WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. \u2013 Just like spring\u2019s flowers, several new tenants are blooming at the Lehigh Valley\u2019s largest shopping mall.<\/p>\n
The Lehigh Valley Mall, at MacArthur Road and Route 22 in Whitehall Township, in recent weeks has welcomed multiple retailers and food vendors, and roughly a half dozen more are set to open soon.<\/p>\n
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Nori Japan is coming soon to the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
New tenants include Lina\u2019s Ice Cream & Frozen Fruit, Anime World, Amazing Gifts and Lehigh Mart.<\/p>\n
Businesses that are coming soon to the mall include Pop Mart, Nori Japan, L\u2019Amour Visage, Offline by Aerie and Texas de Brazil.<\/p>\n
New additions<\/p>\n
Lina\u2019s Ice Cream & Frozen Fruit opened a few weeks ago on the mall\u2019s upper level near Against All Odds.<\/p>\n
The kiosk, offering pre-packaged ice cream and frozen fruit, fills the space that was previously occupied by Dino Sweets.<\/p>\n
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Lina’s Ice Cream & Frozen Fruit recently opened at the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
In the coming weeks, the stand plans to expand its menu to include 16 flavors of hand-scooped Hershey\u2019s Ice Cream, milkshakes and other sweet treats, owner Ahmet Cakir said.<\/p>\n
Lina\u2019s is named after Cakir\u2019s daughter.<\/p>\n
Anime World, offering anime action figures, plush toys, apparel, stickers, collectibles and more, opened in late April on the mall\u2019s upper level near JCPenney.<\/p>\n
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Anime World recently opened at the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
The store, featuring vibrant anime artwork on the floor and walls, fills the space previously occupied by As Seen On TV.<\/p>\n
Amazing Gifts, offering a variety of toys, figurines, collectibles and more, opened in late April on the mall\u2019s upper level near Gertrude Hawk Chocolates.<\/p>\n
Shoppers can browse a wide assortment of toy cars and trucks, decompression squeeze toys, plush toys, keychains, hats and other fashion accessories and various items associated with popular films, video games and media franchises such as Pokemon, Super Mario Bros. and KPop Demon Hunters.<\/p>\n
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Amazing Gifts recently opened at the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
Amazing Gifts fills the space previously occupied by World of Art.<\/p>\n
Lehigh Mart, offering a variety of candy, snacks, drinks and convenience items, opened recently on the mall\u2019s lower level near Express.<\/p>\n
The kiosk offers candy such as M&M\u2019s and Swedish Fish; snacks such as Doritos and pretzels; and beverages such as soda, juice and energy drinks.<\/p>\n
Shoppers also can browse an assortment of personal care products such as deodorant and toothpaste and over-the-counter medicine such as Advil, Dayquil and Tylenol.<\/p>\n
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Lehigh Mart recently opened at the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
Coming-soon tenants<\/p>\n
Several other businesses are coming soon to the mall.<\/p>\n
Nori Japan, a fast-casual eatery offering Japanese cuisine, is expected to open within the next couple of weeks on the mall\u2019s lower level near the main entrance, according to owner Qinzhi Chen.<\/p>\n
The restaurant, featuring banquette seating, will fill the space previously occupied by Tasty Bitez.<\/p>\n
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Nori Japan is coming soon the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
The new Nori Japan restaurant will provide a full range of Japanese dishes, including teriyaki options freshly prepared right in front of customers on a tepanyaki grill, according to an online description.<\/p>\n
Other menu highlights will include ramen, tempura, sesame chicken, kushiyaki and assorted sushi rolls.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur dishes are prepared fresh daily with the finest ingredients,\u201d the online description reads. \u201cOur Japanese recipes are developed by master chefs with care to deliver the highest quality and authenticity.\u201d<\/p>\n
The first Lehigh Valley location of Pop Mart, a market-leading character-based entertainment company and a global champion of designer toy culture, is expected to open later this spring on the mall\u2019s lower level near Boscov\u2019s, according to store signage.<\/p>\n
