Eat it! Barboursville, West Virginia
Of course! Pull up a chair, friend, and let's talk food. As your local guide to the culinary crossroads of Barboursville, West Virginia, I'm here to give you the real scoop. This isn't just a list; it's a journey through the flavors that define our little corner of the Mountain State. From sizzling steaks to authentic Thai, from classic American diners to margarita-fueled fiestas, we've got a plate for every palate. So loosen your belt a notch and let's embark on a 3000-word tasting tour of Barboursville's best.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Barboursville, West Virginia**
Nestled in the heart of Cabell County, Barboursville is far more than a convenient exit off I-64. It’s a community with a burgeoning food scene that masterfully blends down-home Appalachian comfort with exciting global influences. Dining here is an experience—a chance to connect, to celebrate, and to indulge in genuinely good food made with heart. This guide is your key to unlocking those experiences, one unforgettable meal at a time.
---
#### **1. Main St on Central: The Neighborhood Anchor**
**Location:** 646 Central Ave, Barboursville, WV 25504
Step into Main St on Central and you immediately feel it—that warm, familiar hum of a place that’s the bedrock of the community. It’s part cozy pub, part family restaurant, with a vibe that says, Come as you are and stay awhile. The walls, adorned with local memorabilia, tell stories, and the staff greets regulars by name. It’s the kind of place where you go for a serious burger, a cold draft beer, and conversation that doesn't feel rushed.
**What to Order: The Experience**
For lunch, you cannot go wrong with the **Classic Cheeseburger**. This isn't some flimsy, pre-formed patty. We're talking a hearty, hand-pressed half-pound of beef, char-grilled to juicy perfection, draped with melted American cheese, and served on a soft, toasted brioche bun. The fries? Golden, crisp, and generously seasoned—the ideal salty counterpart.
But if you really want to experience what makes Main St special, come for dinner and dive into their **Prime Rib**. It's a weekend special that locals mark on their calendars. A slow-roasted, beautifully seasoned cut that’s fork-tender, served with a rich au jus, a creamy horseradish sauce, and your choice of sides. Get the loaded baked potato—smothered in cheese, bacon, and chives—and you've got a meal that embodies comfort.
**Pro-Tip:** Check their social media for daily specials. Their wings, especially on game day, are a local secret worth discovering.
---
#### **2. 3 Amigos: A Fiesta of Flavor**
**Location:** 3677 US Rt 60 E, Barboursville, WV 25504
¡Bienvenidos! 3 Amigos brings the vibrant, festive spirit of a Mexican cantina right to Route 60. The air is filled with the irresistible aroma of sizzling fajitas, the sound of clinking margarita glasses, and cheerful mariachi music. It’s always a celebration here, whether you're on a date night or with a rowdy family gathering. The service is fast and friendly, and the chips and salsa keep coming—a dangerous and delicious cycle.
**What to Order: The Experience**
Start with a **Grande Margarita** (on the rocks, with salt) and the **Queso Fundido**. This molten masterpiece of melted cheese with chorizo, peppers, and onions, served with soft flour tortillas, is the stuff of dreams. It’s communal, it’s gooey, it’s absolutely mandatory.
For your main event, you have two championship-level choices. The **Molcajete** is a showstopper. Served in a steaming volcanic stone bowl, it's a spectacular mix of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, and chorizo with nopalitos (cactus), onions, and peppers, all simmering in a rich, spicy broth. It’s an adventure in every bite.
Alternatively, you can't miss with the **Carne Asada**. A perfectly marinated and grilled skirt steak that’s remarkably tender and flavorful, served with rice, beans, guacamole, and tortillas. It’s simple, authentic, and executed flawlessly.
**Pro-Tip:** Lunch specials are incredibly generous and affordable. The Chile Relleno combo is a fantastic way to sample their talents.
---
#### **3. Hwy 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries: Americana on a Tray**
**Location:** 21 Tanyard Station Dr, Barboursville, WV 25504
Welcome to a blast from the past, where chrome accents, checkered floors, and friendly carhops (you can still get service at your car!) deliver pure, unadulterated joy. Hwy 55 is a dedication to the classics—the burger, the shake, the fry—done right. It’s bright, it’s clean, and it’s always buzzing with energy. This is where you bring a craving for nostalgia and leave with a happy stomach.
