The food scene in West Virginia is an integral part of Almost Heaven’s culture. While you’re driving between the bustling small towns, you will notice a handful of charming local businesses – including roadside diners. While we have our fair share of fine-dining spots, including James Beard award-winning Chef Paul Smith’s 1010 Bridge – sometimes we crave a different fare on our road trips.
If you get hungry along your journey, grab a quick bite at these six roadside diners scattered throughout the Mountain State. Drive and dine like never before at these spots serving up casual bites and nostalgia in West Virginia.
Burger Carte
Smithers, West Virginia
A drive through the Fayette County town of Smithers along Virginia Avenue is always scenic. Break up your road trip for some classic American cuisine at Burger Carte, a tidy little roadside diner that serves up a big flavor. American favorites like burgers, subs, fish sandwiches, wings and much more make every visit more delicious than the previous. Local favorites include the A-1 Burger and the Chipotle Jalapeño Burger.
Dairy Creme Corner
Fairmont, West Virginia
Find some of the best soft-serve ice cream, subs, sandwiches, funnel cakes, salads and more at Dairy Creme Corner in Fairmont. This roadside diner is situated along Homewood Avenue, just minutes outside of Fairmont State University. This is open seasonally from March to October every year and serves favorites, including the Avalanche, which consists of creamy ice cream mixed with your choice of over 40 mix-ins. Treat yourself to one of the most popular dessert destinations in Marion County.
Rt. 50 Burgers & Biscuits
Romney, West Virginia
Rt. 50 Burgers & Biscuits in Romney is a popular breakfast spot along Northwestern Pike. Choose from a wide selection of breakfast sandwiches, biscuits and gravy, omelettes and much more for fresh, homestyle breakfast. Swing by for lunch and order one of their signature burgers, corned beef and cabbage stew, ribeye steak and much more.
For further Romney exploration, plan ahead and book a scenic train ride at Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, which is just 15 minutes away.
Hillbilly Hot Dogs
Lesage, West Virginia
Hillbilly Hotdogs in Lesage may be a staple in Cabell County and even the entire state of West Virginia, but it’s also a national icon. This is where you will find an array of gourmet hotdogs, including the famous Homewrecker that you can try to devour in under 12 minutes and win a special edition Hillbilly Hotdogs t-shirt (and bragging rights). After parking along Ohio River Road, you will be greeted by many quirky lawn decorations until you reach one of the school buses, which are the dining rooms. This roadside hotdog shop was even featured on the hit Food Network show Diners, Drive-ins and Dives with Guy Fieri.
Pinnacle Drive-In
Pineville, West Virginia
This long-established, old-fashioned Pineville eatery never ceases to draw first-time visitors and call back its loyal customers. Pinnacle Drive-In is settled just along Pinnacle Avenue – within minutes of Twin Falls Resort State Park. This is the perfect spot to grab a sandwich, hotdog, burger and much more with a side of fries.
Mother Shuckers Crab Shack
Martinsburg, West Virginia
For some of the best seafood in the Eastern Panhandle, head to Mother Shuckers Crab Shack in Martinsburg – just along Winchester Avenue. When you walk in, you will instantly get a feel for the sea life without needing to cross the state border. Favorites like the Loaded Crab Fries and the Crab Legs & Shrimp Platter have visitors returning again and again.
After you’ve enjoyed your delicious seafood, extend your road trip by visiting neighboring historic towns like Harpers Ferry and Shepherdstown, which are both less than 30 minutes away.
Getting hungry yet? Explore these roadside diners and more delicious destinations with ideas from our free West Virginia Vacation Guide.
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