West Virginia isn’t just about mountain views and winding country roads. It’s a place where dinner can be as wild as the landscape. I’ve eaten trout pulled straight from an Appalachian stream, sat in a 1920s train car rolling through the New River Gorge, and had a five-course meal inside a former coal company store where the chef told stories between courses. In small towns you’ll find century-old diners serving pepperoni rolls like they’re sacred, while tucked-away lodges bring out venison with moonshine glazes that taste like pure Appalachia. These 11 spots are the kind of restaurants that will put West Virginia’s country roads on the map for all.
👉 Pro Tip: The Ghost Walk Through Historic Fayetteville is a must for history buffs and thrill-seekers! You’ll hear spooky stories, explore haunted spots, and learn about the city’s fascinating past. Grab dinner at a local spot like Pies & Pints before the tour to fuel up – it’s a great way to combine Fayetteville’s food scene with its ghostly charm.
Unusual places to eat in WV
Ready to explore the best eateries in West Virginia? From a charming vegan spot in Harpers Ferry to a vibrant restaurant celebrating basketball legend Jerry West, West Virginia is a paradise for foodies. Join me as we uncover the most unique restaurants in WV.
1. Hillbilly Hot Dogs
- 📍 Location: Lesage
- 💲 Price range: $5 – $15 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Hot Dogs / Eclectic
- 🔥 Standout Features: Whimsical school bus setting, over-the-top hot dog creations, quirky roadside vibe.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Hot dog lovers, road trip diners, and fans of kitschy Americana.
Yeehaw, y’all! Get ready to pig out at Hillbilly Hot Dogs, a legendary roadside shack in Lesage that’s as much an experience as it is a place to eat! Housed in colorfully decorated old school buses and shacks, this place is a glorious explosion of hillbilly kitsch.
You should definitely try the Home Wrecker, a massive 15-inch hot dog piled high with toppings. The Pine-Appalachian Dog with crushed pineapple and chili sauce, or the classic Hillbilly Dog with chili and slaw, are also fantastic. It’s pure, down-home fun!
2. Black Sheep
If you’re craving creative tacos, Appalachian comfort food, and fresh margaritas, Black Sheep in Charleston is a slam dunk. The vibe is funky and artsy—graffiti walls, skateboard decks, and a cozy back patio set the tone. The blackened catfish tacos and pulled pork nachos make a dream combo, and their Mean Green Margarita is a must. Located in Charleston’s bustling downtown, it’s perfect for a relaxed lunch before exploring the Capitol Market or strolling along the Kanawha River. The energy is always friendly and laid-back, making it easy to strike up conversations with fellow diners.
3. Karubees Jamaican Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Charleston
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Jamaican / Caribbean
- 🔥 Standout Features: Caribbean island decor, flavorful jerk chicken, authentic Jamaican stews.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Spice lovers, Caribbean food fans, and casual island-style dining.
Get ready to feel the rhythm and spice at Karubees Jamaican Restaurant! This Charleston gem is serving up a legit taste of the islands that’ll transport you straight to Montego Bay. The aroma of jerk spices and simmering curries will hit you the moment you walk in.
Devouring their incredible jerk chicken, smoky and spicy, is a must. The rich and flavorful oxtail stew, or the tender curry goat served with rice and peas, are also highly recommended. Wash it all down with a Ting or a Red Stripe!
4. Pho U & Mi
This spot in Huntington nails Vietnamese comfort food like nowhere else in West Virginia. The broth in the beef pho is slow-simmered and packed with flavor, and the banh mi (try the grilled pork) explodes with crunchy, tangy goodness. It’s a chill space with exposed brick and big windows perfect for people-watching. The staff are passionate and happy to suggest something you’ll love, even if you’re new to pho. Grab a table by the window! Every time I stop in, I’m reminded how awesome it is to find authentic global eats tucked in small town WV.
5. Secret Sandwich Society
- 📍 Location: Fayetteville (also Charleston)
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Gourmet Sandwiches / American
- 🔥 Standout Features: Inventive sandwich combos, house-made pimento cheese, casual speakeasy vibe.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Sandwich enthusiasts, creative comfort food fans, and laid-back diners.