**What to Order: The Experience**
This is a three-part symphony. First, the burger: The **55 Classic Cheeseburger** is the gold standard. A fresh, never-frozen beef patty, perfectly grilled with just the right amount of char, topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and their signature 55 sauce on a soft, egg-style bun. It’s a masterpiece of balance.
Second, the fries: Their **Fresh-Cut Fries** are legendary. Peeled and cut in-house daily, they're fried to a crispy, golden exterior with a fluffy, hot interior. Get them 55 Style – smothered in cheese, bacon, and ranch for a heart-stoppingly good side.
Third, the pièce de résistance: the **Hand-Spun Shake**. Thick, creamy, and so dense your straw might stand up on its own. The chocolate is a deep, rich dream, but the seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Pie or Peppermint around the holidays are not to be missed.
**Pro-Tip:** Go for a Fancy Burger like the Patty Melt or the Bacon Swiss for a delicious twist on the classic.
---
#### **4. Oscar's Breakfast, Burgers & Brews: The All-Day Comfort Hub**
**Location:** 6007 US-60 Suite 220, Barboursville, WV 25504
Oscar’s understands a fundamental truth: sometimes you need a great burger at 8 AM, and sometimes you need pancakes at 8 PM. This is your all-access pass to comfort food, any time of day. The atmosphere is modern-diner-meets-sports-bar, with TVs tuned to the big game and a welcoming, no-fuss attitude. It’s the place you go when you can't decide what you want, because you know they'll have it.
**What to Order: The Experience**
For breakfast (which is served all day, bless them), you must try the **Cinnamon Roll Pancakes**. Imagine all the gooey, buttery, cinnamon-sugar goodness of a fresh-baked cinnamon roll transformed into a light, fluffy stack of pancakes, drizzled with cream cheese icing. It’s decadent, shareable, and unforgettable.
If you're there for lunch or dinner, the **Oscar’s Classic Burger** is a titan. But venture further to their **Hot Brown**. This Kentucky-derived classic is an open-faced masterpiece of turkey, bacon, and tomato, all smothered in a decadent Parmesan Mornay sauce and broiled until bubbly and golden. It’s the ultimate in savory, cheesy indulgence.
**Pro-Tip:** They have a solid selection of local and domestic beers on tap. Pair a craft IPA with their spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich for a perfect match.
---
#### **5. Twisted Grille: Creative Flavors & Cozy Vibes**
**Location:** 4341 US-60 suite 135, Barboursville, WV 25705
Twisted Grille is Barboursville’s spot for elevated casual. The name says it all—they take classic American dishes and give them a creative, delicious twist. The atmosphere is intimate and stylish, with dim lighting and a modern decor that makes it perfect for a date night or a classy dinner with friends. It feels like a hidden gem, a step above the chain restaurants.
**What to Order: The Experience**
Begin with their signature **Candied Bacon**. Thick-cut bacon coated in a brown sugar and black pepper glaze, baked until caramelized and crispy. It’s sweet, salty, smoky, and spicy all at once—a revelation.
For your entrée, the **Twisted Meatloaf** is a must-try. This isn't your grandmother's meatloaf (though she'd be impressed). It's a blend of beef and pork, wrapped in bacon, and glazed with a tangy bourbon-infused sauce. Served with garlic mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables, it’s comfort food reinvented with flair.
If you're feeling adventurous, their specials board always features fresh, innovative dishes that showcase the chef's creativity, often incorporating local ingredients.
**Pro-Tip:** Save room for dessert! Their seasonal cheesecakes, often made in-house, are the perfect finale.
---
#### **6. LongHorn Steakhouse: The Steakhouse Standard**
**Location:** 33 Tanyard Station Dr, Barboursville, WV 25504
Sometimes, you just need a perfectly cooked steak. LongHorn delivers that reliable, high-quality steakhouse experience every time. The moment you walk in, the scent of searing steak over an open flame welcomes you. The dining room is warm and rustic, with dark wood and western art, creating a confident, comfortable atmosphere where you know you're in for a serious meal.
