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Best Of State College 2022

Presenting The Results From You – Our Readers! Your Votes Through Our Online Survey Reveal The Area’s Best Of The Best.


Photo Illustration by Tracy Lee Miller

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & DRINKS

Best Appetizer
Best Soup
Best Sandwich
Best Place for a Business Lunch
Best Outdoor Dining
Best Seafood
Maine Bay & Berry

Founded in State College in August 2017, Maine Bay & Berry Co. brings fresh, sustainably sourced, seafood to the area along with an array of Maine products, including jams, syrups, sauces, pies, and wild blueberries. In addition to the wide variety of fresh fish, customers love the shop’s crab cakes and lobster rolls. www.mainebayandberry.com

 

Best Pancake or Waffle
Best Breakfast Place
Best Wait Service
The Original Waffle Shop

Founded in 1972, the Original Waffle Shop is a breakfast staple of State College. Owner John Dimakopoluous, originally from Greece, started the business in pursuit of the American Dream. Today, there are two locations: West College Avenue and North Atherton Street. www.originalwaffleshop.net

 

Best Salad
Fiddlehead

With dressings made daily in-house and fresh ingredients, Fiddlehead’s focus on salads makes it the best game in town. The location in downtown State College offers soups and grain bowls. www.fiddleheadstatecollege.com/

 

Best Sushi
Tadashi

Sushi enthusiasts love Tadashi. The two locations, on South Atherton and West College, offer different menu options including sushi and authentic Japanese cuisine for lunch and dinner. tadashijapanese.com/

 

Best Hot Sauce
Bonfatto’s Italian Market & Corner Café

Located in downtown Bellefonte, Bonfatto’s Italian Market & Corner Café opened its doors at the current location in 2000 but has been a staple in Bellefonte since 1919. The selection includes coffee, deli items, pastries, and the famous Bonanza sub. All ingredients are locally sourced or specialty imported. www.bonfattos.com/

 

Best Cup of Coffee
Best Coffee Shop
Rothrock Coffee

Rothrock opened its doors over the winter of 2015-16 serving Central Pennsylvania as a local coffee shop and roastery. With coffee subscription options as well as wholesale options, and their regular coffee shop, Rothrock has Happy Valley’s coffee needs covered. rothrockcoffee.com/

 

Best Artisan Bread
Gemelli Bakers

It’s no surprise that Gemelli Bakers once again takes the gold medal. The downtown State College bakery was founded and is run by native New Yorker, Tony Sapia. Sapia’s artisan breads, baked goods, cookies, granola, pies, cakes, and occasional wood fired pizza draw big lines at local farmers markets. www.facebook.com/gemellibakers/

 

Best Bagel
Irving’s

Irving’s offers breakfast, salads, sandwiches, smoothies, shakes, hot and cold drinks, and of course, an award-winning bagel. With varieties ranging from everything, sesame, poppy, onion, tomato basil, Asiago and more, the cafe menu at Irving’s has big appeal. www.irvingsstatecollege.com/

 

Best Burger
The Field Burger & Tap

In addition to its award-winning burgers, The Field Burger & Tap offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, beer and wine, plus desserts and a kids menu. Customers appreciate the commitment to fresh, local ingredients and unique and delicious options. www.thefieldburgerandtap.com/

 

Best Sub
Jersey Mike’s

As the slogan states and the gold medal demonstrates, Jersey Mike’s offers a sub above the rest. Jersey Mike’s currently has two locations in State College, on South Atherton and North Atherton, and offers a range of sandwiches from the Original Italian Sub to the Famous Philly Sub. www.jerseymikes.com/

 

Best Breakfast Sandwich
Bagel Crust

Bagel Crust delivered with their breakfast sandwich, winning the gold medal this year. From original favorites like the bacon, egg and cheese, to specialty sandwiches such as “The Hangover” and the “Big Al,” Bagel Crust is sure to have something for all breakfast aficionados. www.bagelcrust.com/

 

Best Pasta Dish
Best Pizza
Best Italian Cuisine
Faccia Luna

Coming in with more gold medals is Faccia Luna, this time for its pizza, pasta, and Italian cuisine selections. When it comes to Italian food, Faccia Luna is a long-time favorite. The menu includes a variety of traditional and specialty pizzas with a list of fresh toppings, perfectly paired with a salad or soup. www.faccialunastatecollege.com

