Social Still

When you walk through the front door, prepare to be instantly enveloped by a thick aroma of kitchen goodies cooking—and, of course, yeast. That’s because Social Still, the first distillery in the Lehigh Valley since the Prohibition, has a production tactic as transparent as its internationally award-winning vodka: authentic pot stills serve as the backdrop to the bar, which exclusively pours its own spirits.

If it’s my first time, what should I order? Distinctive but accessible, ask for the Jalapeño Heist, a dreamy blend of heat and citrus made with house-infused jalapeño vodka and housemade mint simple syrup. For a truly extraordinary affair, pair it with the pan-seared Maryland-style Crab Cake that routinely has visitors from Baltimore to Boston
pining for it.

Anything to look for this summer? A host of refreshing cocktails to brighten up the dog days like the Equinox, a floral and tart blend of rye whiskey, vodka, elderflower syrup, fresh lemon and
muddled jalapeño.

What’s the secret to a perfect cocktail? The best drinks start in the produce aisle, not with a pre-made mix. Here, everything from the syrups and bitters to the alcohol itself is delicately handcrafted.

Any notable history? Originally the bank where every Bethlehem Steel worker cashed paychecks, today the neo-Gothic space continues to celebrate the community with a modern-day gathering spot, and some remnants remain: an intact vault is available for an intimate dining experience by reservation.