These winning eateries are full of bold flavors, tasteful innovation, and local hospitality.

photographed by Carla Witt Ford & Nikki Bowman Mills

No one knows the Mountain State better than the people who call it home. Each year, we ask our readers—our boots-on-the-ground taste-testers, personal shoppers, and connoisseurs of fun—which people and places are the best at doing what they do. Here are your favorite restaurants, shops, destinations, and more, the ones that bring us back time and time again—the 2025 Best of West Virginia.

APPALACHIAN CUISINE

GOLD

ALMA BEA

Step through the doors of Alma Bea and you’ll taste Appalachian pride on every plate. Chef Mary Ellen Diaz reimagines the flavors of her heritage with dishes that honor the past while embracing the present. Catfish, greens, ramps, and local honey become unforgettable creations that feel like home and high art all at once and celebrate our mountain roots in the tastiest way. 202 East Washington Street, Shepherdstown, @almabeashepherdstown on FB

SILVER

1010 BRIDGE RESTAURANT & CATERING

1010 Bridge Road, Charleston, 1010bridge.com, @1010bridge on FB

BRONZE

VAGABOND KITCHEN

1201 Market Street, Wheeling, thevagabondkitchen.com, @thevagabondkitchen on FB

BREAKFAST / BRUNCH

GOLD

ALMA BEA

Mornings at Alma Bea aren’t rushed—they’re celebrated. With options like golden biscuits, fluffy pancakes, and farm-fresh eggs, brunch becomes a true Appalachian love letter. The best part? Every plate is served in a space that feels like your best friend’s kitchen. Come sip coffee by the window or share a plate at the table, because this Shepherdstown gem makes sunrise taste sweeter. 202 East Washington Street, Shepherdstown, @almabeashepherdstown on FB

SILVER

THE INN AT LOST RIVER

7015 State Road 259, Lost River, innatlostriver.com, @theinnatlostriverandgeneralstore on FB

BRONZE

THE FRENCH GOAT

290 Lafayette Street, Lewisburg, thefrenchgoat.com, @thefrenchgoat on FB

BBQ JOINT

GOLD

SOUTH TEXAS BARBECUE COMPANY

You’ll smell it before you see it: the unmistakable aroma of slow-smoked perfection. South Texas Barbecue Company brings big, bold flavor to the table with the pitmaster’s perfectly seasoned meats and mouthwatering sides. Brisket so tender it melts, ribs glazed with love, and house sauces worth savoring twice—this is barbecue done right. Casual, friendly, and deeply satisfying, it’s a smoky slice of Texas heart served West Virginia–style. 139 East 2nd Street, Weston, sotexbbqco.square.site, @sotexbbqco on FB

SILVER

FAIRPLAIN YACHT CLUB

3869 Cedar Lakes Drive, Ripley, @fairplainyachtclub on FB

BRONZE

IT’S A TIE!

GIG’S SMOKEHOUSE & MERCANTILE

855 Bloomery Pike, Augusta, gigsbbqjoint.com, @gigsbbq on FB

SOUTH BRANCH SMOKEHOUSE

1542 US Route 220 North, Moorefield, southbranchsmokehouse.com, @southbranchsmokehouse on FB

BURGER

GOLD

IT’S A TIE!

FARMER’S DAUGHTER MARKET & BUTCHER

If you believe the best burgers start with the best beef, Farmer’s Daughter is the place for you. This Capon Bridge favorite butchers its own meats, sources from nearby farms, and serves every burger with careful craft and immense pride. Juicy and flavorful, each one is a handheld example of farm-to-table perfection. Don’t believe us? Check their seven previous Best Of wins. 2908 Northwestern Pike, Capon Bridge, farmersdaughterwv.com, @farmersdaughterwv on FB

CREEKER’S DINER

In the heart of Lincoln County, Creeker’s Diner proves that big flavor can come from humble places. Winner of Best Burger for the very first time, this hand-pattied masterpiece is seasoned to perfection and served with a side of genuine hospitality. Tasty and unmistakably homemade, it’s the kind of burger that keeps locals loyal and travelers hungry for another bite. 1121 McClellan Highway, Harts, “Creeker’s Diner and Dana’s Sweet Selections Bakery” on FB

SILVER

MALONEY’S PUB

603 Church Street, Summersville, @maloneyswv on FB

BRONZE

OSCAR’S BREAKFAST, BURGERS & BREWS

6007 US Route 60 East, Barboursville, oscarsbbb.com, @oscarsbbb on FB

DONUT SHOP

GOLD

SPRING HILL PASTRY SHOP

It’s hard to improve on perfection, but Spring Hill Pastry Shop has been doing it for decades. Since 1948, this South Charleston landmark has filled its cases with “hot dogs,” glazed donuts, and other sweet treats that sell out as fast as they’re made. The scent of fresh dough greets every customer, evoking memories of simpler times. Here, tradition isn’t just celebrated—it’s baked fresh every morning. 600 Chestnut Street, South Charleston, springhillpastry.com, @shpbakery on FB

SILVER

IT’S A TIE!

