Foods of the Mediterranean

Foods of the Mediterranean is a non-negotiable stop for me every time I’m at the Allentown Farmers Market. The name almost undersells it. Sure, you can get all the “usual” Mediterranean hits that most Americans think of - gyros, shawarma, hummus, tabbouleh, grape leaves. But then you open the menu and realize it’s a whole tour of the region on one board: Egyptian, Lebanese, Greek, vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, salads and sides for days. It’s one of those places where you kind of want to order one of everything just to see what you’ve been missing. My personal obsession is their Koushere. It tastes exactly like the Koshari I had in Cairo - layers of lentils, chickpeas, rice, pasta, fried onion, and that addictive tomato sauce. I found out the owners are Egyptian and that this is a recipe that goes back thousands of years that they brought with them to the U.S. You can really taste that kind of history and pride in their food. We are seriously lucky to have this spot in the Lehigh Valley. If you like Mediterranean food at all - or think you do because you’ve only had a basic gyro - go here, explore the menu, and eat, eat, eat. Oh yea, try the Fattoush too!

My husband and I love this place. They are always very friendly when we have gone there. Their hibiscus tea is great along with the gyros, salads, and the falafels. I appreciate that they value healthy food. I am health conscious and I know what I am eating isn’t full of bad stuff. They have a lot of gluten free options which really helps me. The chef is great and full of life.

Inside the Allentown Farmers Market is this amazing gem called Foods of the Mediterranean. They offer dine in, take out, and a deli style counter service. They have food for all types of diets including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. Of course there is schwarma as well for those of you who are looking for a hearty meaty meal. Everything is clearly labeled as vegan, vegetarian, or gluten free so it's easy to get something without a substitute. I love their lunch menu and I like to get the pita platter with moussaka and a couple of sides from their deli counter (some of my favorites include the lentil soup, bulgar, and koushere). They have canned drinks and bottled water as well if you are eating in. When I am done with lunch I love to grab stuff to take home. I get a few containers of their different vegan options, because I'm vegan, and because they taste so good. They will let you sample the items too before buying them so you will know if you like it or not. There is also a hot section where they have spinach pies, and all kinds of other goodies that should be heated up before eating. If you have a restricted diets, are looking to eat healthier, or just want some fresh Mediterranean food then this is the place to go. They also offer catering and have coupons available if you go regularly. I highly recommend trying them out and becoming a regular like me!