Wheeling Restaurant Wins James Beard America's Classics Award

Figaretti's Restaurant in West Virginia recognized for its timeless appeal and community impact.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Figaretti's Restaurant, a family-owned Italian eatery in Wheeling, West Virginia, has been awarded the prestigious 2026 James Beard America's Classics award for the Southeast region. The restaurant, which has been serving homemade Italian staples, steaks, and seafood since 1948, was recognized by the James Beard Foundation for its consistent quality, warm hospitality, and enduring role as a community anchor.

Why it matters

The James Beard America's Classics award is a highly coveted honor that celebrates independent restaurants with deep roots in their local communities. Figaretti's win highlights the continued importance of family-owned, neighborhood establishments that preserve culinary traditions and serve as gathering places for generations of residents.

The details

Figaretti's Restaurant was one of six eateries nationwide to receive the 2026 James Beard America's Classics award. The foundation praised the restaurant's "iconic" status, warm dining room, and commitment to serving delicious, homemade Italian cuisine. The award also recognized Figaretti's active involvement in the Wheeling community over its 78-year history.

  • Figaretti's Restaurant opened in 1948.
  • The restaurant won the 2026 James Beard America's Classics award for the Southeast region.

The players

Figaretti's Restaurant

A family-owned Italian restaurant in Wheeling, West Virginia that has been serving homemade Italian staples, steaks, and seafood since 1948.

Dino Figaretti

The current owner of Figaretti's Restaurant, which has been in his family for over 75 years.

James Beard Foundation

A prestigious non-profit organization that celebrates excellence in the culinary arts, including awarding the annual America's Classics award to independent restaurants with timeless appeal.

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What they’re saying

“Thank you to the Ohio Valey (sic), our loyal customers, and our hardworking staff.”

— Figaretti's Restaurant (Facebook)

What’s next

Figaretti's Restaurant plans to host a community celebration to mark its James Beard America's Classics award win on March 15, 2026.

The takeaway

Figaretti's Restaurant's James Beard award win underscores the enduring appeal and importance of family-owned, neighborhood establishments that preserve local culinary traditions and serve as anchors for their communities. The recognition highlights how independent restaurants can thrive by staying true to their roots and values, even as the industry faces increasing challenges from corporate chains.