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Red Robin Bobs East: Red Robin International, the restaurant chain based in Irvine, plans to open its first eatery in the East. A Red Robin Burger & Spirits Emporium will open next year in South Whitehall Township, near Allentown, Pa.

The franchised restaurant has expanded recently into several states, among them Georgia, New Mexico, Nebraska, North Carolina and Utah.

“Allentown is the perfect setting for the Red Robin concept,” said Madison Jobe, the company’s vice president for franchise development. “This region needs restaurants that cater to entire families while at the same time offer the kinds of food, beverages and excitement that are popular with the younger crowds.”