The Wooden Match

The Wooden Match is a bar and grill in Bethlehem, PA, serving elevated pub fare, craft brews, and premium cigars in a historic train station setting. Located at 61 W Lehigh St, the establishment offers a vibrant mix of comfort food with meat-centric specialties, a curated selection of 13 rotating craft beers on tap and over 40 bottled varieties, and expertly crafted cocktails. Guests can enjoy live music on the Matchplatz stage, with weekly performances by regional and national acts, and take advantage of private event spaces including a second-floor cigar lounge and the Artisan Wine & Cheese Cellars. The venue is known for hosting private parties, corporate events, and holiday gatherings, and has been recognized as the Favorite Live Music Restaurant by Lehigh Valley Style Magazine for three consecutive years.

Housed in the historic Bethlehem Station, originally built in 1873, The Wooden Match occupies a building that served as a vital transportation hub for nearly a century. It welcomed travelers including presidents Teddy Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman before passenger service ended in the 1960s. The structure, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, retains original brickwork and train tracks, preserving its legacy as a cornerstone of downtown Bethlehem. The space was repurposed into a restaurant in 2011, continuing its role as a community destination with a modern twist on classic hospitality.

The Wooden Match stands out for its deep connection to local history, its consistent programming of live music, and its commitment to quality in food, drink, and atmosphere. Its reputation for excellence is reflected in its recognition by regional publications and its strong presence in the Lehigh Valley’s entertainment scene. With a dedicated team of executive chefs and a curated menu that blends comfort with innovation, the bar and grill remains a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.

Nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown Bethlehem, The Wooden Match brings together the charm of the past with the energy of the present, making it a distinctive and enduring part of the city’s cultural landscape.