 

Best French Fries
The Field Burger & Tap

The Field Burger & Tap has it on lock with the traditional burger and fries combo. With gold medals in both categories for consecutive years, The Field has proven once again it’s a favorite. Located at Toftrees Golf Resort, The Field uses locally sourced ingredients for its menu, which pairs well with craft beers and hand-spun milkshakes. www.thefieldburgerandtap.com/

 

Best Wings
Best Sports Bar
Best Beer Selections
Champs Sports Grill

Champs offers two locations, one downtown at South Allen Street, and the original at North Atherton Street. Aside from an excellent drink selection, both locations offer a variety of food and multiple TVs for game day gathering. Champs wings, which won the gold medal last year, too, are back in the top spot again this year. www.champssportsgrill.net

 

Best BBQ
BBQ by Clem

Back with another gold medal win this year, BBQ by Clem, a mobile food truck, continues to be a State College favorite. In addition to ribs, pulled pork and other meaty options, customers love other items like the nachos and macaroni salad. www.facebook.com/ClemsPub/

 

Best Cheesesteak
CC Peppers

Philadelphia may be three hours away, but CC Peppers is bringing its famous cheesesteak to Happy Valley. The business has been open for three decades and has won the gold medal honors in previous years, including last year. The menu offers cheesesteaks, chicken cheesesteaks, subs, salads, wraps, fries, and more. m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=117210924964495

 

Best Steak
Kelly’s Steak and Seafood

Kelly’s says it strives to serve consistent quality at a great value, and it’s hitting the mark with a gold medal win this year. Located in Boalsburg, just 10 minutes from downtown State College, Kelly’s is the premier steak and seafood restaurant in Happy Valley. kellyssteak.com/

 

Best Burrito
Best Mexican Cuisine
Plaza Mexican

Plaza Mexican brings authentic Mexican cuisine to State College, hence its perfect slogan “The Shortcut to Mexico.” The ample menu includes empanadas, tacos, burritos, carnitas, enchiladas, fajitas, chips and salsa, fresh-made guacamole, and more including vegan options. plazaazteca.com

 

Best Dessert
The Cakeshop by Tati

Based in Pleasant Gap, this unique bakery is owned and operated by two graduates of The Culinary Institute of America who honed their skills while working under top chefs in New York City – and it shows. The changing menu is updated on Facebook, but you’ll typically find a variety of croissants, muffins and more. www.thecakeshopbytati.com/

 

Best Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt
Penn State Berkey Creamery

A tried, true and Blue & White local favorite, the Berkey Creamery wins the gold for ice cream. A tradition for Penn Staters since 1865, the Creamery uses ingredients from local farmers and makes significant contributions to research and education programs. creamery.psu.edu/

 

Best Smoothie
Irving’s

Irving’s earns its second gold medal this year for its popular smoothies. These fruit-filled frozen treats come in a variety of flavors, from the traditional SOB (strawberry, orange juice, banana) to the unique, like the Going Green, which includes banana, mango, spinach, lemonade and coconut. www.irvingsstatecollege.com/

Best New Restaurant
Creekside at Gamble Mill

The much-anticipated reopening of the Gamble Mill has given locals and visitors to Happy Valley something to celebrate. With Chef Michael Marx at the helm, guests are treated to a local, seasonal menu built around his vast culinary experience around the country. To top off your meal, Creekside offers craft beers on tap, eclectic cocktails and a full wine list. www.creeksideatthegamblemill.com

 

Best Lunch Special
Local Whiskey

Don’t let the college town vibe fool you, Local Whiskey’s food menu is legit. From burgers and unique sandwiches and a variety of cheesesteaks to salads and an exceptional list of appetizers, Local Whiskey is a downtown dining favorite. www.localwhiskeybar.com

 

Best Vegetarian
Roots Natural Kitchen

Roots Natural Kitchen “strives to make healthy eating as accessible as possible,” says Larissa Caballero, director of advertising. “That means making great salads that people can get excited about. We’re thrilled State College thinks we’re doing a good job delivering on that promise.” The most popular salads include the El Jefe, the Pesto Caesar and the Mayweather. www.rootsnaturalkitchen.com

