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Paul Madrid

Owner/Chef

The son of a United States Marine Corps Officer, Paul Madrid spent his formative years moving around the country and the world.  However, he regards L.A. as his “hometown” where he fondly remembers family meals with both his Mexican and American grandparents and his mother's home cooking.  The fresh foods and family recipes are what he credits with sparking his passion and love of food.

After his academic studies at Penn State, Paul pursued apprenticeships in the culinary world which took him to Washington, DC.  It was there that he joined up with fellow restaurateurs and opened Town Hall and Sixth Engine.  Both restaurants received many accolades for their cuisine and atmosphere, including a feature on "G. Garvin’s Road Trip" and showcased recipes in cookbooks including "Mac & Cheese by Ellen Brown" for Paul’s signature goat mac n’ cheese dish.

After his success in Washington, DC, Paul and his wife moved back to State College to raise their two sons and daughter in the beautiful family-oriented environment of Happy Valley.  He continues to bring his national and international expertise, as well as his precision and professionalism to State College through his catering company Paul’s Provisions.

James Lanning

Service & Beverage Director

James Lanning began his career in the Marine Corps, stationed overseas multiple times for combat and humanitarian relief efforts.   After several years, he transitioned to the position of USMC recruiter in Austin, TX.

James quickly recognized his passion for the restaurant industry and began bouncing in local bars at night.  After 3 short years he became a restaurant manager and retired from the USMC.

Following his passion, he attended the Veteran’s Program at Cornell University to earn a certificate in entrepreneurship.  Currently he is continuing his postsecondary education at Penn State University while also working as the Service and Beverage Director of Paul’s Provisions and being a stay-at-home-dad to two wonderful and rambunctious boys.  His long-term goals include raising two valuable members of society while also owning a donut shop that serves tacos, burgers, pizza and craft beer.