The new Pop Mart location will occupy an updated space that was previously home to Sugar Bear, a candy store now known as Sugar Dynasty, which relocated to the former Francesca\u2019s space.<\/p>\n
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A new location of Pop Mart is coming soon to the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
Pop Mart labels itself a \u201crising global force in pop culture and entertainment,\u201d aiming to \u201ccelebrate daily moments and inspire through designer toys and fun experiences.\u201d<\/p>\n
Pop Mart has more than 500 stores in over 30 countries and regions, along with more than 2,300 roboshops and e-commerce.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur focus is IP incubation & operations, designer toys and retail, theme parks & experiences, also digital entertainment,\u201d a company description reads.<\/p>\n
\u201c\u2026 We manage & represent incredible artists from all over the world. Our roster spans dozens of iconic characters, like Molly, Dimoo, Skullpanda, The Monsters, Hirono and more.\u201d<\/p>\n
L\u2019Amour Visage is expected to open in about a week in a lower-level space next to Verizon Wireless, according to an employee.<\/p>\n
The new facility, specializing in luxury facials, will be an off-shoot of L\u2019Amour, a nearby store offering premium Introstem skincare products for men and women, the worker said.<\/p>\n
\u201cL\u2019Amour Visage will serve as our second location, offering really great facials,\u201d the worker said. \u201cThe salon will be more of a service point, while our original location will be more of a sale and retail point.\u201d<\/p>\n
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L’Amour Visage is coming soon to the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
At L\u2019Amour, individuals can shop a wide array of body care products, cleansers, exfoliators, eye care, masks, moisturizers, serum and more.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt Introstem, we are devoted to providing skincare products that deliver tangible results,\u201d a business description reads.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur balanced formulas are gentle yet effective, combining star ingredient grape stem cell extract with proven botanicals, antioxidants, and humectants. We believe that maintaining beautiful, healthy skin requires a three-pronged approach; targeting genetics, environment, and behavior.\u201d<\/p>\n
OFFLINE by Aerie, an extension of the adjacent Aerie store, is expected to open in late June or early July on the mall\u2019s upper level near the escalators, according to a store employee.<\/p>\n
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Aerie is expanding with a combination Aerie and OFFLINE by Aerie location on the Lehigh Valley Mall’s upper level.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
Aerie, a popular fashion retailer and sister brand to American Eagle, is expanding into the space previously occupied by Waikiki, a teen and women’s fashion retailer that recently moved to the upper-level spot that And Pose Selfie Salon vacated.<\/p>\n
The soon-to-be expanded location, expected to open in late June or early July, will feature Aerie and its sub-brand, OFFLINE by Aerie, the employee said.<\/p>\n
Aerie\u2019s current store features a small section for OFFLINE by Aerie, which focuses on activewear, while the new expanded location will feature two distinct spaces for Aerie and OFFLINE by Aerie, the employee said.<\/p>\n
The brands will have two separate entrances, but they will feature an interior connection, the employee said.<\/p>\n
A location of Texas de Brazil, a Brazilian-American steakhouse brand offering a wide selection of flame-grilled meats carved tableside, is coming soon to the lower-level space that previously housed a location of Ruby Tuesday.<\/p>\n
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A new Texas de Brazil location is coming soon to a lower-level space at the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
The new Whitehall restaurant is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2026 or first quarter of 2027, according to a Texas de Brazil spokesperson.<\/p>\n
Founded in 1998 as a family-owned business, Texas de Brazil is an authentic churrascaria (steakhouse) featuring a continuous dining experience that \u201ccombines the flavors of Brazil with the hospitality of Texas,\u201d according to a company description.<\/p>\n
