a sweet tooth, the restaurant also serves up milkshakes such as strawberry, vanilla, caramel coffee and Nutella lover; and desserts such as Biscoff banana and Oreo pudding.

Smoothies such as mango lassi and tutti-frutti and refreshers such as iced tea lemonade and mango lemonade are also available.

The Mo Hot Chicken team is excited to serve the Allentown community, and the brand’s footprint will likely be expanding further soon, Mustafa said.

“We’re looking to open another location in Phoenixville hopefully soon,” Mustafa said.

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A new location of Mo Hot Chicken operates at 233 Hamilton St. in Allentown.

Ryan Kneller

The Allentown restaurant occupies an updated space that previously housed La Bodega in the American Plaza shopping center.

The Allentown restaurant, offering dine-in service and takeout, is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

For the latest Mo’s Hot Chicken updates, follow the business’ pages on Facebook and Instagram. Info: 267-844-1392; mohotchicken.com. 

More foodie findsNew family-run restaurant to offer authentic Jamaican food ‘with a touch of soul’ in Bethlehem

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – A new restaurant will soon serve up a taste of the tropics in Northampton County.

Jammin Yaad Vybz, offering authentic Jamaican cuisine “with a touch of soul,” will hold its grand opening from 2 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 15 at 738 E. Fourth St. in south Bethlehem, co-owner Alicia James told 69 News.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 2 p.m.

James, a New York native with Jamaican roots, will operate the restaurant with her husband, Demaro Young. Full story here.

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Courtesy of Jammin Yaad Vybz

Popular restaurant’s 1st Lehigh Valley location to celebrate grand opening with free food

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – A new fast-casual eatery will dish out complimentary meals in celebration of its grand opening.

A new location of Taco Tek Mexican Grill, offering freshly prepared halal Mexican food, will hold its grand opening event on Nov. 19 at 3211 Schoenersville Road in Bethlehem, according to an announcement on the business’ social media pages.

During the grand opening celebration, individuals can stop in for a free bowl between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The new restaurant, which held a soft opening in September, occupies an updated Schoenersville Centre space that previously housed a Moe’s Southwest Grill location, which closed in the spring after about 14 years of operation. Read more here.

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Ryan Kneller

Riverside retreat: New Mexican restaurant serving up savory eats, scenic views

PHILLIPSBURG, NJ – Fans of authentic Mexican food can enjoy top-tier tacos with a side of stellar sights at a new restaurant along the Delaware River waterfront.

Vista Taco, offering specialty tacos and other Mexican fare, held a soft opening on Wednesday at 7 Union Square in Phillipsburg, co-owner Kristina Haas told 69 News. A grand opening event is planned for sometime next week, Haas added.

The fast-casual eatery operates next to Jimmy’s Doggie Stand, at the foot of the Northampton Street Bridge, colloquially known as the Easton-Phillipsburg “free bridge,” offering picturesque views of the bridge, Delaware River and downtown Easton.

Haas and her partner, Rojelio Romero, decided on the restaurant’s name as vista refers to a broad, scenic view or panorama. Read more.

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Vista Taco

‘Significant milestone’: Nation’s 1st ‘Perkins Griddle & Go’ restaurant opens in Flemington

FLEMINGTON, N.J. – A beloved restaurant chain has debuted a new fast-casual concept, featuring a “modern, convenience-focused model designed for guests on the go.”

The nation’s first Perkins Griddle & Go restaurant, in partnership with the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. Thursday at 100 Reaville Ave. in Flemington, N.J., according to a news release.

The restaurant operates in The Shoppes at Flemington.

“Perkins Griddle & Go combines the trusted heritage of Perkins Restaurant & Bakery with a modern, convenience-focused model designed for guests on the go,” the release states.

“The restaurant offers freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, bakery treats, and traditional Perkins favorites in a streamlined fast-casual environment.” Full story here.

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Courtesy Hunterdon County Clerk Mary Melfi

Bakery buzz’Coming home’: Inspired by late father, Bethlehem woman sets opening date for new bakery

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Taking inspiration from her late father and “biggest cheerleader,” a popular Lehigh Valley baker is making a comeback with a new brick-and-mortar location, set to open later this month in Northampton County.

Angela Malpedo, who previously operated Sugar Babe Cupcakes bake shops from 2012 to 2017 at multiple Bethlehem storefronts, will hold a grand opening of her new Frosted Bakery at 8 a.m. Nov. 14 at 518 Long St. in Bethlehem.