Best Brew Pub
Best Kid’s Menu
Best Local Craft Beers
Otto’s Pub & Brewery

Years after year Otto’s Pub & Brewery captures honors in the “Best Of State College” survey. Some of the brews are seasonal and others are year-round offers. There’s nothing like a local craft beer and Otto’s in the original. Enjoy a glass with a meal and take along the kids because there’s a special menu just for them. www.ottos-barrel.com

 

Best Asian Cuisine
Little Szechuan

A repeat “Best Of” selection, Little Szechuan offers a mix of classic fare in its extensive menu featuring meat and vegetarian dishes with delectable flavors. In addition, guests can choose from a soup and chili hot pot menu, casseroles and unique desserts. www.littleszechuanstatecollege.com

 

Best International Cuisine
India Pavilion

At India Pavilion, you’ll find delicious appetizers, soups and breads, and a variety of north Indian meat and vegetarian dishes. Guests may select the spiciness of each dish — mild, medium or hot — to suit their individual preferences. Check the house recommendations. India Pavilion also caters and is available for special events. www.indiapavilion.net

 

Best Outdoor Dining
Voodoo Brewery

There’s no better place to be on a beautiful day in Happy Valley than enjoying a beer outside at Voodoo Brewery. There’s also a cocktail menu and a food menu offered by neighboring Maine Bay & Berry. It’s a favorite spot
for friends and families looking to enjoy the outdoors over drinks and good food. www.voodoobrewery.com/locations/state-college

 

Best Fine Dining
Best Romantic Dining
Grace Restaurant at the Carnegie House

Grace Restaurant at the Carnegie House is synonymous with upscale dining. Executive Chef Paul Kendeffy, an award-winning chef and 1995 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, says his philosophy “is to provide a nourishing and comforting meal with the finest and freshest ingredients possible.” Guests will enjoy the impeccable ambiance as well as an exceptional meal. carnegiehouse.com/dining/

 

Best Buffet
College Buffet

Offering the best food at a great value, College Buffet is favorite for students and locals alike. Boasting food made “with love,” you’ll find a wide variety of flavors on the lunch and all-day menus. Guests can dine in or carry out with a convenient online ordering option. www.collegebuffet.com

 

Best Happy Hour
Best Bar for the Over 30 Crowd
Best Mixed Drink
Best Cocktail Menu
Big Spring Spirits

Big Spring Spirits is famous for its extensive cocktail menu and so much more. The beautiful space in Bellefonte overlooking Talleyrand Park has ample indoor seating in its tasting room and outdoors when weather permits. From classic to creative, the cocktail menu features seasonally inspired local ingredients. The tasting room also features food from Nomad Kitchen. www.bigspringspirits.com

Best Wine list
Allen Street Grill

In addition to one of the best views in town overlooking College Avenue, the Allen Street Grill has a carefully curated wine list. Offering wines from winemakers that value the health of their vineyards and soil, the finished products are not hindered by chemicals or synthetic yeast, resulting in exceptional flavor and expression. www.AllenStreetGrill.com

 

(Tied) Best Bottle Shop
Sharkie’s Bar & Thrifty Bottle Shop

Sharkie’s a favorite for its large selection of beer and wine and convenient downtown location. Stop into the bar or just pick up your beverage supplies from Sharkie’s helpful staff. www.Sharkiespsu.com

Photo by R Thomas Berner

Best Sunday Brunch
Best Bloody Mary
Hublersburg Inn

Being voted “Best Brunch” and “Best Bloody Mary” is “really exciting,” Hublersburg Inn owner Andi Heidt Biddle says. “I want to express how grateful we are to all of our customers who voted for us. We’ve been doing brunch for about three years now, and it just keeps getting better. Over the past summers since we expanded our patio, we’ve become a very popular brunch destination.” Hublersburg Inn, affectionately known as “Hubie,” has a Create-Your-Own-Bloody-Mary menu and $3 mimosas. This local gem has a historic, casual atmosphere with a lovely garden patio, Biddle says. For brunch, the Crab Cake Eggs Benedict is a favorite, as are the other “Bennies,” the Brulee House Waffle and the breakfast bowls. www.hublersburginn.com

