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Where To Eat & Drink in State College, Pennsylvania: 17 Best Restaurants, Places To Eat & Drink in Happy Valley

Looking for where to eat & drink in State College, Pennsylvania?

Nestled in the center of Pennsylvania, Happy Valley offers an amazing mix of small city charm combined with beautiful rural scenery.

Happy Valley is most known for State College, being home to Penn State University and the Nittany Lion pride.

Nittany Lion Shrine at Penn State in State College, PA

But Happy Valley is much more than that!

It’s actually all of Centre County including the historic towns of Bellefonte, Boalsburg and Philipsburg.

The region is typically referred to as Happy Valley, Nittany Valley, Centre County and State College interchangeably.

Did you know? Centre County, Pennsylvania was named “Happy Valley” because the region was generally unaffected by the Great Depression in the 1930s.

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua at Mount Nittany Mike Lynch Overlook in Happy Valley, PA
Mike Lynch Overlook at Mount Nittany has views of Penn State and State College

With Happy Valley being such a vast region, it can be hard to determine where to eat & drink..

I did a 5 day trip in Happy Valley (4 full days), where I explored and ate my way for some of the best restaurants and places to eat & drink in State College.

Suffice to say, I had a Happy Belly in Happy Valley!

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua at Gigi's Southern Table at Happy Valley, PA

In this food guide, we’re covering some of the best restaurants and places to eat & drink in State College and around Happy Valley that I tried.

Be sure to SAVE/PIN/BOOKMARK this State College Food Guide because we will be updating this list as we try more places!


Where To Eat & Drink in State College - Happy Valley, PA Food Guide on TravellingFoodie.net

How to get to Happy Valley, Pennsylvania

Happy Valley is a year-round destination, making it a great destination for your vacation whether you’re doing a day trip, a weekend getaway or a Pennsylvania road trip.

Here are some driving times to State College, PA from US destinations to give a better idea:

  • From Pittsburgh, PA: 2.5 hours
  • From Philadelphia, PA: 3.5 hours
  • From New York, NY: 4 hours
  • From Richmond, VA: 5.5 hours
  • From Cincinnati, OH: 7 hours

And since I’m from Canada, here are driving times from Canadian destinations to State College:

If you don’t want to drive, State College also has an airport, University Park Airport, which has non-stop flights to major hubs including Detroit, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Newark International.

Coming from Toronto, I didn’t want to drive all the way so I decided to go by plane to State College with a connection in Philadelphia.

My flight departed 7:30am in Toronto and arrived 12:30pm in State College.

Welcome to Happy Valley!

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua selfie with Nittany Lion shrine at Penn State in State College, PA

Happy Valley Food and Drink Scene

As a travelling foodie, I was really impressed with Happy Valley’s culinary scene!

Surrounded by hundreds of acres of farmlands, Happy Valley has deep agricultural roots which produces sustainable and quality ingredients.

And, you know what that means: farm-to-table dining and culinary experiences!

Mount Nittany Overlook at The Overlook Grill in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania

This is why Happy Valley not only has a strong dynamic food scene from farm-to-fork restaurants to farm-fresh ice cream but also a thriving craft beverage scene of breweries, distilleries, wineries and craft cocktail bars, including the Central PA Tasting Trail!

Centre County’s culinary scene is all about local sourcing for the best and freshest ingredients and connecting people with where their food and drinks comes from.

And it really shines through!

Craft Cocktails at Creekside at the Gamble Mill in Bellefonte, PA

Most, if not all, of the State College restaurants and food purveyors I visited support and work with the small family farms, growers and producers in the region for their ingredients.

And they usually have a changing or seasonal menu to reflect ingredients that are in season.

Vegetables at RE Farm Cafe in State College, PA

For instance, during my visit in August, peach was in season and widely used on the menu including peach sauce, peach ice cream, even peach whiskey.

That’s what makes Happy Valley such a great culinary destination!

Harvest Vegetables at RE Farm Cafe in Happy Valley, PA

Where To Eat and Drink in State College and Happy Valley, PA

Here is the comprehensive list of where to eat and drink in Happy Valley including some of the best State College restaurants, food & drinks!

I’ve grouped them into sections for easier navigation: Restaurants, Food & Drinks, Festival, B&B.

Happy eating and drinking in Happy Valley!

Best Restaurants in State College & Happy Valley

Here are 9 of the best restaurants in State College and Happy Valley, in alphabetical order.

Allen Street Grill

Looking for where to eat dinner in State College?