BYRD’S HOUSE OF DONUTS

224 Davis Avenue, Elkins, @byrdshouseofdonuts on FB

THE DONUT SPOT

51 North Locust Street, Buckhannon, “The Donut Spot” on FB

BRONZE

HONEYCOMB CAFE

151 Main Street, Bramwell, honeycombcafewv.com, @honeycombcafebramwell on FB

CHEF

GOLD

CHEF JONATHAN DAVIS, CANAAN VALLEY RESORT STATE PARK

Chef Davis honed his skills in kitchens across the region before returning to West Virginia with fresh ideas. At Canaan Valley Resort State Park, you can try creative dishes inspired by fresh flavors, like bone-in frenched pork chops with an apple butter demi-glace or a perfect smoked trout dip. His dedication to elevating local ingredients and delivering refined rustic fare has earned him this year’s Best Chef title. 230 Main Lodge Road, Davis, canaanresort.com, @canaanvalleyresort on FB

SILVER

IT’S A TIE!

MARY ELLEN DIAZ, ALMA BEA

202 East Washington Street, Shepherdstown, @almabeashepherdstown on FB

PAUL SMITH, 1010 BRIDGE RESTAURANT & CATERING

1010 Bridge Road, Charleston, 1010bridge.com, @1010bridge on FB

BRONZE

CHEF REINALDO “REI” CRUZ-RODRIGUEZ, FINAL CUT STEAKHOUSE

750 Hollywood Drive, Charles Town, hollywoodcasinocharlestown.com, @hollywoodcctr on FB

DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT

GOLD

JIM’S DRIVE IN

Some places don’t need to change to stay timeless. Jim’s Drive In in Lewisburg has been flipping burgers and blending shakes since the 1950s, serving up nostalgia on every tray. Pull up, flash your headlights, and let the carhops deliver pure Americana—crispy fries, juicy burgers, and milkshakes made the old-fashioned way. Generations later, Jim’s remains a beloved stop for comfort, community, and a touch of retro charm. 479 Washington Street, Lewisburg, @jimsdrivein on FB

SILVER

IT’S A TIE!

FROSTOP DRIVE-IN

1449 Hal Greer Boulevard, Huntington, “Frostop Drive-In” on FB

MORRISON’S DRIVE INN

126 Stollings Avenue, Logan, “Morrison’s Drive Inn Official Site” on FB

BRONZE

FARLEY’S FAMOUS HOT DOGS

201 Midland Trail, Hurricane, farleysfamoushotdogs.com, @farleyshotdogshurricane on FB

FINE DINING

GOLD

THE FRENCH GOAT

Romantic and refined, The French Goat brings European elegance to Lewisburg’s historic streets. Exquisite dishes—duck confit, steak fries, and crème brûlée—are served with a nod to Appalachian ingredients and French flair. Each meal feels like an occasion, elevated by thoughtful wine pairings and candlelit ambiance. It’s fine dining without pretense, where every course is a reason to linger just a little longer. 290 Lafayette Street, Lewisburg, thefrenchgoat.com, @thefrenchgoat on FB

SILVER

IT’S A TIE!

TRACE CHOPHOUSE

465 Lodge Drive, Wheeling, oglebay.com/trace-chophouse, @oglebay on FB

BAVARIAN INN, RESORT & BREWING COMPANY

164 Shepherd Grade Road, Shepherdstown, bavarianinnwv.com, @thebavarianinn on FB

BRONZE

1010 BRIDGE RESTAURANT & CATERING

1010 Bridge Road, Charleston, 1010bridge.com, @1010bridge on FB

FOOD TRUCK

GOLD

ROLLIE POLLIE EGG ROLL FACTORY

If you’re looking for the Rollie Pollie truck, follow your nose—and your appetite. This rolling kitchen has redefined what an egg roll can be, wrapping bold flavors like cheesesteak, pepperoni, and Buffalo chicken in perfectly crispy shells. The team’s creativity and good humor make every stop an event. Wherever they park, a crowd gathers, eager for that first crunch and a taste of something unforgettable. @rolliepollieeggrollfactory on FB

SILVER

WILD N’ WONDERFUL ROLLS

@wildnwonderfulrolls on FB

BRONZE

THE CRAZED LEMON

@thecrazedlemon on FB

HOT DOG

GOLD

YANN’S HOT DOG STAND

Yann’s Hot Dog Stand has built a reputation on doing one thing better than anyone else: chili dogs with a serious kick. There are no ketchup, no frills, and no compromises, and we are eating it up. The secret’s in the sauce—but the magic is in the attitude. It’s a rite of passage for locals and a pilgrimage for purists who know perfection needs no polish. 300 Washington Street, Fairmont

SILVER

HILLBILLY HOT DOGS

7660 Ohio River Road, Lesage, hillbillyhotdogs.com, @hillbillyhotdogs on FB

BRONZE

LOST + FOUND PIZZA AND PROVISIONS

13357 WV Route 259, Mathias, lostandfoundlrv.com, @lostandfoundlrv on FB

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

GOLD

MURIALE’S ITALIAN KITCHEN

Every meal at Muriale’s feels like coming home. For generations, the Fairmont landmark has welcomed diners with familiarity and the irresistible aroma of simmering sauces. Family recipes anchor the menu—spaghetti, lasagna, and chicken Parmesan—all made with love and local ingredients. From the first bite to the last, Muriale’s delivers old-world comfort and familial camaraderie in every delicious, heartwarming dish. 1742 Fairmont Avenue, Fairmont, muriales.com, @muriales on FB

SILVER

IT’S A TIE!

