The Wicked Chef, a popular Allentown restaurant known for its creative sandwiches and comfort-food offerings, will close later this month, owner John Walter Moniak announced in a social media post.

In a message shared on the Wicked Chef Facebook page on Jan. 18, Moniak said the past year had been marked by both personal and professional challenges, including the death of his father, John Moniak Sr., in November.

“Don’t know how to really start this, so here it is! 2025 has been a series of highs and lows to say the least,” Moniak wrote. “My biggest low, the passing of my father, John Moniak Sr., in November. This life event has made me reevaluate life, restaurant and the future for my family.”

He went on to announce the restaurant’s closure, writing, “With that being said, I am closing the Wicked Chef.”

The restaurant’s last day of operation is expected to be Jan. 30, though Moniak noted it may close sooner depending on remaining inventory.

The Wicked Chef is located at 279 Cetronia Road in Allentown and has been known for its inventive menu featuring unique sandwiches, salads, and comfort-food favorites.

Popular items have included the Mojo Sandwich, Twisted Chicken, Brisket with Carolina Slaw, Polish Potato Pancakes, Smoked Pork Quesadillas, and The Mac Gowan.

The restaurant initially closed during the COVID-19 pandemic before reopening in July 2022, with Moniak and his wife, Georgiann, operating the business together.

In his message, Moniak expressed gratitude to the community, writing, “Thank you to all our customers for your support, friendship, and allowing me to feed you.”

A follow-up post on Jan. 19 announced that the Wicked Chef food trailer is also for sale, listed at $42,000.