Located in downtown on the 2nd floor of the historic Hotel State College, Allen Street Grill is one of the best restaurants in State College to dine surrounded by Penn State tradition.

Travelling Foodie Tip: They have beautiful porch seating which overlooks Penn State!

Allen Street Grill sign at Hotel State College in Happy Valley, PA

The inside is a relaxed setting in a historic space with a modern touch.

I love their take on modern American cooking.

The play on flavours on their dishes were spot on!

The Ahi Tuna Crudo had pine nuts for crunch, chili oil for a slight spicy kick, cherry tomatoes for acidity and cucumber to bring out the freshness.

Ahi Tuna Crudo at Allen Street Grill in State College, PA
Ahi Tuna Crudo ($13) – cherry tomatoes, cucumber, pine nuts, chili oil, tonnato sauce

The same goes for the perfectly cooked ribeye from Steak au Poivre when combined with the shishito peppers, salt & vinegar fried potato balls, and malt sauce.

Steak au Poivre at Allen Street Grill in Happy Valley, PA
16oz Ribeye Steak au Poivre ($52)

For whiskey or bourbon lovers, you must try their single barrel side-by-side tasting of Buffalo Trace Bourbon.

Of course, when I saw they had their own house single barrel, I knew I wanted to try this tasting, which is sided with a standard bottling.

I liked their house single barrel more, and you can only try it at Allen Street Grill!

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua enjoying bourbon tasting at Allen Street Grill

Website / Address: 100 W College Ave, State College, Pennsylvania 16801

Creekside at the Gamble Mill

As a travelling foodie, I love trying different cuisines.

Located in a historic grist mill in Bellefonte, Creekside at the Gamble Mill is one of the best restaurants in Happy Valley for global flavours!

Bar at Creekside at the Gamble Mill in Bellefonte, PA

Owner and Chef Michael Marx works with a lot of farms to bring an ever changing locally sourced menu depending on what the farmers have in season.

His global menu draws inspiration from his Southern California background, studies in New Orleans, culinary training in Paris and travels around the world.

This means you’ll find dishes you may not typically find in Happy Valley like Peking Duck.

Food at Creekside at the Gamble Mill in Bellefonte, PA
On the table:
– Stuffed Portobello ($23) – Roasted large portobellos stuffed with local goat cheese, spinach, roasted garlic, panko bread crumbs, scallion and white wine poached tomato. Drizzled with E.V.O.O. & balsamic reduction, served with a side of market veg
– “A Peach of a Duck” ($33) – Grilled and sliced duck breast with a roasted OHF Orchard peach sauce, sunflower seed wild rice and Oliver’s Path green beans
– Mango BBQ Shrimp ($29) – Grilled shrimp skewers, brushed with mango-BBQ sauce. Served on a bed of toasted coconut rice, sauteed market veg

“A Peach of a Duck” is a must-try dish at Creekside at the Gamble Mill!

First, duck is not commonly found in Happy Valley restaurants, and this was grilled to perfection.

Secondly, the OHF Orchards peach sauce is absolutely delicious: not overly sweet and has a mix of savoury, and it uses peaches in season!

Grilled Duck at Creekside at the Gamble Mill in Bellefonte, PA
A Peach of a Duck” ($33)

If you’re looking for a vegetarian dish, you’ll want the Stuffed Portobello.

Two roasted large portobellos together, stuffed with local goat cheese, spinach, roasted garlic, panko bread crumbs, scallion and white wine poached tomato.

Portabello Mushrooms at Creekside at the Gamble Mill in Bellefonte, PA
Stuffed Portobello ($23)

Website / Address: 160 Dunlop St, Bellefonte, Pennsylvania 16823

Gigi’s Southern Table

Where to eat delicious food in an outdoor seating in State College?

Gigi’s Southern Table is one of the best State College restaurants for farm-to-table Southern food using farm fresh harvests and organic free-range meats.

The restaurant is a wonderful gathering place with a cozy dining room, a casual lounge and a beautiful patio dining space.

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua eating at Gigi's Southern Table at State College, PA

Expect traditional Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, crab cakes, gumbo and biscuits.

I highly recommend Gigi’s Signature Shrimp and Grits!

I love their use of blackened shrimps and creamy tasso ham gravy, which elevated the flavours on this dish.

Shrimp and Grits at Gigi's Southern Table at State College, PA
Gigi’s Signature Shrimp and Grits ($24)

The Charleston Twin Crab Cakes are two big lumps of sweet crab meat with no filler.

Crab Cakes at Gigi's Southern Table at Happy Valley, PA
Charleston Twin Crab Cakes ($32)

Gigi’s Southern Table has a strong cocktail program and is known for their well-dressed Bloody Mary.

