BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Social media reaction to TheMINT Gastropub in Bethlehem announcing that it has served its last pile of nachos, bone-in wings and big plate pastas has been swift and steady.
The eatery, which has been in business for 12 years, abruptly shuttered this week via an announcement on its Facebook site.
- Owners of TheMINT Gastropub in Bethlehem abruptly announced its closure Tuesday
- Social media reaction was swift and steady on the Friends of Bethlehem Facebook group
- TheMINT Facebook page, where the announcement was made, has already been deleted
"We are sad and sorry to say we’ve ended TheMINT Gastropub chapter," the message said. "We thank everyone for their ongoing support and are hopeful you will visit the new concept."
TheMINT closed after less than a year under new ownership, and will be replaced by Retro Burger, serving burgers, fries, beer and shakes.
“I hate everything about this,” wrote Fountain Hill resident Mary Thomas Casey on the Friends of Bethlehem Facebook page.
Meanwhile, a comment left by Michele Mahon said, “Burger places are a dime a dozen in the Lehigh Valley.”
“I enjoy their other restaurants, but I didn’t think this would be a good fit. I didn’t see it lasting in this format for long,” Casey added in another comment.
Not the only proposed change
In Spring 2022, Domenic Lombardo sold the restaurant to Juan Carlos and Cara Paredes, of Lower Saucon Township, who owns and operates five full-service spots on Main Street in Bethlehem’s historic district, including The Flying Egg and Tapas on Main.
Lombardo temporarily closed TheMINT around Memorial Day last year. During the time the restaurant was temporarily shuttered, the Paredeses updated its look and menu before reopening on Nov. 17.
It’s not the only change to the location at 1223 W Broad St.
"We need reasonably priced housing on the West Side.”Comment by Alicia Stillman
On the Bethlehem City Planning Commission agenda for Thursday is a sketch plan review of a proposal to remove the former drive-thru and construct a two-story elevated addition containing six two-bedroom, multi-family dwellings.
Also proposed is the addition of a 40-seat rooftop seasonal dining area above the one-story existing structure, as well as a rooftop tenant amenity space above the proposed addition.
‘Not sure it’s a good fit for this area’
“I really loved The Mint under the old ownership,” wrote Alicia Stillman. “Went there weekly and made sure to visit them for take-away during lockdown.
“Went to it under the new ownership once or twice, but it just wasn't as good. Not interested in a burger place and if they put in apartments better not hear about them being luxury.
"We need reasonably priced housing on the West Side.”
Many comments opposed the idea of apartments on the parcel.
“Rooftop dining in a neighborhood? Noise level? Parking? Not sure it’s a good fit for this area."Bethlehem resident Dyanne Holt
A comment from Heather Sheldon said, “Oof. Well, I hope they add parking for the apartments, otherwise parking for the surrounding houses is going to get ugly.”
“Rooftop dining in a neighborhood? Noise level? Parking? Not sure it’s a good fit for this area,” wrote Bethlehem resident Dyanne Holt.
“Two bedroom family apartments in a bar parking lot with no parking. Sounds luxury!” said Patricia Green.
TheMINT Facebook page had similar comments on its announcement, including concerns about gift cards — which owners said will be honored at the new venture — but the page appeared to be deleted on Wednesday morning.