Texas de Brazil has expanded over the decades to become one of the largest Brazilian-American steakhouse brands in the world.<\/p>\n
Today, there are 54 Texas de Brazil restaurants in 23 states, one in Puerto Rico and 10 international locations in countries such as Qatar, Panama and South Korea.<\/p>\n
Another Pennsylvania location operates in Pittsburgh.<\/p>\n
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By Texas de Brazil<\/p>\n
Texas de Brazil\u2019s menu highlights a wide selection of flame-grilled meats, including picanha, garlic picanha, Brazilian sausage, barbecued pork ribs, leg of lamb, lamb chops, filet mignon, flank steak, chicken breast wrapped in bacon, filet mignon wrapped in bacon, spicy sirloin, parmesan-crusted pork loin, parmesan drumettes and beef ribs.<\/p>\n
All meats are cooked the “gaucho way” – over an open flame with natural wood charcoal, and complimentary house-baked cheese bread, garlic mashed potatoes and fried bananas are paired with each experience, according to the business’ website.<\/p>\n
The brand invites guests to \u201csavor traditional Brazilian churrasco cooking served with the generous spirit and hospitality that Texas is known for.\u201d<\/p>\n
The all-you-can-eat dining experience allows guests to use place cards to communicate whether or not they\u2019d like more of something.<\/p>\n
When the card is turned green, carvers serve up generous portions of sizzling beef, pork and other meats.<\/p>\n
Other recent changes<\/p>\n
The coming-soon businesses will join a diverse lineup of Lehigh Valley Mall tenants that include late 2025 additions Dunkin\u2019, Drink Fresh by Djurdjura and Danou Hair.<\/p>\n
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A location of Dunkin\u2019, the country\u2019s largest coffee and doughnuts brand, opened on Dec. 29 on the Lehigh Valley Mall\u2019s lower level near the escalators.<\/p>\n
The new Dunkin’ location occupies a kiosk that was previously home to a Starbucks location, which closed in 2024.<\/p>\n
In addition to coffee and doughnuts, the chain offers a variety of other food and beverages, including sandwiches and Wake-Up Wraps, frozen drinks like Coolatas and frozen matcha lattes and baked goods such as bagels, croissants and muffins.<\/p>\n
Drink Fresh by Djurdjura opened in early October on the mall\u2019s upper level across from LensCrafters.<\/p>\n
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Drink Fresh by Djurdura operates at the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n
It occupies space that was previously home to other eateries, including Subway, Almost Vegan and, most recently, Spice N Shake.<\/p>\n
Drink Fresh by Djurdjura customers can enjoy a wide variety of freshly prepared smoothies, juices, acai bowls, Dubai chocolate cups and more.<\/p>\n
Danou Hair, offering wigs, extensions, hair care and more, opened in December on the mall\u2019s upper level near JCPenney.<\/p>\n
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The new beauty destination occupies an updated space that previously housed various other retail tenants, including GNC and, most recently, Perfume Galaxy.<\/p>\n
Several other businesses, including Madison Jewelers, Blue Ridge Estate Vineyard & Winery, Star Park Indoor Playground, Dry Goods and Lehigh Home D\u00e9cor & Curtains \u2013 opened at the mall earlier in 2025.<\/p>\n
Over the past six months, the mall has also said goodbye to several tenants.<\/p>\n
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A location of LOFT recently closed at the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
A location of LOFT, a women’s apparel brand offering dresses, blouses and more in modern styles, closed in early 2026 near the mall\u2019s main entrance.<\/p>\n
A representative from KnitWell Group, LOFT\u2019s parent company, did not return a message seeking comment.<\/p>\n
Another Lehigh Valley location of Loft continues to operate at Promenade Saucon Valley in Upper Saucon Township.<\/p>\n
Also near the mall\u2019s main entrance, a location of Chick-fil-A, a quick-service restaurant company known for its freshly-prepared chicken selections, ceased operations on Dec. 31.<\/p>\n
Last July, Chick-fil-A, Inc. confirmed the location\u2019s upcoming closure with a statement.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt has been our pleasure to serve each and every Guest at this location for the past 27 years, and we look forward to continuing to serve the surrounding community at our nearby locations,\u201d the statement reads.<\/p>\n
