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KEL'S TAVERN | charleston, wv

  • Writer: WineCheeseScallops
    WineCheeseScallops
  • Sep 19
  • 3 min read

Kel's Tavern: A Cozy Spot in Charleston's Elk City


Shopfront of Kel's Tavern with a stylized sign showing a drink. A street view reflects in the window, revealing parked cars and a clear blue sky.

When it comes to exploring Charleston, WV’s food and drink scene, Elk City is one of those neighborhoods that deserves a spotlight. Nestled along the West Side, Elk City has been steadily revitalized over the last decade, turning into a hub for local businesses, eateries, and nightlife. With its charming historic buildings and growing list of restaurants and taverns, it’s quickly becoming a destination for both locals and visitors looking for something a little different. That’s where Kel’s Tavern comes in.


Four men sit at a table in a casual restaurant with tiled floors and brick walls. They are conversing and eating, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Black ceiling fan on ornate white patterned ceiling, featuring circular and floral designs, creating an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere.

Downtown Charleston, just minutes from Elk City, is a vibrant mix of culture, history, and community. As the state capital, it offers a little bit of everything—boutique shopping, art galleries, riverfront views, and a growing dining scene. Capitol Street, in particular, has become a must-visit for its walkable charm, lined with coffee shops, bakeries, and restaurants that showcase both local flavor and global cuisine. With events like Live on the Levee and the annual Sternwheel Regatta, downtown continues to be the heart of Charleston’s social and cultural life.


Address: 222 Washington St W, Charleston, WV

Phone: 304-347-8577

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Menu for Kel's Tavern featuring entrées, pasta, sides, and desserts. Highlights: short ribs, meatloaf, ribeye. Happy hour details included.

Kel’s Tavern Charleston, WV occupies a familiar space in Elk City, one that’s had a few lives before. The building was once home to Sergio’s, and before that, Books and Brews. Stepping inside, you’ll notice that the overall layout hasn’t changed much through its transitions, but Kel’s has kept the space clean, open, and inviting. The high ceilings give the room an airy, relaxing feel, and the open concept design makes it a comfortable spot for gathering with friends. When we arrived for lunch, we were immediately seated in a booth. The table was cozy yet spacious enough for our 3-top, setting the tone for a laid-back dining experience.




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Shrimp covered in pink sauce, garnished with green onions on a white plate. Wooden table background. Appealing and appetizing.

We started with appetizers, and the Big Bang Shrimp quickly caught our attention. Crispy, Captain Morgan–battered shrimp arrived hot and perfectly fried, then tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce that carried just the right amount of warmth. Fresh scallions on top added a bright pop of flavor and color, making this appetizer one of those dishes you keep reaching for until the plate is gone.

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Bruschetta with tomato, onion, basil, and balsamic glaze on grilled bread. Served on a white plate over a wooden table. Vibrant and appetizing.

Next up was the Bruschetta, a refreshing contrast to the shrimp. The toasted baguettes were crunchy and golden, providing the perfect base for a topping of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and onions. A drizzle of balsamic glaze tied everything together with a touch of sweetness, balancing out the savory flavors. It was simple, classic, and delicious.

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BLT sandwich with crispy chips on a white plate at a restaurant. Background shows condiments, a glass, and a menu on a wooden table.

Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, parmesan shavings, and creamy dressing on a white plate against a wooden table background.

For our lunch entrees, we couldn’t resist trying two hearty options. The Fried Green Tomato BLT came stacked on Texas toast, with crispy fried green tomatoes in place of the traditional red ones. The tanginess of the tomatoes paired beautifully with thick slices of Black Forest bacon, crisp lettuce, and a slather of mayo. It was a Southern-inspired twist on a classic sandwich that worked perfectly.

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A Philly cheesesteak with fries on a white plate, close-up. The sandwich is packed with meat and cheese, creating an appetizing scene.

The Philly Cheese Steak was another highlight, loaded with tender steak, sautéed onions, peppers, and mushrooms, then smothered in a creamy white cheese blend. Every bite was rich, flavorful, and comforting. On the side, the French fries didn’t disappoint either. Generously seasoned with a wonderful blend of spices and just the right amount of salt, they were crisp, golden, and downright addictive.


Sandwich halved on a plate with a pile of golden fries beside it on a wooden table, creating a warm, appetizing scene.

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Two plates on a wooden table: shrimp with green onions and bruschetta with tomatoes and balsamic drizzle. Bright and appetizing.

Overall, our lunch at Kel’s Tavern was an excellent experience. The atmosphere was relaxed, the service was smooth, and the food hit all the right notes. With such a strong showing at lunch, we’re already looking forward to returning soon to explore their dinner menu. If it’s anything like what we enjoyed, we know we’re in for a treat.

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