“I’m so excited to see everyone again and also meet new friends,” Malpedo told 69 News on Monday. “That’s my favorite part about all of this – connecting with people.”

The Long Street space was the original home of Granola Factory, a 20-year-old bakery that is continuing operations at another Bethlehem site.

Malpedo views the revival of her business as a “full-circle moment” as she got her start in professional baking nearly two decades ago at Granola Factory. Read more here.

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 Frosted Bakery is coming soon to 518 Long St. in Bethlehem.

Ryan Kneller

Bethlehem bakery levels up with larger location at renovated former pizza shop

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – A popular bakery, offering specialty cakes, cupcakes, cookies and more, is making moves in Northampton County.

Crumbs Cake Studio, specializing in thoughtfully crafted, custom designed cakes and desserts for every occasion, held a soft reopening on Thursday, Nov. 5, at its new, larger location at 817 Linden St. in Bethlehem, owner and head cake designer Felicia Rodriguez told 69 News.

The bakery’s new location was previously home to a Papa John’s pizza shop, which closed in 2020.

Crumbs Cake Studio, which opened in late 2021, held its last day of business at its original spot at 836 Linden St. – located across the roadway – in late August. Read more.

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Crumbs Cake Studio

Bouncing back‘Same great flavor’: After storm damage, family-run eatery reopens in Lehigh County

COOPERSBURG, Pa. – Six months after a storm ripped off part of its roof, a popular restaurant in Lehigh County is welcoming back customers.

La Cocina de la Abuela, a family-run restaurant offering authentic Mexican cuisine, held a grand reopening on Oct. 10 at 127 S. Third St. (Route 309) in Coopersburg, according to an announcement on the business’s Facebook page.

The restaurant, which opened in January 2024, had been temporarily closed since strong winds partially ripped off its roof and caused other damage to the property during a March storm. Full story here.

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La Cocina de la Abuela, a family-run restaurant offering authentic Mexican cuisine, has reopened at 127 S. Third St. (Route 309) in Coopersburg.

Ryan Kneller

‘Wait is finally over!’: Following May fire, popular Lehigh Valley restaurant reopens

WILLIAMS TWP., Pa. – More than five months after a fire damaged and temporarily closed a much-loved dining establishment in Northampton County, foodies are once again flocking to the riverside restaurant.

Iron Mule Restaurant & Bar, highlighting “twists on American classics and your favorite comfort foods,” reopened on Thursday, Nov. 5, at 831 S. Delaware Drive in Williams Township, according to an announcement on the business’ social media pages.

The restaurant had been temporarily closed since the May 22 fire. Read more here.

Whitehall newsNew eats, entertainment and extensive upgrades coming to iconic Whitehall shopping center

WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. – The curtain is rising on a new performance venue as well as a new chapter for a prominent Lehigh Valley shopping plaza, with several other new tenants – including a grocery store, family adventure park and full-service restaurant – set to join the mix in the coming months.

Straight Up Magic, a theater featuring live, interactive magic shows, comedy shows and more, opened Friday at 2001 MacArthur Road in Whitehall Township.

The 100-seat theater, owned and operated by prominent local magician Jason Bishop, is located inside the Whitehall Plaza, formerly known as Whitehall Mall.

In the spring, the iconic shopping center was acquired by Miami-based Mishorim Gold Properties, a company that specializes in revitalizing commercial properties, transforming shopping centers and maximizing real estate potential through strategic investments. Read more.

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More than 130-year-old clothing retailer to open 1st Lehigh Valley store in 2027

WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. – An iconic, Michigan-based company, with roots dating back to the 1880s, is planning to open its first Lehigh Valley store in the new year.

Carharrt, a global premium workwear brand “with a rich heritage of developing durable products for workers on and off the job,” is planning to open a new store in 2027 at the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township, according to the mall’s website.

The new store will operate at the mall’s outdoor lifestyle center.

The space previously housed other retailers, including Williams-Sonoma and, most recently, Jennifer’s Unique Boutique, with the latter having moved operations to Kutztown earlier this year. Full story here.

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Ryan Kneller

Cafe buzz‘More than just a coffee shop’: Cafe opening its doors in Bethlehem highlights importance of supporting local small businesses

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – The holiday season can make or break things for small businesses, and a new cafe is hoping to get a boost as it opens its doors.

69 News Reporter Sydney Kay takes us to Bethlehem where serving coffee goes hand-in-hand with supporting small shops.

It wouldn’t be a cafe without caffeine, and this new Bethlehem shop is bringing flavors of the world, along with tranquility, to the Southside.