 

Best Bartender
Melissa Mangan, Drinks by Design

Melissa Mangan’s Drinks by Design, LLC. is a certified bartender that provides peace of mind for any special event, function, or wedding. Melissa provides services for clients to allow them to enjoy their special day or event without having to worry about the bar. She takes care of it all with unlimited consultation to cover every last detail. www.facebook.com/drinksbydesignbartender/

STORES & SHOPPING

Best Grocery Store
(Tied) Best Bottle Shop
Wegmans

“Helping people live healthier, better lives through exceptional food” is the Wegmans mission statement and the grocery store is fulfilling it for State College shoppers. In addition to a broad selection, Wegmans offers vegan, gluten-free and international sections as well as pharmacy services and hot and pre-made food. www.wegmans.com

 

Best Organic Market
Nature’s Pantry

Nature’s Pantry is a popular stop for seekers of natural and organic food, and also sells vegetables, dairy products and grass-fed beef, as well as a large selection of plant-based items. The store also offers natural personal care items and a pet pantry. naturespantrypa.com/

Best Jewelry Store
Confer’s Jewelers

From its beginnings as a small family-owned jeweler in 1977 in Potters Mills, Confer’s Jewelers has earned a reputation for its alluring selection of jewelry and exceptional customer service and won the gold medal this year. Located in downtown Bellefonte, Confer’s is planning a move to a larger location on Bishop Street. www.confersjewelers.com/

 

Best Farmers Market
North Atherton Farmers Market

From May 11 through November 23, the North Atherton Farmers Market draws big crowds on Saturdays from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. The market requires that all vendors sell products that were produced, grown, or made by the vendors themselves. You’ll find a large selection of vegetables, fruits, meats and dairy, plus baked goods, pasta, wine, beer and more. www.nathertonmarket.com/

 

Best Local Clothing Store=
Helen Foxx & Co.

Four consecutive gold medals should be enough of a reason for every woman to drop by the store. Visit them in Bellefonte, which offers exquisite customer service and unique clothing. www.helenfoxxandco.com/

 

Best Bank or Credit Union
Penn State Federal Credit Union

Penn State Federal Credit Union offers savings and a variety of loan products along with digital services for you to do your banking from anywhere, anytime. PSFCU strives to provide the very best in customer service to meet your financial needs. Conveniently located in State College, Bellefonte and on Penn State University Park campus. www.pennstatefederal.com/

 

Best Spa/Jacuzzi Dealer
Tubbies

Serving the State College area since 1974, Tubbies is the area’s oldest spa shop. They carry a large selection of brands, with over 200 sets in store for browsing. Tubbies also offers home delivery. www.tubbies.biz/

 

Best Shoe Store
Rapid Transit

Locally-owned since 1984, Rapid Transit is THE place for sneakers if you are looking for the best fit for whatever activity or sport. Rapid Transit is known for exceptional customer service and you’ll also find a large selection of Penn State and athletic apparel and sports equipment as well. www.statecollege.com/business-directory/262302/
rapid-transit-sports/

 

Best Place to Buy a Gift
Best Customer Service
Your Cigar Den

From premium cigars to flasks, there’s a special gift for someone on your list at Your Cigar Den. The store is especially popular for graduation gifts and gifts for alumni who cherish their days in Happy Valley. Gifts, tobacco products and accessories, plus a BYOB smoking lounge with televisions and comfortable seating, make Your Cigar Den a hit, but customers also rave about the high-level customer service. Whether shopping for yourself or for someone else, Your Cigar Den will help you make the perfect purchase. www.yourcigarden.com/

 

Best Place to Buy A Christmas Tree
Tait Farm

A beautiful tree is a promise at Tait Farm, but that’s not all. The farm also offers gift collections, specialty foods and more to make your holiday season a little bit brighter. In warmer months, you’ll find fresh farm-grown herbs and vegetables. www.taitfarmfoods.com/

 

Best New Car Dealer
Bobby Rahal Honda

As a new and used Honda dealer, Bobby Rahal Honda also has a service and parts department as well as a reputation for exceptional customer service. Customers leave rave reviews for the dealership’s accommodating and trustworthy service. www.bobbyrahalhondaofstatecollege.com/

