Joe's Tavern

Joe's Tavern Bethlehem Oldest Tavern. Great food, great drinks, authentic in every way! Clair, PA flooded from the devastation of Hurricane Hazel.
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How It All Began: The Story of Joe's Tavern

Founded by Joe Salak, a coal miner whose life took an unexpected turn after the coal mines in St. Joe’s Tavern has become a beloved landmark in Bethlehem. Joe, like many working-class men of his time, was determined to provide for his family after losing his job. In search of new opportunities, he made his way to Bethlehem to find work with the Bethlehe

m Steel Corp. However, luck wasn’t on his side—Bethlehem Steel was on strike. Not one to back down from hard work but never one to cross a picket line, Joe found himself at a crossroads. But this was a man who wasn’t easily defeated. After a brief stint as the steward of the Ukrainian Club—a popular but troubled social hall for the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Bethlehem’s Heights—Joe decided to take a leap of faith. In 1960, he purchased a modest bar on Broad Street. The place became known for its welcoming atmosphere, a place where working-class locals could gather after a hard day’s work. A nickel a glass for tap beer? Hard to imagine in today’s world, but back then, a dollar went a long way! Joe’s wife, Helen, worked tirelessly in the kitchen, crafting homemade meals that became a staple of the tavern’s charm. Their son, Russ, fresh from his service in the Air Force, joined his father in the family business. Over time, Russ became the face of the tavern, operating the business for 44 straight years, with the same hardworking spirit as his father before him. Sadly, Russ passed away in March 2020, but his legacy, along with that of Joe, lives on. Today, Joe’s Tavern remains a family-owned and operated business, serving the same community that Joe had so much faith in. Celebrating its 65th year in 2025, the tavern stands as a testament to hard work, perseverance, and a family’s dedication to their roots. From its humble beginnings to a local institution, Joe’s Tavern continues to serve as a place where stories are shared, friendships are made, and the spirit of Joe and his son Russ Salak, lives on.

Beautiful day to soak up the sun and grab a cold one!
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Beautiful day to soak up the sun and grab a cold one!

06/01/2026
Bethlehem can be an amazing place. FREE Yoga on the grass last Sunday of every month. Libations on the parklet thereaf...
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Bethlehem can be an amazing place. FREE Yoga on the grass last Sunday of every month. Libations on the parklet thereafter!

Karaoke at 9 with a backdrop of the Yankees at 9:30. TGIF baby!
05/29/2026

Karaoke at 9 with a backdrop of the Yankees at 9:30. TGIF baby!

Chicken, legumes, spinach. A protein, protein, protein- brothy soup!.*..
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Chicken, legumes, spinach. A protein, protein, protein- brothy soup!.*..

DO NOT let this crummy weather ruin your vibe!It's a great time to day drink, play some FREE music (3-6), and grab some ...
05/24/2026

DO NOT let this crummy weather ruin your vibe!
It's a great time to day drink, play some FREE music (3-6), and grab some of the best Tavern food in town.
Come on, life is what you make it!
Make it a Sunday Funday!.*..

Downtown District = Social District.Interesting.
05/24/2026

Downtown District = Social District.
Interesting.

Laconia is now the first New Hampshire city to open its sidewalk and streets to public drinking through a 'social district.' That means unfinished drinks can be taken to go from bars and restaurants there. LINK IN COMMENTS ⬇️

What to do on a rainy holiday weekend? Have a few adult beverages and indulge with some great food, of course!.*.. ...
05/23/2026

What to do on a rainy holiday weekend?
Have a few adult beverages and indulge with some great food, of course!.*..

Address

12 W. Broad Street
Bethlehem, PA
18018

Opening Hours

Monday 3pm - 2am
Tuesday 3pm - 2am
Wednesday 3pm - 2am
Thursday 11:30am - 2am
Friday 11:30am - 2am
Saturday 11:30am - 2am
Sunday 11:30am - 2am

Telephone

+16108683200

Website

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