After three years of living in State College, why am I just finding this restaurant in my final year at State College?  Since first experiencing the restaurant on a date, and falling in love
with the atmosphere and the food, I have returned four (maybe five) more times since the beginning of the semester for friend’s birthday dinners, with my parents and even more dates.  Each time I visit, Happy Valley Brewing Company doesn’t disappoint.

Located down East College Ave near the ramps for route 322, HVBC is the large barn on the side of the road.  The barn itself was built in 1814 and prospered on a farm for many years and opened as a brewery in 2013.  The entire atmosphere of the restaurant is very warm, relaxed and friendly, almost as if you were in a luxury hunting-lodge hotel.  The top floor has high ceilings complete with frescoes of ancient Greek figures enjoying a nice beer surrounded by big, open windows and intimate seating.  The bottom floor is darker and much more of a “pub” atmosphere including a large, wrap-around bar.

Not only was the atmosphere everything I love in a restaurant, but the food is what really sold me to keep coming back.  The menu alone was staggering, consisting of so many choices so that everyone in a group could be satisfied.  I’ll give a few of my recommendations that have never disappointed as I’m sure the rest of the menu is superb as well.

The Short Rib Nachos: If you’re looking to be full before your meal arrives, this appetizer is for you.  A massive bowl of cheesy nachos topped with banana peppers and soft, braised short rib is always a move.

The Shish Kicker Sandwich:  I’m not going to lie, three out of the four times visiting this brewery, I have ordered this sandwich.  On toasted ciabatta bread, slices of grilled chicken with peppers and a garlic aioli is simply the combination I just can’t pass up.

Eggplant Pizza:  Yes you read right.  The pizza at HVBC is unbelievable.  Served in a rectangle shape, this pizza is loaded with roasted eggplant, mushrooms, peppers, tomatoes and mozzarella and provolone cheese.  Definitely big enough for two people, but I’ve finished it all on my own.

Although the place may be a bit expensive for most college students, the food and beer is 1000% worth it.  The HVBC is the perfect place for a special occasion dinner with friends, a date or even to watch a game and throw back a few craft beers with nice food.  Overall, I can’t find a thing I don’t like about this restaurant, and would definitely recommend State College residents to give this place a try.

For the menu, current beers on tap and more information about the Happy Valley Brewery, visit their website: http://happyvalleybeer.com