My spouse and I
dined at The Hamilton Kitchen most recently on a Sunday afternoon in early
November 2015; however, we have dined there several additional times since it
opened in July of 2014, both as a couple and with extended family. Valet
parking is available for a charge ($6 currently), although we have always
managed to find our own parking on the street or in a nearby parking lot. The
Hamilton Kitchen is open daily for lunch (brunch on the weekends) and dinner.
They accept reservations by telephone and via the Open Table reservation
system.
The Hamilton
Kitchen is located on the corner of Seventh and Hamilton Streets in Downtown
Allentown, just across the street from the PPL Center. The restaurant footprint
has a huge outdoor patio (which is used well beyond the summer season because
they have outdoor heaters that resemble giant lamps) with modular bar units,
regular tables and chairs, and high top tables and chairs. Inside, the bar area
is light and bright because of the many windows that overlook the patio beyond
to the bustling intersection. The bar itself seats about 25 guests, and it
prominently features more than 100 whiskeys in a glass case at one end. (The
restaurant also serves cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks.) The bar area contains several high-top
tables that can hold various size parties. There are three areas to the dining
room, one of which can be closed off to accommodate private parties; two of
these areas hold both booths and tables, and one holds tables only. The vaulted
ceilings are made of beautiful curved brick arches, accented by wood,
hand-painted ceramic tiles, and leather seating. Vintage jugs, baskets,
buckets and other rustic accents add to the ambience. Be sure to check out the enlarged postcards of
Downtown Allentown from the early 1900s that hang in the hallway on your way to
the restrooms.
We have enjoyed
many different menu items here, and all have been good, including chicken pot
pie, meatloaf, beef short rib, fried chicken, pasta, flatbreads, and
charcuterie; however, our favorites are the pork belly, the prosciutto and
arugula flatbread, the grits, and the peanut butter pie. The restaurant has
made modifications to the menu since it opened, which shows that they care
about pleasing their diners. (Old menu items that we did not love including the
chicherones are no longer offered; however, at one point they served a gnocchi
with short rib that was amazing and is no longer available). The menu prices
range from single digit snacks and appetizers to more pricey $20+ entrees, so
there is something to fit everyone’s budget. Service staff have always been
professional and knowledgeable.
We really enjoy
the upscale comfort food at The Hamilton Kitchen, and it will remain one of our
“go to” spots for lunch and dinner. We particularly like that they are open all
day on Saturdays and Sundays.
November 2017:
