For more than 50 years, one Randolph County restaurant has been the place to be for families and residents.  Located on Harrison Avenue in Elkins, the 1863 Appalachian Bistro is a new name for a restaurant with decades of history catering to customers.

“We have a little bit of an eclectic menu right now, and it’s some of the favorites that people have liked and enjoyed, and some of the recipes that people have asked us, ‘You know, back in the day, 1863 did this.’  We have tried to repeat some of those things, but it is also new dishes that take into account local flavors,” said Owner/General Manager Velora Anderson.

Just a few short weeks ago, 1863 reopened with a new name, new menu, and a new décor, but it kept the same small town hospitality.  Owners have brought back the restaurant bar and have created a farm to table menu.

The new menu features classic favorites…like the Roasted Half Chicken smothered in brown butter sauce and new seasonal dishes like The Smokey Cristo sandwich served with blackberry jam.

“We’re also trying to give the thing that they wouldn’t have anywhere else here, like sticking with those old favorites, but introducing things that you wouldn’t typically find in restaurants in Elkins or the surrounding areas,” continued Anderson.

First-time patron Igor Svec said he was surprised by the look and feel of the restaurant and is eager to recommend the local spot.

“We decided to come here and were pleasantly surprised when we pulled in the parking lot how new, and clean, and updated this place was.  From the outside and walking in is like, wow!”

“I highly recommend spending at least one night eating dinner here, even if you are only in the Elkins area for a night, a weekend, or whatever, highly recommend it,” said Svec.

The restaurant offers a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering services, and a cozy atmosphere.  Owners say change is their greatest asset and constantly on the horizon for the eatery.

“It’s the ability of 1863 to reinvent itself, and it has several times.  I think each time it’s gotten better.  It’s willing to try new things, and it’s willing to change and morph into what people are asking for.”

The 1863 Appalachian Bistro reopened with a new name and a new menu, and owners are hoping for another 50 years of serving top-quality taste.