Union & Finch Brings Broad Choices and a Lively Vibe

The public verdict

Union & Finch holds a 4.5 Google rating from 1,966 reviews, a strong result for a moderately priced Allentown restaurant with a menu that stretches across several cuisines. The supplied public feedback points to a place diners often choose for its atmosphere, approachable food, drinks and service rather than for one narrowly defined cooking style.

That range can be either the attraction or the sticking point. One reviewer appreciated the selection and specifically recommended the Pittsburgh steak salad, while another found the mix of Asian, Canadian, Tex-Mex and Cuban influences incohesive. Groups with different cravings may see flexibility where more cuisine-focused diners see a lack of identity.

Food and drink

Several named dishes receive favorable mentions. The Cuban sandwich was described as good, while the breakfast poutine and bananas Foster waffle drew particularly enthusiastic reactions from a brunch visit. A Pittsburgh steak salad also stood out, with its lemon-and-vinegar dressing singled out as a distinctive feature. Burgers were the reason behind one recommendation, although the review did not identify a particular burger.

Not every plate landed as well. Asian wings were criticized for being overly sugary, to the point that the chicken flavor was lost. Ahi tacos topped with coleslaw, seaweed salad and Kewpie were judged merely okay, though the lightly grilled flour tortilla was appreciated. Another diner cautioned that a medium-rare order arrived closer to rare. Taken together, the reviews suggest that familiar sandwiches, salads and brunch dishes may be safer bets than some of the more heavily composed cross-cultural options.

Drinks appear to be a dependable part of the experience. One Saturday guest found the drinks consistently good, and another noted a solid selection spanning local beers, familiar taps and mixed drinks.

Service and setting

Service is one of the clearest strengths in this review sample. Staff members are repeatedly described as friendly, welcoming and attentive. Even diners who had reservations about the food or policies highlighted their server as the best part of the visit. That pattern matters at a busy, multi-space restaurant.

The setting also earns praise. Reviewers describe a cool atmosphere, with the bar, dining room and lower outdoor area each offering a different feel. It can work for a bar seat, a full dinner or a meal away from downtown event crowds. A busy Saturday still produced a positive experience across drinks, dinner and staff interaction.

What to know before going

Reservations may not eliminate a wait. One party reported waiting for a specific table despite seeing other tables open, which created some confusion. Small extras can also cost more: a diner objected to being charged for a side of mayonnaise with a sandwich.

Union & Finch looks best suited to diners who value choice, drinks and atmosphere over a tightly focused menu. The rating and volume of reviews support its broad appeal, while the criticism suggests ordering selectively and clarifying preferred meat temperature when it matters.