Jennifer\u2019s Unique Boutique, a business carrying handmade gifts, home decor, fashion accessories, personal care products and other items from more than 50 local vendors, shuttered its location at the Lehigh Valley Mall\u2019s outdoor lifestyle center in late December as owner Jennifer Smith relocated the multi-merchant market to 16 N. White Oak St. in Kutztown.<\/p>\n
Smith told 69 News that the move was primarily prompted by the mall management team\u2019s requests to relocate her business to different spaces at the mall over the past several years. Each move was costly and confused customers, Smith said.<\/p>\n
Other businesses leaving the mall over the past few months include As Seen On TV, a store carrying a wide assortment of unique products seen on TV, which operated on the mall\u2019s upper level near JCPenney; Indigenous Hands by Kichwas Arts, a business offering handmade Ecuadorian goods such as specialty jewelry, alpaca blankets, alpaca sweaters and alpaca ponchos, which operated on the mall\u2019s lower level near the main entrance; and And Pose Selfie Salon, a selfie facility featuring more than 30 content rooms offering unique backdrops for taking selfie photographs, which operated on the mall\u2019s upper level near Macy\u2019s.<\/p>\n
Easton area news’Coming full circle’: Iconic Lehigh Valley hot dog shop to open 2nd location<\/p>\n
EASTON, Pa. \u2013 A more than century-old hot dog business is beefing up its presence in the Lehigh Valley.<\/p>\n
Jimmy\u2019s Hot Dogs, known for its “everything” hot dog with mustard, chopped onions and a pickle spear, is planning to open a second location within the next couple of weeks at 9 N. Third St. in downtown Easton, Co-Owner Raj Muddu told 69 News.<\/p>\n
The new location will supplement Jimmy\u2019s existing location in the 25th Street Shopping Center at 2555 Nazareth Road in Palmer Township.<\/p>\n
Raj and his wife, Priya, purchased the iconic business in 2024 from previous owners Frank and Polyxeni Bounoutas, who were retiring.<\/p>\n
The Muddus operate the business with their daughter, Meena, and the family saw an opportunity to expand operations by opening a second location where Jimmy’s originated more than a century ago. Full story here<\/a>.<\/p>\n A second location of Jimmy’s Hot Dogs is coming soon to 9 N. Third St. in downtown Easton.<\/p>\n Lehigh Valley\u2019s new multi-level event venue to feature renovated, original speakeasy<\/p>\n EASTON, Pa. \u2013 A chic event space coming soon to Northampton County is harkening back 100 years to an intoxicating chapter of the property\u2019s past life, when it was a hot spot for sipping drinks and socializing with friends during the Prohibition era.<\/p>\n Easton Speakeasy & Dining Room, a multi-level event venue featuring a refurbished, original speakeasy, is expected to hold its grand opening in the fall at 431 Northampton St. in downtown Easton, co-owner Tony Austin told 69 News.<\/p>\n Austin and his husband, Aaron Coleman, purchased the Northampton Street property in 2024 and have spent the past couple of years extensively renovating it.<\/p>\n The new venue will be available for a wide variety of private events, such as birthday, anniversary and graduations celebrations, and Austin and Coleman also plan to host some ticketed community events. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Work is nearing completion on Easton Speakeasy & Dining Room, a multi-level event venue featuring a refurbished, original speakeasy, expected to hold its grand opening in the fall at 431 Northampton St. in downtown Easton.<\/p>\n Easton Speakeasy & Dining Room<\/p>\n ‘We can’t wait’: Popular cafe concept sets grand opening date for new Lehigh Valley location<\/p>\n FORKS TWP., Pa. \u2013 A one-time hot spot for burgers, ice cream and other tasty treats is finding new life in Northampton County.<\/p>\n Zekraft, a locally owned and operated cafe concept that \u201cmakes and curates well-crafted food and kitchen items\u201d using ingredients from the Lehigh Valley and surrounding region, has leased the former Richard\u2019s Drive-In property at 1550 Sullivan Trail in Forks Township for use as the business\u2019 central kitchen and an additional cafe location.<\/p>\n The Forks cafe, with interior seating for a dozen guests and seasonal outdoor seating for an additional 20 guests, will hold its grand opening on May 21, co-owner Zeke Zelker told 69 News.