“Zen Cafe is more than just a coffee shop, it’s an experience,” said Annabel Figueroa, the co-owner of Zen Cafe and Donerds Donuts.

At its grand opening Monday, owners Annabel and Andrew have officially brought high-end coffee and matcha to West Morton Street. Read more here.

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New Lehigh Valley coffee shop serving up specialty drinks, fresh eats, cozy vibes

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – A new welcoming spot for cortados, cappuccinos, croissants, and conversation is opening this weekend in Northampton County.

Bethlehem Coffee Company, offering a wide array of classic and signature coffee drinks along with tea, baked goods, sandwiches, and more, will holid its grand opening from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, at 9 W. Fourth St. in Bethlehem.

“Come caffeinate with us, say hi, and be part of our very first chapter,” an opening announcement reads. “Bring your sleepy self, we’ll handle the rest.”

The new South Bethlehem cafe will occupy an updated space that previously housed a jewelry store. Read more.

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Bethlehem Coffee Company is coming soon to 9 W. Fourth St. in Bethlehem.

Ryan Kneller

Lehigh County newsNew bank branch coming soon to former Perkins restaurant site in Lehigh County

SALISBURY TWP., Pa. – A one-time destination for pancakes, patty melts, and other freshly prepared eats will soon offer a wide array of financial services in Lehigh County.

A new Chase Bank location is coming soon to 3400 Lehigh Street in Salisbury Township.

Construction work is underway at the site, and “coming soon” signage for the new Chase Bank branch is displayed on fencing surrounding the property.

A target opening date has not yet been announced. Full story here.

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A new Chase Bank location is coming soon to 3400 Lehigh Street in Salisbury Township.

Ryan Kneller

Jefferson Park unveils new, improved landing design for Allentown ballpark

ALLENTOWN, Pa. – The home of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs is getting a new, so-called “front porch.”

Officials with the Iron Pigs and its new partner, Jefferson, unveiled images of what the Allentown ballpark’s new landing will look like on Friday.

They say it’s part of an effort to keep improving Jefferson Park to enhance fan experience at the games. Read more here.

First responders serve up breakfast, smiles at Macungie Diner

LEHIGH COUNTY, Pa. – Inside the Macungie Diner, laughs and conversations bring the community together.

“This is our community, these are our residents, they’re our Facebook followers, they’re our friends, and it was just a no-brainer: come out here, meet and greet people,” said Macungie Police Officer Todd Bernhard. 

Officer Bernhard and his fellow officers with the Lower Macungie Fire Department are serving up breakfast as a way to connect.

“It’s very even, mutual respect between us and the community, and we just want to continue that, so by doing little events like this, it helps strengthen that,” said Officer Bernhard. Read more.

Berks County newsReading restaurant launching Sunday brunch, welcoming new general manager

READING, Pa. – A restaurant known for its inventive, globally inspired menu is debuting new leadership and brunch offerings in Berks County.

Thorn Alley Kitchen, located in downtown Reading at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, is launching Sunday brunch beginning Nov. 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring a creative new menu developed by chef Harley Eighmey, according to a news release.

The restaurant is also welcoming Malik Moss as its new general manager, marking a new chapter for one of the region’s top-rated dining destinations. Full story here.

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Thorn Alley Kitchen

Iconic Berks County family business, Peanut Bar, up for sale after 102 years

READING, Pa. – It’s the end of an era for a landmark restaurant in downtown Reading.

The same family has owned the Peanut Bar, currently located at 332 Penn St., for more than a century.

“March will be 103 years,” said Michael Leifer, the third-generation owner. 

Leifer has never known a life without the Peanut Bar. His grandfather started the business under a different name in Wernersville in 1924 during the days of prohibition. He moved the business around a bit until settling on Penn Street in 1933. Read more here.

New Berks County medical cannabis dispensary holds grand opening with deals, giveaways

SPRING TWP., Pa. – A new medical cannabis dispensary will celebrate its grand opening this weekend in Berks County.

A new location of RISE Dispensary, a medical cannabis dispensary, will hold its grand opening at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at 2800 State Hill Road in Spring Township, just outside Wyomissing, according to a news release.

Special giveaways and exclusive deals will be available throughout the day, while supplies last.

As part of RISE’s new store opening tradition to give back to each community it serves, a percentage of the grand opening’s profits will benefit Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank, a local nonprofit organization providing nutritious food to individuals facing food insecurity across Berks County. Read more.

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A new location of RISE Dispensary operates at 2800 State Hill Road in Spring Township, just outside Wyomissing.

RISE Dispensaries

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