Psst… wanna know a secret? Secret Sandwich Society is crafting some of the most mind-blowingly awesome sandwiches you’ll ever sink your teeth into! This Fayetteville favorite takes the humble sandwich to a whole new level with inventive combinations and top-notch ingredients.
Trying the McKinley Mac, a glorious mess of roast beef, caramelized onions, and mac & cheese on grilled sourdough, is essential. The “Truman” with pimento cheese, bacon, and fried green tomatoes, or the “Hoover” with meatloaf and provolone, are also legendary.
6. Lost & Found Pizza & Provisions
Lost & Found feels like a pizza pop-up in Brooklyn dropped into wild, beautiful Mathias. Their wood-fired pies have the dreamiest chew, and the menu changes with the seasons. The Hot Honey Pepperoni and the Ramp & Ricotta pizzas are wild. The bar slings creative cocktails and local brews you won’t find everywhere. The warm, hipster-light vibe makes it perfect for date night or post-adventure carbing up. I love grabbing a seat at their countertop to watch dough being hand-stretched, and their playlist is always spot-on. Afterwards, take a stroll behind the shops to glimpse epic river views.
7. Bahnhof Wvrsthaus & Biergarten
- 📍 Location: Huntington
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: German / European
- 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic German sausages, beer hall atmosphere, wide beer selection.
- 🎯 Perfect For: German cuisine lovers, group outings, and beer enthusiasts.
Prost! Get ready to raise a stein and chow down on serious German goodness at Bahnhof Wvrsthaus & Biergarten in Huntington! This place is a full-on celebration of Bavarian culture, from the traditional sausages to the massive beer list. The air is filled with grilled bratwurst.
Ordering their classic bratwurst with sauerkraut and German mustard is a must. The crispy schnitzel (pork or chicken), or a giant soft pretzel with beer cheese, are also fantastic choices. It’s like Oktoberfest all year round!
8. Iron Horse Tavern
With its industrial-chic decor and massive beer list, Iron Horse Tavern is a crowd-pleaser in Morgantown. It’s heaven for fans of local microbrews (try the Morgantown Blonde) and creative American eats. Order the Chicken & Waffles or their wild-foraged mushroom flatbread – you will not regret it. The vibe is warm and buzzy, with exposed brick, murals, and an open kitchen. Great for groups or solo, plus it sits on High Street, handy if you want to wander around WVU’s campus after your meal. I always end up discovering something new on their rotating taps.
9. The Forks
- 📍 Location: Elkins (The Forks Inn)
- 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale American / Farm-to-Table
- 🔥 Standout Features: Mountain views, locally sourced seasonal dishes, upscale rustic setting.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Foodies, special occasions, and scenic fine dining.
Prepare for a dining experience with a view as breathtaking as the food at The Forks! Nestled in the mountains near Elkins, this spot offers upscale American cuisine with a strong focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The panoramic vistas are simply stunning.
Their menu changes with the seasons. Expect beautifully plated dishes like pan-seared trout with local vegetables, a perfectly cooked local beef tenderloin, or inventive pasta dishes featuring foraged mushrooms. It’s where rustic charm meets culinary artistry.
10. Stardust Cafe
Set in a historic brick building in Lewisburg, Stardust Cafe delivers farm-fresh flavor in style. The space oozes vintage-romantic charm, with twinkle lights, original art, and gorgeous window seats overlooking the town. The Apple Brie Panini is a must, and their Wild Mushroom Ravioli is the definition of comfort. They’re passionate about local ingredients and thoughtful plating – every dish is an Instagrammable moment. Don’t miss their house-made sangria. I love popping in for a leisurely lunch before a stroll through the charming shops and galleries on Washington Street.
11. Kelley Farm Kitchen
- 📍 Location: Harpers Ferry
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vegan / Plant-Based Comfort Food
- 🔥 Standout Features: 100% plant-based menu, vegan comfort food.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Vegans, health-conscious diners, and plant-curious eaters.