<\/p>\n Regular hours will be 6:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. daily. Read more<\/a>.<\/p>\n Zekraft co-owner Zeke Zelker poses outside the business’ new location at 1550 Sullivan Trail in Forks Township. The new location serves as Zekraft’s central kitchen, and it soon will also be home to another Zekraft cafe.\u00a0<\/p>\n Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n Lehigh Valley business set to bloom with beautifully designed event space, floral shop<\/p>\n EASTON, Pa. \u2013 Just in time for spring gatherings, a new business is bringing a customizable venue for weddings, baby showers and other functions alongside a floral shop featuring fresh flowers daily to Northampton County.<\/p>\n Bloom Room Easton, a fully designed event space and floral shop, held a grand opening and ribbon-cutting celebration in conjunction with the Easton Business Association on Friday, May 1, at 527 Northampton St. in downtown Easton, owner Wendy Straker told 69 News.<\/p>\n The updated space was previously home to Old Mecca Cafe.<\/p>\n Bloom Room will specialize in hosting intimate celebrations including bridal showers, baby showers, birthday parties, corporate gatherings and micro-weddings. Full story here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Credit: @exploreeastonpa<\/p>\n The Pierogi Kings launches in Easton, acquires Bayou Boys Pierogies<\/p>\n EASTON, Pa. \u2014 Following in the footsteps of a familiar favorite, a new local business has begun its tasty reign with hand-crafted, small-batch pierogies.<\/p>\n The Pierogi Kings LLC, a new Easton-based premium frozen pierogi manufacturer, has officially launched operations and acquired Bayou Boys Pierogies, according to a news release.<\/p>\n Bayou Boys Pierogies was established in 2020 by the ownership team behind The Bayou restaurant in Bethlehem, and The Pierogi Kings\u2019 recent acquisition transfers Bayou Boys Pierogies’ recipes, equipment and client relationships to the new venture, which currently supplies more than three dozen restaurant accounts throughout the region. Read more<\/a>.<\/p>\n The Pierogi Kings<\/p>\n Tasty eats and drinksAfter 1-year hiatus, popular Lehigh Valley eatery kicks off tasty comeback at new location<\/p>\n ALLENTOWN, Pa. – A much-loved, fast-casual concept has welcomed foodies to its new home in a Lehigh County shopping center.<\/p>\n Zahra, a Middle Eastern\/Mediterranean concept and sister business of Allentown’s Aladdin Restaurant, opened on Friday, May 1, at its new location at 323 S. Cedar Crest Blvd. in Allentown, owner Samantha Younes told 69 News.<\/p>\n The Shops at Cedar Point spot was previously home to a Red Wing Shoes store, and renovations including new flooring, lighting, kitchen equipment and more have taken place over the past several months.<\/p>\n Younes previously operated Zahra for more than five years at the former Downtown Allentown Market, which closed last spring on downtown Allentown’s ArtsWalk, between Sixth and Seventh streets. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Zahra’s new location is pictured at 323 S. Cedar Crest Blvd. in Allentown.<\/p>\n Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n ‘Enhancing the experience’: New Lehigh Valley coffee bar opens inside 1890s restored barn<\/p>\n UPPER MOUNT BETHEL TWP., Pa. \u2013 A family-run business is serving up specialty beverages such as a “Cowgirl Cold Brew,” “Lamb’s Wool Latte” and “Goat Snuggler” in a cozy and rustic setting in Northampton County.<\/p>\n Barn Brew Coffee & Espresso Bar, offering a wide array of freshly prepared coffee, herbal tea and other drinks, held a grand opening with the Slate Belt Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, April 29, at 1584 S. Delaware Drive in Upper Mount Bethel Township.<\/p>\n The coffee shop operates in a portion of All Aspects at the Barn, a 4.5-year-old mercantile store selling antiques, new and vintage home decor and gifts and locally made items such as soaps, candles and food products inside a restored 1890s barn.<\/p>\n The property also features a wine bar, party pavilion, petting farm and children\u2019s playground. Read more<\/a>.<\/p>\n Barn Brew Coffee & Espresso Bar recently opened in a portion of All Aspects at the Barn, a 4.5-year-old mercantile store selling antiques, new and vintage home decor and gifts and locally made items such as soaps, candles and food products inside a restored 1890s barn.