Tapas On Main

- 500 Main St, Bethlehem, PA 18018

For residents of Pennsylvania looking for a truly sophisticated and authentic European dining experience, Tapas On Main is an essential destination in Historic Downtown Bethlehem. This establishment is more than just a restaurant; it’s a full sensory experience, combining the vibrant culinary traditions of a Spanish restaurant with the ambiance of a high-quality Wine bar and European restaurant. Since its opening, Tapas On Main has become a recognized fixture in the Lehigh Valley, celebrated for its unique concept and location on the picturesque Main Street.

The core of the menu is, as the name suggests, the art of tapas—small, shareable plates that encourage conversation and culinary exploration. This style of dining allows patrons to sample a diverse array of Spanish flavors, from traditional cured meats and cheeses to inventive seafood and meat preparations. The atmosphere is frequently described as Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Trendy, making it an ideal choice for everything from an intimate dinner date to a lively group gathering. This commitment to creating an enjoyable environment, complete with a fabulous music playlist and frequent Live music, enhances the overall appeal.

While the restaurant excels in providing a lovely atmosphere and excellent beverages, including a vast Great wine list and signature seasonal sangrias, customer feedback suggests a nuanced view on the food. Many dishes, such as the Setas Al Ajo (Garlic Mushrooms) and Pork Belly, are often highly recommended. However, some patrons have noted that portions can be small relative to the price, with dishes like the charcuterie board and the octopus being occasionally criticized for value or execution. Despite these varying comments on value, the overall experience, characterized by good service and a stunning setting, often leaves a positive, memorable impression. Tapas On Main remains a fixture for its stylish atmosphere and its unique contribution to the Bethlehem dining scene.

Tapas On Main is ideally situated at the heart of the Lehigh Valley, on Historic Main Street in Bethlehem, PA. Its prime location at 500 Main St places it within easy walking distance of the city's key attractions, boutiques, and historic sites, making it a perfect spot for locals and tourists exploring the area.

The official address is:

Address: 500 Main St, Bethlehem, PA 18018, USA

The restaurant’s commitment to providing a welcoming experience is reflected in its strong accessibility features:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance ensures easy entry for all guests.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom provides necessary accommodations.
• Wheelchair accessible seating ensures comfort within the dining areas.

For Pennsylvania customers planning their visit, it is important to note the parking situation in this historic downtown area:

• Paid parking lot options are available nearby.
• Paid street parking is generally available along Main Street.

Additionally, the restaurant offers Outdoor seating during the warmer months, allowing patrons to enjoy their Spanish small plates and sangria right on the charming street, a feature that significantly draws a large crowd in the spring and summer.

Tapas On Main provides an expansive list of services designed to offer maximum flexibility and convenience to the local Pennsylvania community. The restaurant caters to various dining needs and social events, ensuring a high-quality experience whether you are dining in or taking out.

Key service options available include:

• Dine-in: Features include a Bar onsite, Seating, and Table service within a cozy and romantic setting.
• Outdoor Seating: A highly popular seasonal option for enjoying the historic streetscape.
• Takeout: Convenient for enjoying the tapas and large plates at home.
• Delivery: The ultimate convenience, including No-contact delivery options.
• Reservations: Accepts reservations, with Brunch reservations recommended and Dinner reservations recommended, particularly on weekends and during major Bethlehem events.
• Dining Times: Offers full service for Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert.
• Alcohol Service: Features a full Bar onsite, providing Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and an extensive Wine list.
• Payments: Accepts various methods for ease of transaction, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Further amenities and highlights enhance the visitor experience:

• Fast service is a general highlight.
• Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food are offered for great value on select days.
• Wi-Fi is available for guests.
• The atmosphere is welcoming to all, being LGBTQ+ friendly and designated as a Transgender safespace.
• Includes a Gender-neutral restroom and High chairs for families.

The menu at Tapas On Main is a celebration of Spanish cuisine, meticulously designed around the concept of sharing and variety. It offers an incredible depth of flavor and culinary creativity, ensuring a unique meal with every visit.

