Discover Authentic International Cuisine in Happy Valley: Mexican, Brazilian, Venezuelan, Korean, and Chinese
Happy Valley, nestled in central Pennsylvania, is renowned for local favorites like the Berkey Creamery, Grilled Stickies, and Ham Pot Pie at the Centre County Grange Fair. But it's also emerging as a hub for authentic international cuisine, including genuine Mexican, Brazilian, Venezuelan, Korean, and Chinese dishes. Whether you're craving a familiar flavor or eager to explore something new, these spots deliver the real deal.
Lupita’s
- Address: 3180 W. College Ave., State College, PA 16801
- Phone: (814) 954-8768
- Facebook: LupitasStateCollege
Owner Maria Guadalupe “Lupita” Lopez Ramirez brings authentic Mexican flavors from her native Oaxaca. After moving to State College at 18, she mastered her mother’s recipes, sparking a lifelong passion for cooking. Starting with catering for over 100 people daily, she and her husband Emilio opened Lupita’s in a former gas station storefront. Opening day exceeded expectations—they sold out in hours, with demand lasting all week. Lupita imports ingredients from Mexico for true taste, serving traditional tacos with cilantro and onion (no cheese), while happily customizing orders.
Next time you're seeking genuine Mexican fare, head to the Uni-Mart on West College Ave.—no plane ticket required.
Must-Try at Lupita’s
Gorditas (Best Seller): Thick corn tortilla pockets stuffed with refried beans, ground beef or chicken, topped with lettuce, cheese, and cream.
Tostada (Lupita’s Favorite): Crispy corn tortilla layered with lettuce, cheese, cream, and ground beef or chicken.
Brazilian Munchies
- Address: 250 University Dr, University Park, PA 16802
- Phone: (814) 574-2115
- Website: brazilianmunchies.net
“We deliver the true Brazil experience,” says co-owner Flavia Barger, sourcing all ingredients directly from Brazil. Originally a way for Flavia to practice English after moving from Brazil with husband Nick, the business began with popular cheese puffs (pão de queijo) at farmers markets. Partner Yama Castilho helped launch their food truck, expanding the menu. In 2019, they opened a takeout stand at Pegula Ice Arena—perfect for families seeking hearty rice, beans, and meat during games or weekdays. Find the truck at summer events like Arts Fest and Bellefonte Arts Fest; delivery via Grubhub and Uber Eats available.
Must-Try at Brazilian Munchies
Steak and Yuca Fries (Best Seller - Meal): Grilled, thinly sliced premium beef with white rice, pinto beans, yucca fries, and farofa (toasted cassava flour).
Cheese Puff (Best Seller - Munchie): Brazilian cheese puff sandwich with cheddar, ham, or pulled pork.
Juana’s
- Address: 129 S Fraser St., State College, PA 16801
- Phone: (814) 996-4906
- Website: juanascuisine.com
Owner Adianez “Ady” Martinez honors her grandmother Juana’s legacy at this Venezuelan gem on Fraser Street. Trained blindfolded to identify spices, Ady infuses European and African influences into fresh, organic, same-day-prepared dishes made with love. “It’s my heart—I love the kitchen,” she says.
Must-Try at Juana’s
Pabellon (Best Seller - Meal): Crispy-yet-fluffy arepa stuffed with seasoned black beans, shredded queso fresco, sweet plantain, and protein like shredded beef stew, chicken stew, or marinated shark.
Cachapa (Ady’s Favorite): Sweet corn pancake filled with queso de mano.
Little Szechuan
- Address: 228 W. College Ave., State College, PA 16801
- Phone: (814) 308-9906
- Website: littleszechuanstatecollege.com
For bold, spicy Szechuan cuisine from southwestern China, visit Little Szechuan. Enjoy garlic-chili classics like Pork Dumpling in Hot Chili Oil and Kung Pao Chicken with Peanuts, plus Chinese-American favorites.
Kimchi
- Address: 1100 N. Atherton St., State College, PA 16803
- Phone: (814) 237-2096
- Website: kimchistatecollege.com
This spot celebrates Korea’s iconic fermented cabbage side dish with authentic fare like sizzling stone-bowl Bibimbap (rice, beef, veggies, fried egg) and Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles with veggies and protein). Every meal includes house-made kimchi.