<\/p>\n Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n \u2018Heavy heart\u2019: Last location of J\u2019s Steaks & Subs to permanently close<\/p>\n NORTHAMPTON, Pa. \u2013 The last location of a once-prominent Lehigh Valley area restaurant chain \u2013 serving hot and cold subs, burgers and other freshly prepared eats \u2013 is set to end operations at the end of May.<\/p>\n J\u2019s Steaks & Subs, at 1830 Main St. in Northampton, will permanently close on May 30, according to an announcement on the business\u2019 Facebook page.<\/p>\n \u201cThis has not been an easy decision for me to make,\u201d owner Candace Strain stated in the online post.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s one that comes with a heavy heart to announce. As of May 30, 2026 J\u2019s Northampton will be closing its doors permanently. I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of our amazing customers for your support, loyalty, and memories over the years. It has truly meant everything to us.\u201d<\/p>\n For roughly 40 years, operations at J’s Steaks & Subs in Northampton were previously headed by Strain’s late husband, Dan Strain, who passed away in March 2025, according to manager Brandon Clawson, who is Candace\u2019s son-in-law. Full story here<\/a>.<\/p>\n A J’s Steaks & Subs restaurant operates at 1830 Main St. in Northampton.<\/p>\n J’s Steaks<\/p>\n Bethlehem buzzThrift store chain planning to open 1st Lehigh Valley location at former Big Lots spot<\/p>\n BETHLEHEM, Pa. \u2013 A business that aims to \u201cchampion reuse and inspire a future where secondhand is second nature\u201d is expanding its footprint with a new retail location in the Lehigh Valley.<\/p>\n A new Savers thrift store is coming soon to 2192 W. Union Blvd. in Bethlehem.<\/p>\n The space, which is undergoing renovations, was previously home to a Big Lots store.<\/p>\n The new Savers location, which will be the company\u2019s first Lehigh Valley store, is expected to hold a grand opening on Aug. 13, according to manager Steven Hill. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n A new Savers thrift store is coming soon to 2192 W. Union Blvd. in Bethlehem.<\/p>\n Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n Outdoor street fair to bring over 100 artisans, food vendors to Bethlehem<\/p>\n BETHLEHEM, Pa. \u2014 Inspired by the open-air markets of Europe, a multi-merchant shopping experience – featuring a unique collection of more than 100 makers, curators and collectors alongside specialty food vendors – is coming to Bethlehem next month.<\/p>\n Belleville Market on Wednesday announced the return of the Belleville Street Faire, taking place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, at ArtsQuest\u2019s SteelStacks campus in south Bethlehem.<\/p>\n Inspired by the outdoor markets of Europe, the Belleville Street Faire brings together over 100 carefully curated makers, curators and collectors for a one-day celebration of small business, craftsmanship and community.<\/p>\n Guests can explore an open-air market filled with handmade goods, vintage finds, home d\u00e9cor, apparel, artisanal foods and more. Read more<\/a>.<\/p>\n Belleville Street Faire will be held at ArtsQuest’s SteelStacks campus in south Bethlehem.<\/p>\n Belleville Market<\/p>\n Bethlehem Co-op market completes key installation, but still no opening date<\/p>\n BETHLEHEM, Pa. – The Bethlehem Co-op Market is celebrating a new milestone in the lengthy process of opening its brick-and-mortar grocery store.<\/p>\n Refrigeration installation work at the site at 250 E. Broad St. is complete.<\/p>\n “That milestone does get the board closer to setting an opening date,” Co-op Board Chair Todd Mertz told 69 News via email.<\/p>\n The next step in the process is getting the site ready for inspections. The co-op is asking its members to help this weekend with assembling shelving and equipment inside the store, as well as moving heavier items into place and cleaning. Full story here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n Berks and Bucks counties\u2018Raised on pizza\u2019: New family-run Italian restaurant opens in Berks County<\/p>\n WYOMISSING, Pa. \u2013 A new destination for specialty pizzas, subs and other tasty eats is welcoming guests in Berks County.<\/p>\n Vinny G\u2019s, serving freshly prepared Italian cuisine, opened Monday at 18 A State Hill Road in Wyomissing, co-owner Santo Giannotti told 69 News.<\/p>\n The restaurant occupies an updated space that previously housed City Girl Juice, a business offering cold-pressed juices, smoothies and acai bowls.