Indian Restaurant Chain to Open Downtown State College Location

A fast-casual Indian restaurant chain is planning to open its first Centre County location in a downtown State College high-rise.

Tikka Shack Indian Grub has signed a lease for space in oLiv Hetzel, the 12-story building at 448 E. College Ave., according to Kandy Weader of Bennet Williams, the commercial real estate agent for the property.

Weader told StateCollege.com she expects the franchise location to open later this year. It will join Big Chicken, the fast casual chain founded by Shaquille O’Neal, which is planning to open a franchise location on the ground floor of oLiv Hetzel this fall.

Tikka Shack currently has nearly 20 locations in eight states, including four in Pennsylvania, with the nearest to State College being in Mechanicsburg.

Its restaurants offer grill meals such as kabob bowls, tikka wraps and biryani rice bowls with chicken or paneer tikka, spicy chicken or lamb; vegetarian bowls with basmati rice and a variety of curry bowls with paneer, chicken, lamb, shrimp or veggies.

They also serve a selection of naan tacos and pizza, starters such as samosas, masala fries and veggie cutlets and a kids menu.

“Both the dining environment and the menu have been carefully curated to captivate our guests with the aromatic flavors of India through the artful creation of blended spices,” according to the company’s website. “Our lineup of menu offerings provides a variety of traditional Indian dishes, as well as simplified pairings, offering options for both the newbie foodie and the curry connoisseur.”

Tikka Shack also offers catering and has a rewards program.

Location hours vary, but most are open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. or later.