In the Chef ’ s Corner
Meals of the Mountain Lakes
ARIANNA WHITEHAIR & PAIGE KOCOUREK
The Mountain Lakes region is a top destination for anyone looking for a good bite to eat . From everyday Appalachian comfort food to upscale , modernist cuisine , this region has a little bit of everything . While there are many must-visit restaurants in this region , we have selected three that you ’ ll certainly want to check out as you ’ re enjoying your stay in this special part of Almost Heaven .
The first restaurant is the Elk River Hotel & Cafe . Located in Sutton right next to the Elk River , this is the perfect spot for anyone looking for casual dining with an exquisite view . Offering classic takes on sandwiches , salads , desserts and more , this pick is sure to satisfy any craving .
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The second venue , Thyme Bistro in Weston , is described as a hidden treasure by visitors . With a high-end , ambient atmosphere and an eclectic , diverse array of dishes ranging from classic pub-style food to vegan and gluten free options , this is one stop you ’ ll have to make as you explore the town and its surrounding communities .
Last but certainly not least , Whistle Punk Grill & Taphouse is set in the heart of Richwood on historic Main Street and features off-the-beaten-path flavors fit for its unique name . Located inside a nearly 100-year-old building , this restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients and has everything from peanut butter on a panini to pan-fried gnocchi served with grilled pork . •
Elk River Hotel & Cafe
Elk River Hotel & Cafe is located in the historic 1898 P . J . Berry residence along the Elk River in Sutton , WV . The cafe opened in November 2021 and features Lee Rush as the head chef . Rush is a West Virginia native and has an extensive background as a chef of more than 20 years . The cafe has a wide variety of entrees , including gluten free , vegetarian and vegan options available . With a strong emphasis on local products , the cafe offers the Elk River Signature Burger made with local bison meat . The Rainbow Trout entree is also raised in West Virginia . The cafe features wonderful outdoor dining spaces and a large , beautiful transparent dome that has a stunning view of the Elk River . The dome is used frequently for a unique dining option or special events .
Photo by Fernando Rodriguez .
West Virginia Rainbow Trout
1 lb rainbow trout 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp unsalted butter Cajun seasoning to taste
Bring a pan to medium-high heat . Place the butter in the pan and allow it to melt . Brush olive oil on the rainbow trout and add Cajun seasoning to taste . Pan sear the trout skin-side down for 3-4 minutes . Flip and continue to sear for 3-4 minutes .
Pesto 2 c basil leaves 1 c parsley 1 c olive oil 1 / 2 c grated parmesan cheese 1 / 3 c pine nuts 2 cloves garlic 1 / 2 tsp salt 1 / 2 tsp black pepper
Combine all ingredients in food processor and process on high . Note : If too thick , add olive oil to thin out .
Rice Pilaf 4 c vegetable stock 2 c long grain rice 1 tbsp butter 1 tbsp garlic , chopped
Photo by Aaron Silgar .
2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp chopped sundried tomatoes 1 tsp Italian seasoning 1 tsp salt 3 / 4 tsp black pepper
Prepare in a large deep-sided pan . Add butter and olive oil and place on medium heat . Add garlic and sundried tomatoes and sauté until fragrant . Add rice and start coating it with butter and oil . Sauté for 3 minutes . Add vegetable broth and the other seasonings . Bring to a boil , then cover and bake at 500 degrees for 25 minutes . Remove from oven and fluff rice . Let set for 5 minutes .
To finish , plate salmon with a side of rice pilaf and pesto for a delectable entree .
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