You Don't Have to go to Mexico for an 'On the Border' Experience

As soon as you walk into On the Border, you’re greeted with an atmosphere so colorful, you won’t know where to look first. 

Round wooden beams crisscross the high ceiling, lights are strung corner to corner and every wall you look at is either stone, brick, turquoise, or gold.  Potted plants line the half-walls and dozens of Mexican-inspired ceramic plates, clay pottery, and copper decorations splatter the dining room.  And if that’s not enough, there’s a giant “Fajita Grill” archway where you can watch several cooks play with fire.

On the Border’s menu is influenced by traditional Mexican foods like black beans, carne asada (grilled beef), green chiles, and salsa.  It features an array of Tacos (like the Grilled Mahi Mahi), Enchiladas, Fajitas, Salads (like the Citrus Chipotle Chicken) and Burritos (like the Three-Sauce Fajita).  And there’s plenty of ways to mix-and-match, with the “Create Your Own Combo” section.  It also features “Fresh Grill” entrées like Chicken Salsa Fresca and Tomatillo Chicken.

One thing you have to try (besides all of the Tequila drinks) is the Guacamole Live, served with a basket of crispy tortilla chips.  They call it “Live” because when you order it, your server brings four avocado halves and a supply of tomatoes, jalapenos, cilantro, red onion, and lime juice to make your guacamole fresh to order right at your table!

But if you’re not a guacamole fan, have no fear.  You’ll still get a nice supply of tortilla chips and house-made salsa to munch on.

My meal: A Watermelon Margarita (their summer flavor), Guacamole Live, and the Jalapeno-BBQ Salmon.  The margarita was a little too sugary, but the food was fantastic.  The guacamole was super fresh and my salmon was cooked perfectly.  Even though the décor is a little hard on the eyes, I still give it a 5/5.

Details:  909 Airport Center Drive, Allentown

Contact:  484-240-3826

Hours:  11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily (open til 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday)

Price range:  Moderate. The the average entrée runs about $10.