Welcome Back: State College's Iconic Restaurants Revitalized and Ready for You
"We like to think we have something for everyone," says Curtis Shulman, Director of Operations at Hotel State College & Co., a Penn State alumni-operated company that owns the Allen Street Grill, Corner Room, Bill Pickle's Tap Room, Chumley's Cocktail Bar, Basement Nightspot, and Zeno's Pub—all on one block just steps from Penn State's Old Main.
"The Corner Room is Happy Valley," Shulman says of the iconic diner. "Search for Penn State on Google, and you'll see Old Main alongside images of the Corner Room. It's a true staple of downtown State College. From the moment you walk in, you'll feel the welcoming atmosphere. Our team takes pride in every plate, delivering personable service that makes you feel at home. We cherish our regulars and build genuine one-on-one relationships with them."
Coaching legend Joe Paterno was a regular at Booth #1 in the Corner Room. Fly-fishing icon Joe Humphreys prefers the back corner.
The Corner Room, along with several sister venues, has undergone summer renovations and now serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
"We refreshed the Corner Room and Chumley's, and the results are perfect," Shulman notes. "The original 1930s breakfast counter has been restored, upholstery updated while preserving its look. We're honoring over 100 years of history and character."
While the Corner Room menu emphasizes hearty "meat and potatoes" classics, recent upgrades introduce bolder flavors. "Our new culinary and beverage director focuses on premium quality," Shulman explains. "We're sourcing local ingredients to gently push diners beyond their comfort zones—nothing too extreme."
Dating back to 1926, the Corner Room sits below the Allen Street Grill, whose site has hosted hospitality since around 1855—starting as Jack's Roadhouse, evolving into a billiards hall, tearoom, and more.
"It's always been downtown's upscale option," Shulman says of the Grill. "Elevated yet approachable, distinct from the diner's casual vibe."
The Grill features reupholstered booths, fresh paint, and a retrofitted marble bar.
"The bar was our biggest project," Shulman adds. "It feels familiar yet upgraded—retaining emotional connections while elevating the experience."
Chumley's, a lively cocktail bar with tapas, has also been remodeled. Zeno's Pub, one of downtown State College's oldest bars and Pennsylvania's pioneering beer gardens, offered craft beer "before it was cool."
Bill Pickle's Tap Room, with its indoor-outdoor setup, draws crowds for lunch, sports, and student-themed nights. The Basement Nightspot captures the original State College disco vibe. "It's student-driven but always a great time," Shulman says.
The boutique Hotel State College, with 11 rooms needing updates after over a century, is next on the renovation list post-football season.
The Shandygaff remains the unpretentious dive bar it was when State College natives opened it in 1970.
"It smells like beer, packed with students," says General Manager Mitchell Caffyn. "Alumni love reliving college days. No major changes since opening—the layout is frozen in 1970."
Weekdays bring students; alumni are the "cherry on top." Game days turn the single-room bar into a lively crowd.
"It's a zoo—in the best way," Caffyn laughs. "No food focus; it's for drinking and fun." The Shandygaff boasts one of State College's few dedicated dance floors, DJs, "liquor pitchers" ($8 happy hour well drink with four shots), and tall boys (24-oz beers for $4 during happy hour).
"Late-night spot with loud music and dancing—perfect for partying," Caffyn adds.
The Brewery isn't an actual brewery, but rich in history.
"I inherited the name," says owner Ray Rockey, who's run the neighborhood dive for 30 years.
The bar displays memorabilia from closed favorites like the G Man and All-American Rathskeller. Patrons snap photos; one couple even returned for their first-date spot—now married.
Locals, townies, students, and alumni flock here for the community.
"I know everyone; it feels like home," says graduate student Mary Roberts, chatting with all and calling owner "Rock." "Packed on game days, yet I always feel like a regular."
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Want to Try Something New?
Central Reservation sits at the bustling intersection of South Allen Street and Beaver Avenue. Its retro neon sign beckons into a vibrant space brimming with color, curios, and creative cuisine.
Highlights include "original soulful features, fresh imported seafood, rotating wines, and whimsical cocktails." The eclectic, art-filled interior draws adventurous diners seeking an offbeat, energetic vibe.
Cocktails like "Hibiscus Rum Punch," "Where There’s Smoke There’s Bananas," and "Jungle Bird" make it a standout downtown hotspot for locals and visitors.