Bloody Mary at Gigi's Southern Table at State College, PA
Bacon & Eggs Bloody Mary – served with two chipotle deviled eggs and cajun candied bacon

I highly recommend trying the Smoked Spicy Paloma!

Smoked Spicy Paloma at Gigi's Southern Table at Happy Valley, PA

Website / Address: 2080 Cato Ave, State College, Pennsylvania 16801

Grace Restaurant at Carnegie House

Looking for where to eat in State College for a special occasion or romantic dinner?

Grace Restaurant at Carnegie House is one of the best fine dining restaurants in State College.

In fact, they’ve won Best Fine Dining and Most Romantic Dining by State College Magazine for more than 10 consecutive years!

Pork Belly on Rice at Grace Restaurant at Carnegie House in State College, PA
Crispy Pork Belly ($16) – sweet soy glaze, sushi rice, daikon “kim chi”, sesame

At Grace Restaurant, award-winning Executive Chef Paul Kendeffy offers a seasonal menu specializing in French-inspired cuisine.

If you love seafood, you’ll love the Prawn & Crispy Soft Shell Crab with Grace Garden herb butter sauce.

There’s a massive piece of sweet prawn along with a crispy succulent whole soft shell crab.

Prawn and Crab at Grace Restaurant at Carnegie House in State College, PA
Prawns & Crispy Soft Shell Crab ($45)

You must-try their unique dessert aptly named, Is it an Apple?

Dessert at Grace Restaurant at Carnegie House in Happy Valley, PA
Is it an Apple? ($13)

This special dessert looks like a green apple.

But it’s not!

It’s made of a white chocolate shell, vanilla cheesecake, spiced apple butter at the core, and cinnamon crumble base.

Cheesecake at Grace Restaurant at Carnegie House in State College, PA

They also have an extensive wine list with wines from around the world and a curated list of specialty cocktails and beer selection.

I highly recommend the Pear Martini, another great use of Happy Valley’s fresh pears.

It’s highly refreshing with a good balance of sweet and citrus.

According to our server, the pear martini is so popular that there was one night where all the tables had a pear martini order.

Website / Address: 100 Cricklewood Dr, State College, Pennsylvania 16803

Pine Grove Hall

Ask locals where to eat great food with live music and you’ll hear them say Pine Grove Hall.

Pine Grove Hall is one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Happy Valley with a night of live music at least once a week.

Their seasonal scratch menu is hyper local with a goal of sourcing 90% of their ingredients from within 50 miles.

You’ll love the vibes here which is both cozy and intimate!

Bar at Pine Grove Hall in Pine Grove Mills, PA

Their Casual Fare Menu changes every few months, and we were lucky that night we dined since they had just released their new Cuban-themed menu made by their Cuban Sous Chef Brittany Pereda.

We practically tried the entire menu, ordering 7 of the 9 dishes, and shared everything.

Cuban cuisine is not easy to find in Happy Valley so I highly recommend trying the menu for a taste of Cuba!

Cuban Food at Pine Grove Hall in Happy Valley, PA
On the table:
– Pork Croquetas ($10)
– Stuffed Plantains ($14)
– Cuba Frita ($16)
– Cuban Sandwich ($19)
– Yuca ($13)

One of my favourites was the Stuffed Plantain (tostones rellenos) which are fried green plantain cups stuffed with braised beef and ropa vieja sauce.

For sandwiches, you should try the Cuba Frita, which is one of the burger variety in Cuban street food and not as commonly found in North America.

Cuba Frita at Pine Grove Hall in Happy Valley, PA
Cuba Frita ($16) – smashburger-style sandwich with house-made chorizo patty, caramelized onion, matchstick potatoes and house-made ketchup on a Gemelli’s soft baked bun

The Cuban sandwich is pretty good too but it’s not really a Cuban dish. It’s invented in Tampa, FL.

Be sure to make room for the Tres Leches Cake (Three Milk Cake), a sweet light cake which makes use of 3 kinds of milk: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.

Tres Leches Cake at Pine Grove Hall in Happy Valley, PA
Tres Leches ($10) – house-made sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk and topped with whipped Vale Wood Farms cream, Bada Bing cherries and cherry syrup.

They have a strong cocktail program that has a mix of original cocktails and others adapted from cocktail bars in the US.

If you love whiskey or pisco sour, I highly recommend the Pine Grove Sour No. 2: Apricot, which is a seasonal house recipe.

