If you’re looking to dine on a budget in Happy Valley, State College boasts a variety of restaurants for all budget types, and we’ve created this list of some of the top spots for keeping your taste buds and wallet happy.
The Corner Room
A State College classic, The Corner Room is one of the most famous restaurants in downtown State College. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, they have a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and entrees all offered at affordable prices. The Corner Room is also known for their weekly specials, so be sure to check their website for special deals.
Champs Sports Grill
Champs combines a sports bar atmosphere with a surprisingly large menu, offering gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and their famous House-made Lou’s raviolis. Now with two locations, Atherton Street and downtown, this restaurant is a great place to watch a sporting event or grab a casual lunch or dinner. Look for weekly specials on their website for even more ways to save.
Big Bowl Noodle House
Big Bowl Noodle House is known for its authentic Asian dishes and bubble tea for lower prices. A cash-only restaurant, Big Bowl offers large rice and noodle dishes for $8 or less, including multiple chicken, pork, beef, vegetable, and seafood options.
The Deli and Z-Bar
Another downtown State College favorite, The Deli is known for local and homemade menu items that range from pub fare to New York deli-style favorites. The deli has a variety of craft beers, as well as local and seasonal favorites. Known for running seasonal specials such as Salad Fest, make sure to check their website to find out about any upcoming events.
The American Ale House
Tucked into the Village of Toftrees, the Ale House is a local favorite providing a laidback and comfortable atmosphere. The Ale House menu consists of farm-to-table options, a steam bar, and even a Sunday brunch special.
Sowers Harvest Café
A small coffee shop located in downtown State College, Sowers Harvest Café focuses on local and naturally healthy menu items. With breakfast and lunch entrees under $8, you can choose healthy options without spending a fortune. Also, check out their Facebook page for weekly giveaways and promotions.
Baby’s Burgers and Shakes
A 50’s style diner, Baby’s offers classic burgers, shakes, fries, and even traditional Pennsylvania Dutch-style entrees. With classic American dishes available at affordable prices, Baby’s brings in customers of all ages. Don’t miss their weekly specials posted on their website.
Faccia Luna
Faccia Luna is described as an “urban upscale pizzeria” with a menu featuring wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, salads, and sandwiches. Offering gluten-free pizza and an assortment of seafood dishes for around $18, this is a great restaurant for all occasions from a family dinner to a first date.
For more ideas on how to make your wallet work for you, check out our WalletWorks page.