Local Ingredients Elevate Happy Valley, PA's Thriving Craft Cocktail Scene
The "farm-to-fork" and local sourcing movements connect diners with the origins of their food while supporting small family farms, growers, and producers. Far more than trends, these practices ensure fresh, healthy, and sustainable ingredients that chefs transform into exceptional cuisine and innovative cocktails. Happy Valley's rich agricultural heritage inspires its renowned restaurants to source locally, delivering unforgettable dining experiences for residents and visitors alike.
In the final installment of our four-part series, explore how premium, locally sourced ingredients extend beyond the plate into Happy Valley's vibrant craft cocktail scene, crafting mouthwatering libations.
At Gigi's Southern Table and Grace Restaurant, fresh mint and herbs from their on-site gardens elevate many cocktails at these beloved State College spots.
At RE Farm Cafe at Windswept, turmeric from their greenhouse creates a bold, flavorful syrup for the "Liquid Sunshine" cocktail.
"Simplicity is indeed the essence of style and grace," says Gastiger of this inventive drink.
Windswept also garnishes its Limonjito—a twist on the classic mojito—with fresh mint and Barrel 21 Limoncello.
Local Spirits Shine as Star Ingredients in Happy Valley Cocktails
Beyond craft beer, wine, and cideries, Happy Valley, PA, hosts two distilleries—Barrel 21 and Big Spring Spirits—part of the 12 craft beverage producers on the Central PA Tasting Trail. These distilleries craft their own cocktails and zero-proof options, with products featured across local restaurant and bar menus.
Colonial-Era Favorite Revives Modern Cocktails
Tait Farm Foods' 16 shrub varieties—from cranberry and blueberry to ginger and beet—are among the most popular local ingredients in Happy Valley cocktails and mocktails.
Shrub, a colonial-era syrup of fruit, sugar, and vinegar, has been crafted by Tait Farm since 1987. Its authenticity earns nods from Colonial Williamsburg (King's Arms Tavern and Christiana Campbell's Tavern) and Plimoth Plantation.
The Ginger Margarita, featuring Tait Farm Ginger Shrub, is a signature at Overlook Grill in Centre Hall. The restaurant also incorporates shrubs into dressings and Chef Harrison's dishes, plus Tait Ginger-Peach Chutney on its catering menu. Since 2001, Overlook Grill has sourced fresh produce directly from Tait Farm post-harvest.
Discover the Full Flavor of Happy Valley's Top Craft Cocktails
Craving more? Explore these guides to Happy Valley's best cocktails:
Bourbon Cocktails: Move over vodka! Whiskey and bourbon cocktails are surging in popularity nationwide, including Happy Valley.
Best Spots for Cocktails (and Mocktails) in Happy Valley: When a well-crafted drink beckons, discover top creations at Happy Valley's premier spots.