 

Best Used Car Dealer
Boalsburg Car Company

At Boalsburg Car Company, you can always count on friendly service, transparent pricing, and great ASE Technicians. Whether you’re buying or servicing a vehicle, you can expect a friends and family customer service experience. www.466cars.com/

 

(TIE) Best Motorcycle Dealer
Best Line Powersports
Track N’ Trail Honda Suzuki

Best Line Powersports offers customers Kawasaki ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles, as well as Indian motorcycles, Polaris ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles and Slingshots. Aside from their inventory, they offer parts and service at their three locations across Pennsylvania. www.bestlinepowersports.com/

When it comes to motorsport vehicles for the street, track, or trail, Track N’ Trail Honda Suzuki has over 800 units in stock. Their inventory includes motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, and side-by-side off-road vehicles. Located in Spring Mills. trackntrail.net/

 

Best Furniture Dealer
Capperella Furniture

Founded by two brothers in 1952 as a television and appliance retailer and service provider, Capperella has become an award-winning icon for furniture in Happy Valley. Located in Bellefonte, Capperella carries home furnishings, bedding, and flooring from leading manufacturers including Bassett, Best, Daniel’s Amish, Flexsteel, Norwalk, Smith Brothers, Serta, Simmons and Tempur-Pedic along with a low-price guarantee. www.capperella.com/

 

Best Car Wash
RedLine Speedshine

RedLine adds another gold medal to its consecutive first place awards for excellent offerings and service. From a self-detailing center to a dog-wash station, RedLine keeps your car and your puppy looking sleek and smelling fresh. www.redlinespeedshine.com/

Best Forist
Woodring’s Floral Gardens

Family owned and operated since 1922 Woodring’s Floral Gardens offers beautiful fresh flowers, arrangements, plants and gifts with delivery to Bellefonte, State College, University Park and the surrounding areas daily (except Sundays). You’ll find the perfect gift for any occasion.” www.woodringsfloral.com/

 

Best New Business
Monarch Salon

One of the area’s newest salons, Monarch has quickly become a favorite for exceptional quality and customer service. Located on Spring Street in downtown Bellefonte, Monarch offers cuts, styles, waxing and other beauty treatments. monarch-salonms.square.site/

 

Best Greenhouse
Sammis Greenhouse

Sammis Greenhouse is a family owned and operated business, located in Centre Hall, since 1992. Opening annually in mid-April, the entire greenhouse (about an acre) is full of plants from stunning hanging baskets, ornamental bedding plants, potted plants of all types and sizes, to colorful mixed planters, outstanding herbs and vegetables, succulents, and pond plants. sammisgreenhouse.com/

 

PLACES & EVENTS

Best Health Club/Gym
Climb Nittany

Climb Nittany offers a 12,000 square foot gymnasium with rock climbing, bouldering, lead and top-rope activities. A live-occupancy counter on the website will also show you how busy the facility is before you go. 5.life/climbnittany/

 

Best Massage
Best Spa
Artemis Massage Studio

Artemis has served Happy Valley since 2010 and currently employs 13 highly-trained massage therapists. They offer individual and couples massage, as well as various styles of massage, including Swedish, deep tissue, sports, Ashiatsu, myofascial release, prenatal, hot stone, Thai Yoga, and more. www.artemismassage.com/

 

Best Yoga Studio
Yoga Lab

Whether you’re new to yoga or a connoisseur, Yoga Lab has something for you. The studio embodies values such as science, functional movement, mindfulness, inclusion and sustainability. Class options offered are in-studio, virtual, or outdoor. www.statecollegeyogalab.com/

 

Best Hair Salon for Women
Best Manicure
Looks Hair Design

Serving downtown State College since 1974, Looks Hair Design is a full-service salon run by Penn State graduates, Joe Selego and Stacy Fix. The salon serves both men and women, and services include hair, nails, facials, waxing and lash and makeup. The salon accepts appointment bookings online or over the phone, whether you’re looking for a quick manicure or want to treat yourself to a new look. www.lookshairdesign.com/

 