Cocktail at Pine Grove Hall in Happy Valley, PA
Pine Grove Sour No. 2: Apricot ($16) – inspired by Camus’ The Stranger, this is their seasonal house recipe: VSOP brandy, Opihr “spice route” gin, apricot nectar, vermouth and fresh lemon sour. Shaken with egg white, turmeric and cardamom bitters. Finished with a splash of soda.

It was an acoustic evening with Granma Ben at Pine Grove Hall when I went.

The sound system and acoustics at Pine Grove Hall is top notch!

Grandma Ben at Pine Grove Hall in Happy Valley, PA

Website / Address: 101 E Pine Grove Rd, Pine Grove Mills, Pennsylvania 16868

RE Farm Cafe

Looking for a unique farm-to-fork experience in State College?

RE Farm Cafe at Windswept Farm is THE Happy Valley restaurant for a true farm-to-table dining experience!

The 57-acre Windswept Farm is not just a sustainable farm.

It’s a regenerative farm and project!

Farmland at RE Farm Cafe in State College, PA

They follow organic farming principles and invest in the soil by using organic soil amendments, cover crops and carbon sequestration.

They even have a mobile chicken coop to do integrated livestock rotations for fertility.

Mobile Chicken Coop at RE Farm Cafe in State College, PA

At RE Farm Cafe, you can enjoy delicious food and see where the food is grown while admiring panoramic views of the farmland at the same time.

They also offer cooking classes and also have Picnic + Live Music events.

I had the opportunity to tour the farm with Owner Monica and Lead Composer Brenda Palmer and harvest the produce for our Chef’s Table experience.

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua and Chef Brenda Palmer harvesting at RE Farm Cafe in State College, PA

I did the three-course Chef’s Table where you get to sit at the exclusive Composer’s Table and watch the Composers (chefs) make each course at the central open kitchen.

It was a pleasure watching Lead Composer Brenda Palmer make our meal at the open kitchen.

Chef Brenda Palmer slicing at RE Farm Cafe in State College, PA

The most mind-blowing part of this amazing meal is all the ingredients came from the farm except for the oil, salt and pepper.

Talk about a true farm-to-table experience!

Harvest Salad at RE Farm Cafe in Happy Valley, PA
Harvest Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Lamb at RE Farm Cafe in State College, PA
Lamb Roulade – lamb loin stuffed with swiss chard, shallots and garlic
Sorbet at RE Farm Cafe in Happy Valley, PA
Lemon Verbena Sorbet
Ice Cream at RE Farm Cafe in State College, PA
Beet Ice Cream

Website / Address: 1000 S Fillmore Rd, State College, Pennsylvania 16803

Sowers Harvest Cafe

If you’re looking for where to eat breakfast or brunch near Penn State, Sowers Harvest Cafe is one of the best restaurants in State College!

A hidden gem for locals and Penn State students, this cute little Mennonite-run cafe focuses on local products from farmer’s markets and local farms like milk from Meyer Dairy and eggs from an Amish farmer in Pennsylvania.

For coffee lovers, Sowers Harvest Cafe uses single-origin, micro-batch coffee roasted by Standing Stone Coffee Company in Huntingdon.

And they have some interesting signature coffee drinks like Chocolate Covered Coffee Bean Mocha (delicious!) and Healthy Honey Almond Biscotti Latte.

Coffee at Sowers Harvest Cafe in State College, PA
On the table:
– Chocolate Covered Coffee Bean Mocha Frappe ($5.75)
– Healthy Honey Almond Biscotti Latte ($4.50)

I highly recommend getting the soft pretzels which they make fresh from scratch!

Plus get the homemade roasted red pepper cream cheese dip for the pretzel if you can.

Pretzel at Sowers Harvest Cafe in State College, PA
Handmade Soft Pretzel

If you want a heartier meal, the Chipotle Chicken Bacon Ranch is a favourite!

Tortilla Sandwich at Sowers Harvest Cafe in State College, PA
Chipotle Chicken Bacon Ranch ($12.75) on Local Punky Shell Grillatilla ($1.50) – chicken, bacon, lettuce. cheddar, ranch and chipotle mayo

Website / Address: 421 East Beaver Avenue G1B, State College, Pennsylvania 16801

The Field Burger & Tap

Where to eat in State College for comfort food?

Located inside the Toftrees Golf Resort, The Field Burger & Tap is one of the best burger joints in Happy Valley and voted Best Burger & Best Fries in State College 2021 by State College Magazine.

And they one-up this dining experience through farm-to-table hand-formed burgers using locally sourced fresh ingredients including regional Amish cheeses (like Happy Valley’s Goot Essa) and local bread.