**What to Order: The Experience**
This is a temple of beef, so go for the gold. The **Outlaw Ribeye** is a 18oz spirit, a generously marbled, flavor-packed monster of a steak that’s seasoned and flame-grilled to your exact specification. The crust is magnificent, the interior juicy and bursting with beefy goodness.
If you're not in the mood for a colossal cut, the **Renegade Top Sirloin** is a leaner but no less flavorful option, offering incredible value and taste.
No steak is complete without sides. The **Fresh Steakhouse Salad** with its tangy Parmesan peppercorn dressing is a crisp start. For your side, the **Loaded Baked Potato** or the **Steakhouse Mac & Cheese** (rich, creamy, and topped with a Parmesan crust) are non-negotiable additions.
**Pro-Tip:** Their **White Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms** appetizer is a umami bomb that perfectly sets the stage for the steak to come.
---
#### **7. Tortilla Factory - A Mexican Kitchen: Authenticity Made Fresh**
**Location:** 3419 US-60, Barboursville, WV 25504
Don't let the unassuming strip mall location fool you. Tortilla Factory is a hidden beacon of authentic Mexican cuisine. The key is in the name—they make their tortillas *fresh*, in-house, and it makes all the difference. The atmosphere is family-friendly and brightly decorated, but the real magic is on the plate. This is food made with traditional techniques and love.
**What to Order: The Experience**
You must start with the **Fresh Chips and Salsa**. The chips are still warm, light, and crisp, and the salsa is freshly blended with a bright, tangy kick.
For an entrée, you have two paths to glory. First, the **Tacos al Pastor**. Marinated pork, slow-cooked on a trompo (vertical spit) with pineapple, served on those incredible fresh corn tortillas with onions, cilantro, and a wedge of lime. It’s a symphony of sweet, savory, and acidic flavors.
Second, anything from the Molcajete or Cazuela section of the menu. Like at 3 Amigos, these stone-bowl dishes are a feast for the senses. The **Molcajete Mixto**, brimming with grilled meats, shrimp, nopales, and green onions in a rich, aromatic broth, is a journey to the heart of Mexican cooking.
**Pro-Tip:** Explore beyond the combo plates. Their seafood dishes, like the **Camarones a la Diabla** (spicy devil shrimp), are exceptional.
---
#### **8. 1861 Public House: Historic Charm & Elevated Pub Fare**
**Location:** 650 Central Ave, Barboursville, WV 25504
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, 1861 Public House is Barboursville's elegant gastropub. The ambiance is its first triumph—exposed brick, dark wood, and a palpable sense of history blend with a lively, upscale bar scene. It's sophisticated yet comfortable, ideal for a business lunch, a romantic dinner, or cocktails with friends. The menu features refined takes on pub classics and American standards.
**What to Order: The Experience**
Their appetizers are designed for sharing. The **Baked Brie** is a stellar choice—a wheel of creamy brie baked with a brown sugar and pecan crust, served with apple slices and crostini. It’s elegant, sweet, savory, and utterly delicious.
For the main course, the **Public House Burger** stands tall among the best in town. A premium blend of beef, cooked perfectly, topped with bacon, cheddar, onion straws, and a signature sauce on a brioche bun. It’s a messy, glorious handful.
However, their true showpiece is the **Prime Rib**. Offered on weekends, it's a majestic, slow-roasted cut that is incredibly tender and flavorful, served with horseradish cream, au jus, and your choice of sophisticated sides like garlic whipped potatoes or roasted asparagus.
**Pro-Tip:** Their cocktail program is top-notch. Try an Old Fashioned or one of their seasonal craft cocktails to complete the experience.
---
#### **9. Food Thai Thai: An Authentic Taste of Southeast Asia**
**Location:** 940 Lauren Christian Dr, Barboursville, WV 25504
In a town brimming with American and Mexican fare, Food Thai Thai is a wonderful and welcome escape. This is a small, humble, family-run operation where the focus is purely on the food—authentic, bold, and aromatic Thai cuisine. The decor is simple, but the flavors are complex and thrilling. It’s a culinary passport stamp.
