In downtown Sevierville, The Appalachian is known for its Appalachian cooking.
The restaurant builds its menu around regional ingredients, and a wood-fired hearth is the centerpoint of the kitchen.
The menu changes regularly, but the throughline stays consistent -- Appalachian ingredients, a lot of creativity and plenty of comfort.
You’ll see mains like rainbow trout, dry-aged steaks, pork chops, often paired with seasonal vegetables. Plus, there are starters like fried chicken skins, pimento cheese and cornbread.
Inside, the space is full of wood, stone and low lighting. And plenty of bourbon options.
I enjoyed a "Prickle Me Pink," which included prickly pear. That intrigued me, since that's a flavor I've typically seen out west. It was lightly sweet and brightly colored.
For my entree, I went with shrimp & grits, with andouille sausage, lunchbox pepper, shallot and fermented peppers.
The grits were very good and the perfect consistency. The shrimp gave a clean, slightly sweet flavor. The sausage brought some smokiness.
The cornbread was risp-edged and golden on the outside, soft and slightly crumbly inside. More savory than sweet.
Have you been?
Grade: A
Oddfellers' Fine Foods is a Richwood restaurant under the direction of Chef Libby Nolle, who has recieved statewide recognition for her food.
The restaurant held a fancy ramp supper - it is Richwood after all - for $80/person.
"These ain’t your grandma’s ramps, perhaps, but we are all super proud and excited to be able to host our first annual “Oddfellers’ Fancy Ramp Feed.” Libby has gone above and beyond in creating an intriguing and delicious six course menu that celebrates our Appalachian culinary traditions in a manner that is elegant and refined, yet bursting with flavor at every turn. A dinner worth changing your plans for," the event read.
Cornbread Crostini with Whipped Feta, Ramp Jam, and Toasted Pine Nuts
Creamed Ramp and Potato Soup with Fresh Chives and Truffle Oil
Baby Kale Salad in Citrus-Ramp Vinaigrette with Mandarin Oranges, Goat Cheese, and Toasted Almonds
Salmon Cake with Hominy Succotash and Dilly Ramp Crème fraîche
Porchetta with House-made Ramp Tagliatelle, Roasted Asparagus, and Ramp Gremolata
Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Sweet Cream
This was a really thoughtful meal with some creative flavors.
Grade: A
Mountain State Creamery is a nostalgic ice cream shop in Vienna, West Virginia, known for its premium hard-packed ice cream, old-fashioned candy and bright decor.
They offer a sweet escape into the past with options like ice cream flights, waffles and over-the-top shakes.
"The shop emphasizes memorable experiences and community connection. It often teams up with local businesses for themed events and contests—earning accolades including consideration as one of West Virginia’s top ice cream spots," reads the website.
There were so many yummy sounding flavors that I had a difficult time choosing. Fortunately, they've developed an option for those like me.
"Flight of Junior Scoops - Can't Pick Just One? Try a Flight! Mix, match, and explore with a flight of 6 junior scoops-perfect for sampling our rotating homemade flavors. Share it (or don't!) and find your new favorite scoop."
I chose a variety - from carrot mango Italian ice (Non-dairy, non-fat and bursting with sweet, tangy flavor with real carrot (yes, we said carrot!) and fruit juices) to "Yippee Skippee," which is creamy peanut butter ice cream loaded with salted caramel ripples, soft brownie chunks and crispy chocolate-covered pretzels.
Of course I added a scoop of "Cookie Dough" - Sweet cookie-flavored ice cream with heaps of soft chocolate chip cookie dough and tons of rich chocolate chips.
And another Italian ice: Electric Watermelon - Refreshing watermelon Italian ice with a jolt of sour to leave you feeling electric.
I love the rich, indulgent options, as well as the tangy, refreshing bites. And each scoop keeps things interesting. Now, time to try the remaining flavors.
Have you been?
Grade: A
Farmhouse Sweets & Treats is a small, nostalgic-style candy and dessert shop tucked inside Oglebay Park.
"Step into a world of whimsy at Farmhouse Sweets & Treats, Oglebay’s delightful sweet shop brimming with hand-crafted chocolates, locally made ice cream, and a colorful candy buffet sure to spark joy in guests of all ages," reads the website.
Highlights include: Kirke's Homemade Ice-Cream, $5 Candy Buffet, Hand-crafted Chocolates and Novelty Gifts.
It’s a gift shop-meets-sweet shop built around that old-fashioned candy store vibe — bright, family-friendly, and geared toward browsing and impulse treats.
You’ll also find things like jams and locally inspired sweets, which lean into that “Appalachian farmhouse” theme.
When I walked in, I first noticed the fudge in rotating flavors, hand-dipped chocolates behind a case, and a mix of ice cream options.
I selected a few chocolates that spoke ro me - primarily caramels. They were lovely but I dont believe made on site? Correct me if I'm wrong here.
I also picked up a few items for gifts, so they will remain a secret here. For now.
Have you been?
Grade: A
Crafts of Coal is a local ice cream shop with several locations around the Kanawha Valley.
The original concept was a food truck in St. Albans, before moving to a brick-and-mortar location in the same town. Then, they expanded to Sissonville and, most recently, Dunbar.
So, I stopped at the Dunbar location to get my ice cream fix. I opted for a "Turtle Trail" cone: SEA-SALT CARAMEL ICE CREAM AND SALTY CARAMEL SWIRL. WITH CHOCOLATE-CARAMEL TURTLES SWIMMING ABOUT.
The generous scoop was rich and satisfying. Creamy, a little salty and 100% indulgent. 10/10 would order again. Pro-tip: Get a cup to avoid a melty mess.
And while the ice cream shop isn't known for savory bites, I got a simple hot dog with ketchup and onion that hit the spot.
Grade: A
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