Must-Try Regional Foods in the Top of West Virginia
West Virginia’s Northern Panhandle has a personality all its own. Tucked between Pennsylvania and Ohio, the region reflects a mix of Appalachian roots and Rust Belt resilience. Its cities and towns were shaped by the manufacturing of steel, glass, and pottery, but they’ve also become home to generations of families from all over the world who brought their traditions, and their recipes, with them.
Today, the area’s food scene tells the story of that history. From hearty Appalachian staples to Italian, Greek, and Serbian influences, the Top of West Virginia offers dishes you won’t find just anywhere. Here are a few local favorites that are worth the trip (and the calories):
Biscuits & Gravy
Comfort food doesn’t get much more classic than this. Buttermilk biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy are a West Virginia breakfast essential. If you’re on the go, grab a biscuit sandwich from Tudor’s Biscuit World. The “Ron” and the “Mary B.” are our favorite handheld versions of this Appalachian classic.
Barbecue Ribs
For 42 years, Dee Jay’s BBQ Ribs & Grille has been perfecting delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs. Their famous, smokey flavor combined with their sweet and tangy sauce has become so popular, that this business has grown into a small regional chain. Still, the original location in Weirton, with its tiki-style décor, continues to be a local landmark and a must-visit spot for newcomers
Pepperoni Roll
Originally baked for coal miners as a portable, filling lunch, pepperoni rolls are one of the state’s most iconic foods. Some are stuffed with sticks of spicy pepperoni, others with slices. Add cheese, peppers and onions, and even dip in marinara for extra flavor. There’s no wrong way to eat one, but you can find the right ones at Barney’s Bakery in Weirton.
Gyros
Theo Yianni’s in Weirton serves up some of the area’s best Greek and American dishes. Their gyro, stuffed with a blend of seasoned beef and lamb, fresh tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki, is a favorite. Don’t stop there, though! Order a side of feta Greek fries, grape leaves, or their popular “Bangy-Bangy” sauce covered wings. If you still have room for dessert, the baklava cheesecake is a standout.
The Panwich
Imagine an Italian sub stuffed inside a pan-crust pizza, then served in handheld triangles: pure goodness. Part pizza, part sandwich, the Panwich is a local invention that’s hard to explain but easy to love. Belmontes Italian in Weirton makes a tray big enough to share. Try the original, or go for buffalo chicken, ham and cheese, mediterranean, or pepperoni.
Chicken Blast
Every Wednesday morning during the summer, the Serbian Men’s Club of the Eastern Orthodox Church host what locals know as “Chicken Blast”. Over 400 perfectly seasoned, perfectly roasted chickens are cooked weekly. Be sure to call early to place your order, because they sell out quickly!
DiCarlos Pizza
DiCarlo’s is a household name in the Ohio Valley. Their square cut pizza comes with a twist: the crust and tomato sauce are baked first, and the cheese and toppings are added right after it comes out of the oven. The result is hot, crispy, and slightly unexpected. The unique texture might be different than what you’re used to , but it’s definitely earned a loyal following.
The Northern Panhandle is full of stories, and many of them are told through food. Whether you’re here for a weekend or have called the region home for years, these dishes offer a taste of the culture, history, and flavor that make the Top of West Virginia something special.
