What makes a dining experience worth returning for? Sometimes it's a familiar family recipe, while other times it's an inventive dish that introduces unexpected flavors. Service, atmosphere and variety also influence how people choose where to eat, whether they're planning a special occasion or simply looking for a satisfying dinner. Independent establishments offer everything from Greek-American specialties and homemade pasta to casual pub fare. The Best of the Best Reader's Choice Awards recognize those restaurants across the Ohio Valley that stand out for overall excellence in the region's diverse dining landscape.
Theo Yianni's brings Greek-American cuisine to Weirton, West Virginia, combining Mediterranean recipes with familiar American favorites. Its kitchen prepares house-made hummus, spanakopita, pastichio and avgolemono soup, alongside burgers, wings and pizza. Diners can order grilled lollipop lamb chops with asparagus and rice or choose a Greek village salad featuring tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, feta and Kalamata olives. The restaurant also features Bangy Bangy, an owner-created sweet and tangy sauce served with wings, wraps and burgers. For dessert, Theo's Bangin Brownie combines ice cream, whipped cream, caramel and candied walnuts. A semi-private room accommodates gatherings, while call-ahead seating offers another convenience for guests.
Naples Spaghetti House serves Italian-American cuisine in Steubenville, Ohio, with pasta dishes and rotating specials that give diners different choices throughout the week. Its offerings include preparations such as stuffed hot banana peppers in marinara over fettuccine, chicken and spinach ravioli and beef manicotti with a choice of tomato, meat, mushroom or marinara sauce. The restaurant also features dishes beyond traditional pasta, including chicken Caesar wraps, steak Caesar salads and cabbage rolls with mashed potatoes. Lunch specials change regularly, and customers can arrange pickup or make reservations by telephone. This combination of Italian favorites and changing selections gives Naples a distinctive place in Steubenville's restaurant scene.
Pastaio Cucina Rustica Italiana brings the culinary traditions of Sicily to Wintersville, Ohio, under the direction of chef Giuseppe DiGristina. Drawing on his Sicilian heritage, DiGristina emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, house-made pasta and classic Italian family recipes. The restaurant's arancini feature crispy risotto croquettes filled with meat, cheese and peas, accompanied by homemade marinara. Mafalde al sugo di carne combines wide, ruffled pasta with a slow-simmered sauce made from veal, pork and beef, while tortellini Benigni pairs four-cheese pasta with Italian sausage, peas, pancetta and sage cream sauce. Tiramisu provides a traditional finish to the meal.
Basil's Sports Bar & Grill in Weirton, West Virginia, is a family-owned establishment specializing in freshly prepared food and craft beer. Its kitchen emphasizes homemade half-pound burgers and chicken wings, while its broader menu includes sandwiches and other casual dining favorites. Sports are central to the experience, with memorabilia from Ohio Valley teams displayed throughout the restaurant. The bar offers at least 100 beer selections across draft, cans and bottles, including craft brews from West Virginia. Basil's also features The Dugout, an additional lounge area with two 70-inch televisions where guests can watch games or enjoy drinks while waiting for a table.
Phat Matty's, LLC, operates in Wintersville, Ohio.
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