**What to Order: The Experience**
You simply must begin with the **Fresh Spring Rolls**. Translucent rice paper wrapped around shrimp, vermicelli noodles, mint, and lettuce, served with a perfectly balanced peanut sauce. They are light, refreshing, and packed with herbaceous flavor.
For your main course, navigate the spice level menu carefully (their Thai Hot is no joke!). The quintessential dish to order is **Pad Thai**. Theirs is exemplary—a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami, with tender noodles, egg, bean sprouts, peanuts, and your choice of protein.
For a richer, curry-based experience, the **Panang Curry** is sublime. Creamy coconut milk infused with Panang curry paste, kaffir lime leaves, and basil, simmering with your choice of meat. The depth of flavor is incredible, best sopped up with a side of sticky rice.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations. The family is passionate about their food and will gladly guide you to something you'll love.
---
#### **10. Sonic Drive-In: The Ultimate Retro Treat**
**Location:** 3462 E US Rte 60, Barboursville, WV 25504
No Barboursville culinary tour is complete without a stop at Sonic. This isn't about a sit-down gourmet meal; it's about an iconic American experience. Pull into a stall, roll down your window, press the big red button, and order from your car. It’s pure, nostalgic fun, especially on a warm evening. It’s the taste of summer, of first cars, and of simple pleasures.
**What to Order: The Experience**
This is all about the snacks and the sips. You come for the **Drinks**. The menu is vast and customizable. A **Cherry Limeade** is the classic choice—tart, sweet, and fizzy with real maraschino cherries and a lime wedge. For creamier options, the **Ocean Water** (blue coconut slush) or a **Vanilla Cream Slush** are legendary.
For food, it’s all about the **Chicago Dog** (if you're feeling fancy) or a simple, satisfying **All-American Hot Dog**. And you cannot, under any circumstances, skip the **Tater Tots**. Crispy, salty, and perfect for dipping in ketchup, cheese, or ranch.
**Pro-Tip:** Happy Hour from 2-4 PM is a sacred time, with half-price drinks and slushes. It's the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
***
Well, there you have it, folks—a culinary map to the delicious diversity of Barboursville. From the historic charm of 1861 Public House to the authentic flames of Tortilla Factory, from the premium steaks at LongHorn to the nostalgic bliss of a Sonic limeade, this town has a flavor for every mood and moment. So get out there, explore, eat well, and support these local spots that make our community so deliciously unique. Happy eating
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Barboursville, West Virginia**
Nestled in the heart of Cabell County, Barboursville is far more than a convenient exit off I-64. It’s a community with a burgeoning food scene that masterfully blends down-home Appalachian comfort with exciting global influences. Dining here is an experience—a chance to connect, to celebrate, and to indulge in genuinely good food made with heart. This guide is your key to unlocking those experiences, one unforgettable meal at a time.
---
#### **1. Main St on Central: The Neighborhood Anchor**
**Location:** 646 Central Ave, Barboursville, WV 25504
Step into Main St on Central and you immediately feel it—that warm, familiar hum of a place that’s the bedrock of the community. It’s part cozy pub, part family restaurant, with a vibe that says, Come as you are and stay awhile. The walls, adorned with local memorabilia, tell stories, and the staff greets regulars by name. It’s the kind of place where you go for a serious burger, a cold draft beer, and conversation that doesn't feel rushed.
**What to Order: The Experience**
For lunch, you cannot go wrong with the **Classic Cheeseburger**. This isn't some flimsy, pre-formed patty. We're talking a hearty, hand-pressed half-pound of beef, char-grilled to juicy perfection, draped with melted American cheese, and served on a soft, toasted brioche bun. The fries? Golden, crisp, and generously seasoned—the ideal salty counterpart.
But if you really want to experience what makes Main St special, come for dinner and dive into their **Prime Rib**. It's a weekend special that locals mark on their calendars. A slow-roasted, beautifully seasoned cut that’s fork-tender, served with a rich au jus, a creamy horseradish sauce, and your choice of sides. Get the loaded baked potato—smothered in cheese, bacon, and chives—and you've got a meal that embodies comfort.
**Pro-Tip:** Check their social media for daily specials. Their wings, especially on game day, are a local secret worth discovering.
