SouthSide Arts District Presents: Lara Bly Designs and Mister Lee’s Noodles

A jeweled champagne-colored fabric is draped and pinned taut to the shoulders, waist, and bust of a mannequin at

Lara Bly Designs fashion studio in downtown Bethlehem. Hours of sewing and meticulous labor will go into this piece before it is transformed into a show-stopping gown, but once it is finished it will make its debut on the runway at Lara’s annual Fall Fashion Show. All original patterns and designs are cut, assembled, and sewn on-site by Lara and her small team of professional seamstresses. Originally inspired to become a designer by her visits to Lehigh Valley’s once-beloved Hess’s Department Store, Lara traveled to London to receive formal education and training as a fashion designer.

Now as a small business owner, Lara Bly’s boutique creates ready-to-wear original designs for all body types and curates a selection of chic brands with the goal of making all women feel pretty, comfortable, and fashionable. Outfits and accessories for every occasion may be found, from understated cottons and elegant satins to glittering sequins, crystals, and flamboyant ostrich feathers.

Lara’s customers and VIPs, known fondly around Lehigh Valley as “Bly Girls,” can always expect a warm welcome and a glass of white wine when they drop into one of Lara’s shop parties. It’s a safe place to sip, shop, and socialize all at once and find unique fashions and friendships that will never go out of style.

Master mixologist Stephen Pekarik is behind the bar at

Mister Lee’s Noodles in South Bethlehem. He has to move quickly and manage restaurant staff while ensuring precise pours for all the specialty cocktails served. Under Stephen’s leadership as beverage manager, the farm-to-table-style noodle bar has won the award for “best cocktail” two years in a row at the district’s annual summer cocktail event. The team hopes to capture a third win in the summer of 2025.

A glance at the mixed drink list instantly reveals the thoughtful construction behind each recipe. Ever-changing, seasonally available ingredients are prominently incorporated and then married to a curated selection of liquors, juices, and fresh creations such as sorbets. Refreshing and well-balanced are the words to best describe the flavors enhanced by the smells of searing beef and vegetables from the restaurant’s open kitchen.

Those looking for a simple yet refined atmosphere have much to enjoy from this restaurant’s efforts and should consider a reservation at Mister Lee’s for an evening date night or a Sunday brunch outing.