Morgantown, West Virginia, often conjures images of bustling college life, Mountaineer pride, and late-night study sessions. But beyond the textbooks and touchdowns lies a surprisingly vibrant and diverse culinary landscape just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a student craving a break from dining hall fare, a local looking for a new favorite spot, or a visitor eager to sample the area’s best flavors, Morgantown offers a delectable array of food places guaranteed to satisfy every palate and budget. This guide aims to take you on a culinary journey through Morgantown, highlighting some of the must-try restaurants and eateries that make this town a hidden gem for food lovers. Get ready to discover your new favorite breakfast joint, lunch spot, dinner destination, and sweet treat haven! We’ll cover everything from hearty breakfasts to international flavors, ensuring your Morgantown dining experience is unforgettable.
Rise and Shine: Breakfast & Brunch Destinations
Starting your day off right is crucial, and Morgantown boasts several exceptional breakfast and brunch spots perfect for fueling up before a day of classes, work, or exploration.
One local favorite is The Blue Moose Cafe. This cozy and welcoming cafe is known for its delicious and creative pancake creations. Forget your basic buttermilk stack; The Blue Moose Cafe elevates pancakes to an art form. Indulge in the fluffy blueberry pancakes, a local staple bursting with fresh, juicy blueberries, or try the savory breakfast burrito, packed with eggs, cheese, your choice of protein, and all the fixings. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Plus, with outdoor seating available, you can soak up the Morgantown sunshine while sipping on a locally roasted coffee.
For a taste of Southern comfort food, head to Iron Horse Tavern. This popular spot is renowned for its hearty and satisfying Southern-style breakfasts that will leave you feeling full and happy. The biscuits and gravy are an absolute must-try – flaky, buttery biscuits smothered in creamy, savory gravy. You can’t go wrong with their classic breakfast platters, featuring eggs, bacon, sausage, and all the breakfast staples. It is also a budget-friendly option, perfect for students looking for a delicious and filling meal without breaking the bank.
For those seeking healthier options or catering to dietary restrictions, Terra Cafe provides a range of vegetarian and vegan-friendly breakfast choices. From avocado toast to smoothie bowls packed with fresh fruits and superfoods, Terra Cafe offers a guilt-free way to start your day. They also have gluten-free options. Their commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients shines through in every dish.
Lunchtime Delights: Quick Bites and Casual Eats
When lunchtime rolls around, Morgantown offers a plethora of options for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic sandwich, a juicy burger, or a refreshing salad, you’re sure to find something to tempt your taste buds.
Hillside Hot Dogs is a Morgantown institution. This small establishment with a big reputation has been serving up delicious hot dogs for decades. The West Virginia dog comes with chili, mustard, and onions and is a must-try. It is a very budget friendly place to eat lunch and can even be a great place to grab a snack.
Atomic Grill is a classic burger joint with unique burger creations and crispy fries. This restaurant is perfect for a college student who loves to load up on some delicious comfort food.
For those seeking something a little lighter and fresher, Panera Bread is an excellent option. Known for its wide selection of soups, salads, and sandwiches, Panera Bread offers a variety of choices to suit any taste. Their salads are a particular highlight, with fresh ingredients and flavorful dressings. Or perhaps you would like to load up at buffet lunch, Sargasso offers various options and cuisines in their buffet every week.
Dinner’s Served: A Culinary Exploration
As the sun sets, Morgantown’s culinary scene truly comes alive. From upscale restaurants serving exquisite dishes to casual eateries offering comforting classics, there’s a dinner destination to suit every occasion and mood.
For a fine dining experience, look no further than Oliverio’s Ristorante. This elegant and sophisticated restaurant is known for its impeccable service, romantic ambiance, and exquisite Italian cuisine. The menu features a range of classic Italian dishes, from handmade pasta to perfectly seared steaks, all prepared with the finest ingredients and a touch of culinary flair. The wine list is extensive, offering a perfect pairing for every dish. Oliverio’s Ristorante is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a romantic dinner for two.
For a more relaxed and casual dining experience, Puglioni’s Italian Restaurant is a popular choice. This restaurant offers a wide selection of Italian and American dishes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for families and groups of friends. With its large portions and reasonable prices, Puglioni’s Italian Restaurant is a crowd-pleaser.
When it comes to pizza, Pizza Al’s is often cited as the best in town. This pizzeria is known for its authentic Italian-style pizzas, made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. You can create your own pizza with your favorite toppings or choose from one of their specialty pies. With its convenient location, Pizza Al’s is a great choice for a casual dinner or a late-night snack. Delivery options are available.
A World of Flavors: International Cuisine
Morgantown’s culinary scene extends far beyond American classics, offering a diverse range of international flavors to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re craving the spicy flavors of Thailand, the bold spices of Mexico, or the healthy goodness of the Mediterranean, you’ll find it all in Morgantown.
For an authentic Thai experience, Black Bear Burritos is a must-try. While known for their burritos, they also offer delicious Thai options. The Pad Thai is a local favorite, bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked noodles. The restaurant itself is cozy and welcoming, creating a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
For a lively Mexican fiesta, head to Los Mariachis. This vibrant Mexican restaurant is known for its delicious food, strong margaritas, and festive atmosphere. The menu features a range of classic Mexican dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and burritos. The tacos are a particular highlight, with a variety of fillings to choose from. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing margarita!
Ali Baba Restaurant is the place to go for delicious and healthy Mediterranean options. From gyros and falafel to hummus and baba ghanoush, Ali Baba Restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Mediterranean dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic spices.
Sweet Endings: Dessert Delights
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Morgantown offers a variety of dessert spots to satisfy your sweet tooth. From homemade ice cream to decadent cakes and pastries, you’re sure to find the perfect ending to your culinary adventure.
Dairy Creme Corner is an ice cream parlor that serves up homemade ice cream, milkshakes, and sundaes. Dairy Creme Corner is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day and enjoy a delicious frozen treat.
Mountain Flour Bakery is a cozy bakery offering delicious cakes, cookies, and pastries. The chocolate chip cookies are a particular favorite, perfectly chewy and packed with chocolate chips. The cupcakes are also a must-try. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Mountain Flour Bakery is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a sweet treat.
Late-Night Bites and Bar Grub (Optional)
After hours, the quest for tasty food doesn’t have to end. Several bars in Morgantown offer delicious eats alongside their beverage selections, catering to those late-night cravings.
Kegler’s Sports Bar & Grille is a popular bar that is open late and offers a good selection of beers and pub food. The wings are always a good choice, crispy and flavorful. With its lively atmosphere and late-night hours, Kegler’s is the perfect place to grab a bite after a long day.
A Culinary Conclusion: Morgantown’s Food Scene Awaits
Morgantown, West Virginia, is more than just a college town. It’s a culinary destination with something to offer everyone. From hearty breakfasts to international flavors, Morgantown’s diverse food scene is sure to impress. Whether you’re a student, a local, or just passing through, be sure to explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide and discover your own favorite food places in Morgantown WV. So, gather your friends, loosen your belt, and prepare for a culinary adventure in Morgantown. Happy eating, and don’t forget to share your recommendations in the comments below! What are your favorite food places in Morgantown, WV?