<\/p>\n \u201cI grew up in this area and went to school here,\u201d Giannotti said. \u201cSo, it\u2019s a place that I love, and we\u2019re really just trying to give back to the community that we\u2019ve been a part of for so long. We\u2019ve gotten great feedback so far.\u201d Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Vinny G’s<\/p>\n Bakery chain’s 1st Quakertown area location opens, Northampton County spot coming soon<\/p>\n A specialty cake company, with more than 800 locations across the United States and Canada, is expanding its footprint with two new local bakeries.<\/p>\n A new location of Nothing Bundt Cakes, a bakery franchise famous for its handcrafted bundt cakes, bundtlets and bundtinis, opened Sunday at 256 N. West End Blvd. in Richland Township, Bucks County.<\/p>\n Another Nothing Bundt Cakes location is coming soon to 3788 Nazareth Road in Lower Nazareth Township, Northampton County.<\/p>\n The new Quakertown area bakery occupies an updated space that previously housed a GameStop store in the Trainer\u2019s Corner shopping center, while the new Lower Nazareth bakery will occupy an updated space that previously housed a Subway sandwich shop in the Northampton Crossings shopping center. Read more<\/a>.<\/p>\n A new location of Nothing Bundt Cakes, a specialty cake company famous for its handcrafted bundt cakes, bundtlets and bundtinis, opened Sunday at 256 N. West End Blvd. in Richland Township, Bucks County.<\/p>\n Ryan Kneller<\/p>\n Beloved Amity cafe closes its doors for good<\/p>\n AMITY TOWNSHIP, Pa. – A community staple in Amity Township has shut its doors.<\/p>\n The owners of Brook’s Breakfast and Lunch Cafe started packing things up on Thursday.<\/p>\n They served their last customers earlier this week after more than 10 years in business.<\/p>\n The owners say they closed because they couldn’t come to an agreement on a new lease and they’re sad to be leaving.<\/p>\n “It’s a family business. We raised our kids here. I have a lot of kids that work here, a lot of the high school kids work here, so I think it’s just a very community-oriented place,” said owner Aja Taney. Full story here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Smokey Bones abruptly closes Spring Township location<\/p>\n SPRING TWP., Pa. \u2013 It’s time to say goodbye to another staple in Berks County. Smokey Bones announced it is closing its doors \u2014 this, after the chain’s parent company, FAT Brands, filed for bankruptcy in January.<\/p>\n It\u2019s one of the most challenging businesses.<\/p>\n “Opening a restaurant, and keeping a restaurant to have it sustainable is extremely difficult to do,\u201d said Michael Simon, accounting associate teaching professor at Penn State Berks.<\/p>\n One by one, staple restaurants in Berks County have closed their doors.<\/p>\n “Buca di Beppo. You know, they filed for bankruptcy. Red Lobster has filed for bankruptcy. Carl’s Jr.,\u201d Simon said. “And these are organizations that aren’t just here locally. These organizations are across the country.” Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Poconos updatesAfter Allentown location\u2019s opening, fast-casual concept expanding with 2nd Pa. eatery<\/p>\n POCONO TWP., Pa. \u2013 Just in time for warmer weather, a new eatery will soon offer a \u201cdelicious and nutritious\u201d taste of the tropics.<\/p>\n A new location of Tiki Bowls, offering a variety of fruit bowls, smoothies, juices and more, is tentatively set to open on Friday, May 8, at the Pocono Premium Outlets in Pocono Township, franchisee Tony DiGiovanni told 69 News.<\/p>\n The new eatery will operate next to Old Navy at the outlets, located at 1000 Premium Outlets in Tannersville.<\/p>\n It will be DiGiovanni\u2019s second Tiki Bowls location, supplementing a shop that opened in January 2025 at 840 W. Hamilton St., on the ground floor of the Butz Corporate Center, in downtown Allentown. Read more<\/a>.<\/p>\n Tiki Bowls<\/p>\n ‘I just had to stay positive’: Skate and snowboard shop Monroe County back in business after fire last year<\/p>\n EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. – A family-owned skate and snowboard shop in Monroe County has reopened its doors after a fire forced it to shut down last year.<\/p>\n 69 News Reporter Sydney Kay spoke to the owner about the obstacles and community support that helped them through their journey.<\/p>\n It\u2019s back to business as usual inside Holy Stokes board shop on Washington Street in East Stroudsburg.