Black Circle Bistro

In the heart of Beckley, West Virginia, lies a true gastronomic treasure — Black Circle Bistro. This cozy establishment, housed in a converted garage, offers visitors to the USA more than just delicious food; it provides a completely unique, informal atmosphere. The bistro's interior is steeped in retro spirit: walls are adorned with vinyl record labels, and at the back of the room, you'll find actual pinball machines.

The restaurant's main pride is its menu, built on local ingredients. Here, they craft incredibly juicy burgers from local beef, serve oversized salads with homemade dressings, and offer original sandwiches. The chefs' creative approach shines through even in the dish names, and the use of aluminum cups instead of plastic highlights the establishment's commitment to sustainability.

Despite its unassuming exterior, Black Circle Bistro maintains an impressive 4.9 rating. It has become a favorite spot for both locals and travelers seeking authentic Appalachian flavors. Families with children and groups of friends alike feel right at home here, often hosting pinball tournaments over a batch of the state's best chocolate chip cookies.

If you are planning to visit this popular spot, we recommend checking their contact information and official website in advance to see the current menu.

The main reason people come to Black Circle Bistro is, of course, for the culinary discoveries. Be sure to try the "Granny" burger with pimento cheese and spicy pepper jam, or challenge your taste buds with the "Friend of the Devil" featuring ghost pepper cheese. Those with a sweet tooth shouldn't miss their famous homemade chocolate chip cookies — they are considered some of the best in all of West Virginia and are served incredibly soft and warm.

You can turn the wait for your order into a fun competition by heading to the back wall, where the pinball machines are located. Regular tournaments are held here, but casual visitors are also welcome to test their luck and skill. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the classic American leisure experience.

In warm weather, it's lovely to sit on the outdoor patio, where fans create a comfortable shaded area. Watch life in Beckley while enjoying the signature "Mom's Deviled Egg" potato salad or craft chips, and don't forget to appreciate the eco-friendly touch while sipping a refreshing drink from a signature aluminum cup.

Finding Black Circle Bistro is quite simple: it is located at 1318 Harper Rd in the city of Beckley. The establishment is situated in close proximity to major highways I-64 and I-77, making it an ideal pit stop while traveling along the scenic roads of West Virginia.

For those arriving from further away, the nearest major air hub is Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, which is about an hour's drive away. Since public transport is limited in this part of the state, the most convenient way for tourists to get around is by renting a car or using Uber and taxi services.

Free parking is available for guests, though keep in mind that the lot adjacent to the bistro is not very large. During peak hours, spaces can fill up quickly, so plan your arrival accordingly to easily park your car near the entrance.

Although Black Circle Bistro is a relatively new name on the Beckley dining scene (gaining popularity around 2024–2025), the building itself has its own history. The restaurant occupies a converted old garage or former gas station, which gives it an authentic industrial charm that is highly popular with modern travelers.

One of the establishment's key features is its commitment to the support local philosophy. The owners actively collaborate with local producers. For example, the famous pimento cheese is supplied by Tabs Table farm, while the unique jams and pickles come from the Homemade Homegrown brand. This makes the bistro an important link in supporting the region's agriculture.

The interior also tells a story of a love for retro culture. Walls decorated with vinyl record labels and a row of classic arcade games create an atmosphere of nostalgia. Today, this place is deservedly considered a "hidden gem" of the city, consistently receiving top marks from visitors for its blend of simplicity and quality.

For a standard visit to Black Circle Bistro, most guests find 1 to 1.5 hours to be sufficient. The service here is known for its speed: freshly prepared dishes are typically served within 20–30 minutes, allowing travelers to avoid long delays if they are on a schedule.

However, if you want to do more than just have lunch and fully soak in the atmosphere, it's worth setting aside about 2 hours. This will give you enough time to play a round of pinball on the vintage machines, try a signature homemade cookie with a cup of coffee, and simply relax in the establishment's eclectic interior.

The doors of Black Circle Bistro are open to visitors Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, the establishment stays open an hour longer — until 9:00 PM, which is convenient for those looking to spend a weekend evening here.

Please note that the restaurant is closed on Sunday. Before visiting during holidays or the summer season, it is recommended to check the official website, as hours may change slightly depending on events and pinball tournaments.

After a hearty lunch or dinner at the bistro, it's worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. The city of Beckley is rich with small historical markers and cozy spots that help you better experience the spirit of the Appalachians.