Get ready to have your mind blown by the power of plants at Kelley Farm Kitchen! This charming spot near Harpers Ferry is serving up 100% vegan comfort food that’s so good, you won’t even miss the meat. The rustic, farm-to-table vibe is super welcoming.
Trying their hearty vegan burgers, like the “Farmhouse Burger” with all the fixings, is a great idea. Creamy cashew mac and cheese, or their incredible plant-based Reuben sandwich with house-made seitan, are also fantastic. It’s a must-visit for delicious food.
12. Sumthin’ Good Soul Food
Down-home doesn’t even begin to describe Sumthin’ Good Soul Food in South Charleston—it feels like you’re eating straight out of someone’s family kitchen. The fried chicken is hands-down legendary, with an unbelievably crisp skin and juicy meat, while the collard greens and candied yams are pure comfort. The space has retro diner vibes, with bright booths and Motown on the speakers. Service is always genuine, and portions are massive, so bring an appetite or a friend. I’ve even gone out of my way just to get their sweet potato pie again. After you feast, explore nearby shops or take a stroll along the Kanawha River.
13. Jim’s Steak & Spaghetti House
- 📍 Location: Huntington
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American / Diner
- 🔥 Standout Features: Longtime local diner, famous spaghetti and pies.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Classic comfort food fans, families, and nostalgic dining.
Step back in time at Jim’s Steak & Spaghetti House, a Huntington institution serving classic American comfort food since 1938! This beloved spot is famous for its simple, satisfying spaghetti with meat sauce and its incredible array of homemade pies.
The strawberry pie, when in season, is legendary. A classic T-bone steak dinner, or their simple but perfect cheeseburger, are also popular choices. It’s not fancy, but it’s packed with history and local love. For a hearty, nostalgic meal, Jim’s is the place.
14. Public Market
Think farmer’s market meets foodie haven at Public Market in Wheeling. Here you’ll find salads with local microgreens, breakfast sammies on house-baked bread, and lattes made with West Virginia maple syrup. The whole place feels lush and bright, with tons of reclaimed wood and leafy plants. It’s a hit for quick lunches, remote work, or snagging specialty groceries. Don’t skip their sunrise bowl or Pastrami Reuben. I love grabbing a spot near the window to watch city life go by. The adjacent Centre Market historic district is filled with antique shops and galleries.
15. El Gran Sabor
- 📍 Location: Elkins
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Venezuelan / Latin American
- 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Venezuelan arepas, empanadas, and vibrant Latin flavors.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Latin American cuisine fans, casual diners, and adventurous eaters.
Get ready for a flavor fiesta at El Gran Sabor in Elkins! This vibrant spot is bringing the delicious, authentic tastes of Venezuela to the mountains of West Virginia. The aroma of cornmeal and savory fillings will make your mouth water.
Trying their amazing arepas, stuffed with everything from shredded beef (carne mechada) to black beans and cheese, is a must. Their crispy, savory empanadas (beef or chicken), or the pabellon criollo (Venezuela’s national dish), are also fantastic.
16. Tudor’s Biscuit World
If you haven’t had a Tudor’s biscuit, are you really from West Virginia? These biscuits are the stuff of legend – buttery, flaky, thick as your fist. My go-to is the Peppi, stacked with pepperoni, egg, and melty cheese. The vibe is friendly, no-nonsense diner – perfect for fueling a mountain day. Tudor’s is everywhere, but it truly hits different after a cold morning on the trail. A personal tip: order a side of gravy for dipping, and thank me later. Check out nearby hiking spots or local flea markets after breakfast.
17. Yen’s Sandwiches
- 📍 Location: South Charleston
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $15 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vietnamese / Banh Mi
- 🔥 Standout Features: Traditional banh mi, fresh Vietnamese ingredients, fast and affordable.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Banh mi lovers, quick lunches, and budget-friendly flavor seekers.
