State Night, Date Night

Whether you’ve scored a first date with your cute crush from class, are just spicing things up with your long-time sweetheart, or are out for a night on the town with the girls, State College has a variety of perfect date-night spots!

From Italian cuisine to burgers and shakes, you can find it all here in this little college town. Valley has some favorites here in State College.

Casual Dating

Liberty Craft House on College Avenue has a lip-smacking variety of flatbreads, sandwiches, salads and more for low prices that are great for every college student.  Not only suitable for date night, this spot is perfect for lunch with the girls!  When the weather’s nice, grab a seat outside and take in downtown State College. Valley recommends the Cheesemonger Melt sandwich— it’s a cheese lovers dream.

The Field is a hot spot in State College that’s great for any occasion from birthdays to dates and everything in between. The joint, located in the Toftrees Golf Resort, is notorious for its milk shakes served in a country-chic mason jar. Not to mention, the mouth watering burgers and buckets of fries will buzz your taste buds. MacLaine Funsch, a junior public relations major, and her boyfriend loved their date night at the The Field.

“It was so good that he ate his entire burger before I could take one bite of mine.  Not kidding,” says Funsch.  “We also got milkshakes, which have cute little cupcakes on top, and he drank his and mine!”

Happy Valley Brewing Company, located on Elmwood Street, State College, is a pub with a vintage feel and a cool vibe.  The food is far better than ordinary bar food.  From gourmet sandwiches and pizza to small plates and delicious salads, they’ve got it all. Our absolute favorite is the Lemont Street Corn.  Smothered in cheese, paprika, cayenne, cilantro and lime, this corn on the cob will surely tickle your senses.

Romantics

The Allen Street Grill is an iconic restaurant here at Penn State. The corner of the restaurant is covered in windows and overlooks Allen Street and College Avenue.  Valley thinks it’s the most romantic spot here in State College. Definitely try to sit at a window seat. With the lights twinkling on the street below, we know sparks will be flying for you and yours.

Mario’s Italian Restaurant has authentic Italian food, and it is to die for. Trust us, you’ll never leave hungry. This restaurant is located on Atherton Street, so you can get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.  This is a great place to take the family when they’re in town or for a date with your boo. If you’re a sucker for pasta, you will love the Tortelloni Vodka dish.

Hidden Treasure

Deep within the Nittany Lion Inn on the west side of campus, there is a quaint little bar and restaurant called Whiskers. It’s great for a more causal date, or even lunch. It is a quiet spot with delicious food. Check it out and break out of the dining norms of State College. Our favorite item on the menu is the soft pretzels.  These massive pretzels are warm, soft and served with a side of mustard.

Choose one of these restaurants for your next night on the town, and your taste buds— and your date— will thank you.