Opening a sushi restaurant in a city known for pierogies, cheesesteaks, and pub fare takes either tremendous confidence or a touch of madness. Matt Reichard might have a bit of both, and the Lehigh Valley is better for it. The Other Fish in Bethlehem has quickly established itself as one of the most exciting restaurants in the region, offering sushi and Japanese inspired cuisine that challenges what people expect from a Valley dining experience.
Fresh Perspective, Fresh Fish
The Other Fish is not a conveyor belt sushi joint or a menu full of deep fried rolls drowning in spicy mayo. Matt's approach is rooted in quality ingredients, clean preparation, and creative combinations that respect Japanese culinary tradition while reflecting his own personality as a chef. The fish is fresh. The rice is properly seasoned. The presentations are beautiful without being overwrought. For sushi purists, it hits all the right notes. For people new to quality sushi, it is a revelation.
Matt sources his ingredients carefully, building relationships with suppliers who share his commitment to quality. In a region that is not exactly on the coast, sourcing top quality seafood requires extra effort, and Matt puts in that work because he knows his customers can taste the difference. When you sit at the bar at The Other Fish and watch the sushi being prepared, you are watching someone who genuinely loves what they do.
Why Bethlehem
Matt chose Bethlehem for a reason. The city has developed a dining scene that rivals communities many times its size, and the clientele has grown increasingly sophisticated in their expectations. He recognized that the Valley was ready for a sushi experience that went beyond the standard suburban options, and he was right. The response from the community has been overwhelming.
The restaurant itself reflects Matt's aesthetic: clean, modern, and welcoming. It is a space that feels contemporary without being cold, a place where you can have a relaxed dinner with friends or a special night out. The attention to detail extends from the food to the drink menu to the ambiance, creating a cohesive experience that feels intentional in every aspect.
Building Something New
What Matt has done at The Other Fish is significant for the Lehigh Valley's food scene beyond just adding another good restaurant to the mix. He has demonstrated that the Valley can support high end, concept driven dining that goes beyond the traditional comfort food categories. That raises the bar for everyone, and it attracts food lovers from across the region who might not have thought of Bethlehem as a culinary destination before.
Matt is also genuinely engaged with the local community, supporting other businesses and participating in the collaborative spirit that defines Bethlehem's restaurant scene. He understands that one great restaurant helps all the restaurants around it, and he operates with that abundance mindset.
For sushi lovers who have been driving to Philadelphia or New York for a proper omakase or a beautifully crafted nigiri, The Other Fish is the reason you can stay closer to home. Matt Reichard has brought something genuinely new to the Lehigh Valley, and every piece he serves makes the case that this region deserves world class dining.