---
#### **2. 3 Amigos: A Fiesta of Flavor**
**Location:** 3677 US Rt 60 E, Barboursville, WV 25504
¡Bienvenidos! 3 Amigos brings the vibrant, festive spirit of a Mexican cantina right to Route 60. The air is filled with the irresistible aroma of sizzling fajitas, the sound of clinking margarita glasses, and cheerful mariachi music. It’s always a celebration here, whether you're on a date night or with a rowdy family gathering. The service is fast and friendly, and the chips and salsa keep coming—a dangerous and delicious cycle.
**What to Order: The Experience**
Start with a **Grande Margarita** (on the rocks, with salt) and the **Queso Fundido**. This molten masterpiece of melted cheese with chorizo, peppers, and onions, served with soft flour tortillas, is the stuff of dreams. It’s communal, it’s gooey, it’s absolutely mandatory.
For your main event, you have two championship-level choices. The **Molcajete** is a showstopper. Served in a steaming volcanic stone bowl, it's a spectacular mix of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, and chorizo with nopalitos (cactus), onions, and peppers, all simmering in a rich, spicy broth. It’s an adventure in every bite.
Alternatively, you can't miss with the **Carne Asada**. A perfectly marinated and grilled skirt steak that’s remarkably tender and flavorful, served with rice, beans, guacamole, and tortillas. It’s simple, authentic, and executed flawlessly.
**Pro-Tip:** Lunch specials are incredibly generous and affordable. The Chile Relleno combo is a fantastic way to sample their talents.
---
#### **3. Hwy 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries: Americana on a Tray**
**Location:** 21 Tanyard Station Dr, Barboursville, WV 25504
Welcome to a blast from the past, where chrome accents, checkered floors, and friendly carhops (you can still get service at your car!) deliver pure, unadulterated joy. Hwy 55 is a dedication to the classics—the burger, the shake, the fry—done right. It’s bright, it’s clean, and it’s always buzzing with energy. This is where you bring a craving for nostalgia and leave with a happy stomach.
**What to Order: The Experience**
This is a three-part symphony. First, the burger: The **55 Classic Cheeseburger** is the gold standard. A fresh, never-frozen beef patty, perfectly grilled with just the right amount of char, topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and their signature 55 sauce on a soft, egg-style bun. It’s a masterpiece of balance.
Second, the fries: Their **Fresh-Cut Fries** are legendary. Peeled and cut in-house daily, they're fried to a crispy, golden exterior with a fluffy, hot interior. Get them 55 Style – smothered in cheese, bacon, and ranch for a heart-stoppingly good side.
Third, the pièce de résistance: the **Hand-Spun Shake**. Thick, creamy, and so dense your straw might stand up on its own. The chocolate is a deep, rich dream, but the seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Pie or Peppermint around the holidays are not to be missed.
**Pro-Tip:** Go for a Fancy Burger like the Patty Melt or the Bacon Swiss for a delicious twist on the classic.
---
#### **4. Oscar's Breakfast, Burgers & Brews: The All-Day Comfort Hub**
**Location:** 6007 US-60 Suite 220, Barboursville, WV 25504
Oscar’s understands a fundamental truth: sometimes you need a great burger at 8 AM, and sometimes you need pancakes at 8 PM. This is your all-access pass to comfort food, any time of day. The atmosphere is modern-diner-meets-sports-bar, with TVs tuned to the big game and a welcoming, no-fuss attitude. It’s the place you go when you can't decide what you want, because you know they'll have it.
**What to Order: The Experience**
For breakfast (which is served all day, bless them), you must try the **Cinnamon Roll Pancakes**. Imagine all the gooey, buttery, cinnamon-sugar goodness of a fresh-baked cinnamon roll transformed into a light, fluffy stack of pancakes, drizzled with cream cheese icing. It’s decadent, shareable, and unforgettable.
If you're there for lunch or dinner, the **Oscar’s Classic Burger** is a titan. But venture further to their **Hot Brown**. This Kentucky-derived classic is an open-faced masterpiece of turkey, bacon, and tomato, all smothered in a decadent Parmesan Mornay sauce and broiled until bubbly and golden. It’s the ultimate in savory, cheesy indulgence.
