"A taste of community right here in Shepherdstown based on the flavors and heritage of Appalachia," reads Alma Bea's Facebook page.



The space is large with plenty of gravel parking. It is decorated with colorful chicken graphics and serves food on cast iron-inspired dishes. I had been to this location previously when it was another restaurant. In this rendition, I think hip take on country decor is neat.



The menu follows the same lead: Appalachian base dishes with a bit of flair. Handpies, potlikker greens, heirloom grits and pepperoni rolls are just a sampling of that.



The bottom of the menu reads: Appalachian Mountain cuisine is the story of the adventurous folks who came to this region to create lives for their families, bringing with the many food traditions from their families and homelands. It's a story that we in the kitchen hope to celebrate, recreate and reimagine. We hope our efforts will nourish your soul and bring you joy.



I ordered a goat cheese and caramelized onion tart and mac & cheese. I know on this particular day I was having severe back pain. But even through that, I was in heaven over this tart. The caramelized onions were so sweet and married perfectly with that funky goat cheese. The salad had fresh summer berries, and the mac & cheese was creamy. I'd love to go back and check out more options.



Grade: A