One of West Virginia’s best-kept secrets is its local dining scene. From casual diners and breweries to high-end cuisine, the capital city of Charleston has a plate for everybody – no matter what you’re in the mood for.
While you’re in the heart of the Metro Valley, consider giving these charming local restaurants a try and get a taste of what Charleston is all about!
1010 Bridge Restaurant
Owned and operated by James Beard Award winning Chef Paul Smith, 1010 Bridge Restaurant showcases Appalachian roots matched with low country influence. Choose from a wide variety of meticulously crafted entrees like lamb loin, gourmet seafood, the 1010 Brisket Burger, and much more.
Dining tip: You can check into this gem on the West Virginia Culinary Trail and enter for a chance to win prizes!
Cozumel Express
If you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine, Cozumel’s Express will make that happen. Enjoy authentic Mexican food while dining in a private, cozy ambience. Be sure to try the birria tacos and quesadillas on Fridays and Saturdays!
Adelphia Sports Bar & Grille
Located on Capitol Street is Adelphia Sports Bar & Grille, a vibrant joint that serves up authentic Greek food and American grub. Choose from an array of burgers, sandwiches, Greek gyros, steaks, seafoods, salads and several delicious starters.
Lola’s
Located inside a historic little house in the South Hills area of Charleston, Lola’s serves handmade, Neapolitan-style pizzas that are baked of our stone hearth oven. In addition to ordering specialty pizzas, enjoy salads, sandwiches, specialty drinks and more.
Pies and Pints
Pies and Pints on Capitol Street takes gourmet pizza to a new level. The pizza crust is hand-stretched and baked on a stone hearth. Enjoy pies topped with veggies that are garden-fresh, pork that is slow-roasted daily and fresh-cooked chicken. If you’re in the mood for other hand-held items, try the garlic bread, chips and house-made salsa, pizza skins, char-grilled hot wings and much more.
Hale House
Nothing hits the spot quite like local bar food in Charleston. At Hale House, you can enjoy delicious burgers, grilled chicken, steaks, pork chops, salmon and prime rib for dinner. Filling your glass is easy with Hale House’s expansive drink menu, which includes several flavors of wine, draft beer and more.
Black Sheep Burritos & Brews
Known for unique burritos and craft beer, Black Sheep Burritos & Brews is a local favorite. Their menu boasts burrito-based foods with fresh ingredients, world street fares and numerous craft beer choices. With this spot located right on Quarrier Street, you’ll have plenty of local businesses to explore before or after your meal.
Recovery Sports Grill
Recovery Sports Grill on Virginia Street brings people together with its casual atmosphere – filled with local and professional sports memorabilia as well as several TVs for you to watch your favorite team in action. Try their specialty wings, soups, salads, burgers, steaks, prime rib, seafood, sandwiches and out-of-this-world chicken tenders.
Coco’s
If you’re health-conscious but still looking for a flavorful dish, Coco’s is one of your best options. Coco’s takes pride in using seasonal ingredients to create healthy food that’s nourishing, delicious and makes you feel great. Enjoy a light breakfast or try one of the bowls, handhelds and salads.
Fernbank Public House
Located on Bridge Road, Fernbank Public House just opened in 2023 and boasts unique, local flavors. Try their homemade sandwiches, burgers, specialty fries, desserts, old-fashioned cocktails and much more.
Dem 2 Brothers & a Grill
If you’re into barbecue, Dem 2 Brothers & a Grill is your ticket to unlock the savory, southern flavors. Founded by West Virginia native and former NFL player Adrian Wright, this barbecue joint has even earned recognition from Food Network. Try their pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, brisket, chicken breast and homestyle sides. Don’t forget to try their banana pudding as well!
Noah’s Restaurant & Lounge
Located on Summers Street, Noah’s Restaurant & Lounge is perfect for a fine dining experience. This restaurant offers a full bar and dining room, as well as private dining, all in a refined, comfortable atmosphere. This is the perfect spot to unwind, relax and enjoy high-end cuisine.
Fife Street
Fife Street Brewing is a fan favorite for its beers, whose names pay homage to the area, like the “Charlie West Coast IPA” and “Summers Street Wheat,” but also for their menu that has become most known for its creative and delicious grilled cheeses. Each sandwich also comes with a recommended beer pairing. Try the Hot Bologna with the Charleston Beer or the Crab Rangoon with a Kanawha Kettle Sours.
Dancing Dog
There is always room for ice cream! The Dancing Dog makes a tasty ice cream option. At any given time they have dozens of super premium grade ice cream flavors. They include both the classics and creative ones such as key lime pie or lemon chiffon. The ice cream is handmade on site along with their food specials that can vary from smashed burgers to pepperoni rolls.
Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream
Feeling a sweet treat for dessert? You’ll find that and more at Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream on Capitol Street. Ellen’s is hard to beat as its award-winning, premium ice cream is made on-site. Sip on their fruit smoothies, coffee and espresso drinks. If you’re in the mood for lunch, Ellen’s also has wraps, soups, chili, salad and other homemade specials.
Need more time on your Charleston getaway so you can try all of these restaurants out? Order our free West Virginia Vacation Guide today and find more activities to do in this beautiful city.
This article: Dine at these Charming Local Restaurants in Charleston has been curated from our friends at Visit West Virginia and the original in it's entirety can be found here: https://wvtourism.com/dine-at-these-charming-local-restaurants-in-charleston/