Reservation Cheat Sheet for Procrastinating Graduates
As a senior, graduation sprung up on me. In the midst of studying for exams and figuring out what I’m going to do with my life I had completely neglected that post-graduation dinner reservation for my family. But after paying for four years of college, my parents aren’t about to let me leave here without a proper celebration. Unable to ignore my mother’s nudging, I decided to research my options and blog about them for my Homegrown Happy Valley internship. I was bummed to discover that Zola, Alto and Duffy’s Tavern were already booked. But there are still some good places left. Below, my last assignment for Dear Old State: a reservation cheat sheet for my fellow procrastinating graduates.
This State College staple serves American cuisine including salads, seafood, and pasta. The tables by the window offer one of the best spots for Happy Valley people watching.
Dress: Casual, but you’ll see everything from jeans to sundresses.
Availability: Very limited seating available Friday early in the day and after 9:30pm; limited seating also available Sunday after 11 a.m.
Where: 100 West College Avenue (above the Corner Room) ; 814-231-GRILL
The best stop in State College for authentic Thai cuisine. You’ll find traditional favorites, such as pad Thai and red and green curry, as well as some fabulous Thai desserts. The new location offers a chic, yet relaxed and friendly setting.
Dress: Everything from jeans to dresses
Availability: They are not taking reservations, but they do have a wait list. They will not accept any walk-ins on graduation weekend, so I highly recommend putting your name on one of the lists ASAP. At this point the lists for Friday and Saturday are packed, but there’s still some room left.
Where: 232 S. Allen St.; 814-237-0139
A community favorite, all of Elk Creek Café’s ingredients—from fruits and vegetables to the meat—come from local farms. The food is delicious and the homemade beer is even better. The fun, easy-going vibe makes for a perfect post-graduation setting.
Dress: Casual
Availability: They still have availability on Friday night and Saturday before 5pm. They also have seats left for Sunday brunch, which runs from 11-2pm.
Where: 100 West Main Street ; Millheim; 814-349-8850
The chef favors local, seasonal ingredients, earning rave reviews from foodies and wine lovers alike. This is by far the most sophisticated restaurant in State College.
Dress: Dressy casual
Availability: They still have a great deal of seating options available for both Friday and Saturday.
Where: 1221 E. College Avenue, State College, PA 16803 (814) 237-4422
An upscale wood-fired pizzeria and martini bar, Inferno also features various types of salads, paninis and pasta dishes. Extra credit for the full-service bar serving festive drinks.
Dress: Casual
Availability: They do not take reservations; so I recommend going as early as possible.
Where: 340 East College Avenue; 814-237-5718
A local favorite, the menu is standard American with local and seasonal ingredients (think local grass-fed burgers and mouth-watering chili). All of the beer is brewed on-premises.
Dress: Very casual
Availability: As of May 5th they are booked all day Saturday. However there is still some availability Friday during lunch and Sunday after 2pm.
Where: 2105 North Atherton St.; (814) 867-6886
New Orleans in State College? That’s right. Impress your family with some of the best—and most unconventional—food in town. It does happen to be one of the more pricey restaurants, but definitely worth it. The jambalaya is out of this world.
Dress: Break out the suits and dresses.
Availability: As of May 5th the only reservations left were on Friday at 4 and Saturday at 3 or 6.
Where: 142 East College Avenue ; 814-238-7010
This restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and a full menu including classic American cuisine, Italian favorites, Mexican dishes, and a full section of traditional Jewish options. Outdoor seating available.
Dress: Very casual.
Availability: Not accepting reservations, but taking call-aheads up to 45 minutes in advance.
Where: 113 Hiester St.; 814-237-5710
This historic State College restaurant has a parent-friendly menu comprising fresh seafood, veal, prime rib and more. Known for its delicious unlimited sides like homemade mac and cheese or super sweet applesauce, it’s also a great choice for picky eaters.
Dress: Casual, but you won’t be overdressed if you wear a skirt or a tie.
Availability: As of Monday the 5th, Saturday evening was booked, but they still had a few reservations available for Saturday afternoon and Sunday.
Where: 220 E. College Avenue; 814-238-6116
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