Best Haircut for Men
Badger & Hound Barber Club

Located downtown, repeat gold medal winner Badger & Hound Barber Club offers “slick haircuts, flawless fades, smooth shaves, and killer products.” Haircuts start at $30 and can be booked by appointment only. www.badgerandhound.com/

 

Best Park
Tom Tudek Memorial Park

Multiple size-oriented dog parks as well as a butterfly garden, playground, basketball courts, tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields all make this park a great spot to spend an afternoon. www.twp.ferguson.pa.us/about/webforms/contact-us

 

Best Playground
Bernel Road Park

Children’s imaginations can run wild at this airport-themed park and playground near University Park Airport. The park also offer charcoal grills, an 18-hole disc golf course, drinking fountains, a pavilion, picnic tables, tennis/ pickleball courts and a walking path. crpr.recdesk.com/Community/Facility/Detail?facilityId=73

Best Place for Live Music
Tussey Mountain Amphitheater

When the slopes melt and the weather warms, Tussey Mountain becomes the go-to spot for entertainment in Happy Valley. Regular events like WingFests, Oktoberfest, and appearances by national touring acts bring the best live music to our area. Tussey’s beautiful setting offers views of Mount Nittany, picturesque sunsets, local concessions, and a family-friendly atmosphere. tusseymountain.com/amphitheater/

 

Best Private / Charter School
Grace Prep

Students at Grace Prep receive a grace-filled, biblical education in an environment that makes each day unique and learning enjoyable. Grace Prep believes that “God has a unique plan for each student’s life. That’s why we prep our students for college, trade school, family, ministry, the workforce and life.” www.graceprep.com/

Best Retirement Community
Foxdale Village Retirement Community

As a Quaker-directed association, this retirement community boasts around 350 residents who live either independently or with assisted care and skilled nursing. Serenity, contentment and personal growth are the qualities residents enjoy, along with incredible views of the surrounding mountains. www.foxdalevillage.org/

 

Best Fundraiser Not THON
Centre Gives – Centre Foundation

Since its inception in 2002, Centre Gives has raised $14.6 million and invested it back into the community. These funds have been allocated towards more than 200 non-profit organizations in the areas of arts, animals, education, environment, and health & social services. centregives.org/

 

Best Community Event
HavanaFest

If you’re looking for a taste of Latin-Caribbean heritage while in Happy Valley, check out HavanaFest. With food, entertainment, raffles, libations, imported cigars, as well as a group of people who “enjoy the finer things in life,” this festival is truly unique. www.havanafestpa.com/

 

Best Conference Center
The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center

Just minutes away from Penn State with more than 300 rooms, The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center is the perfect spot for business travelers or for an event. Full amenities are provided, including a 24-hour fitness center, two restaurants, and complimentary parking. thepennstaterhotel.psu.edu/

 

Best Community Space
Climb Nittany

Climb Nittany offers a 12,000 square foot gymnasium with rock climbing, bouldering, lead and top-rope activities. A live-occupancy counter on the website will also show you how busy the facility is before you go. 5.life/climbnittany/

BEST LOCAL THEATER GROUP
Blue Brick Theatre, Home of Happy Valley Improv

This improv comedy group stationed downtown at the Blue Brick Theatre hosts shows weekly on Friday nights at 7 p.m. With a vision of “building a robust improv comedy scene in State College,” the group wants the community to assist its mission. They have a BYOB policy and tickets can be purchased online. www.bluebricktheatre.com/

 

Best Museum / Gallery
Palmer Museum of Art

As the largest art exhibit between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and the largest academic art gallery in the state, the Palmer Museum of Art has a lot to show. A key element and cultural resource of Penn State stakeholders, the museum represents a lot more than artistry in Happy Valley. The museum, with free admission, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. palmermuseum.psu.edu/

 

Best Hiking Trail
Shingletown Gap

Located within Rothrock State Forest, the Shingletown Gap Trail offers gorgeous scenery on a non-difficult trail for hikers and mountain bikers alike. From reservoirs to landmarks such as Roaring Run, the Shingletown Gap Trail is perfect for casual or avid hikers who want to experience the stunning fall scenery of Happy Valley. pa
hikes.com/blogs/shingletown-gap

 