For a quick, cheap, and incredibly flavorful bite in Morgantown, you can’t beat Yen’s Sandwiches! This spot is slinging some seriously good, authentic Vietnamese banh mi that’ll knock your socks off. Think crusty baguettes packed with savory grilled meats and fresh herbs.
The grilled pork banh mi is a winner. Their pho bo (beef noodle soup) is also a comforting and delicious option, as is the lemongrass chicken banh mi. It’s no-frills, just pure, delicious Vietnamese street food perfect for a satisfying lunch.
18. Cathedral Cafe
Housed in a repurposed church in charming Fayetteville, Cathedral Cafe is a spiritual experience for brunch lovers. Huge stained glass windows, mismatched cozy couches, and the scent of fresh-baked bread make it impossible not to linger. The bagel breakfast sandwiches are legendary, and their fresh fruit smoothies are perfect fuel for an outdoor day. Art from local creatives lines the walls for a true community feel. I always find myself leafing through a secondhand book from the foyer bookshelf. Right outside, you’re steps from Court Street’s rock shops and outfitters.
19. Prime 44 West
- 📍 Location: White Sulphur Springs (The Greenbrier)
- 💲 Price range: $75 – $150+ per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Steakhouse / American
- 🔥 Standout Features: Premium steaks and seafood, luxury resort setting, Jerry West tribute.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Special occasions, fine dining, and steak connoisseurs.
Prepare for a slam dunk of a dining experience at Prime 44 West, the upscale steakhouse at the legendary Greenbrier resort, paying homage to NBA icon Jerry West. This place is pure elegance and sophistication, from the decor to the impeccable service.
Ordering their perfectly cooked prime steaks, like a bone-in ribeye or a porterhouse for two, is highly recommended. The rich lobster mac and cheese, or a classic shrimp cocktail to start, are also excellent choices. It’s a splurge for a luxurious meal.
20. Lola’s Pizza
Perched on a leafy hillside in Charleston’s South Hills, Lola’s Pizza is the neighborhood hangout you never want to leave. Neapolitan-style pies star local produce and clever weekly specials (fig and prosciutto, anyone?). The signature White Pizza absolutely rocks, as does the house sangria. Sit on their tree-lit patio for serious “secret garden” vibes in summer – but the cozy dining room is just as welcoming. I once split three different pies here because picking just one was impossible. It’s a quick drive from downtown Charleston shops and the riverside parks.
21. The Handle Bar + Kitchen
- 📍 Location: Davis (Blackwater Bikes)
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Gastropub / Craft Beer
- 🔥 Standout Features: Bike shop setting, local craft beers, elevated pub food.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Outdoor adventurers, casual pub meals, and beer lovers.
Gear up for good times at The Handle Bar + Kitchen, uniquely located inside Blackwater Bikes in the vibrant mountain town of Davis! This spot is a haven for outdoor adventurers and craft beer lovers, offering a fantastic selection of local brews and creative, elevated pub fare.
After a day on the trails, refuel with their awesome burgers, like the “Handle Bar Classic.” Unique tacos, such as the pork belly or fish tacos, or their loaded poutine, are also popular choices. The vibe is super laid-back and friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the quirkiest restaurants in West Virginia
Are you searching for more information about where to eat in West Virginia? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about West Virginia’s most unique restaurants.
What food is West Virginia known for?
West Virginia is famous for its pepperoni rolls. They’re a tasty, convenient snack that miners traditionally took underground for their meals
What is the most interesting thing about West Virginia?
The most interesting thing about West Virginia has to be the New River Gorge Bridge. It’s one of the longest steel spans in the world and hosts an annual base jumping event. Visiting this spot is one of the top things to do in West Virginia.
Is Charleston a foodie city?
Yes, Charleston is definitely a foodie city. It has a growing scene with diverse restaurants, making it one of the top places to live and visit in West Virginia. You’ll find everything from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative, modern dishes.
What is one weird fact about West Virginia?
One weird fact about West Virginia is that it’s the only state formed by separating from a Confederate state during the Civil War. It’s a unique birth story not shared by any other state.
