New Dining and Cocktail Experiences Elevate Downtown Bellefonte and Nittany Valley
Visitors to Bellefonte and the surrounding Nittany Valley will discover exciting new dining and craft beverage options that enhance their stay.
The highlight is the eagerly awaited reopening of the historic Gamble Mill, transformed through extensive renovations into a cocktail bar, upscale restaurant, and boutique hotel. Two additional venues in Milesburg are ideally positioned to welcome travelers.
The Republic, 160 Dunlop Street, Bellefonte
TheRepublicGambleMill.com
The Republic finalized renovations in summer 2021 and officially opened in August, operating Wednesday through Sunday.
This cozy, intimate venue offers classic cocktails, premium wines, and unique craft beers not commonly found in the area. Situated on the first floor of the historic Gamble Mill along Bellefonte's scenic waterfront, it features original stone walls, brick floors and pillars, and striking wood beams that honor the building's legacy. It's the perfect after-dinner spot for conversation following a town stroll or waterside walk in Happy Valley.
Creekside at the Gamble Mill
CreeksideattheGambleMill.com
Following a successful soft opening in July, Creekside at the Gamble Mill now serves a "locally motivated with global flavors" menu. Hours include lunch and dinner Wednesday-Friday, plus brunch, lunch, and dinner on Saturday-Sunday—check the website for details. The beautifully renovated space provides outdoor seating for up to 40 guests.
Chef Michael Marx, who returned with his wife to her hometown of State College to raise their family and bolster the local food scene, crafts menus using fresh, local ingredients that evolve seasonally and biweekly. With experience across the U.S. and abroad, including his acclaimed World’s Fare Catering and food truck, he's now established a permanent home at the Gamble Mill.
Creekside features a full bar with Pennsylvania craft beers on tap, cocktails highlighting Big Spring Spirits, and a curated selection of wines.
Happy Dishes, 200 Mill Street, Milesburg
Transitioning from a food truck launched in 2018, Happy Dishes now offers a permanent dine-in location in Milesburg. Current hours: Wednesday-Saturday noon-8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Honoring the diverse families who've made Happy Valley home, Happy Dishes recreates beloved flavors from afar, evoking childhood memories or introducing new favorites.
Specializing in Southern-style and BBQ dishes, standouts include the lobster roll and shrimp po' boy, per owners Michael and Kennita Johnson. Overlooking the water, it's a family-friendly haven for post-float or kayak diners, with ample indoor space and a charming shared patio alongside neighbor Lupita’s.
Lupita’s Authentic Mexican Food, 200 Mill Street, Milesburg
lupitas-authentic-mexican-foods.business.site
This Milesburg outpost is the second for owners Maria Guadalupe and Emilio Lopez Ramirez, building on their popular State College original. Authenticity shines through Mexico-sourced ingredients and house-made sauces and salsas. Pair dishes with unique drinks like hibiscus sweet tea or sweet rice milk.
Open Sunday through Monday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., the landscaped patio is perfect for al fresco dining.