Hand-Formed Burger at The Field Burger and Tap in State College, PA

Bringing in the Nittany Lion pride, The Field Tap & Burger has a Coach’s Corner menu where Penn State coaches have made their own signature burger creation.

Coach Kieger’s “Juicy Lucy” is a delicious burger made with Eleven Oaks Wagyu stuffed with American cheese, leaf lettuce, tomato, sauteed onions, candied bacon, chipotle aioli on a pretzel roll.

Bacon Cheeseburger at The Field Burger and Tap in Happy Valley, PA
Coach Kieger’s “Juicy Lucy” ($10)

While you’re at The Field Burger and Tap, you have to make room for their hand-spun milkshakes.

When I told locals I was dining here, the first thing they said was to get the milkshake.

The local favourite is the salted caramel pretzel, and it was absolutely delicious!

Watch this TikTok on how they made the shake.

You can get the shakes spiked or classic. Of course, I tried it spiked.

It’s not everyday you can find a restaurant that serves hard hand-spun shakes.

Salted Caramel Pretzel Shake at The Field Burger and Tap in State College, PA
Hard Salted Caramel Pretzel Shake ($10) – Caramel vodka, vanilla ice cream crushed pretzels, caramel drizzle

Website / Address: 1 Country Club Ln, State College, Pennsylvania 16823

The Original Waffle Shop

Ask locals where to eat breakfast in State College and you’ll most definitely hear The Original Waffle Shop.

The Original Waffle Shop is a popular local gathering hole and one of the best restaurants in State College for breakfast!

Be prepared to come early or wait.

When I visited for Wednesday morning, the place was packed.

Breakfast at The Original Waffle Shop in State College, PA
On the table:
– Eggs Benedict ($11.69)
– Blueberry Waffle ($10.29)
– Eggs, English Muffin and Bacon ($6.69)

This diner is typically flocked by Penn State students, alumni, faculty and staff.

In fact, during my visit, I got to meet Coach Joe Battista, who was a National Championship coach for Penn State hocky for 19 years.

Get the grilled blueberry muffins to start which is something I’ve never heard of before.

With the restaurant’s name, definitely get their waffles which are crispy and fluffy!

If you love bacon, you’ll want some of those too, which were thicker cut and made perfectly crispy.

Blueberry Muffin at The Original Waffle Shop in State College, PA
Sliced and Grilled Blueberry Muffin

Website / Address: 1610 W College Ave, State College, Pennsylvania 16801


Best Places To Eat & Drink in State College and Happy Valley (that aren’t Restaurants)

Here are 6 of the best places to eat & drink in State College and Happy Valley from food and drink artisans, purveyors, establishments and agri-centric experiences, in alphabetical order.

Big Spring Spirits

Looking for where to drink artisan spirits in Happy Valley?

Located in a historic Match factory in Bellefonte, Big Spring Spirits is one of the best distilleries in Happy Valley!

Part of the Central PA Tasting Trail, this craft distillery locally sources their ingredients from local farmers and artisans to produce their whiskey and gin.

Big Spring Spirits at historic Match Factory in Bellefonte, PA

They even use water from Bellefonte’s Big Spring, which is how they got their name.

Big Spring Spirits distillery also has a tasting room and cocktail lounge, plus they’ve teamed up with chef Meghan McCracken of Nomad Kitchen for food.

Cocktail at Big Spring Spirits in Bellefonte, PA

Whenever I’m in a tasting room, I always do a tasting flight to try more things so, of course, I did the same at Big Spring Spirits.

You can’t go wrong with their traditional whiskeys.

I tried the straight corn whiskey which is made with 100% corn and aged 5+ years in American oak barrel to give a nicely sweeter taste than the usual whiskey.

What’s interesting is they also have flavoured whiskey like the Firebird Cinnamon and Peach.

Whiskey Flight at Big Spring Spirits in Happy Valley, PA

Website / Address: 198 Match Factory Place, Bellefonte, Pennsylvania 16823

Goot Essa

Love cheese? Goot Essa is a must-visit for cheese lovers!

Located in Amish family farms, Goot Essa Cheese is one of the best places to eat cheese in Happy Valley and a great way to experience the region’s agricultural heritage.

They started back in 2001 primarily to find a way to keep their family on the farm.

With the growth of Goot Essa Cheese, they now work with five Amish families who produce the milk they use to make 19 different cheeses at their on-site facility.

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua at Goot Essa Cheese in Happy Valley, PA

Did you know? Goot Essa means “Good Food” in Pennsylvania Dutch.

