Taste of the Town
When the newest members of Penn State’s football roster arrive in State College, their first order of business isn’t the playbook — it’s the menu.
From the bustling patio of Duffy’s Tavern, where wings and hot chili draw the attention of transfer‑portal standout Ben Brahmer, to the steak‑centric atmosphere of American Ale House, where Cooper Alexander orders lobster rolls, frites and a side of appetizers, the city’s eateries are quickly becoming extensions of the locker room.
Vaea Ikakoula and Ikenna Ezeogu gravitate toward The Field Burger and Tap, a spot that serves everything from the iconic Kraft’s Patty Melt to the indulgent Juicy Lucy, while Brock Riker balances his love of steak with cravings for quesadillas and enchiladas at Plaza Mexican Bar & Grill.
Other favorites include Yvan Kemajou’s regular stop at Tasty K for chicken and rice alongside a Chipotle visit, Carson Hansen’s devotion to American Ale House for jambalaya and bison burgers with sweet‑potato fries, and Alex Manske’s post‑golf tradition at The Field Burger and Tap.
James Peoples finds a home at Sakura, where hibachi plates and seafood boils have earned multiple visits, while Siale Taupaki and Armstrong Nnodim enjoy the low‑key vibe of Local Whiskey, a spot that also draws Cael Brezina, who often meets owner Scott there.
These culinary choices reflect more than just hunger; they illustrate how the team’s newcomers are weaving themselves into the fabric of State College, using food as a bridge between campus life and community connection.