**Pro-Tip:** They have a solid selection of local and domestic beers on tap. Pair a craft IPA with their spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich for a perfect match.
---
#### **5. Twisted Grille: Creative Flavors & Cozy Vibes**
**Location:** 4341 US-60 suite 135, Barboursville, WV 25705
Twisted Grille is Barboursville’s spot for elevated casual. The name says it all—they take classic American dishes and give them a creative, delicious twist. The atmosphere is intimate and stylish, with dim lighting and a modern decor that makes it perfect for a date night or a classy dinner with friends. It feels like a hidden gem, a step above the chain restaurants.
**What to Order: The Experience**
Begin with their signature **Candied Bacon**. Thick-cut bacon coated in a brown sugar and black pepper glaze, baked until caramelized and crispy. It’s sweet, salty, smoky, and spicy all at once—a revelation.
For your entrée, the **Twisted Meatloaf** is a must-try. This isn't your grandmother's meatloaf (though she'd be impressed). It's a blend of beef and pork, wrapped in bacon, and glazed with a tangy bourbon-infused sauce. Served with garlic mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables, it’s comfort food reinvented with flair.
If you're feeling adventurous, their specials board always features fresh, innovative dishes that showcase the chef's creativity, often incorporating local ingredients.
**Pro-Tip:** Save room for dessert! Their seasonal cheesecakes, often made in-house, are the perfect finale.
---
#### **6. LongHorn Steakhouse: The Steakhouse Standard**
**Location:** 33 Tanyard Station Dr, Barboursville, WV 25504
Sometimes, you just need a perfectly cooked steak. LongHorn delivers that reliable, high-quality steakhouse experience every time. The moment you walk in, the scent of searing steak over an open flame welcomes you. The dining room is warm and rustic, with dark wood and western art, creating a confident, comfortable atmosphere where you know you're in for a serious meal.
**What to Order: The Experience**
This is a temple of beef, so go for the gold. The **Outlaw Ribeye** is a 18oz spirit, a generously marbled, flavor-packed monster of a steak that’s seasoned and flame-grilled to your exact specification. The crust is magnificent, the interior juicy and bursting with beefy goodness.
If you're not in the mood for a colossal cut, the **Renegade Top Sirloin** is a leaner but no less flavorful option, offering incredible value and taste.
No steak is complete without sides. The **Fresh Steakhouse Salad** with its tangy Parmesan peppercorn dressing is a crisp start. For your side, the **Loaded Baked Potato** or the **Steakhouse Mac & Cheese** (rich, creamy, and topped with a Parmesan crust) are non-negotiable additions.
**Pro-Tip:** Their **White Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms** appetizer is a umami bomb that perfectly sets the stage for the steak to come.
---
#### **7. Tortilla Factory - A Mexican Kitchen: Authenticity Made Fresh**
**Location:** 3419 US-60, Barboursville, WV 25504
Don't let the unassuming strip mall location fool you. Tortilla Factory is a hidden beacon of authentic Mexican cuisine. The key is in the name—they make their tortillas *fresh*, in-house, and it makes all the difference. The atmosphere is family-friendly and brightly decorated, but the real magic is on the plate. This is food made with traditional techniques and love.
**What to Order: The Experience**
You must start with the **Fresh Chips and Salsa**. The chips are still warm, light, and crisp, and the salsa is freshly blended with a bright, tangy kick.
For an entrée, you have two paths to glory. First, the **Tacos al Pastor**. Marinated pork, slow-cooked on a trompo (vertical spit) with pineapple, served on those incredible fresh corn tortillas with onions, cilantro, and a wedge of lime. It’s a symphony of sweet, savory, and acidic flavors.
Second, anything from the Molcajete or Cazuela section of the menu. Like at 3 Amigos, these stone-bowl dishes are a feast for the senses. The **Molcajete Mixto**, brimming with grilled meats, shrimp, nopales, and green onions in a rich, aromatic broth, is a journey to the heart of Mexican cooking.
**Pro-Tip:** Explore beyond the combo plates. Their seafood dishes, like the **Camarones a la Diabla** (spicy devil shrimp), are exceptional.
