The pepperoni roll, a soft bread roll with pepperoni baked in the middle, originated in the coal mining areas of north central West Virginia when Italian immigrants invented a food that could be eaten easily underground. 

This spicy snack soon found its way out of the mines and into bakeries, bread companies, restaurants, and event venues around the state, often with additional ingredients like cheese, red sauce, or peppers. 

As the pepperoni roll’s reputation moves beyond the borders of West Virginia, this food continues to embody the culinary culture of its home state. It is now found at the center of bake-offs, eating contests, festivals, as a gourmet item on local menus, and even on a bill in the state’s legislature. 

The West Virginia Pepperoni Roll is a comprehensive history of the unofficial state food of West Virginia. With over 100 photographs and countless recipes and recollections, it tells the story of the immigrants, business owners, laborers, and citizens who have developed and devoured this simple yet practical food since its invention.

Upcoming Events:
June 3 - Apothecary from 2-5 p.m. in Morgantown, W.Va.
June 10 - Weirton Book Company at 4 p.m. in Weirton, W.Va.
June 15 - Taylor Books at 6 p.m. in Charleston, W.Va.
June 17 - Barnes & Noble at 1 p.m. in Morgantown, W.Va.
June 20 - Rolls on the River from 5:30 - 8 p.m. in Charleston, W.Va.
July 8 - Town Run Brewing (hosted by 4 Seasons) at 5 p.m. in Shepherdstown, W.Va.
June 24 - Empire Books at noon in Huntington, W.Va.

One of my absolute favorite new breweries in West Virginia is Parkersburg Brewing Company. This brewery is churning out some of the tastiest brews in the Mountain State.

Born in true West Virginia tradition with the highest dedication to quality and craftsmanship, Parkersburg Brewing Co. develops, promotes, and delivers full flavored and unique specialty beers to suit every occasion. We are committed to promoting small business and giving back to our communities. By providing the best taproom experience in the tri-state region, we aim to bring business minded people and decision makers alike together to make a positive impact within this great states borders and beyond. Cheers to all of our loyal friends and customers! Enjoy Parkersburg handcrafted beer brewed in the mountains of West Virginia (MISSION).

Parkersburg Brewing Company started out as the Hebrank & Rapp Brewery in 1864, which was opened by German immigrants John Hebrank and Marcus Rapp. Hebrank and Rapp incorporated as Parkersburg Brewing Company 1889 when they outgrew their original facility on Marrtown Road. The initial beer offering consisted of Genuine Pilsner, Extra Old Lager and Club Export. At its peak, Parkersburg Brewing Company produced 60,000 barrels per year and employed 30 men year round. The beer was brewed, bottled and stored on-site. The barrels in which the beer was distributed were also manufactured on-site. 

The brewery officially closed in 1912 due to the growing temperance movement and state side prohibition. Over the years the brewery building was re-purposed by a variety of businesses, such as a car dealership, cola bottling plant and a candy wholesaler just to name a few. Eventually the building was purchased by a real estate developer and subsequently demolished in June of 2004. The original site of the brewery is located next to Lou Thomas Subaru on 7th street (HISTORY).