Cuisine and Culture In the Eastern Panhandle
Full-Flavor Finds
The Eastern Panhandle is home to a rich collection of local and international cuisines, bustling with flavor. With an abundance of local festivals and chances to grab a craft brew, life in the Eastern Panhandle is one of a kind.
International Cuisine
Award-winning international cuisine is a hallmark of the Bavarian Inn. The Potomac Room offers an extensive menu of German and American fare prepared by master chefs. Find authentic Italian cuisine and fine wines at La Mezzaluna Cafe, or tacos and burritos made with the freshest ingredients at Maria’s Taqueria or Ortega’s Taco Shop. Spice Connexion in Martinsburg is sure to become your favorites for colorful Indian dishes. Kome Thai & Sushi Bistro and Sumittra Kitchen & Bar bring authentic and delicious Asian cuisine to the panhandle. There’s something for all of your cravings!
Local Favorites
Sometimes some of the best chefs are drawn to settle in a charming small town, while others have lived here their whole lives serving the community. Discover the area’s favorites, while creating your own. A homestyle breakfast is a must in the panhandle, which is why County Cafe or Betty’s Restaurant will become your new Sunday tradition. If you’re looking for a new place to get your morning brew, Black Dog Coffee has been serving coffee for over a decade, and is a favorite all across the panhandle. Located in what was once an old newspaper building, The Press Room serves some of the Shepherdstown’s finest dining. Brix 27, a new and stylish wine bar serving small plate appetizers, is a must if you’re visiting Martinsburg.
Craft Brews
The newest addition to the Bavarian Inn is Bavarian Brothers Brewing offering high-quality microbrews in the new brewpub, lounge, or outdoor beer garden. Berkeley Springs Brewing Company features a variety of non-filtered ales using the world famous waters of Berkeley Springs, offering a completely menu beer infused specialties, barbecue and root beer on tap. Or swing by nearby Charles Town to enjoy a brew from Abolitionist Ale Works, where unique flavors prevail. Grab a delicious artisan pizza with your beer for the true craft experience.
Farmer’s Markets
The Eastern Panhandle is a region heavily populated with organic farms and farmers markets. You can spend your whole day at Orr’s Farm Market in Martinsburg. Pick your own produce, visit the barnyard or catch a hay ride before browsing a huge selection of produce, meats, home decor and other local goods and creations. There’s always an event going on at the farm! The Charles Town Farmers Market, one of largest in the region and open every Saturday from April to October, has everything from fresh produce to breakfast burritos! The Shepherdstown Farmers Market has also been bringing locally grown food and products to Shepherdstown for over 25 years!
Boutique Shopping
In the center of Shepherdstown, German Street is lined with an eclectic mix of shops—you’ll find everything from clothing, jewelry, toys and home-goods to gourmet food, books and artisan-made products along beautiful, tree-lined sidewalks. Step back in time as you walk the stone streets of historic Harpers Ferry and visit homemade candy shops and blacksmiths, or visit one of the many antique shops around the area such as the Berkeley Springs Antique Mall in Morgan County.
Festivals & Events
The Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival celebrates the apple industry— a valued part of the heritage of the Eastern Panhandle. Held every third weekend in October, it has become a treasured homecoming with festivities spanning over several days, such as parades, contests and the coronation of Queen Pomona. The Contemporary American Theater Festival’s commitment to new work is an annual festival of new plays by American playwrights, most often premieres or second or third productions. Held in July on the campus of Shepherd University, this nationally-known event attracts live theater lovers from all over the country.
Gaming
In nearby Charles Town, Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races is a renowned Mountain State destination that offers a Vegas-themed gaming atmosphere with 1930s art deco flair. The casino, resort, and track added video lottery machines in 1996, and now have nearly 2,500 machines as well as 75 table games. New to the casino is sport betting—and it has never been easier. You can place wagers on football, basketball, hockey, soccer, baseball, golf, tennis, auto racing, rugby, cycling, boxing and MMA, and cricket.
Vibrant Art Scene
An influx of academics, artists, and retirees have contributed to the rich cultural mix of the Eastern Panhandle. Annual film festivals are very popular in the Eastern Panhandle and feature classic films and productions by up and coming artists. All year long, performers hone their craft and entertain audiences from the stages of multiple theaters in town and the surrounding area. By any measure, the Eastern Panhandle has a vibrant music and dance scene that equals and excels those of many much larger communities. Several local restaurants and taverns regularly feature live music by local and regional bands. Traditional art shows are also supported by many restaurants, businesses and galleries in the area.