The dining landscape includes unexpected variety ranging from international menus to a James Beard finalist, to specialty bakeries and flavorful popcorn
JEFFERSON COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA–AUGUST 2026–Jefferson County, West Virginia, located just over an hour’s drive northwest of Washington, D.C., offers an unexpected culinary journey for its visitors. Between Interstates 81 and 70, this eastern panhandle destination is easily accessible by car via U.S. 340 and West Virginia Route 9 or by rail from Washington or Baltimore.
Here, regional favorites are joined by international restaurant menus and specialty shops, combining to create a remarkable variety of flavors to enjoy. A 2026 James Beard Award Finalist for Best Chef: Southeast, Mary Ellen Diaz, leads the way as executive chef at Alma Bea (202 East Washington Street, Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443; 304-870-2153). Her love of regional cuisine has resulted in a creative menu that features authentic specialties. Featured items like buttermilk fried chicken, smoked brisket and rainbow trout are prepared in manners that honor traditions in new ways. A “tapa-lachian” tasting menu and a host of homemade pies are also favorites.
Shepherdstown’s most well-known dining establishment is a favorite for international cuisine. The Bavarian Inn (163 Shepherd Grade Road, Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443; 304-876-2551) has been serving its German specialties for more than 40 years. The inn’s Four-Diamond dining experience features an extensive menu of German and American fare. The inn’s fine dining Potomac Room is joined by the Brew Pub, featuring beers made on-site, and the 101 Pool Bar, a casual outdoor space 101 feet above the Potomac.
At Bistro 112 (112 West German Street, Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443; 304-876-8477), Chef Jan Van Haute brings more than two decades of global culinary experience and classical French training to the table. The menu is enriched by his passion for local sourcing, sustainability and cultural storytelling. The classically French menu favorites include starters like Burgundy Escargot and Moules du Jour and entrees such as Ratatouille and Duck Leg Confit. The Press Room (129 West German Street, Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443; 304-876-8777) is another Shepherdstown favorite, with seasonal features and regional fare. The restaurant’s 50 seats are typically filled, as its reputation has made it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Italian pastas and entrees fill the menu and are accompanied by fresh salads and soups. The international wine list is complemented by a full bar.
In Harpers Ferry, The Rabbit Hole Gastropub (186 High Street, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 2542; 304-535-8818) focuses on a health-centric food menu accommodating as many dietary preferences as possible. An extensive burger and sandwich menu is accompanied by an impressive craft beer selection, and all can be enjoyed with a gorgeous view from outdoor tables overlooking the river.
On the lighter side, Harpers Ferry has memorable specialty coffee spots. Battle Grounds Bakery & Coffee (180 High Street, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 25425; 304-535-8583) is known for its tasty sandwiches, specialty coffees, homemade pastries and frozen custard. Epigram Coffee (460 Washington Street, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 25425; 681-540-8011) is another Harpers Ferry favorite for its variety of coffee and other specialty drinks as well as a menu of international pastries, croissants and cakes.
At Bolivar Bread (914 Washington Street, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 25425; 304-535-8108) handmade bread and pastries are the stars. This small-batch artisan bakery is a regional favorite for freshly baked bread, sweets and locally sourced snacks. Sourdough–from cinnamon and raisan to olive and rosemary to wild and wonderful (made with organic flour and 42-year-old sourdough starter)–is a staple that offers variety, local flavor and chef whimsy. Butter maple biscuits and seasonal sweets are menu highlights, as well.
Also known for snacks, Mountaineer Popcorn Company (102 East German Street, Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443; 681-283-7900) features an extensive variety of small-batch flavored popcorn, popped fresh. Offerings include sweet and savory flavors, both unique tastes and everyday favorites. Top customer picks are Birthday Cake, Buffalo Cheddar and Lightly Salted, along with seasonal favorites.
For a sweet scoop of flavor, Rock Hill Creamery (111 West German Street, Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443; 304-707-8765), at only eight feet wide, offers an amazing ice cream experience. The unique little shop has a variety of flavors, including both classics and specialty selections like Lavender Honey, Oatmeal Creme Pie and German Chocolate Cake.