State College, also known as Happy Valley, is a small town in Pennsylvania with many great places to eat. There’s a lot of diversity in State College because people come to Penn State from all over the world. Therefore, the food caters to this diverse population with equally diverse restaurants. There are many local restaurants in State College that are unique to the community and can’t be found anywhere else. Here are the five best local restaurants.
The Original Waffle Shop
Two Locations:
1610 W. College Ave., State College, PA 16801
1229 N. Atherton St., State College, PA 16803
Having breakfast at The Original Waffle Shop is a guarantee to a great morning. The Original Waffle Shop, with two locations in State College, serves up hearty breakfast and lunch from 5:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. They offer every craving-worthy breakfast dish imaginable, with a specialty in waffles. Waffle choices include Belgian, pecan, blueberry, strawberry, cinnamon-apple, banana nut, and chocolate chip! Our favorite is banana nut.
Otto’s Pub & Brewery
Location: 2235 N. Atherton St., State College, PA 16803
When you eat at Otto’s Pub & Brewery, you’re supporting dozens of local food suppliers in Pennsylvania. Otto’s is committed to fresh, local food and receives most of their products and ingredients from local Pennsylvania businesses, listed on their website. The freshness of the food at Otto’s is evident in the great taste. The menu includes classic American dishes and pub fare like burgers, pasta, sandwiches, and more. One of their house favorites is the fish tacos. The beer selection at Otto’s is also sourced from local Pennsylvania breweries. They have a large selection on tap and offer seasonal brews throughout the year.
Champs Sports Grill
Location: 1611 N. Atherton St., State College, PA 16803
Champs Sports Grill is the place to be on game day. There are lots of big TVs for you to watch the local Nittany Lions compete on while enjoying Champs’ delicious pub fare and 45 flavors of beer. Champs is one of the best sports bars in State College, PA and is heavily frequented by students. The industrial warehouse feel adds to the cool atmosphere of this game-day hangout. The restaurant is huge, featuring a front room, two bars, a pool room, and a second-floor seating area. There’s plenty of space for a large get-together with all your friends.
The Corner Room
Location: 100 W. College Ave., State College, PA 16801
The Corner Room is a piece of State College history. It’s been in business since 1962 and is located in the Hotel State College & Co, which has been around since 1855, directly across the street from Penn State. It’s the perfect meetup spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The menu consists of American diner food like burgers, pizza, and wings. They also have daily specials and a full bar.
The Corner Room at the intersection of College Avenue and Allen Street in downtown State College, Pennsylvania, taken from the gates of campus.
Herwig’s Austrian Bistro
Location: 132 W. College Ave., State College, PA 16801
Herwig’s Austrian Bistro has been voted State College’s Best Ethnic Restaurant for eight years in a row by State College Magazine. It truly deserves the title with the authentic, Austrian cuisine they bring to State College. The restaurant was opened by the Brandstatter family, originally from Igls, Austria. On their menu, you can find traditional Austrian dishes, fresh baked breads, and homemade desserts.