Best Place for After-School Activities
MindBodyArt

As the perfect place for after-school activities, MindBodyArt offers instruction in dance and musical theater, as well as a ninja challenge course, plus a regular after-school program. www.mindbodyartdance.com/

 

PEOPLE & SERVICES

Best Doctor
Rodney M. Sepich, Foxdale Village

Dr. Sepich won the gold medal honors last year, and the 1988 Penn State graduate said, “This success comes not from an individual’s work, but rather through teamwork ranging from our medical team to all who assist our patients via the back office.” Another win for a true team effort. nittanyvalleymed.com/

 

Best Veterinarian
Halfmoon Valley Animal Hospital

Dr. Jeffery Miller of Halfmoon Valley Animal Hospital is now an 8-time winner. Dr. Miller said, “I couldn’t be more proud of our staff and the service we provide. The real satisfaction comes in knowing that we are continuing to do the type of work and provide the type of care to our patients and their owners that earns the level of respect and loyalty that compels them to vote for us.” Karen Miller, owner, “We are once again both humbled and extremely grateful to have been chosen ‘Best Veterinarian’ in the area. These last two years have been anything but normal; our staff has gone above and beyond to provide “Gold” level service and I couldn’t be more proud of them,” says. www.facebook.com/halfmoonvalley/

 

Best Dentist
April Detar, Dentistry by April Detar

April Detar strives to make visiting the dentist a stress-free experience with a focus on patient care. A repeat gold medal winner, it’s clear her patients appreciate her approach. www.dentistrybyaprildetar.com/

 

Best Eye Doctor
Michael J. Cymbor, OD, Nittany Eye Associates

Earning his B.S. from Gannon University and his O.D. from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry, Dr. Cymbor specializes in glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, lasik, PRK, keratoconus, dry eye, ocular disease, and specialty contact lenses. nittanyeye.com/

 

Best Audiologist
Bethaney Tessitore, Au.D., Albrecht Audiology

Twenty years of service and countless patient testimonials prove that Albrecht Audiology’s Dr. Bethany Tessitore is changing lives with her care. A patient said thanks to Dr. Tessitore her “days are alive with the sounds she had been missing for years.” www.albrechtaudiology.com/

 

Best Chiropractor
Jeff Scipione, Integrative Health Care Associates

Since becoming head of the practice in 2019, Jeff Scipione has demonstrated his expertise in the field of applied kinesiology. Serving patients of all ages, Jeff and his team at Integrated Health Care Associates are able to care for a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions. His dedication to determining the source of pain, correcting it and preventing it are among the reasons he takes the gold medal this year. www.statecollegechiropractic.com/

Best Massage Therapist
Karen Stoner LMT, A Caring Touch: Massage Therapy

Karen Stoner, LMT has been practicing massage therapy in the State College area since 2003. She specializes in Prenatal and Infant Massage, as well as Infant Massage Instruction for parents and caregivers. In addition, Karen also provides massage therapy for anyone with injuries, chronic pain, or just needs to relax. www.massagebook.com/State_College~Massage~karen-stoner-lmt

 

Best Yoga Instructor
Anna Engels, Yoga Lab

Co-Founder of Yoga Lab Studio, Anna Engels is also the creator of Sunny Get Up, a sustainable yoga-apparel company. She has a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, and combines this background with expertise in anatomy and functional movement to create a unique and intelligent workout. www.annaengels.com/

 

Best Personal Trainer
Adam Goldberg, MBI Fitness

Adam Goldberg attended Penn State then became certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) as a personal trainer and corrective exercise specialist. He is also certified by the Titleist Performance Institute in Level 1 and 2 fitness, and a mobility specialist in Functional Range Conditioning and Kinstretch. www.mbifitness.com/fitness-professionals

 

Best Hairstylist
Madison Domanick, Monarch Salon

Madison has quickly become a favorite since Monarch Salon opened in Bellefonte providing excellent beauty treatments and high-level customer service. monarch-salonms.square.site/

 

Best Broadcast Personality
Jeff Brown, 99.5 The Bus

“If there’s a perfect voice for radio, Jeff Brown has it.” Jeff has been working in radio for decades and is now an iconic voice in Happy Valley, making listeners smile every morning and lending his name and voice to many local charitable causes and events.

