Morgantown evokes visions of spirited “Go Mountaineers” chants and a vibrant social milieu for thousands of college students. However, this charming mountain town also boasts an impressive dining scene. Drawing from my extensive experiences in this culinary destination, I proudly present a curated list of where to eat in Morgantown, WV.
Embark on a culinary journey in the third-largest city in Wild, Wonderful West Virginia, and discover the gastronomic delights recommended in this informative post.
Table of Contents
Apple Annie’s
Apple Annie’s is my go-to for a delicious breakfast (they also serve lunch and dinner) or takeaway pastries from the bakery. And when I say pastries, picture a massively long counter area filled with delectable cookies, pies (fruit and cream), cakes, muffins, and other sweet treats —all scratch-made. And, of course, they also offer pepperoni rolls, a West Virginia staple.
Sit back in the relaxing country-inspired restaurant for a full-service meal of all your classic comfort foods, generously portioned, and then some. Daily dinner specials include the likes of beef stroganoff, fried pork chops, roasted turkey, chicken parmesan, and beer-battered haddock.
For breakfast, my husband highly raved about the Breakfast Burrito (sausage, peppers, onions, tomato), while I would order the Full Griddle Breakfast time and time again, with two eggs, a buckwheat pancake, and choice of breakfast meat. Yum!
And let’s not let it go unnoticed that they fully support a famous West Virginia business, Fiestaware, for their everyday dishes.
Lake House Restaurant
The Lake House Restaurant at Cheat Lake offers an array of delectable appetizers, including provolone sticks and zucchini planks, that will entice your palate. However, the standout recommendation for the main course is the Famous Hot Italian Sub.
This mouthwatering sandwich features a French roll generously filled with premium ingredients like toasted ham, pepperoni, and salami, complemented by the perfect melting blend of provolone and American cheeses. Topped off with a medley of sautéed mushrooms, onions, and Oliverio’s peppers, this sandwich is truly a culinary masterpiece.
In addition to the outstanding sandwich selection, the restaurant offers a variety of sides to accompany your meal. Choose from various veggies, pasta dishes, onion rings, and potato dishes, including six distinct types. I opted for the hand-cut chips with my meal, which were a delightful treat.
Situated directly on Cheat Lake, the Lake House Restaurant provides an idyllic setting to marvel at the breathtaking sunset.
Los Mariachis
I happened upon the best Mexican restaurant in Morgantown. Los Mariachis (Chelsea Square) is as beautiful as it is delicious, and our service was primo. The margaritas (jalapeño) were on point, and the queso dip was just right.
My hubby and I shared chicken fajitas for dinner, which was plenty for two people. As usual, it came with all the necessary sides and flour tortillas.
We wanted one of the yummy-sounding desserts but were too full. I must add that Los Mariachis, which goes by different names around the state (we’ve been to a couple owned by the same family), is gorgeous. The artwork, painting, light fixtures, and attention to detail are second to no other Mexican restaurant we’ve been to.
Mountain State Brewing
Morgantown has some exceptional breweries, and I’m always pleased when the breweries also offer food. Elevated bar food is what you’ll find at Mountain State Brewing, located at The Wharf, and there is a huge menu to choose from at that. I was so impressed that you can pick small portions of the appetizers (choose four for $14.50) to try more of them. We chose country caviar (my fave!), buffalo chicken dip (my hub’s fave), and beer cheese with homemade crostini.
My husband chose the personal-size Meatlover pizza with a BBQ base, pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and a drizzle of sweet & spicy chipotle. I went with the Popeye sandwich, a 10/10 creation with spinach & artichoke dip, thick-cut bacon, and sliced tomatoes on toasted Italian bread. Oh, heavenly day, this is one really good meal.
Save room for dessert; you’ll find a S’mores flatbread and a variety of ice cream floats on the menu to tempt you.
Mountain State Brewing also has locations in Bridgeport and Thomas, WV. Their Almost Heaven Amber Ale and Miner’s Daughter Stout might be two of the best-selling West Virginia beers ever. Happy hour at the bar is 4-6 PM, with half-price appetizers and $1 off drafts. Tuesdays bring Team Trivia, and Sundays, bingo.
Oliverio’s
Oliverio’s Ristorante is a renowned name in Morgantown’s food scene, cherished for its authentic Italian cuisine since 1965. You’ll find this one at The Wharf.
For starters, try the delectable Oliverio’s Meatballs, served with a dollop of ricotta cheese that perfectly balances the richness of the meat sauce. Regarding the main entrées, the Chicken Diablo and the legendary Lasagna with meat sauce are exceptional choices.
