What makes us unique?

This post was originally published on this siteThe Northern Panhandle in West Virginia represents one of two panhandles in West Virginia. With historic cities like Wheeling, Weirton, Moundsville and others within one-hour drives of each other, Almost Heaven will amaze you with its array of options to spend time in the Northern Panhandle. Catch a glimpse of these locations and you may find yourself claiming them as your new favorite hidden gems. Appalachian Appetite No matter where you are arriving from, your appetite will be begging you to try out the local restaurants in Almost Heaven. For unique dinner entrées made from locally-sourced ingredients or a late-evening taste of what’s on tap, check out one of region’s most renowned eateries, Vagabond Kitchen. This eatery is owned by Wheeling native, official WV Chef Ambassador and Guy’s Grocery Games winner Matt Welsch. A drive through Moundsville in Marshall County will reveal many unique restaurants. If you’re searching for classic American food with a Mountain State twist, visit Bob’s Lunch and try the famous “2 Pound Mound Cheeseburger.” To get a feel for southern comfort cuisine, Mason Dixon Barbecue Company will certainly not disappoint with its variety of brisket, pork and chicken dishes. Grandma

This post was originally published on this siteWritten by Chef Ambassador, Matt Welsch Springtime in the West Virginia mountains is something to behold. As we say in these parts, “if you don’t like the weather, just wait a few minutes!” It is common to see all four seasons in the span of one day or even across a few hours. We learn to layer up in these parts, and to be ready for anything. After all, self-sufficiency is the Appalachian way. No amount of weather roulette will calm a West Virginian’s enthusiasm for the spring and we know the season brings many boons to offset the trailings of winter – longer days, more sun, the landscape bursting from greys to brilliant greens – and most of all – ramps! “Now, what in the name of all things wild and free are ramps!?” Well, my friends, let me tell you. Ramps are a treasure to us here in the mountains. They are a type of wild onion with a bulb very reminiscent of a single small garlic bulb. These bulbs, though, have a root cluster on the bottom side and are attached by this beautiful reddish stem to a large broad

This post was originally published on this siteWritten by Chef Ambassador, Matt Welsch Springtime in the West Virginia mountains is something to behold. As we say in these parts, “if you don’t like the weather, just wait a few minutes!” It is common to see all four seasons in the span of one day or even across a few hours. We learn to layer up in these parts, and to be ready for anything. After all, self-sufficiency is the Appalachian way. No amount of weather roulette will calm a West Virginian’s enthusiasm for the spring and we know the season brings many boons to offset the trailings of winter – longer days, more sun, the landscape bursting from greys to brilliant greens – and most of all – ramps! “Now, what in the name of all things wild and free are ramps!?” Well, my friends, let me tell you. Ramps are a treasure to us here in the mountains. They are a type of wild onion with a bulb very reminiscent of a single small garlic bulb. These bulbs, though, have a root cluster on the bottom side and are attached by this beautiful reddish stem to a large broad

This post was originally published on this siteIf you’re looking for last minute additions to this summer’s bucket list, you’re in luck. Nine stunning waterfalls have been added to the West Virginia Waterfall Trail just in time for you to explore this summer. Recognized by Travel + Leisure, the West Virginia Waterfall Trail has many adventures waiting for you. Westerly Falls Westerly, WV   ●   37.99284, -81.32526 Westerly Falls is a charming, short-dropped waterfall spanning Paint Creek in Fayette County. With water plummeting from 7 feet high, Westerly Falls is one of the more subtle yet dynamic falls in West Virginia. Even during extended droughts, water flow is strong and full of life. Lower water levels mean higher chances of exploring the waterfall from unique perspectives – making this site a favorite among those seeking a new adventure. Tackle the short and moderately steep walk from the roadside pull-off to creek level for a closer view. Pipestem Falls Pipestem, WV   ●   37.54853, -80.95977 With a 30+ foot drop on Pipestem Creek, Pipestem Falls is a hidden gem located along Route 20, approximately 11 miles south of the historic town of Hinton. Follow the wooden steps by the