PAULIE’S FINE ITALIAN

915 Bridge Road, Charleston, pauliesitalian.com, “Paulie’s Italian” on FB

OLIVERIO’S RISTORANTE

52 Clay Street, Morgantown, @oliveriosonthewharf on FB; 507 East Main Street, Bridgeport, @oliverioswv on FB; oliveriosristorante.com

BRONZE

daVINCI’S

215 Highland Avenue, Williamstown, villadavinci.com, @villadavinciwv on FB

PIZZA

GOLD

PIES & PINTS

Forget plain pepperoni! At Pies & Pints, flavor is the topping of choice. Hand-tossed crusts, inventive combinations, and a killer craft beer list make this spot a must-visit for pizza lovers. Think grape and gorgonzola, chicken gouda, or classic margherita done to perfection. Each pie bursts with bold flavor and personality, served in a space that’s as lively as it is laid-back. Bring friends—and an appetite. 222 Capitol Street, Charleston, @piesandpintscharleston on FB; 219 West Maple Avenue, Fayetteville, @piesandpintsfayetteville on FB; 1002 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive, Morgantown, @piesandpintsmorgantown on FB; piesandpints.net

SILVER

LOST + FOUND PIZZA AND PROVISIONS

13357 WV Route 259, Mathias, lostandfoundlrv.com, @lostandfoundlrv on FB

BRONZE

THE OUTSKIRTS

26 Bounds Lane, Mount Nebo, “The Outskirts” on FB

SANDWICH

GOLD

SECRET SANDWICH SOCIETY

What started as a local hangout in Fayetteville has become a sandwich-lover’s dream. Secret Sandwich Society builds bold, imaginative creations named after presidents, each one layered with house-roasted meats, house-made sauces, and plenty of attitude. The Roosevelt, the Taft, the Kennedy—each has a loyal following. Add crispy fries, a cold pint, and good company, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a memorable meal. 103 Keller Avenue, Fayetteville, secretsandwichsociety.com, @secretsandwichsociety1 on FB

SILVER

LOST RIVER GENERAL STORE & CAFÉ

7015 State Road 259, Lost River, innatlostriver.com/lost-river-general-store, @theinnatlostriverandgeneralstore on FB

BRONZE

FARMER’S DAUGHTER MARKET & BUTCHER

2908 Northwestern Pike, Capon Bridge, farmersdaughterwv.com, @farmersdaughterwv on FB

WINGS

GOLD

IT’S A TIE!

LOST + FOUND PIZZA AND PROVISIONS

It might surprise you that Lost + Found Pizza and Provisions is also home to some of the state’s best wings—but one taste makes it clear. Crispy, saucy, and perfectly spiced, these wings hit every note. Whether tossed in classic Buffalo or the house’s creative specials, they go perfectly with a fresh drink and the relaxed vibe. It’s comfort food, elevated with care. 13357 WV Route 259, Mathias, lostandfoundlrv.com, @lostandfoundlrv on FB

FAIRPLAIN YACHT CLUB

Good music, great friends, and unforgettable wings—that’s the Fairplain Yacht Club way. Churning out local favorites in Ripley, this laid-back hangout turns casual nights into community gatherings. Its wings are the stuff of legend: crisp, saucy, and perfectly balanced between heat and flavor. Paired with live tunes and a local brew, it’s easy to see why folks keep coming back for “just one more.” 3869 Cedar Lakes Drive, Ripley, @fairplainyachtclub on FB

SILVER

MALONEY’S PUB

603 Church Street, Summersville, @maloneyswv on FB

BRONZE

WHISTLE STOP BAR & GRILL

23 North Spring Street, Buckhannon, @whistlestopbarandgrill on FB

VEGETARIAN / VEGAN RESTAURANT

GOLD

KELLEY FARM KITCHEN

At Kelley Farm Kitchen, care and flavor share the table. This Harpers Ferry hotspot turns plant-based dining into a celebration of abundance, not restriction. The team crafts colorful, hearty dishes like stacked vegan burgers, savory tacos, and vibrant bowls bursting with freshness. The atmosphere is cozy and inclusive, inviting vegans, vegetarians, and curious foodies alike to discover just how satisfying good-for-you food can be. 1112 West Washington Street, Harpers Ferry, kelleyfarmkitchen.com, @kelleyfarmkitchen on FB

SILVER

BLACK BEAR BURRITOS

3119 University Avenue, Morgantown, blackbearburritos.com, @blackbearevansdale on FB

BRONZE

CLEMENTINE’S CANTINA

122 Davis Avenue, Elkins, “Clementine’s Cantina” on FB