by Dennis Augustine
After a full day that included morning coffee and croissants at Gems & Joe, lunch at Michelle and JJ’s apartment prepared by Maybelle, and a visit to the Farmers Market in Allentown — where many Amish vendors sell baked goods and local specialties — the evening’s highlight was dinner.
Cecile and I hosted our dear friends at Okatshe, the vibrant Japanese izakaya created by Iron Chef Jose Garces and located beside the stylish Moxy Allentown Downtown Hotel.
The neon-lit space, DJ music, and imaginative décor set the stage for a memorable evening. The Asian fusion menu — with subtle Latin American accents reflecting Garces’ Ecuadorian heritage — was a hit, from fresh sushi to creative shareable plates.
After dinner we showed our friends the playful Moxy Hotel lobby, where the décor mixes whimsical circus touches with hints of African wildlife.
A fun, energetic night and a perfect way to end our Allentown day.
