19 Best Restaurants in Parkersburg, WV
This article was written by local contributor Ana Collins & edited by the Travel Lens team.
As someone who's been living in Parkersburg, West Virginia, for quite some time now, I've had the pleasure of witnessing the thriving culinary scene that our charming city has to offer.
From casual dining spots to upscale restaurants, there's no shortage of delicious options to satisfy your cravings.
I've put together a list of some of the best restaurants in Parkersburg, West Virginia, where you can indulge in mouthwatering dishes that will leave you wanting more.
So, join me as we embark on a flavourful journey through the hidden gems that make Parkersburg a food lover's paradise.
Southern Craft Restaurant & Bar
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Southern Craft Restaurant & Bar, and it did not disappoint!
As a resident of the area, it's not often that we get to experience true Southern authenticity in Parkersburg, West Virginia.
Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately impressed by the cozy atmosphere and the cool art displayed throughout the establishment.
The floor space was small, with a short bar and less than ten tables, but it gave the place a warm, intimate vibe.
I was initially worried about the wait time, as they don't take reservations, but I was pleasantly surprised that it took less than 30 minutes to get a table.
The menu, which can be found on their Facebook page, was concise but packed with Southern flavor.
I started off with the Pulled Pork Nachos, followed by the Cajun Fettuccine Alfredo, and the food was absolutely delicious.
It felt like every dish was carefully crafted, offering a level of care and quality you just don't find in chain restaurants.
The service was top-notch as well.
The bread pudding for dessert was the best I've had since trying Gordon Ramsay's version in Las Vegas.
Rubi's Salad Haus
I stumbled upon Rubi's Salad Haus on a whim, and I have to say that it quickly turned into one of my favorite salad shops in town
The variety of options at Rubi's Salad Haus is immense, and the serving sizes are more than generous.
I indulged in a gigantic salad with their divine house dressing, and I couldn't have been happier with my choice.
Alongside my salad, I also had a taste of their freshly made soups and a delightful roll that was bursting with flavor.
One of the highlights of my visit was the strawnolli – a delectable little treat consisting of a fresh strawberry stuffed with cannoli filling and topped with a blueberry.
It was a delightful surprise that added an extra touch of sweetness to my meal.
Gyro King Parkersburg
I've always been a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, and when I heard about Gyro King Parkersburg, I knew I had to give it a try.
Although the restaurant is tiny, don't let that fool you – the food here is top-notch.
My first visit to Gyro King was during lunchtime, and I was more than happy to wait for 10 minutes as I knew it was just one guy preparing the food.
When I finally tasted my gyro, I was blown away by the flavors and textures.
The pita was charred lightly from the grill, the vegetables were cool and crispy, and the sauce was heavy on dill and spices.
The falafels were warm, crunchy, and heavily seasoned – simply delicious!
During another visit to Gyro King, I tried their salmon salad, which was equally fresh and authentic.
My friends and I often dine here whenever we crave Mediterranean flavors, and we're never disappointed.
Chams Lebanese Cuisine
One of my favorite spots in town is Chams Lebanese Cuisine, a laid-back Lebanese eatery with a charming, old-school vibe.
I decided to order the Chams Special, which allowed me to try a variety of their offerings, and I was not disappointed.
The food at Chams is easily some of the best Mediterranean cuisines I've ever had.
Their hummus, toubouli, and falafel are simply amazing.
I'm not usually a fan of hummus, but theirs won me over!
The star dish for me, however, was the lamb shish kabob.
It was cooked to perfection and absolutely delicious.
Another must-try is their stuffed grape leaves – I can't get enough of them!
Dessert is not to be missed at Chams either.
The baklava is delightful, and their coconut cake is the perfect balance of sweetness.
I've become a regular at this lovely eatery, and I can't wait for my next visit to indulge in their fantastic Lebanese dishes.
Unity Cafe International Restaurant & Creperie
I can't tell you how many times I've started my day at Unity Cafe International Restaurant & Creperie.
It has quickly become my top choice for coffee and breakfast in the area.
From the moment I first walked in, I knew it was something special.
What really keeps me coming back is the amazing food.
The breakfast choices are truly impressive, with fresh and delicious options for everyone.
I love their generous portions and great selection.
The freshness of the ingredients really shines through in every dish.
My personal favorite is the spinach and mushroom crepe, made with fresh mushrooms and spinach leaves.
But it's not just the food that makes Unity Cafe stand out.
The coffee is top-notch, and there's a cozy space in the back where you can sit and work or relax after walking through a charming beaded curtain.
It's the perfect environment to unwind and enjoy the comforting ambiance.
Whenever friends or family come to visit, I always make sure to bring them to Unity Cafe.
It's become an essential part of my local experience, and I'm glad to share it with others.
