5 Unique, Quirky and Local Dining Destinations to Visit in West Virginia
It’s no secret that West Virginia is jam-packed with delectable, unforgettable and local flavors. From sweet to savory, there is always a meal waiting to hit the spot you didn’t even know you had. Here are five dining destinations that can’t be missed on the journey to find your next favorite meal.
1. Cafe Appalachia
South Charleston, WV – With a slogan like “a greater purpose with every meal,” you can bet it will be delicious and go deeper than just the meal on the table. Cafe Appalachia serves up coffee, quiche and a warm side of support for the local community. Focused on farm-to-table and helping women through recovery, a five-star meal is guaranteed on your visit.
Nothing says a perfect day like shopping with a coffee in hand! After visiting Cafe Appalachia, head across the street to Plot Twist Books and find your next paper adventure. Don’t stop at book browsing, there are more treasures to be found down the street at South Charleston Antique Mall. You can’t miss Criel Mound, West Virginia’s second-largest Native American burial mound. Your day on D Street is bound to be one for the books.
2. Hillbilly Hotdogs
Lesage, WV – In the hills of West Virginia lies Hillbilly Hotdogs, home to the gourmet hotdog experience. Famously known for the “Homewrecker,” a 15-inch, one-pound hot dog, there is no excuse for leaving hungry. Along with the unique décor, you can find your seat inside an old school bus, which is sure to leave a lasting impression. While you’re there, stop by the Weddin’ Chapel and maybe even have a Weenie Weddin’!
If you want to take a leap of faith, hop on the next plane at West Virginia Skydivers. If extreme thrill isn’t your slaw on a hot dog, take a stroll down the holler to Ritter Park and Pullman Square. Sit back and relax at Marquee Cinema or try some craft therapy at Pottery Place. No matter the itch you may have, there’s something for ya!
3. Mountain State Brewing
Thomas, WV – If your stomach feels like it can’t take much more after the “Homewrecker,” sip your cares away at Mountain State Brewing. One of West Virginia’s oldest microbreweries: it’s so good that you can also find it in Morgantown, WV, and Bridgeport, WV. While grabbing a West Virginia brew, you might as well indulge in a wood-fired artisan flatbread pizza. Their freshest brews on tap make your dining experience feel like #AlmostHeaven.
The fun doesn’t stop there. Grab a seat and take in the sounds of The Purple Fiddle. With live music that feeds the soul, you’ll never want to leave. Take a deep breath in… and out at Bright Bear Yoga with experienced teachers you can trust. Balance out all that inner peace and musical bliss with a sweet stop at Macy Lou’s Gourmet Apple Company. You won’t leave Thomas, WV, the same, and we’re okay with that.
4. South Texas Barbecue Company
Weston, WV – Trying to head south? You won’t make it without stopping at “the best BBQ joint in the state!” South Texas Barbecue Company is bound to have a combination that’ll satisfy your taste buds. After perusing the menu, something award-winning is guaranteed to head your way. Whether it’s smoked, loaded or in taco form, it gets a standing ovation from us.
Feeling crazy? Take a fascinating 45-minute tour of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. If you’re not too afraid, dig deeper into the history of the Asylum on the 90-minute tour. If the eerie tour is a bit too stressful for your taste, grab a drink and tour MannCave Distilling. Before you head out, make sure to admire the beautiful greens at the Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course at Stonewall Resort. Remember your trip forever by snapping a picture at the Almost Heaven Swing at Stonewall Resort State Park.
5. Kitzie’s Restaurant and Lounge
Martinsburg, WV – Kitzie’s Restaurant and Lounge is the perfect place to call home. Its dining room atmosphere is the place for family and friends alike to enjoy a flavorful meal bound to create a connection. Only two hours outside of Baltimore and D.C., it has the American feel with an even better seafood taste. With two locations in Martinsburg, Kitzie’s takes the #1 place on the “need to try” list.
Savor the sweetness of berry-picking and local baked goods at Orr’s Family Market. Voted “best of the best,” delight your palate with homegrown greens and fresh-baked pies that leave you speechless. Hop on over to Black Draft Distillery to top off the tasty flavors of Martinsburg with bourbon crafted from local ingredients. Delectables aren’t the only attraction; Martinsburg Roundhouse is a staple of railroad history that dates back to the 1840s. It’s worth the trip as it’s the only cast iron-framed structure of its kind standing to this day!
Are you still hunting for your perfect meal? Find even more smooth and savory inspiration in our FREE West Virginia Vacation Guide.
Discover Flavorful FindsFind your flavor in #AlmostHeaven
This post was last updated on May 21, 2025