<\/p>\n Making adjustments or selling a board is owner Charles Pruettipun\u2019s routine, but it\u2019s something he\u2019s grateful to be doing again after a fire broke out at the business back in November. Full story here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Noteworthy moments, milestonesBecky’s Drive-In celebrating 80th anniversary with DJ, fireworks, family activities and more<\/p>\n LEHIGH TWP., Pa. \u2013 A beloved spot for watching movies under the stars is marking a major milestone with a family-friendly event in Northampton County.<\/p>\n Becky\u2019s Drive-In, a family-run, drive-in movie theater, will mark its 80th anniversary with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebration, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at 4548 Lehigh Drive in Lehigh Township.<\/p>\n The event, held in partnership with the Greater Northern Lehigh Chamber of Commerce, will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony (5:45 p.m.) to commemorate \u201ceight decades of movie magic, community memories, and family fun,\u201d according to an event description.<\/p>\n After the ceremony, the celebration continues with a full evening of festivities for guests of all ages.\u00a0The celebration will include character appearances, games, DJ entertainment, a magician, balloon sculptures, a moon bounce, trackless train rides, truck rides, prizes and more. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n ‘Deeply meaningful’: Local family-owned business named \u2018GMC Dealer of the Year\u2019<\/p>\n FRANCONIA TWP., Pa. \u2013 A more than century-old, family-owned and operated business has earned a prestigious distinction, placing it in the top 1% of nearly 1,700 GMC dealers across the United States.<\/p>\n Bergey\u2019s Buick GMC, at 446 Harleysville Pike in Franconia Township, Montgomery County, has been named \u201cGMC Dealer of the Year,\u201d according to a news release.<\/p>\n The award recognizes exceptional performance in customer experience, sales excellence and overall dealership operations during the 2025 sales year.<\/p>\n The GMC Dealer of the Year award is one of the brand\u2019s highest honors, celebrating dealerships that \u201cconsistently deliver a premium customer experience, uphold GMC\u2019s standards, and demonstrate excellence across all areas of operation,\u201d according to the release. Read more<\/a>.<\/p>\n ‘I love this place’: Beloved Phillipsburg store owner retires after 44 years of loyal service<\/p>\n PHILLIPSBURG, N.J. – At 135 South Main Street in Phillipsburg, New Jersey sits Towne Market. Sal Cassar opened the store back in 1977.<\/p>\n “This isn’t just a store. It’s a Phillipsburg institution, and I love this place and I love them,” said Phillipsburg resident, Mike Ricciardeli.<\/p>\n Cassar and his wife Lori have made Towne Market a family affair. “It’s a long day, six in the morning till ten at night and it’s a routine that once you did it, you just do it,” said Cassar.<\/p>\n His customers came first. “If a customer came in and we didn’t have the items that day, I’d say to myself, ‘OK there’s a need for this,’ so I made sure that the next time they come in, if they needed it, it would be there,” said Cassar. Full story here<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. \u2013 Just like spring\u2019s flowers, several new tenants are blooming at the Lehigh Valley\u2019s largest…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":182200,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[81335,81336,119,121,120,71829,81338,157,27786,23768,34556,81334,81337,34555,1654],"class_list":["post-182199","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-allentown","tag-aerie-store","tag-ahmet-cakir","tag-allentown","tag-allentown-headlines","tag-allentown-news","tag-anime","tag-anime-world","tag-lehigh-valley","tag-lehigh-valley-mall","tag-lina","tag-nori-japan-restaurant","tag-pop-mart","tag-qinzhi-chen","tag-whitehall-restaurant","tag-whitehall-township"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/182199","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=182199"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/182199\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/182200"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=182199"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=182199"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=182199"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}<\/p>\n
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