Oliverio’s Chicken Diablo impresses with its generous amounts of Italian sausage, peppers, onions, and a spicy cream sauce. Each bite is an explosion of flavors.
Oliverio’s offers Happy Hour in the bar area from Monday — Thursday and nightly dinner specials. For those looking to enjoy a delicious meal at home, the restaurant also provides family-sized carryout meals that can easily cater to four to six people.
Pies and Pints
One of the coolest restaurants created in West Virginia ended up being franchised on day one of its first expansion (second restaurant). Pies and Pints, now a favorite around several nearby states, can see what all the rage is with these custom-created craft pizzas, yummy appetizers, and stellar salads. The tap beer list is extensive and impressive, not to mention the overall vibe of this eclectic eatery.
My favorite dishes are the Pizza Skins with roasted garlic mashed potatoes (pictured above) and Pork and Pepper Nachos. But most people come to Pies and Pints for pizza, and there is no shortage of tasty options.
I love that P&P allows you to share a large pizza with two different menu creations. The Steak & Cheese (onions, mushrooms, and horseradish mayo) and Cuban Pulled Pork (onions, jalapeños, and aioli) have been my favorites for over a decade. However, the Nashville Hot Chicken and Street Corn options intrigue me.
We are proud to have included Pies and Pints in the food section of our “100 Things to Do in West Virginia Before You Die” book.
Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar
Primanti Bros., a Pittsburgh institution since 1933, is a delightful addition to the Morgantown food scene. Come here for amazing sandwich creations (piled high with house-made coleslaw), the best hand-cut fries, and a fun atmosphere, including Fantasy Football.
Buffalo Cauliflower, Crispy Zucchini Planks, and Breaded Mozzarella Wedges comprise some of the compelling appetizer choices. However, most people come for the honkin’ big sandwiches and cold beer.
The PB Reuben and Pitts-Burger are my favorites. Still, you really can’t go wrong with whatever is nestled between the billowy Italian white bread. And for those who have yet to go to a Primanti Bros, sandwiches include hand-cut fries, slaw, meat, melted provolone, and tomatoes.
Table 9
A place I’d been dying to try in Morgantown is Table 9. It certainly delivered as promised — a fantastic, upscale meal in a splendid setting. We dined outside and enjoyed waterfront views and a fabulous sunset.
To start, we shared the bacon-wrapped dates (devils on horseback!) and tuna appetizer with pickled onions and carrots. Having lived on the coast for a decade, I’d put this tuna dish up against any I’ve had…it was that good. For our main courses (four of us), they ran the gamut from chicken wings and steaks to Bacon-wrapped Halibut atop a bed of crispy spinach and fingerling potatoes.
My steak — oh my, it was excellent with the crab topping and hollandaise. I loved the fondant potatoes served with my Filet Oscar Steak, and you can’t go wrong with asparagus. I would have enjoyed some bread, but that isn’t something Table 9 serves with entrees.
Tuesday is burger night, and I’ve heard lots of rave reviews about them. Table 9 is closed on Monday. Reservations are suggested. Brunch is served from 10 AM to 3 PM on Sunday.
Terra Cafe
Located on Industrial Avenue in Morgantown, Terra Cafe is a captivating establishment that boasts the state’s most exquisite pastries. With its charming ambiance and indoor and outdoor seating options, this cafe offers an extensive selection of visually stunning sweet treats that will dazzle your Instagram feed.
Terra Cafe has a comprehensive menu with delectable items catering to all tastes. Notably, the cafe boasts a pet-friendly patio, ensuring that furry companions can enjoy the experience.
This counter-service coffee shop presents an artistic atmosphere, adorned with display cases showcasing mouthwatering scratch-made delights. The offerings include an assortment of cupcakes, cookies, tortes, muffins, scones, and cakes that perfectly complement the diverse selection of espresso, smoothies, coffees, and teas.
Terra Cafe is not solely focused on pastries and beverages. As a full-service eatery, it proudly presents a range of breakfast dishes, sandwiches, soups, salads, and a la carte items. To enhance the dining experience, beer and wine options are also provided.
Zeke’s Breakfast & Bakes
Zeke’s Breakfast & Bakes is a delightful establishment, highly regarded by the locals and college students, for enjoying a delectable breakfast and indulging in a delightful coffee (drip, espresso, cortado, etc.) or tea experience. The breakfast tacos are exceptionally flavorful and complemented by the assortment of freshly baked pastries and muffins.
Zeke’s is closed on Sundays.
