Decor lacks the special ambience of Wheeling’s or Pittsburgh’s breweries with their loft/art/history/ethnic touch, but this pub on the river may be just what the doctor ordered to an overworked peddler hot off the trail. As we walked through the diningroom to the deck, we noticed only that the decor wasn’t especially designed to delight or impress, and that there were plenty of wooden tables. The menu is long and varied with grilled meat and seafood selections, both sandwiches and dinners, and pasta, both red and white. Some marinated selections sounded German--the waiter only knew he didn’t like them! Salads are huge, and pasta with spinach and artichokes and a trailing list of veggies sounded healthy.

I wanted a protein fix, so I decided on the salmon. They were out, but I forgave them on this busy Saturday of the Arts and River Festival. I ordered a grilled (blackened) chicken breast sandwich, and my friend would have the French dip. In somewhat of a hurry to get to the theater before our tickets were cancelled, we had chosen selections quick to prepare, but we waited an uncomfortably long time for our meal. My friend enjoyed his French dip, and the highlight of my platter was the fries I hadn’t even ordered ($1 extra). The blackened chicken breast was good ($1 extra for blackening), but the thick home-cut fries with skins were outstanding--I found the Belgian frites!

With all the extras, our bill was over $20 for 2 sandwiches in the $6 range. No matter, we enjoyed the food and fresh air--and we made it to the theater on time. Service and decor were adequate; food, good; location, great. The West Virginia Brewing Company says, "I am what I am." She’s a brew pub in a university town on a bike trail just a block from main campus. Those committed to the location--or the beer--will return.

For hours and menu, including descriptions of WV brews, see WV Brew.