The growing city of Allentown has long been known for its great selection of quality restaurants, some of which are old and some new. Two of the older establishments, Youell’s Oyster House and Henry’s Salt of the Sea, are famous for serving the best seafood in the state.

  • Youell’s was originally established in the late 1800s and has been in its current location since 1992. The yellow and green exterior may be a bit odd, but once you step inside, magic happens. The menu is commonly referred to as “sea to table,” and you can clearly see why. Some of the most popular of popular are oysters on the half shell (fresh and cold), raw clams, incredible lobster rolls loaded with meat, the broiled seafood combo, the seafood tower, as well as a large array of seafood appetizers. All of this is highlighted by their unique drawn butter. Most days, the bar is full by 3 pm, so get there early.

  • Henry’s Salt of the Sea was reopened in 1987 and has been a staple of Allentown’s West End ever since. Henry’s also has an odd exterior, with weathered white walls and red trim that make it look like it belongs near a fishing pier, and it specializes in French-inspired seafood. However, there are several steak, veal, and chicken options. All are world-class. The most popular items on their huge menu are the flounder, shrimp scampi, filet mignon, and the broiled seafood combo. All capped off by a wonderful dessert menu.

There are several other local favorites in Allentown. Grille 3501 is also located in Allentown’s West End and has been serving the area for 23 years. Grille 3501 considers itself a sophisticated restaurant serving “New Asian Cuisine.” The menu and presentation are truly unique, as well as their drinks and selection of locally brewed beers. Grille 3501 also has an outdoor patio and an incredible loft that creates a great atmosphere.

The Shelby, “elevated North American fare and cocktails featured in a stylish, are-lined space with large windows.” The Shelby recently added a large outdoor patio space that can be enclosed. The menu also features unique appetizers and meals not found anywhere else in the Lehigh Valley, all made with a distinctive taste. It is the “chic” place to be, and has a vast array of gluten-free options.

There are also some excellent restaurants just outside of Allentown’s city limits, including: Morgan’s – set in an old country dating back to the 1770s. Morgan’s serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it is Blake Morgan’s specials where his talent and ingenuity make for some incredible tasting dinners. Delizioso Italian Grill is a must-stop for Italian food lovers. There is a wide selection to choose from, and the dinner pastas are exceptional. They are also huge, so plan on bringing plenty home! Randall’s at the Orchard – a beautiful wooden bar, a dining room with a great view of the apple orchards, and phenomenal appetizers that are a meal in themselves.

Moving to Allentown? We’ll Get You There

If you’re planning a move to or within Allentown, we at O’Brien’s Moving & Storage are here to help. We’ve proudly served the Lehigh Valley for decades, and we know how exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—a move can be. That’s why we’re committed to making the process smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

We offer:

  • Local and long-distance residential moves

  • Commercial and office relocations

  • Packing and unpacking services

  • Secure short- and long-term storage options

  • Senior moving services with care and attention

Whether you’re moving closer to Allentown’s exciting dining scene or settling into one of its welcoming neighborhoods, we’ll take care of the details so you can start enjoying everything the city has to offer.