The Root Beer Shack
One of my favorite places to grab a bite in town is The Root Beer Shack, a cozy hot dog restaurant.
The entire team made me feel like a valued guest and wished me safe travels when I left.
As for the food, I agree with many other reviews that mention the hot dogs being the star of the show.
I ventured to try their chili cheese dog, corn dog, chili cheese fries, and slaw on my first visit.
The corn dog was fantastic, and the chili cheese dog was delicious, thanks in part to the toasted roll and freshly grated cheddar cheese.
I really appreciated the little container of mustard they provided instead of packets, which made it easy to dunk my corn dog directly into the mustard.
Larky's Hamburger Restaurant
Every time I drive by Larky's Hamburger Restaurant, I can't help but notice the bustling crowd and the aroma of delicious food wafting through the air.
As a frequent patron, I've had some memorable experiences at this place, and I just can't get enough of their mouth-watering dishes.
I remember one time when I was craving a good hot dog, so I decided to head over to Larky's.
Even though it's a small cash-only establishment with limited parking, it's always packed with loyal customers.
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with a friendly smile and placed my order to go.
I got two hot dogs with chili, slaw, and onions, along with a can of RC Cola – all for just $5!
While waiting for my order, I couldn't help but watch the cook working his magic on the flat-top grill.
Flipping burgers and moving around with precision, it was clear that he had perfected his craft.
The place was full of people from all walks of life, all enjoying their time at Larky's and chatting away like old friends.
Even without the slaw, those hot dogs were everything I hoped for and more.
Der Dog Haus
One of my usuals for casual and delicious meals in town is Der Dog Haus.
This unpretentious bar and eatery offers a variety of mouthwatering hot dogs, burgers, and other old-school bites, along with daily specials and multiple TVs for entertainment.
You can check them out on their Facebook page.
The parking lot is usually packed, which is a good indication of how popular this place is.
I can always rely on their menu for a quick and satisfying dinner, with a wide variety of options to choose from.
My personal favorite is the 2 dogs with sauce, cheese, and slaw, paired with their beer-battered fries.
It's hands down better than any fast-food chain you can think of.
On top of that, they have a great selection of locally made potato chips and even offer lottery games for some added fun.
The place can get quite crowded during lunchtime, but it's definitely worth the stop for a tasty and enjoyable dining experience.
Philippines Best Food LLC
One of the perks of living in this area is having access to various authentic cuisines, and Philippines Best Food LLC is no exception.
As a fan of Filipino food, I decided to give this restaurant a try, and it did not disappoint.
It's true that the seating can be limited, so I always make sure to call ahead and reserve a table when I plan to dine there.
My favorite dish is their Lumpia Shanghai - crispy, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying.
I've also tried their Chicken Adobo with noodles, and it had me craving more.
The generous portion size and amazing flavor make it a must-try.
Aside from the food, the atmosphere and service are commendable as well.
I can't help but appreciate the "speak Filipino" wall, giving a nice touch of Filipino culture to the place.
Mary B's Diner
Mary B's Diner has become one of my regular spots for delicious comfort food for many years.
I recently visited the diner again, and as always, I was not disappointed.
The loaded baked potato and coleslaw were fantastic too, and the portion sizes were quite generous.
The service at Mary B's Diner is always exceptional.
One of my favorite things about this American restaurant is their massive, fluffy biscuits.
I've never come across biscuits as large and tasty as the ones they serve here.
On previous visits, I've also tried their breakfast bowl and roast turkey sandwich, both of which were absolutely scrumptious.
The banana cream pie and coffee also deserve a special mention for being top-notch.
The Pizza Place
One of my favorite spots to grab a delicious pizza in town is The Pizza Place.
Their Sicilian pizza is simply amazing, and their thin crust is to die for.
I'm a huge fan of crispy pepperoni on my pizza.
Not only do they serve fantastic pizza, but their homemade chocolate chip cookies are absolutely huge and scrumptious.
On days when I'm not in the mood for pizza, I can always rely on their diverse menu, which includes tasty subs and fresh salads.
The ambiance of The Pizza Place is very clean, friendly, and casual, making it a perfect spot to hang out with friends or grab a quick bite on the go.
As someone who has lived in the area for a while, I can confidently say that you won't find better pizza around.
Country Kitchen
Just the other day, I decided to grab a meal at Country Kitchen, and I must say, I was not disappointed!
The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, perfect for a casual dining experience with friends and family.
I did enjoy my BLT, the sandwich was toasted to perfection, with a good balance of lettuce, tomato, and bacon.
I couldn't help but notice how clean the restaurant and restrooms were during my visit - a clear sign that they take pride in their establishment.
When it comes to comfort food in a warm, welcoming environment, Country Kitchen truly stands out.