All of their cheeses are all-natural and handmade in small batches using traditional techniques and family recipes that have been passed for generations.

Cheese-making Vats at Goot Essa in Happy Valley, PA

That plus the cave-aging help make the unique flavour in Goot Essa cheeses.

Give them a call to set a farm and cheese cave tour if you’re planning a visit the cheese shop so you can learn about their traditional ways of working the fields and their cheese-making process.

This was my second time being on a cheese cave! The first time being in Oxford County, the Dairy Capital of Canada.

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua at Cheese Cave at Goot Essa in Happy Valley, PA

And of course, you must do some cheese tasting while you’re there!

I highly recommend trying all their 19 cheeses using cow, goat and sheep’s milk in 5 categories: semi-soft, soft, traditional, hard and flavoured.

Goot Essa’s three pillars of focus for their cheese are nuttiness, butteriness and creaminess.

I loved trying all of them to compare and contrast.

Cheese Aging at Goot Essa in Howard, PA

Some of their cheeses are even based on cheese-styles in other countries.

For example, the Der Vauden Swiss is based on the Emmental AOP cheese in Switzerland.

If you’ve never had blue cheese or don’t like it’s strong pungent taste, their Der Edel Bleu Kase is a really good entry level to ease you into blue cheese.

And if you like wood-smoked flavours, you must try their Mountain Home Woodsmoked Cheddar.

Cheese Tasting at Goot Essa in Howard, PA

Website / Address: 351 Wise Rd, Howard, Pennsylvania 16841

Penn State Berkey Creamery

Where to eat ice cream in Happy Valley?

A trip to Happy Valley is not complete without a visit to Penn State Berkey Creamery, one of the best ice cream shops in State College (and the most popular)!

Part of Pennsylvania’s Scooped Ice Cream Trail, this Penn State Tradition since 1865 is located right on the main University Park campus and is flocked by locals, Penn State students, staff and alumni, visitors, and ice cream enthusiasts from all over the world!

As a Penn State institution, they have a short course on ice cream manufacturing in which big ice cream brands like Baskin-Robbins and Haagen-Dazs send their representatives to learn from.

In fact, both Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield took the course before launching the iconic Ben and Jerry’s ice cream.

When you enter Berkey Creamery, you’ll find a shopping section that features their dairy products like milk, cheese and ice cream as well as other quick pick-me-ups like bagel, snacks and coffee.

In the middle, you’ll find a big ice cream counter with three dipping cabinets with different flavours to choose from.

There are so many flavours to choose from, and they rotate daily!

When I asked the staff what the top picks are, I was told it was the Peachy Paterno and Death by Chocolate.

Since Peach is widely popular in Pennsylvania, I chose the Peachy Paterno which is peach flavoured ice cream with peach slices.

I’m not usually into fruit ice cream, but I absolutely loved it!

The Peachy Paterno isn’t overly sweet, and has a good ratio of peaches and ice cream.

If you prefer ice cream that’s rich, thick, dense (not airy) and very creamy, you’ll love the ice cream here at Berkey Creamery.

Their scoop is HUGE!

You can only choose cone or bowl, and you can’t mix flavours.

If you want to try different flavours, I suggest going with a friend, get two different flavours you both like and share.

Ice Cream at Penn State Berkey Creamery in State College, PA
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough on Cone ($5.66) and Peachy Paterno on Bowl ($5.66)

Website / Address: 119, Rodney A. Erickson Food Science Building, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802

The Republic in the Gamble Mill

Where to drink craft cocktails in Happy Valley?

Located in a historic grist mill in Bellefonte, The Republic in the Gamble Mill is one of the best cocktail bars in Happy Valley!

Amazing vibes, cozy atmosphere and great cocktails.

As a cocktail lover, The Republic is definitely a spot I can see myself being a regular in.

You cannot go wrong with their classic Old Fashioned!

Craft Cocktails at The Republic at Gamble Mill in Bellefonte, PA
On the table:
– One for All ($10) – spirit of your choice, cranberry juice, orange juice, ginger syrup, club soda
​- Old Fashioned ($12) – bourbon, cherry, orange, bitters, sugar cube

If you’re not into cocktails, they also serve an assortment of beers, wines (even wine on tap!), and local drinks.

The Republic also has a beautiful speakeasy right across from the bar. Hint: Where you see a framed photo of a lady.

Though The Speakeasy is mostly an event venue, it is open to public during scheduled performances and themed events so keep an eye out on their event schedule.