 

Best Barber
Eddie Fisher, Badger and Hound Barber Club

With Badger and Hound Barber Club sweeping the category, it’s only right to congratulate all three winning barbers. If you want to check it out, book a month in advance as all three barbers are in high demand. www.badgerandhound.com/

 

Best Caterer
Laura’s Home Cooking

With more than 50 years of experience, Laura and Dani Sogor bring the State College area decades of expertise in the culinary arts. With consecutive awards and nominations since 2016, it’s evident that Laura’s Home Cooking is a true favorite in Happy Valley. www.laurashomecooking.com/

 

Best Remodeling/Home Contractor
Remodelers Workshop

Located in Bellefonte, Remodelers Workshop Inc. is a full-service kitchen, bath and remodeling specialist. Showroom and design services illustrate how your renovation will look so you know exactly what to expect. remodelersworkshop.com/

 

Best Flooring
America’s Carpet Outlet

As a locally owned and operated business, the staff at America’s Carpet Outlet on North Atherton Street have the community and their flooring needs covered. Whether you’re looking for hardwood, vinyl, tile, area rugs, or more, the team at America’s Carpet Outlet can help you find the best option to meet your needs. americascarpet
outletinc.com/

 

Best Landscaper/Lawn Care Company
Scott’s Landscaping

With four gold medals since 2017, as well as a bronze medal in 2018, Scott’s Landscaping is there to plan your project, care for your property, and bring your vision to life. www.scottslandscapinginc.com/

 

Best Photographer
Central PA 360 Virtual Tours

Central PA 360 Virtual Tours provides consumers with in-depth tours of properties as well as detailed photography. Interactive media allows them to utilize both 360 degree panoramas as well as comprehensive photography to bring the consumer an up-close tour of a property online. www.centralpa360.com/

 

Best Realtor
Annette Yorks, Perry Wellington Realty

The Annette Yorks Group, a part of Perry Wellington Realty, serves 12 boroughs in areas from Bald Eagle to Patton Township. The group is Boutique by design, a close-knit group of experienced brokers and agents who work together to achieve the best outcomes for its clients. They assist in buying or selling a home, market analysis, showing listings in the area, and more. Their website offers a free market report to help you get started. www.annetteyorks.com/

 

Best Auto Repair
Boalsburg Car Company

At Boalsburg Car Company, you can always count on friendly service, transparent pricing, and great ASE Technicians. Whether you’re buying or servicing a vehicle, you can expect a friends and family customer service experience. www.466cars.com/

 


Best Artist
Joshua Kunkel, Ikonic Tattoo

Current owner of Ikonic Tattoo Joshua Kunkle specializes in traditional, cartoon and Japanese designs, but his expertise allows him to tackle any style a customer is seeking. Joshua has more than 15 years of experience with tattoo artistry, ensuring every customer leaves with an “ikonic” look. The store has five locations across the East Coast, with Joshua’s branch located in Downtown State College. www.ikonictattoo.com/

 

Best Local Band/Musician
Velveeta

What began in 1995 as a side project by a group of heterogeneous musicians trying to play cheesy 80s music has evolved into something much bigger. Velveeta is a local staple at bars, parties, weddings, corporate events and more. www.80scheese.com/

 

Best DJ
Eric Stoner, Nittany Entertainment

As a veteran DJ and event planner with almost 30 years of experience, Eric Stoner is a favorite when it comes to event entertainment. Stoner graduated from Penn State in the late 90s and around the same time, started his DJ business. www.nittanyentertainment.com/

2 responses to “Best Of State College 2022”

  1. Donald L Ace says:

    Best retirement -the Village at Penn State

    • tmiller@statecollegemagazine.com says:

      Hello Mr. Ace,
      Thank you for your comment on the Best of State College 2022 article. Did you wish to vote for The Village as “Best Retirement Community”? While I cannot submit a vote on your behalf, here is the direct link to this year’s Best Of Reader Survey to make sure you have the opportunity to have your vote counted: www.surveymonkey.com/r/3SSNRM3. You do not have to fill in the entire survey – simply vote for your favorite categories! Have fun, and good luck to your favorites!

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