Expanding Culinary Horizons: Hitham Hiyajneh's Culinary Empire Reaches New Heights

Hitham Hiyajneh, the mastermind behind State College's beloved Yallah Taco and Yallah Chicken & Taco, is set to embark on an exciting new chapter of his culinary journey. With the upcoming opening of Yallah Chicken & Taco on North Atherton Street and the introduction of two distinct concepts at the Westerly Parkway Plaza, Hiyajneh is poised to bring his internationally-inspired flavors to an even wider audience.

Elevating the Dining Experience, One Bite at a Time

Yallah Chicken & Taco: Expanding the Flavor Frontier

Hiyajneh's latest venture, Yallah Chicken & Taco, will be the third Yallah location in State College, but it promises to offer a unique twist on the familiar taco and burrito fare. Situated at 1669 North Atherton Street, the new eatery will introduce a more diverse menu, including cheesesteaks, burgers, and wings, catering to the diverse tastes of the local community. By branching out beyond the downtown area, Hiyajneh aims to reach those who may not frequent the bustling city center, ensuring that his culinary creations are accessible to a broader audience.

Cluck and Catch: Bringing Southern Flair to Westerly Parkway

Hiyajneh's expansion plans extend beyond Yallah Chicken & Taco, as he and a partner have set their sights on the Westerly Parkway Plaza. Here, they will be opening not one, but two distinct concepts – Cluck and Catch. This new venture will offer a taste of the South, with a menu featuring Southern-style fried chicken, fish, rotisserie chicken, and a variety of delectable sides. Designed with a grab-and-go vibe, Cluck and Catch promises to cater to the on-the-go needs of the local community.

Silk Road: A Culinary Journey through the Centuries

Hiyajneh's second Westerly Parkway Plaza concept, Silk Road, promises to be a true culinary adventure. Departing from the fast-casual atmosphere of his other establishments, Silk Road will offer a more relaxed dining experience, featuring an international buffet showcasing the flavors of the Silk Road countries. Diners can expect to embark on a gastronomic journey, with a diverse array of Indian, Chinese, Persian, Mediterranean, and potentially even Vietnamese cuisine. Hiyajneh's commitment to quality over quantity and his innovative twists on classic dishes, such as swapping dinner rolls for Indian naan, will ensure that Silk Road becomes a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Shokupan: Breakfast Reimagined on Calder Way

While Hiyajneh's expansion plans are taking him beyond the downtown area, he remains dedicated to his roots in the heart of State College. Recently, he has opened Shokupan, a new food truck located behind his Yallah Taco location on College Avenue. Shokupan offers a wide variety of breakfast sandwiches, all served on the delightfully soft and fluffy Japanese milk bread, providing a unique twist on the traditional breakfast experience.

Pita Cabana Grill Express: Customizable Culinary Delights

Hiyajneh's culinary empire continues to evolve, as he has also introduced an express food cart in front of his Lebanese-inspired Pita Cabana Grill on College Avenue. This innovative concept allows customers to bring their own bag of chips or a plate and have it filled with a customizable selection of ingredients, all for a single flat price. This personalized dining experience caters to the diverse preferences of the local community, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying and tailored meal.

Dulce Luca Cafe: Indulging in Sweet Surprises

Hiyajneh's culinary ventures extend beyond his own establishments, as he has partnered with Eman Ahmed to operate Dulce Luca Cafe, located at 216 E. Calder Way. This cozy cafe has recently introduced a range of new and enticing offerings, including the mouthwatering pistachio konafa chocolate croissant, cake cans in flavors like banana pudding and pineapple, and customizable rice pudding. These delectable additions showcase Hiyajneh's commitment to continuously evolving and expanding the culinary options available to the State College community.As Hitham Hiyajneh continues to push the boundaries of the local dining scene, his unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and a global culinary perspective is evident in every new venture. From the diverse flavors of Yallah Chicken & Taco to the international buffet experience of Silk Road, and the personalized touches at Pita Cabana Grill Express, Hiyajneh's culinary empire is poised to captivate and delight the taste buds of State College residents and visitors alike.