Last updated: 2025-04-07
From the iconic Waffle Shop on College Avenue to Otto’s craft beer-paired brunches, State College’s brunch scene brings Happy Valley residents and Penn State visitors together for weekend traditions that go beyond game days.
Local favorites like Gigi’s Southern Table serve up farm-to-table comfort food, while The Gardens Restaurant offers elegant dining in a historic setting. The Federal Taphouse and The Tavern round out the diverse brunch options near campus.
Explore Happy Valley’s best brunch spots below!
Featured Brunch Spots in State College
- Gigi's Southern Table
- Lionne - The Nittany Lion Inn
- The Gardens Restaurant
- The Tavern Restaurant
- Otto's Pub and Brewery
- The Corner Room
- The Waffle Shop
- Federal Taphouse-State College
Federal Taphouse-State College
What to Expect
Scratch kitchen with chef-driven contemporary American brunch
Description
Federal Taphouse delivers a chef-driven brunch experience in downtown State College, focusing on scratch kitchen preparations. Their menu blends contemporary American cuisine with craft cocktails and unique beer selections. Known for innovative appetizers and entrees prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients, the restaurant offers a dynamic dining atmosphere that emphasizes culinary creativity and local flavors.
Where: State College | More Info: Federal Taphouse-State College
Gigi's Southern Table
What to Expect
Southern farm-to-table brunch with elegant wine wall and outdoor garden seating
Description
Gigi's Southern Table brings vibrant Southern cuisine to State College, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed brunch experience. Specializing in creative dishes like Fried Green Tomato Eggs Benedict and Southern-inspired starters, this farm-to-table restaurant delivers chic hospitality. Their brunch menu features locally sourced ingredients, complemented by an inviting atmosphere with an elegant wine wall and outdoor dining space.
Where: State College | More Info: Gigi's Southern Table
Lionne - The Nittany Lion Inn
What to Expect
French-American fusion brunch in historic Penn State landmark
Description
Nestled in the heart of State College, Lionne offers an innovative American brunch experience with French-inspired touches. Their signature French-American fusion dishes showcase creative culinary craftsmanship, featuring scratch-made specialties like elevated Eggs Benedict with local ingredients and artisan pastries. The restaurant provides an elegant yet approachable dining atmosphere within the historic Nittany Lion Inn, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated yet comfortable brunch experience.
Where: State College | More Info: Lionne - The Nittany Lion Inn
Otto's Pub and Brewery
What to Expect
Craft brewery with farm-to-table pub menu
Description
Otto's Pub and Brewery offers a craft beer-centric brunch experience in State College, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a rotating selection of house-brewed drafts. Weekend brunch highlights include hearty pub fare made with beef from their own A.V. Farms, complemented by vegetarian and gluten-free options. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for beer enthusiasts and food lovers seeking a relaxed dining experience.
Where: State College | More Info: Otto's Pub and Brewery
The Corner Room
What to Expect
Historic State College restaurant with Penn State roots
Description
The Corner Room serves classic American brunch in the heart of State College, with a rich history dating back to 1926. Their weekend brunch menu features hearty options like fluffy buttermilk pancakes and savory eggs benedict. The restaurant offers a cozy, historic atmosphere perfect for Penn State students and locals, with a casual dining experience that celebrates the university town's culinary tradition.
Where: State College | More Info: The Corner Room
The Gardens Restaurant
What to Expect
Award-winning Sunday brunch with locally sourced ingredients
Description
Located within the Penn Stater Hotel in State College, The Gardens Restaurant offers an award-winning Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sourcing fresh, local ingredients, this culinary destination provides a delightful morning feast featuring a sumptuous spread of gourmet dishes. The restaurant caters to both hotel guests and local diners, creating a warm and inviting dining experience with an emphasis on quality and flavor.
Where: State College | More Info: The Gardens Restaurant
The Tavern Restaurant
What to Expect
Historic downtown restaurant with 70+ years of culinary tradition
Description
A historic downtown State College institution since 1948, The Tavern Restaurant offers elevated American comfort food with a classic touch. While primarily known for dinner, they serve weekend brunch featuring hearty Southern-inspired dishes like crispy chicken and waffles, savory eggs benedict, and signature breakfast skillets. The restaurant's timeless ambiance and first-class service create a welcoming dining experience that blends traditional charm with contemporary culinary expertise.
Where: State College | More Info: The Tavern Restaurant
The Waffle Shop
What to Expect
Penn State campus breakfast destination with two strategic locations
Description
A Penn State landmark serving classic American breakfast and waffle specialties, The Original Waffle Shop delights students, alumni, and locals with its fresh, made-from-scratch comfort food. Known for generous portions of perfectly crisp waffles and hearty breakfast plates, this local institution offers two convenient locations in State College, capturing the heart of campus dining culture.
Where: State College | More Info: The Waffle Shop
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