Zagat guides are used world over by travelers to find the best in dining and overnight accommodations. Originally distributed in a printed edition, the guide has been around for over 30 years and has adapted with the times to mobile applications.

In late December, Zagat published the article "10 Reasons to Drive to the Poconos This Winter," written by Caroline Russock.Russock describes the Pocono Mountains in winter as a perfect getaway. Of the 10 eateries on her list, two are found right here in Jim Thorpe.Moya is located at 24 Race St. Russock says that Ecuadorean chef Heriberto Yunda has brought an "international flair" to his menu.Yunda is flattered by the attention from Zagat since he does not advertise for his 52-seat restaurant."I believe in word of mouth," Yunda said. "That is the best way to know you are doing things right."Yunda must be correct, because year-round the best way to get a table on the weekend is by making your reservations in advance.Yunda has cooked in Ecuador, Istanbul, Europe and New York City. He likes to blend Spanish and Asian flavors."I don't like to follow the rules," Yunda said. "I cannot pick a favorite dish on the menu, because they are like my children and you cannot have a favorite child."Moya's hours change with the season, so check out their website at

www.jimthorpemoya.com.A little further into town on Broadway, right across from the Mauch Chunk Opera House, is Wheel. Wheel may seem like a strange name for a restaurant, but as Russock writes, "this quirky place is all about the experience."The décor is eclectic, the menu comes inside an old record album and chef owner Tom Gorman is charming and effusive with so much love for what he has created in Jim Thorpe it's contagious.Gorman was unaware of the mention in Zagat, but was excited."I have been in the kitchen since I was a kid in New York. I worked in Little Italy and then I spent 10 years at The Breakers in Palm Beach," Gorman said. "I never had any formal training."Gorman is a songwriter and singer as well and feels that good food can be as satisfying to the soul as music.Wheel's menu is clearly influenced by Gorman's time in New York City and Palm Beach. The selection ranges from Italianesque items like Gorman's prime rib lasagna to Palm Beach-inspired seafood dishes.Wheel seats 40 and is open year-round. The hours do change with the season, as does the availability of some of the items on the menu."I do my own shopping and only use what's fresh and available," Gorman said. "Sometimes that means I have to leave some things off the menu."Check out Wheel's website for additional information at

www.wheeljimthorpe.com.The Zagat website states, "Zagat's editorial team curates the best restaurants and nightspots in 18 cities worldwide and serves them up to you in a fun and accessible way so you can enjoy the best the city has to offer."It is great to know that once in a while the editors at Zagat go outside the 18 cities and sample what small town America has to offer.It is even better to know that there are a few of these places right in our own backyard.