Like many Beaver residents born and raised in our historical town, I am a Beaver aficionado.

While living here my whole life, I have seen the comings and goings of many restaurants and eateries alike such as the restaurant that Gordon Ramsey “saved” (Levanti’s—which is currently at rest) and Peace Love and Little Donuts’ brief life on main street.

The idea for this article came to me as my besties and I walked Third Street. After going to Mario’s for the first time (I know, shocking), I realized the beauty of the dining options in our cute town.

Not to sound like the food critic from Ratatouille (#Kayla’s fav movie), I am a food lover (hopefully, that’s not obvious).

After two food-related incidents in the area like the infamous Beaver Area swim team food poisoning incident of 2025 and the Waffles Incaffeinated Nastiness Incident in Pittsburgh, I feel it's all the more important to appreciate the good in food and the happiness it brings people.

Without further ado, I would like to start with my all-time favorite: China House.

China House changed my life when I first tried the orange chicken and white rice.

Combining American tastes with authentic Chinese foods (I know orange chicken is not from China) China House provides AMAZING food for cheap prices. Some of my favs include crab rangoon, spring rolls (HEAVY on the spring rolls), and the orange chicken (obvs).

Overall, China House receives a 10/10 on the Munch Scale™ (trademarked by me).

Next, my second favorite is the Hot Dog Shoppe, a trusty and tasty joint.

Now I know Hot Dog Shoppe is technically located in Vanport, but it's right on the border so I still consider it a Beaver Eatery™ (another one of my trademarks).

Hot Dog Shoppe is an old head oasis where young people like yours truly get to bask in the wisdom of some delish cheap food. Hot Dog Shoppe provides the classic diner feel (although not a diner) with comfy booths and classic American foods.

Despite the restaurant’s name, my personal favs are a cheeseburger with onions and cheese fries.

Overall, Hot Dog Shoppe receives 8.5/10 munches.

Our next stop in the Beaver Eats Appreciation Tour ™ (once again my trademark) is Sprouts.

I have recently become a Sprout Head. I Love Sprouts (capital L—sorry swim team)!

The atmosphere with the cute plant decor and the nice employees makes me feel like Rory Gilmore from Gilmore Girls. When I take a bite into my Clubhouse wrap I can hear the iconic Stars Hollow lalalalala’s.

With hefty wraps and free chips, what's not to love?

I give Sprouts 9/10 munches.

Now as stated at the beginning of the article, I was recently a newbie at Mario’s. What took me so long? In Mario’s I have found delicious pizza and the best pasta I have ever had.

My favs, being the only two things I've ordered there so far, are the house favorites: pasta alla vodka and the margarita pizza.

Although the food is unforgettable, the prices (I am unfortunately unemployed) and the wait time put me at odds. A wise man once said, “good things come to those who wait,” so maybe waiting a few more minutes for heavenly Italian cuisine is what sets Mario’s apart.

Overall Mario’s receives 8/10 on the Munch Scale.

Some honorable mentions include Waffles Inc., a breakfast breakout, and Yama, one senior’s favorite Beaver Eatery.

Waffles Inc. is famous in my household for the chicken and waffles, a truly delectable dish. I dream of the home-style fries (although I wouldn’t call them fries).

Beaver expert and senior Charlotte Schultz’s favorite Beaver eatery is Yama. Ask her about it and watch her eyes light up.

Reportedly, Yama is known for its stir-fried udon, although I have not yet eaten there.

I love my little town (although the lack of main street parking is irritating). Take some time to appreciate these and the several other delish Beaver eateries!