The Speakeasy at The Republic at Gamble Mill in Bellefonte, PA

Website / Address: 160 Dunlop St, Bellefonte, Pennsylvania 16823

University Wine Company

Where to drink wine in Happy Valley?

Located at the base of Tussey Mountain between Boalsburg and Shingletown, University Wine Company is one of the best wineries in State College.

Part of the Central PA Tasting Trail, here you can enjoy your wines while admiring the scenic vineyard and surrounding landscapes.

Wine Tasting Flight at University Wine Company in State College, PA

I highly recommend doing a wine flight to taste their different wines.

I loved their merlot, and found it quite different than other merlots I’ve tried.

It was sweeter, full-bodied, less tannic and less acidic.

Owner/Wine maker Jeff Proch pouring wine at University Wine Company in State College, PA
Owner/Wine maker Jeff Proch pouring Merlot

Their sparkling rosé hits the spot on a hot day!

If you can’t visit their winery, you can visit their Wine Bar inside The Greek restaurant in State College or The Brew Coffee & Tap in Tyrone, PA.

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua at University Wine Company in State College, PA

Website / Address: 540 Misty Hill Dr, State College, Pennsylvania 16801

Also Read: Wineries on Niagara-on-the-Lake

Wasson Farm Market

Where to enjoy farm-to-cone ice cream in State College?

Wasson Farm Market is one of the best places to eat ice cream in Happy Valley, set in a beautiful farm landscape with a barnyard and corn field!

This family owned and operated farm makes homemade ice cream on-site using milk from their own cows which you can see in the barn.

Cows at Wasson Farm Market in State College, PA

You can get classic flavours like vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and cookies and creme on cones, dishes, sundaes or floats.

You can go big with DIY toppings and sauces!

Blueberry Ice Cream scoop at Wasson Farm Market in State College, PA
Blueberry Ice Cream with whipped cream, sprinkles and cherry

I enjoyed the cookies and cream ice cream on a waffle bowl topped with butterscotch and nuts.

If you prefer ice cream that’s creamy, airy and less dense, you’ll love the ice cream at Wasson Farm Market!

Their ice cream has become so popular among locals. Check out this TikTok video for some local love!

Cookies and Cream Ice Cream on Waffle Bowl at Wasson Farm Market in State College, PA
Cookies and Creme on Waffle Bowl topped with butterscotch and nuts

Wasson Farm also has a market where you can buy their fresh farm produce like corn and vegetables.

For fall, they are one of the best spots for agricultural experiences because you can enjoy pumpkin patches, hayrides and a corn maze.

Corn Field at Wasson Farm Market in State College, PA

Website / Address: 2545 Shingletown Rd, State College, Pennsylvania 16801


Centre County Grange Fair

Looking for one of the best ways to experience food, culture and community in Happy Valley?

America’s MOST UNIQUE County Fair, Centre County Grange Fair is the last remaining tenting fair in the US.

Tent Encampment at Centre County Grange Fair in Happy Valley, PA

With a near 150 year history, this annual nine-day summer event takes place in Centre Hall, PA where it becomes home base to families in 1,000 tents and 1,500 RVs every August.

It’s an amazing way to experience and taste a piece of Americana!

Most of the tents are occupied by families for years, sometimes for several generations.

Decorated Tent at Centre County Grange Fair in Happy Valley, PA

And foods and drinks at The Grange Fair have been served by vendors for generations, some for over 65+ years.

Of course, I made sure to eat my way!

Here are 5 iconic fair foods at the Centre County Grange Fair loved by locals:

1. Pot Pie at The Boarding House and Claudia’s Kitchen – First time trying Pennsylvania Dutch Pot Pie! Not your traditional pot pie, it’s more like a stew with chicken or ham, flavourful broth and homemade rivels.

2. Hog Trough at Scott’s Roasting – A delicious open faced sausage sandwich served in a 3 pound dish! Soft roll on the bottom with sausage, caramelized onions, peppers, fried potatoes and smothered sausage gravy. Great for sharing!

3. Rosie’s Pierogies – Pierogies using Polish owner’s Buba’s (grandma) recipe. Seafood sauce pierogies had lobster and scallops!

Rosie's Pierogies at Centre County Grange Fair in Happy Valley, PA
4 Pierogies on Seafood Sauce ($7)

4. Kozee’s Monkey Bread – First time having this soft, sweet, sticky American pastry! It’s massive and good for sharing.

Kozee's Monkey Bread at Centre County Grange Fair in Happy Valley, PA
Monkey Bread with Icing ($10)

5. Marcy’s Orangeade – Refresh from the heat with some freshly squeezed orange juice. They’re one of the oldest concessions at the Grange Fair!

