The Open in Allentown series is an opportunity to showcase available commercial store fronts in Allentown’s business districts, primarily on Warrington Avenue. The first “pop up” occurred on April 1, 2015, and featured tasty creations by Sweet Peaches and drinks by Bar Marco.
Part deux took place on July 22, 2015, at an available commercial store front, previously Michelle’s Diner, on Warrington Avenue. When I walked in the diner was packed and everyone was in line to eat. This time around Chef Jonathan Vlasic of Alla Famiglia prepared a gourmet taco station, filled with two different styles of pork, homemade guac, pineapples, black beans, pico de gallo and of course fresh tortillas to pile all that goodness on. In addition, fresh ceviche was on hand. I saw lots of familiar faces, everyone from judges, restaurant owners, community activists and residents from not only Allentown, but all over the city. It was a great crowd and everyone seemed to be enjoying the food. The soon-to-be-opening Black Forge Coffee House provided 3 different types of brownies, the salted Caramel was my fav, along with coffee, while Sweet Peaches juiced up rice milk for the thirsty crowd. Bar Marco made their second appearance as well. This time they concocted a stiff Old Fashioned, as well as a variety of beers to choose from.
As the evening died down, food dwindled, but the crowd didn’t. Most people stayed and enjoyed more cocktails, networking and laughter. Part Deux was a success, just as the first; I am hoping for Part Tres!