Key menu categories and highlights include:

• Tapas (Small Plates): The centerpiece of the restaurant, these dishes are perfect for sampling and sharing. Popular choices include:
  • Datiles Con Tocino (Bacon-Wrapped Dates): A classic Spanish appetizer balancing sweet and savory.
  • Gambas Al Ajillo: Shrimp sautéed in olive oil and garlic, a hallmark of Spanish flavor.
  • Croquetas De Cangrejo (Blue Crab): Creamy, crispy croquettes featuring fresh seafood.
  • Setas Al Ajo (Mushrooms with Garlic): A highly recommended vegetable tapa.
  • Pork Belly: Noted as one of the best-executed dishes by some reviewers.
  • A range of meatballs: Beef Meatballs, Eggplant Meatballs, and Pork & Chorizo Meatballs.
• Paella (Large Plates): This traditional Spanish rice dish is offered in multiple forms, making it an excellent option for a full entrée:
  • Paella Palomino (often featuring a mix of meats and seafood).
  • Paella De La Tierra (a land-focused paella).
  • Paella Surf & Turf and Paella Vegetariana.
• Meat & Cheeses (Bandeja Mizxta): Curated boards featuring Spanish delicacies, including:
  • Jamon Serrano (cured country ham) and Cantimpalo (sausage).
  • Cheeses such as Manchego and the strong El Rebeco Valdeon (blue cheese).
• Cocas (Spanish Flatbreads): Thin-crust flatbreads with specialty toppings, such as Coca De Camarones (shrimp) and Coca De Pollo (chicken).
• Desserts: Conclude your meal with Spanish sweets like Churros and Flan, alongside the rich Flourless Chocolate Cake.
• Drink Highlights: The establishment is known for its Great beer selection, Great cocktails, and especially its Great wine list and seasonal Sangria pitchers.
• Dietary Considerations: The menu includes Vegetarian options and Healthy options, catering to various dietary needs.

The attached sister restaurant, Cachette Creperie + Bistro, also offers a distinct European flair with savory and sweet crêpes, French sandwiches like the Croque Madame, and other bistro classics, further expanding the diverse dining choices available at this Main Street location.

For residents of Pennsylvania, choosing Tapas On Main is about selecting an evening that is more than just a meal; it is an immersive, high-energy Spanish dining experience unique to the Lehigh Valley. What is truly worth choosing here is the combination of its dynamic atmosphere, excellent bar program, and the interactive nature of tapas dining.

• The Ambiance: The restaurant's reputation for being Romantic, Trendy, and Cozy makes it the perfect setting for celebrations, date nights, or a stylish gathering with friends. The inclusion of Live music on weekends elevates the experience beyond typical dining.
• The Spanish Bar Experience: The extensive and highly-rated Great wine list, diverse cocktails, and the famous, seasonal sangria pitchers are major drawcards. The opportunity to pair small plates with a large pitcher of a seasonal sangria is a celebrated social activity among patrons.
• The Culinary Highlights: Focusing on the most successful dishes is key to a rewarding visit. Highly recommended selections include the Setas Al Ajo (Garlic Mushrooms), Pork Belly, and the variety of Croquetas (especially the Blue Crab). Starting with a Bandeja Mixta allows for a quick appreciation of the high-quality Spanish meats and cheeses like Jamon Serrano and Manchego.
• Convenience and Inclusivity: The central location in Historic Bethlehem, combined with easy accessibility (wheelchair accessible everything) and a welcoming, inclusive crowd (LGBTQ+ friendly, Transgender safespace), ensures a comfortable and fun experience for a diverse range of Pennsylvanians.
• Happy Hour & Brunch: The consistent offering of both Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food during the week and on weekends provides an excellent value proposition for sampling the menu. Furthermore, the specialized weekend Brunch menu, combining Spanish flair with traditional favorites, makes it a top choice for a late morning or early afternoon outing.

While some reviewers note that certain plates can be pricey for the portion size, the overall high-end atmosphere, excellent service, and the quality of standout dishes solidify Tapas On Main as a valuable and unique dining experience in the Bethlehem culinary landscape.

To plan your visit or make a reservation at Tapas On Main, please use the following contact information:

Address: 500 Main St, Bethlehem, PA 18018, USA

Phone: (610) 868-8903

Mobile Phone: +1 610-868-8903

Tapas On Main

500 Main St, Bethlehem, PA 18018, USA