When most people think of Morgantown, they picture spirited “Let’s Go Mountaineers” chants, bustling game days, and WVU pride. But beyond the campus energy, this lively mountain town has an impressive food scene that deserves equal attention. If you’re wondering where to eat in Morgantown, here’s my guide to the casual comfort and upscale restaurants, cafes, and hidden gems I’ve tried (and enjoyed).
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Apple Annie’s
Apple Annie’s is my go-to for scratch-made comfort food and heavenly pastries. The bakery counter stretches with cookies, pies, cakes, muffins, and the West Virginia staple—pepperoni rolls.
Breakfast is a standout (my husband swears by the breakfast burrito), and the daily dinner specials—think fried pork chops, chicken parm, or roasted turkey—are hearty and satisfying.
Bonus: Apple Annie’s serves everything on Fiestaware, a beloved WV brand.
Iron Horse Tavern
A downtown gastropub favorite, Iron Horse Tavern offers an excellent craft beer and cocktail menu alongside gourmet burgers, wings, and inventive small plates. The vibe is trendy yet relaxed—perfect for a night out with friends or pre-game drinks.
Lake House Restaurant
Set right on Cheat Lake, the Lake House serves up good food with even better sunsets. Start with appetizers like zucchini planks or provolone sticks, but don’t miss their Famous Hot Italian Sub—loaded with ham, pepperoni, salami, melty cheeses, and yummy Oliverio’s peppers. A true culinary masterpiece.
Pair it with hand-cut chips or onion rings, and you’ve got one of the most crave-worthy bites in town.
Los Mariachis
Los Mariachis in Chelsea Square quickly won me over with its bold flavors and stunning décor. The jalapeño margarita and queso were a perfect start, and the chicken fajitas could easily feed two.
With hand-painted artwork, vibrant lighting, and incredible service, it’s one of the most beautiful Mexican restaurants I’ve visited—and one I’ll keep coming back to.
Mountain State Brewing
At Mountain State Brewing, you get the best of both worlds: excellent craft beer and elevated bar food. Grab a flight of small-plate appetizers (country caviar and buffalo chicken dip are my faves) or go big with a Meatlover pizza (sausage, bacon, pepperoni) or sandwich.
The Popeye—spinach & artichoke dip, thick-cut bacon, and tomato on toasted bread—was unforgettable. Add in Almost Heaven Amber Ale or Miner’s Daughter Stout (two of the best selling beers in the state), and you’ll see why this brewery is a WV classic. Mountain State Brewing also has locations in Bridgeport and Thomas, WV.
Oliverio’s
For authentic Italian in Morgantown, Oliverio’s, originated in 1965 and found at The Wharf, is a must. Their meatballs with ricotta are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and entrées like Chicken Diablo (with sausage, peppers, and a spicy cream sauce) and lasagna keep people coming back.
Oliverio’s also offers family-sized carryout meals—perfect for sharing back at your hotel or with friends.
Pies and Pints
Born in West Virginia, Pies & Pints is now a regional favorite—and it’s easy to see why. Their creative custom-crafted pizzas are endlessly craveable, from Steak & Cheese (onions, mushrooms, and horseradish mayo) to Cuban Pulled Pork, and you can split a large with two different styles. How cool is that?
Don’t sleep on the Pizza Skins (roasted garlic mashed potatoes on a crust) or Pork & Pepper Nachos. With a great beer selection, a funky vibe, and consistent quality, it’s no wonder this spot landed in our 100 Things to Do in WV Before You Die book.
Plaza Azteca
Another standout for Mexican food, Plaza Azteca impresses with tableside guacamole, street elote, and big-as-your-head margaritas. It’s lively, colorful, and always packed on weekends. The food and service are top-notch.
Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar
A Pittsburgh classic (circa 1933) that has found a home in Morgantown, Primanti Bros. is famous for its overstuffed sandwiches, piled high with fries, house-made slaw, cheese, and meat, all on thick Italian bread.
Whether you order the PB Reuben or the iconic Pitts-Burger, you’ll leave full and happy. Add cold beer and sports on TV, and you’ve got the perfect casual night out.
Table 9
For an upscale night out, Table 9 delivers. With waterfront views, creative small plates like bacon-wrapped dates (devils on horseback!) and a tuna option, and indulgent entrées like halibut or filet with crab topping, it’s a splurge-worthy experience.
The outdoor patio is a dream for sunset dining, and Sunday brunch (10 to 3) is also a big draw. Reservations are recommended.
The Tea Shoppe at Seneca Center
For something different, step into The Tea Shoppe, where you can enjoy a proper afternoon tea. Choose from 230 loose-leaf teas and indulge in scones, finger sandwiches, quiche, and desserts served on tiered trays.
The Royal Tea is a feast (traditional afternoon 3-tiered offerings, a pot of tea, a cup of soup, and a slice of quiche), and special themed events (like Bridgerton teas) make it extra fun.
Terra Cafe
Part coffee shop, part full-service eatery, Terra Cafe is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The artistic pastry cases are packed with scratch-made scones, cookies, tortes, and cupcakes, while the full menu features breakfast favorites, sandwiches, soups, and salads.
The pet-friendly patio makes it an easy choice for a casual morning or afternoon. I cannot imagine any WV pastry shop with anything prettier than Terra Cafe’s selection.
Still on My List
Next time, I’m heading to Von Blaze and Bourbon Prime—both are getting rave reviews, and I can’t wait to try them.
Read more of our WV posts here:
13 Small Towns You’ll Want to Visit in WV