The Brass Rail reopens at the Allentown Farmers Market

By Jai Smith
the brass rail grand opening september 12th 2024 at the allentown farmers market
The Brass Rail grand reopening at Allentown Farmers Market / Andrea Dudeck

ALLENTOWN, PA — After a two-year hiatus, The Brass Rail restaurant has reopened at its new location within the Allentown Farmers Market.

The new iteration of this local favorite will operate within regular market hours.

  • Thursday – 9 a.m to 7 p.m.
  • Friday – 8 a.m to 7 p.m.
  • Saturday – 8 a.m to 6 p.m.

The Brass Rail initially closed in June 2022, with plans to sell the property to Royal Farms.

However, that deal ultimately fell through, closing the restaurant. By then, owner Mark Sorrentino had already sold off the business’s equipment and let go of the staff.

“It was tough, very tough actually. Hindsight being 2020, had I known that wasn’t going to happen, I wouldn’t have closed the restaurant,” Sorrentino reflected.

Stay informed on Lehigh Valley food & drink

Get the latest food & drink news and updates from across the Valley.

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and consent to receive updates.

Despite the challenges, The Brass Rail is back in action, this time with a quick-service model and a streamlined menu.

brass rail employee stirs a pot of sauce at allentown farmers market
A Brass Rail team mate stirs a pot of sauce / Andrea Dudeck

The restaurant will focus on the beloved cheesesteaks and hot dogs that have been a staple in the local community for decades.

Additionally, breakfast sandwiches are available until 10:30 a.m.

The menu is a tribute to the classics that made The Brass Rail famous. It includes:

  • Famous steak sandwiches
  • Hot dogs
  • Breakfast sandwiches (served until 10:30 a.m.)
  • Sides and drinks
the brass rail restaurant menu allentown farmers market
Full Brass Rail menu on grand reopening day

Although long lines were expected for the grand opening, the atmosphere remained relatively calm, understandable for 9 a.m. on a Thursday.

Stay informed on Lehigh Valley food & drink

Get the latest food & drink news and updates from across the Valley.

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and consent to receive updates.

However, local excitement is building on social media, and increased foot traffic is anticipated during peak weekend hours.

Sorrentino and his team worked diligently in the newly built, spotless kitchen, serving loyal customers who patiently awaited the restaurant’s return.

While seating is limited in the new cozy space, visitors will appreciate nods to The Brass Rail’s rich history.

A sign from the original restaurant hangs behind the register, and photos capturing memorable moments from the past adorn the walls.

With this second life, The Brass Rail promises to be a valued addition to the Allentown Farmers Market, continuing its legacy in the Lehigh Valley towards 100 years of service.

Stay informed on Lehigh Valley food & drink

Get the latest food & drink news and updates from across the Valley.

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and consent to receive updates.

Also in the news

Stay informed on Lehigh Valley news

Get weekly Lehigh Valley news delivered straight to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and consent to receive updates.