Poppy's Smokin Grill is an Alum Creek BBQ joint that I was able to catch open recently - though they have since closed. I walked up to the window to place my carryout order. They had smoked meats, burgers, chili dogs, and more. I ordered wings and pulled pork fries. I was disappointed with the lack of bold flavor. I was looking for sweet and spicy and tangy. Rather, it was a bit bland. And maybe it was to let the meat flavor shine - but my personal preference is all the seasoning. Grade: C

I've been to Mama Rosa's Pizza when it was in previous locations - Charleston and Cross Lanes. Now, it's in Alum Creek, and it was time to revisit.



I ordered The Grand - Pepperoni, onions, mushrooms, sausage, green peppers, ham. I enjoyed this, especially having the toppings go to the edges, but I was some more flavor from the sauce. More salt, more acid, more zip.



Grade: B

Sam's Hot Dog Stand is a hot dog stand that has locations throughout southern West Virginia.


So, of course, I now have a goal to visit every location.



So, I made my way to some in the area. The first was the location in Alum Creek. It's located in an Exxon and features other options like burgers, corn dogs and even BBQ. But I went with a classic hot dog - chili, slaw, mustard. onions on an English bun. All in all, pretty tasty.