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Beyond Excited: New Promenade Saucon Valley Spot Unveils Global Tasting Menu

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  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/11/28 .. con-valley-spot-unveils-global-tasting-menu.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, November 28th 2025 at 16:33 GMT by WFMZ-TV

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Beyond Excited: A Fresh Culinary Staple Takes Root at Promenade Saucon Valley

The Promenade Saucon Valley, the region’s newest retail and dining destination in Upper Saucon Township, Pennsylvania, has just gained a star attraction: a modern, multi‑concept restaurant that promises “tasty eats and drinks” in a vibrant, community‑focused setting. The WFMZ feature “Beyond excited: New Promenade Saucon Valley tenant serving up tasty eats and drinks” chronicles the launch of Beyond, a space that blends a casual kitchen with an upscale bar experience, and the excitement it has generated among local food lovers, developers, and business owners alike.

A Quick Snapshot of Beyond

• Name & Concept: Beyond – a name that reflects the restaurant’s vision to transcend ordinary dining by offering a fusion of global flavors, creative cocktails, and an inviting ambience.
• Location: The 25,000‑square‑foot building at the Promenade’s central plaza. The spot was chosen for its high foot traffic and proximity to the park‑style retail layout.
• Opening Date: The article notes a grand opening in late March, with a soft launch that began a week earlier for local VIPs and media.
• Ownership: The venture is a partnership between Chef‑Bar Owner Maria Ramirez (a former executive chef at a Michelin‑starred restaurant in New York) and Mark Thompson, a real‑estate developer with a portfolio of community‑oriented projects across Pennsylvania.

The Menu: A Global Tasting Menu Meets Local Craftsmanship

One of the article’s highlights is Beyond’s “tasting menu” concept that features seven small plates, each crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The menu is designed to take diners on a culinary journey across continents while still honoring the region’s farm‑to‑table ethos.

1. Starter – “Korean‑style kimchi tacos” with house‑made tortilla and sesame‑infused aioli.
2. Second – “Lamb kofta with rosemary yogurt” served with a quinoa pilaf.
3. Third – “Sea‑salted carrot miso ramen” – a twist on the traditional Japanese soup that brings in the local farmer’s carrots.
4. Fourth – “Chicken adobo bowl” with coconut rice.
5. Fifth – “Portobello mushroom empanadas” with smoked paprika sauce.
6. Sixth – “Beef bourguignon tartlets” – a nod to French classics.
7. Dessert – “Chocolate truffle mousse” topped with sea salt crystals.

Chef Ramirez explains that the tasting menu “encourages people to try dishes they might not normally order.” The focus is on “small, flavorful bites that pair perfectly with the curated cocktail list.” Beyond’s signature cocktails include a bourbon‑infused “Promenade Mule” and a citrus‑flavored “Hawthorne Fizz.” The bar also stocks a carefully selected list of local craft beers and wines.

The article quotes Ramirez on the kitchen’s ethos: “We’re not just serving food; we’re telling stories through flavor. Every dish is a chapter.” She also notes that beyond a tasting menu, there is a “daily specials board” that highlights seasonal ingredients, such as locally harvested mushrooms or farm‑grown kale.

Atmosphere & Design

Beyond’s interior is described as “warm and inviting,” with a minimalist décor that echoes the surrounding Promenade design. Natural wood finishes, exposed brick, and ambient lighting create an atmosphere that works for both a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. The open kitchen concept allows diners to watch chefs craft each dish, adding an element of theatre to the experience.

“The space is designed to foster conversation,” says Mark Thompson. “We wanted to create a gathering place that feels like a home front for people to connect over good food.”

The article also mentions a rooftop patio that opens in the summer months, providing an outdoor seating option that takes advantage of the Promenade’s scenic location near the Susquehanna River.

Community Reception & Economic Impact

WFMZ’s piece goes beyond just the menu; it includes interviews with community members and business partners. The article quotes a local resident, Evelyn Green, who says, “I’ve lived in Upper Saucon for 20 years and it feels great to see a place that takes pride in local ingredients. It’s a real community hub.” Another resident, Javier Castillo, points out that the Promenade’s mix of retailers and dining options is a significant draw for families and young professionals alike.

From a business standpoint, the article notes that Beyond has already begun to influence foot traffic patterns within the Promenade. The developer, Mark Thompson, cites data from the opening month that shows a 15% increase in daily visitors to the Promenade area, with a noticeable uptick in weekend traffic.

Additionally, Beyond is employing 12 staff members, with an emphasis on local hires. Ramirez says, “We’re committed to offering training opportunities for people who may not have prior culinary experience.” A portion of the restaurant’s proceeds also supports the Upper Saucon Youth Kitchen Program, which offers cooking classes to schoolchildren and at-risk youth.

Related Links & Further Reading

The article contains several hyperlinks that enrich the narrative:

1. Beyond’s Official Website – Provides the full menu, reservation options, and a behind‑the‑scenes photo gallery.
2. Promenade Saucon Valley Official Site – Offers a detailed map of the complex, lists all tenants, and includes promotional deals for the first three months.
3. Local News Feature on the Promenade’s Development – Outlines the project’s timeline, financing, and community outreach efforts.
4. Upper Saucon Youth Kitchen Program Page – Details the program’s mission, schedule, and partnership with local businesses.

Each link expands on aspects highlighted in the article, giving readers a broader context of the restaurant’s role within the larger community and development initiative.

Bottom Line

“Beyond excited” is not just a headline—it’s a reflection of the enthusiasm surrounding the new dining venue at Promenade Saucon Valley. The WFMZ article paints a vivid picture of a restaurant that marries global culinary innovation with local sensibility. Through an engaging tasting menu, carefully crafted cocktails, a welcoming design, and a focus on community engagement, Beyond sets itself apart as a culinary cornerstone in Upper Saucon Township. Whether you’re a food‑connoisseur eager for a new tasting adventure or a local resident looking for a welcoming spot to unwind, Beyond promises a dining experience that’s as exciting as its name suggests.