Planning a foodie trip to America’s newest national park? These are the places we’d eat if we had more than just a day!
West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park is known for its jaw-dropping views, scenic hikes, and iconic bridge, but if you’re planning a trip, you may also be wondering, where should we eat?
During our own visit, we only had time for a day trip, and we packed a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s overlooks. It was simple and peaceful, sandwiches and chips while soaking in the views. But by the time we left, I already had a mental list of all the cute and cozy spots I wished we had time to try!
So, whether you're staying for a weekend or just mapping out a future trip, here’s our dream list of places to eat around the New River Gorge area, especially near Fayetteville and Lansing, West Virginia. These are the cafés, coffee shops, pizza spots, and local favorites I’d personally be excited to check out, from one travel-loving mom to another!
1. Pies & Pints (Fayetteville)
Let’s start with a classic. If you’ve spent any time researching where to eat in New River Gorge, Pies & Pints is probably already on your radar and for good reason.
This local favorite is known for its creative specialty pizzas and casual, cozy vibe. Menu favorites include the Grape & Gorgonzola, Chicken Gouda, and their Classic Pepperoni with a twist. It’s located in downtown Fayetteville, making it a great stop after exploring the gorge or walking through town.
Why it’s on our dream list:
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Family-friendly
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Indoor and outdoor seating
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Unique pizza combos that even picky eaters love
📍Location: 219 W Maple Ave, Fayetteville, WV
Pro Tip: This spot gets busy, so go early or try a weekday lunch if you want to avoid the wait!
2. Rangefinder Coffee (Fayetteville)
I always have my eye out for a good local coffee shop, and Rangefinder Coffee looks like just the kind of place I’d want to start a slow morning or take a midday break.
They serve high-quality espresso drinks, drip coffee, and teas, along with light bites and baked goods. The interior is minimalist and clean, the kind of spot where you could journal, plan your hike, or edit a few Reels before hitting the next overlook.
Why it’s on our dream list:
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Local roasts and cozy vibes
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Great for early morning caffeine before a big hike
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Beautiful setting for photos or travel journaling
📍Location: 109 Fayette Ave, Fayetteville, WV
Grab a latte and walk the small shops downtown afterward.
3. Maria’s Taqueria (Fayetteville)
For a quick bite that still packs tons of flavor, Maria’s Taqueria is a go-to recommendation from locals and travelers alike. The menu includes tacos, burritos, nachos, and bowls with fresh ingredients and bold seasoning.
It’s a walk-up-style eatery with outdoor seating, which makes it perfect for summer adventures and casual bites between hikes.
Why it’s on our dream list:
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Budget-friendly and quick
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Vegetarian and gluten-free options
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Locally loved and full of flavor
📍Location: 103 Keller Ave, Fayetteville, WV
Try the chicken tinga taco or the veggie bowl!
4. Sugar & Spice Bakery (Fayetteville)
Need a little treat after a morning hike or want to bring back something sweet to your cabin or VRBO? Sugar & Spice Bakery is a charming bakery that’s become a favorite for locals and weekend visitors alike.
They’re known for their homemade cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, pies, and cookies. You’ll also find coffee and a few grab-and-go breakfast options if you’re on the move.
Why it’s on our dream list:
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Classic small-town bakery feel
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Cinnamon rolls = trail fuel
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Perfect for a sweet souvenir
📍Location: 212 W Maple Ave, Fayetteville, WV
Open most mornings but check hours before you go!
5. The Station Market & Bistro (Fayetteville)
For a slightly more elevated dining experience, The Station Market & Bistro is a spot we’d love to try on a longer stay. It’s a mix of fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced food, with rotating specials and a cozy, rustic interior.
You’ll find artisan sandwiches, bistro burgers, salads, and charcuterie. It’s a great spot for a date night or a late lunch with a view if you’re traveling with teens and want something special.
Why it’s on our dream list:
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Seasonal menu and local ingredients
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Indoor/outdoor dining
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Feels like a hidden gem
📍Location: 312 N Court St, Fayetteville, WV
Call ahead if you’re visiting on a weekend, they sometimes close for events.
6. Freefolk Brewery (Fayetteville)
Whether you’re a craft beer fan or just love a laid-back atmosphere, Freefolk Brewery is a must-add to your dream list. With its colorful murals, local art, and live music, this spot is more than just a brewery, it’s a vibe.
They serve beer flights, food trucks often stop by, and you’ll find plenty of outdoor seating and community events happening throughout the week. It’s a fun stop even if you don’t drink, kids can enjoy snacks and soda while the adults unwind.
Why it’s on our dream list:
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Great for families or groups
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Local beers and live events
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Colorful, funky outdoor space
📍Location: 1690 Court St, Fayetteville, WV
Check their event schedule, often includes live music or trivia nights!
7. Cathedral Café (Fayetteville)
Okay, if we had stayed for brunch, Cathedral Café would have been a must. Located in a renovated church, this charming café offers breakfast, lunch, coffee, smoothies, and desserts, all served with a side of vintage character.
The space is filled with local art, books, and good vibes. It’s exactly the kind of place you could slow down, fuel up, and chat with other travelers or locals.
Why it’s on our dream list:
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Unique, cozy, and memorable setting
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Vegan + gluten-free friendly
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A great place to reflect or read between hikes
📍Location: 134 S Court St, Fayetteville, WV
Try the French toast or acai bowl, both highly recommended!
8. Secret Sandwich Society (Temporarily Closed, but worth watching!)
Although currently closed due to a fire, Secret Sandwich Society has a huge local following and may be back soon, they’re rebuilding and plan to reopen. Their sandwiches, fries, and secret sauce were once the stuff of New River Gorge legend.
Why it’s on our dream list (once it reopens):
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Beloved by locals
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Creative sandwich names + flavor combos
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Great for takeout and picnic-style meals
📍Location: 103 Keller Ave, Fayetteville, WV (Reopening TBD)
Bonus: What We Did Eat – A Picnic with a View
Even though we didn’t try these restaurants on this particular trip, we had the most peaceful picnic lunch at the welcome center, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
We packed:
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Sandwiches
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Chips
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Candy
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Drinks
Final Thoughts
New River Gorge may be known for its views and hikes, but the small-town food scene around Fayetteville is full of charm, creativity, and good flavor. From quirky cafés to outdoor breweries and cozy bakeries, this region is packed with places I can’t wait to come back and try on a longer stay.
If you’re planning a trip, use this list as inspiration and let me know what you try! I’d love to update this post later with real reviews when we return.
Until then, I’ll be dreaming about cinnamon rolls, lattes, and tacos with a view of the gorge.
Have you been to any of these places in New River Gorge?
Drop your favorites or recommendations in the comments, we’re building our “return trip” list already!
Follow along as we visit all 50 states!
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