You’re a freshman and have been living on meal points and Good 2 Go for the last few months when your parents inform you they are coming to visit. You panic because you have no idea where to bring them for dinner.

State College has a lot more food options, that many students, especially freshmen who don’t typically leave campus, are aware of. Not only are there the gems of downtown State College such as Italian restaurant Rotelli’s and Irish pub Kildare’s but there numerous dining establishments that are scattered throughout the State College area.

One of my personal favorites, if you are looking to do something a little bit more low key, is Texas Roadhouse, which is located on Waddle Road (right behind Atherton Wal-Mart). There is usually a wait on weekends at this American Steakhouse but that’s not a problem because they offer all you can eat peanuts for customers as they wait to be seated. When you are being brought to your table the waitress grabs a basket of the best bread (with cinnamon butter) that I have ever had and asks you if you would like to pick out your own steak! The menu is that of a typical steakhouse and everything I have had there has been nothing short of perfect. If you want American but want something a little bit more gourmet, then American Ale House (located at Toftrees) is the option for you. With a large beer and wine menu, this is a favorite amongst Penn State parents. They offer a large menu ranging from burgers to fajitas and much more in between.

If you are looking for something a little more upscale, and who wouldn’t want a nice meal when their parents are visiting and better yet paying, then the Italian restaurant Mario’s, located on North Atherton, is a great find. The décor made me feel like I was back in Italy, that’s how authentic Italian the atmosphere is. With a menu featuring many different pizzas, pasta and chicken dishes, Mario’s is sure to satisfy all Italian lovers’ pallets. Want more of a pizza route, Faccia Luna (located on South Atherton) offers an assortment of gourmet pizzas and they have a personal option so everyone in your party can get whatever they choose. I also strongly recommend getting the cheesy garlic breadsticks as a starter because they are delicious!

I personally love Hibachi and when I heard there was a place in State College that offered the whole Hibachi experience I jumped at the chance to try it and I was very impressed. I went into the dinner thinking it will be decent but nothing like the places at home but I was wrong. Between the show and the food itself, Fuji Jade Garden really is worth the price. While it may be a little expensive on a student’s budget, it is the perfect place to go when parents are visiting and you are craving Japanese cuisine, and the prices are very reasonable for Hibachi (they also offer a non hibachi dining option).

Finally, if you are looking for a great brunch place for Sunday morning before your parents leave and you say your farewells look no further than the Waffle Shop (the North Atherton location is the best). While if you attend Penn State you know and probably have been to one of the many locations, but it is a great place to share with your parents. I bring my parents there when they come to visit and they love it!

Overall, State College has a lot more to offer than you may know so why not take your parents coming to visit (and having access to a car) as a welcome opportunity to explore more than just downtown.