If you are looking for delicious Italian cuisine in West Virginia, you are in the right place. This article will guide you to the 10 best Italian restaurants that offer a variety of dishes and dining experiences.
Whether you crave classic pasta, pizza, or decadent desserts, these restaurants provide something for every taste.
Exploring local dining options is a great way to enjoy the flavors of Italy without leaving the state.
You will find unique eateries that highlight family recipes and traditional cooking methods.
Each restaurant on this list promises an authentic experience that you won’t want to miss.
1) Muriale’s Italian Kitchen
Muriale’s Italian Kitchen has been serving the community since 1969. You can expect authentic Italian dishes made from traditional recipes.
The restaurant uses fresh ingredients to create meals that reflect family cooking.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a great spot for family gatherings or friendly dinners.
You can also order takeout for larger groups, perfect for events or celebrations.
Their menu features a variety of pasta dishes, hearty salads, and tasty appetizers.
You have options that will satisfy everyone’s tastes, whether you are hosting a corporate event or a family reunion.
You can enjoy dining at their restaurant or take advantage of their convenient takeout services for a cozy meal at home.
Rating: 4.7 (2900 reviews)
Location: 1742 Fairmont Ave, Fairmont, WV 26554
Contact: (304) 363-3190
Website: Visit Website
2) Figaretti’s Restaurant
Figaretti’s Restaurant offers delicious, authentic Italian dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This family-owned restaurant has been a staple in Wheeling for many years.
You can enjoy a meal with friends or family in a cozy setting.
The menu features options for everyone. You can try their famous lobster ravioli, award-winning spaghetti sauce, and a variety of classic pasta dishes.
Each meal is prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.
If you’re short on time, Figaretti’s makes it easy to enjoy their food at home.
You can choose takeout or delivery options, allowing you to savor Italian flavors without leaving your house.
You can also take advantage of their catering services for events. This way, you can impress your guests with mouth-watering Italian food at your next gathering.
Rating: 4.5 (1200 reviews)
Location: 1035 Mount Dechantal Rd, Wheeling, WV 26003
Contact: (304) 243-5625
Website: Visit Website
3) Rocco’s Ristorante
Rocco’s Ristorante has been a cherished spot in West Virginia for nearly 50 years. It offers a blend of traditional Italian flavors that reflect the rich heritage of its founder.
You will find a menu filled with classic dishes inspired by cherished recipes from a vibrant neighborhood known as Kelly Hill.
The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and providing friendly service.
Diners often mention favorites like Lobster Ravioli and Sea Scallops Marinara. Each meal is crafted with care to ensure a delightful experience.
You can enjoy a warm atmosphere that welcomes both locals and visitors.
The personal touch in every dish and interaction makes dining here a memorable occasion.
For those who want to explore the menu, Rocco’s Ristorante also offers meals available in grocery stores, bringing the flavors of Italy closer to home.
Rating: 4.6 (504 reviews)
Location: 252 Main St, Ceredo, WV 25507
Contact: (304) 453-3000
Website: Visit Website
4) Mama Di Roma
Mama Di Roma is a popular spot for Italian cuisine in Fairmont, West Virginia. You can expect a cozy atmosphere that makes it great for both families and friends.
The restaurant offers a range of authentic Italian dishes that appeal to many tastes.
The menu features classic pasta dishes, delicious pizzas, and hearty entrees.
You can enjoy signature meals made with fresh ingredients. The staff is known for their friendly service, which adds to a pleasant dining experience.
In addition to their delicious food, Mama Di Roma regularly receives positive feedback for its cleanliness and inviting ambiance.
Many guests appreciate the attention to detail in both the menu and the overall dining environment.
For a true taste of Italy in West Virginia, Mama Di Roma stands out as a top choice that you won’t want to miss.
Rating: 4.7 (436 reviews)
Location: 323 Adams St, Fairmont, WV 26554
Contact: (304) 366-0505
Website: Visit Website
5) Leonoro’s Restaurant
Leonoro’s Restaurant has been a beloved spot in Charleston since 1915. This family-owned eatery cares about using fresh and high-quality ingredients.
You can enjoy various Italian dishes, including homemade sauces, meatballs, and pasta.
The cozy dining atmosphere is great for any occasion.
You can also take advantage of their delivery options through Grubhub and ChowNow. Their special lunch offers and desserts add to the appeal.
Don’t miss the chance to try their pasta. Each dish is carefully created to provide rich flavors.
Plus, their dessert selection is sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Leonoro’s also provides extra touches to enhance your meal, like garlic bread.
The restaurant focuses on creating a memorable dining experience for everyone.
Rating: 4.4 (377 reviews)
Location: 1507 Washington St E, Charleston, WV 25311
Contact: (304) 343-1851
Website: Visit Website
6) Rocco’s Little Italy
Rocco’s Little Italy is a cozy spot in Huntington, West Virginia. It offers a warm atmosphere that feels welcoming for families and groups.
The restaurant focuses on classic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients.
You can enjoy favorites like pasta, pizza, and traditional sauces. Each dish reflects a commitment to authentic Italian flavors.
The staff is known for being friendly and attentive, making your dining experience even better.
Rocco’s also offers takeout if you prefer to enjoy your meal at home. This convenience can be great for busy days.
The restaurant is popular among locals, with many returning for their favorite dishes.
Rating: 4.6 (334 reviews)
Location: 1345 4th Ave, Huntington, WV 25701
Contact: (304) 529-2400
Website: Visit Website
7) Fazio’s
Fazio’s is a well-known Italian restaurant in Charleston, West Virginia. It offers a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy authentic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients.
The Fazio family takes pride in their homemade recipes, ensuring each meal is crafted with care.
You can find a variety of options on the menu. They specialize in veal dishes, and you’ll also find great steak selections.
