Pepperoni rolls are West Virginia's official state food, and a tasty tradition. They were first made at the Country Club Bakery in Fairmont in 1927, and quickly became popular with coal miners as a portable snack doesn't need to be refrigerated. Soon they became a favorite food of West Virginians everywhere. It's hard to go wrong with a tasty combination of bread and pepperoni, but this little road trip will take you to some of the best spots. Click here for an interactive map of the shops that you can change to suit your own travel needs.
1. JR's Donut Castle, Parkersburg
The name may say donuts, but some people come here just for the pepperoni rolls. Finish with a donut, and you've found your perfect indulgence spot.
2. Dragon Mart
You might not think you'd find the perfect pepperoni roll in this little convenience store and gas station, but they say they have the best in the tri-state area, and their customers agree!
3. Chico Bakery, Morgantown
Chico's pepperoni rolls are so popular that you'll find them being sold all around the area, but you can get them right from the source here in Morgantown. You can get three varieties at this bakery: hot pepper cheese, double stuffed and cheese.
4. Colasessanos's, Fairmont
This pizza and pepperoni bun restaurant has several locations, and has been a Fairmont institution for decades. You can get the pepperoni rolls smothered in chili sauce and cheese, or order them in bulk and have them shipped to anywhere in the country.
5. Country Club Bakery. Fairmont
There's nothing like a pepperoni roll from the original bakery where it all started. Country Club Bakery makes between 250 and 900 dozen rolls a day, so you'll be sure that they'll be extra fresh.
6. Tomaro's Bakery, Clarksburg
Tomaro's may not have made the original pepperoni roll, but some folks say that now they make the best. During the holiday season, you'll find people lined up outside the store to send these treats to their friends and family all around the country.
7. The Donut Shop, Buckhannon
The donuts are delicious too, but fans say the combination of a pepperoni roll, donut, and drink of milk make the perfect breakfast.
Pepperoni rolls are the ultimate Mountain State food, but they aren't the only food that defines West Virginian cuisine. Check out these 11 defining restaurants for more classic foods.
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