What was your favourite at the Grange Fair that I should try next time?

The Centre County Grange Fair has 2 ride concessions, more than 300 concessions, over 7,000 items on exhibit, nationally known entertainers on the Grand Stand, and a gated access to over 200,000 people.

Lady feeding goats at Centre County Grange Fair in Centre Hall, PA

Website / Address: 169 Homan Ln, Centre Hall, Pennsylvania 16828


Reynolds Mansion Bed & Breakfast

Looking for where to stay in Happy Valley with amazing food?

Built in 1885 by the first millionaire of Bellefonte, William F. Reynolds, Reynolds Mansion is one of the best places to stay in Centre County just nine miles from State College.

This Pennsylvania bed & breakfast is a historic mansion that’s listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.

Historic Reynolds Mansion in Bellefonte, PA

I stayed at the Colonel’s Green Room, a cozy and comfortable 550 square feet deluxe king room with the following:

  • 55-inch TV
  • Sitting area
  • Fireplace
  • Bubble tub
  • Private bathroom with stall shower and tower warmer
Colonel's Green Room at Reynolds Mansion in Bellefonte, PA

I love the architecture and details in this mansion, including original woodwork, original fireplaces and beautiful stained glass windows.

You feel like you took a step back in time!

First Floor at Reynolds Mansion in Happy Valley, PA

There are common rooms you can enjoy at Reynolds Mansion like the Parlor and Billiards Room.

Billiard Room at Reynolds Mansion in Bellefonte, PA

My favourite was the Snuggery because you can indulge in complimentary brandy and chocolates.

Brandy at the Snugger at Reynolds Mansion in Bellefonte, PA

You also get 24-hour access to complimentary tea, coffee and bottled waters.

Plus FREE EV charging stations for Tesla drivers!

And, of course, one of the best things you’ll love at Reynolds Mansion is the delicious three-course Gourmet Breakfast each morning of your stay.

Owners Mike and Tricia makes and serves your homemade breakfast using locally grown fruits and vegetables and ingredients from local Amish markets.

Scones at Reynolds Mansion in Bellefonte, PA
Lemon & Lavender Scones

Watch this TikTok of Chef Mike making the Eggs Blackstone.

Eggs Blackstone at Reynolds Mansion in Bellefonte, PA
Eggs Blackstone – roasted tomato and bacon on top of an English muffin, topped with hollandaise sauce and chives
Coffee Walnut Cake at Reynolds Mansion in Bellefonte, PA
Coffee Walnut Cake

Website / Address: 101 W Linn St, Bellefonte, Pennsylvania 16823


SHORT VIDEO: 7 Places To Eat & Drink in State College – Happy Valley, PA Travel Guide

Can we skip to the good part?

Watch the YouTube Shorts on Happy Valley food!


VIDEO: Happy Valley Trip Instagram Story Highlights

Watch my full 5 day trip in Happy Valley, PA on Instagram here!

This will help give you an idea on trip itinerary to help you plan for your visit to State College.

Travelling Foodie Raymond Cua at The Speakeasy at The Republic at Gamble Mill in Bellefonte, PA

MAP: State College and Happy Valley Restaurants and Places To Eat & Drink

Here’s a map with all the best restaurants and places to eat & drink in and around State College mentioned in this Happy Valley Food Guide.


I hope this Happy Valley culinary guide gives you a great idea on where to eat and drink in State College.

I had such a delicious time here and I’m sure you will too!

There are so many amazing State College restaurants so I’m always looking for recommendations for my next visit.

If you are a local or you’ve been there before, please give me your recommendations on the best places to eat & drink in State College that I should try in the future!


If you enjoyed this Happy Valley Food Guide, you might also enjoy these:


Huge thanks to The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau for hosting me and sponsoring this post! As usual, all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.

You can learn more about The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau on their website here.


Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Chuck Noll

Tuesday 20th of September 2022

Loved your article! You hit on many of the places we love to go. Next visit, you absolutely MUST visit the 814 Ciderworks at JL Farm and Cidery! Delicious variety of ciders made from their many different orchard fresh apples. Very cool vibe and wonderful people.

Another couple suggestions: Redhorse Tavern in Pleasant Gap, and Axemann Brewery, with catering by the former Redhorse chef/owner.

Raymond Cua

Tuesday 20th of September 2022

Thank you for the feedback and recommendations, Chuck! I appreciate it! I had so much more on my list that I wanted to visit but, alas, always not enough time especially to cover more of the Central PA Tasting Trail spots.