Moxy Allentown Downtown

The bar looks great, very trendy and Instagram-worthy, and the lobby has plenty of seating. We could wander around to different spots, including a curtained area with a Zoltar reader, and also sit in the regular lobby where curtained sections offered private conversation areas. We went on a Friday before a hockey game; a wedding was happening across the street and some of the party was drinking in the bar, but it still didn't feel packed. There's a small snack menu, though I didn't try anything. I'd go back in warmer weather. I came hoping for interesting drinks to match the decor, but the menu was average and nothing appealed to me. I asked for a Moscow Mule, but they were out of ginger beer and offered club soda instead, letting me taste it. It was terrible. The bartender felt bad and didn't charge me, so I stuck with a beer. I kept the mule to take a picture with it. Points off because the bartenders seemed a bit standoffish, and it took forever to get a drink, only for them to be out of ginger beer.

The atmosphere is classy and so nice, and Laura is my favorite bartender. I come by weekly with friends to chat with her. She makes our drinks just right and fixes things if someone doesn't like what they got. Love her. I just wish they had some free snacks to enjoy while we drink, maybe chips and salsa or salty peanuts. That's why I'd give five stars otherwise.

The room and hotel decor were lovely, and I was intrigued that reception is a bar. The lounge and common spaces are comfortable and good for working on a laptop outside your room. There's a Japanese-inspired restaurant next door, plus nearby Indian and Mexican takeaways. A music venue and police station are close by, which may reassure people concerned about the area's safety. The room's TV signal kept cutting out, as if the satellite or internet connection was being interrupted. Noise is the big issue. This hotel has a party vibe. When we came back from a day out, a loud private party was going on. Our room was far enough away from that, but party guests on the floor above us made frat-party noise until well after 2 am. We and other nearby rooms called the front desk, and eventually police were called. I just need a quiet, comfortable room, a decent bed and some sleep. I didn't get that on this stay. We didn't tell staff how disappointed we were, but there wasn't much sympathy, and they didn't even give us free parking.

Aaron at the front desk made check-in smooth, and the energy inside felt warm and vibrant. The bar is behind the desk, and you get a token for one complimentary drink of your choice. Miguel's valet service went above and beyond. Thanks for being so kind and hospitable. The room looked as expected and was the right size, and the shower was very nice. I only wish I'd had a city view, but I loved the ambience and would definitely stay again.