---
#### **8. 1861 Public House: Historic Charm & Elevated Pub Fare**
**Location:** 650 Central Ave, Barboursville, WV 25504
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, 1861 Public House is Barboursville's elegant gastropub. The ambiance is its first triumph—exposed brick, dark wood, and a palpable sense of history blend with a lively, upscale bar scene. It's sophisticated yet comfortable, ideal for a business lunch, a romantic dinner, or cocktails with friends. The menu features refined takes on pub classics and American standards.
**What to Order: The Experience**
Their appetizers are designed for sharing. The **Baked Brie** is a stellar choice—a wheel of creamy brie baked with a brown sugar and pecan crust, served with apple slices and crostini. It’s elegant, sweet, savory, and utterly delicious.
For the main course, the **Public House Burger** stands tall among the best in town. A premium blend of beef, cooked perfectly, topped with bacon, cheddar, onion straws, and a signature sauce on a brioche bun. It’s a messy, glorious handful.
However, their true showpiece is the **Prime Rib**. Offered on weekends, it's a majestic, slow-roasted cut that is incredibly tender and flavorful, served with horseradish cream, au jus, and your choice of sophisticated sides like garlic whipped potatoes or roasted asparagus.
**Pro-Tip:** Their cocktail program is top-notch. Try an Old Fashioned or one of their seasonal craft cocktails to complete the experience.
---
#### **9. Food Thai Thai: An Authentic Taste of Southeast Asia**
**Location:** 940 Lauren Christian Dr, Barboursville, WV 25504
In a town brimming with American and Mexican fare, Food Thai Thai is a wonderful and welcome escape. This is a small, humble, family-run operation where the focus is purely on the food—authentic, bold, and aromatic Thai cuisine. The decor is simple, but the flavors are complex and thrilling. It’s a culinary passport stamp.
**What to Order: The Experience**
You simply must begin with the **Fresh Spring Rolls**. Translucent rice paper wrapped around shrimp, vermicelli noodles, mint, and lettuce, served with a perfectly balanced peanut sauce. They are light, refreshing, and packed with herbaceous flavor.
For your main course, navigate the spice level menu carefully (their Thai Hot is no joke!). The quintessential dish to order is **Pad Thai**. Theirs is exemplary—a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami, with tender noodles, egg, bean sprouts, peanuts, and your choice of protein.
For a richer, curry-based experience, the **Panang Curry** is sublime. Creamy coconut milk infused with Panang curry paste, kaffir lime leaves, and basil, simmering with your choice of meat. The depth of flavor is incredible, best sopped up with a side of sticky rice.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations. The family is passionate about their food and will gladly guide you to something you'll love.
---
#### **10. Sonic Drive-In: The Ultimate Retro Treat**
**Location:** 3462 E US Rte 60, Barboursville, WV 25504
No Barboursville culinary tour is complete without a stop at Sonic. This isn't about a sit-down gourmet meal; it's about an iconic American experience. Pull into a stall, roll down your window, press the big red button, and order from your car. It’s pure, nostalgic fun, especially on a warm evening. It’s the taste of summer, of first cars, and of simple pleasures.
**What to Order: The Experience**
This is all about the snacks and the sips. You come for the **Drinks**. The menu is vast and customizable. A **Cherry Limeade** is the classic choice—tart, sweet, and fizzy with real maraschino cherries and a lime wedge. For creamier options, the **Ocean Water** (blue coconut slush) or a **Vanilla Cream Slush** are legendary.
For food, it’s all about the **Chicago Dog** (if you're feeling fancy) or a simple, satisfying **All-American Hot Dog**. And you cannot, under any circumstances, skip the **Tater Tots**. Crispy, salty, and perfect for dipping in ketchup, cheese, or ranch.
**Pro-Tip:** Happy Hour from 2-4 PM is a sacred time, with half-price drinks and slushes. It's the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
***
Well, there you have it, folks—a culinary map to the delicious diversity of Barboursville. From the historic charm of 1861 Public House to the authentic flames of Tortilla Factory, from the premium steaks at LongHorn to the nostalgic bliss of a Sonic limeade, this town has a flavor for every mood and moment. So get out there, explore, eat well, and support these local spots that make our community so deliciously unique. Happy eating
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