Whether you’re craving classic pasta or a hearty steak, Fazio’s meets these needs.
Reservations are not required, so you can drop in at any time.
The restaurant is popular among locals and visitors alike for its delicious Italian and American food.
Rating: 4.2 (516 reviews)
Location: 1008 Bullitt St, Charleston, WV 25301
Contact: (304) 344-3071
Website: Visit Website
8) Pasquale’s
Pasquale’s is a beloved Italian restaurant that has been serving the Beckley area for over 55 years.
You can expect a warm and relaxed atmosphere whether you are dining with family or friends. The restaurant offers a variety of spaces, including a casual dining room and an outdoor patio.
The menu features over fifty items, from classic spaghetti and lasagna to seafood and steaks. There are also plenty of pizza options, so you’ll find something that satisfies your cravings.
Their meals come highly recommended, with many customers praising the tasty dishes and exceptional service.
Pasquale’s also has a lively bar scene. You can enjoy handcrafted cocktails and mixed drinks in a friendly environment.
This spot is perfect for a night out or a special celebration.
Rating: 4.4 (1500 reviews)
Location: 224 Harper Park Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
Contact: (304) 255-5253
Website: Visit Website
9) Fratelli’s Italian Restaurant
Fratelli’s Italian Restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. Many diners appreciate the genuine service they receive, which adds to the overall dining experience. The restaurant is often described as a place where you feel like family.
The menu features a variety of Italian dishes. Favorites include lasagna, chicken primavera, and shrimp ravioli.
The restaurant is also praised for its freshly baked breadsticks and rich desserts like cheesecake.
First-time visitors can enjoy a complimentary dessert, which is a nice touch.
The restaurant stands out for its consistent food quality and attentive wait staff.
Many guests share positive experiences with servers who provide excellent recommendations.
Fratelli’s is a great choice for special occasions or a casual meal with friends and family. The combination of flavorful dishes and a warm environment makes it a popular spot in West Virginia.
Rating: 4.5 (1300 reviews)
Location: 6007 US-60, Barboursville, WV 25504
Contact: (304) 955-5134
Website: Visit Website##
10) Castiglia | Italian Eatery
Castiglia is a popular spot for Italian cuisine in Keyser, West Virginia. The menu offers a variety of traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients.
You can expect classic pastas, pizzas, and delightful desserts.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great place for both family meals and casual dining with friends. Customers often enjoy the friendly service and cozy setting.
Castiglia focuses on quality and flavor. Diners appreciate the care that goes into each dish, making it a favorite among locals.
Many patrons have praised the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity.
You can find it conveniently located at a central spot in Keyser, making it accessible for both residents and visitors.
Rating: 4.6 (890 reviews)
Location: 401 S Mineral St, Keyser, WV 26726
Contact: (304) 788-1300
Website: Visit Website
Italian Cuisine Essentials
Italian cuisine relies on quality ingredients and traditional recipes. Understanding the key components and dishes helps you appreciate the flavors and techniques that make it unique.
Key Ingredients
Italian cooking uses fresh and high-quality ingredients. Here are some essential components:
- Olive Oil: This is the base for many dishes. Extra virgin olive oil is often used for cooking and dressing salads.
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes, especially San Marzano, are crucial for sauces and salads. Canned tomatoes are also popular for convenience.
- Garlic: Used to add flavor to many dishes, it can be roasted, sautéed, or used raw.
- Herbs: Basil, oregano, and parsley are common. Fresh herbs add brightness to meals.
- Cheese: Varieties like Parmesan, mozzarella, and ricotta enhance flavors. They are used in dishes from pasta to pizza.
- Pasta: Considered a staple, pasta is made from wheat and comes in many shapes and sizes.
Traditional Dishes
Italian cuisine features many beloved dishes. Some classics you may encounter include:
- Pasta: Varieties include spaghetti, fettuccine, and penne. It’s often paired with sauces like marinara or Alfredo.
- Pizza: Originating from Naples, true Italian pizza has a thin crust and simple toppings like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Risotto: A creamy rice dish cooked slowly with broth, often flavored with saffron or mushrooms.
- Lasagna: Layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce create a comforting dish.
- Tiramisu: A popular dessert made with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.
By knowing these key ingredients and dishes, you can better appreciate the Italian dining experience.
Culinary Influence in West Virginia
West Virginia’s culinary scene reflects a rich blend of cultural influences. The state’s unique geography and history have shaped local food traditions, leading to adaptations and trends that highlight the flavors of Italian cuisine.
Local Adaptations
In West Virginia, Italian food has been adapted to include local ingredients. You might find traditional pasta dishes made with homemade noodles, created from local grains.
Tomato sauces often feature regional tomatoes, enhancing the flavor profile.
Local variations of classic Italian dishes can include ingredients like country ham or wild mushrooms. These additions give a unique twist to favorites such as lasagna or risotto.
Many restaurants pride themselves on using locally sourced produce, which enriches the dining experience.
The influence of Appalachian cooking methods also adds depth. You might encounter dishes that blend skills from both Italian heritage and Southern comfort food. This fusion creates meals that resonate with both locals and visitors alike.
Fusion Trends
Fusion cuisine in West Virginia shows the creativity of local chefs. You can see Italian dishes paired with flavors from other cultures.
For example, some restaurants offer pasta topped with barbecue pulled pork, merging two distinct culinary worlds into one delicious plate.
Another trend is the use of spicy peppers and southern spices in traditional Italian recipes. This practice transforms classic dishes, giving them a modern twist that appeals to younger diners.
Desserts also show this fusion influence. You might find tiramisu with local berries or seasonings that remind you of the Appalachian region.
These innovative combinations highlight how West Virginia chefs are not afraid to experiment while honoring Italian roots.