Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs Moving in Downtown

Known for its historic Coney Island roots and annual hot dog eating competition, Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs will find a home in Happy Valley starting in the fall.

A sign in the window of the 404 East Calder Way storefront, the former location of Baja Fresh, indicates the arrival of the hot dog franchise and its frequent cobranding partner, Arthur Treacher’s Fish and Chips.

A representative from the Nathan’s Corporate Office confirmed that a store would be opening in State College by the start of fall semester but could not provide a specific date.

Casual Mexican restaurant Baja Fresh has been out of business since December 2012, following a wave of closings for the chain nation wide.

State College joins over 1,700 locations in 41 states and 17 countries to host a Nathan’s. Fast food seafood chain Arthur Treacher’s has approximately 45 stores in eight states.

New and old, Penn State students are excited by the news.

“I’m pretty excited. Nathan’s always reminds me of my childhood when I would take trips to Coney Island in the summer,” said senior Anthony Panichelli. “It will be a good addition to the diet of an ‘East Sider’ like me.”

“That is awesome news,” said freshman Aaron Weber. “I’m sure that place will do well with passing students who just want a hot dog on the way to class.”