I'm definitely looking forward to my next visit!
Cheryl's Country Diner
I've been going to Cheryl's Country Diner for years, and let me tell you, it's the epitome of comfort food in our town.
The moment you walk in, you're greeted by charming chicken-themed decorations and a warm, down-to-earth atmosphere.
It truly feels like a home away from home.
One of the best things about Cheryl's is the food.
They serve the most amazing chicken fried steak that's fried to golden brown perfection and smothered in a scratch-made white gravy.
Paired with their homemade biscuits, it's a meal that would make any southern grandma proud.
And don't even get me started on their coffee – it's robust and well-brewed, the perfect companion to their hearty meals.
But the real showstopper at Cheryl's Country Diner is the homemade pies.
There's a variety that could very well give you a sugar rush by just looking at them.
My personal favorite is the chocolate coconut creme pie, a sweet treat that leaves me swooning with its creamy filling and perfectly crumbly crust.
The service at Cheryl's is always warm and welcoming, making the dining experience all the more enjoyable.
I remember one time, I arrived just five minutes after they opened, and they still allowed me to order anything on the menu.
I opted for a Philadelphia Cheese Steak Sandwich with French fries and coffee.
The sandwich was divine, though the fries were a tad undercooked.
Another time, my family and I ordered the special, which was chicken and noodles and a baked steak meal.
We also shared a slice of lemon pie.
Everything was delicious, and we left with full bellies and happy hearts.
Gran Ranchero
Let me tell you about Gran Ranchero Méxican Restaurant!
This down-to-earth Mexican establishment has become one of my favorite places to grab a bite.
The traditional combos are fantastic, and their jumbo margaritas are simply irresistible.
I recently tried their Aroz Con Pollo, which was absolutely delicious - the perfect amount of cheese and plenty of rice.
I also enjoyed their Speedy Gonzalez dish, which lives up to its name - the food came out quickly, and the service was great.
Rubi's Pizza & Grill
I recently visited Rubi's Pizza & Grill with my family for a casual dinner, and I was quite impressed with their food and service.
As soon as we entered the restaurant, we were greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The menu had so many items that it was tough to choose!
I finally settled on a Greek Salad with their house dressing and a garlic breadstick, which turned out to be absolutely amazing.
My partner and son opted for burgers and fries, which they enjoyed as well.
The portions were generous, leaving us feeling full and satisfied.
The restaurant was clean, and the employees were friendly and fun, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.
I'm already looking forward to going back and trying out more items on their menu!
North End Tavern & Brewery
One of my favorite spots to grab a bite and enjoy a cold brew in town is North End Tavern & Brewery.
As someone who loves American cuisine, this place hits the spot with their delicious burgers, french fries, and other bar snacks.
I particularly enjoy the North End Tavern (NET) burger, where I can choose between a single or double patty and customize it with my favorite toppings.
Their fries and mozzarella sticks are also top-notch, with a unique and tasty breading.
What truly sets North End Tavern & Brewery apart from other places is their incredible selection of home-brewed beers.
My partner and I always make sure to try the flight of beer, which is surprisingly larger than what you'd expect.
Their home-brewed root beer is also a must-try, it's simply the best I've ever had.
The atmosphere at the tavern is warm and inviting, with multiple TVs and a bright, clean dining area.
Las Trancas Mexican Cantina
I must admit, I'm a regular at Las Trancas Mexican Cantina, and for good reason!
It's easily one of the best Mexican restaurants in the Mid-Ohio Valley.
I often bring my family with me, and they love it too.
It's a very family and kid-friendly place, and they even have multiple choices for kid's meals, perfect for my picky eaters.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the decor has a nice touch of authentic Mexican charm.
When it comes to the food, it's always hot, fresh, and delicious.
I honestly feel like I could eat three meals a day here, no problem!
And it doesn't hurt that the restaurant is always kept clean, including the restrooms.
Hill House Pizza Pub
One of my go-to places for a night out is Hill House Pizza Pub.
This pizza restaurant always has a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day at work.
I recently went there and, unfortunately, forgot my ID.
Instead of making a fuss, I appreciated how seriously they take their license and age restrictions.
Their food is quite good, and I've never had any issues with the service.
New China
I love grabbing a quick meal from New China whenever I craved some good Chinese food.
The last time I dined there, I enjoyed the chicken, which was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
I'm also a fan of their wonton soup.
Each time I go here, the food kept on improving.
There's also ample parking space, so space isn't an issue.
Final Thoughts
Parkersburg has a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that I'm proud to call my own.
From classic American diners to flavors inspired by global cuisines, there's truly something for everyone.
The next time you find yourself in Parkersburg, don't hesitate to treat your taste buds to the rich flavors and unique dining experiences that our beautiful city has to offer.
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