In this season's J.Q. Dickinson Appalachian Mercantile subscription box: J.Q. DICKINSON SALT-WORKS
Salt and Pepper Grinders
Our largest crystal in a grinder. Solar evaporated and hand harvested for pure, clean flavor. Great on any dish. We chose Tellicherry peppercorns for our pepper. They are ripened longer on the bush to provide a smoother, sweeter pepper flavor.

SIMPLE PRODUCTS
Organic Pear Butter
The pears are grown in eastern Ohio, and cooked slowly with organic cane sugar, maple syrup and spices. Delicious on toast, stirred into yogurt, or used in baking.

APPALACHIAN BOTANICAL
Lip Balm
Appalachian Botanical Company grows lavender on former mine land in WV. They have a full line of body products. This lip balm is made with natural ingredients for great moisturizing.

SWEETGRASS GRANOLA
Granola
Made in Kentucky from Appalachian ingredients including our salt, sorghum syrup and local chia seeds. This granola is great for a snack or a healthy breakfast.

TOM CAPITO
WV Magnet
WV Woodworker Tom Capito makes these magnet from local cherry wood. We love the shape of our state and wanted to share it with you!

Located at 1242 Washington Ave in Huntington, West Virginia, Asian Express is a casual Asian fusion restaurant offering dine-in, take-out and delivery.



The menu spans familiar favorites—from hibachi and stir-fries to sushi rolls and curries — alongside burger and hot dog options.



I ordered a chicken katsu bento box, which comes with a California roll, dumplings and an orange. The chicken is crispy and golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a tangy katsu sauce that adds some sweetness. The California roll is fresh and simple, while the dumplings bring a savory, steamed contrast, and the orange slice at the end offers a bright, refreshing finish.



The Dragon Ball roll is wrapped in fresh avocado, giving it a smooth, round texture. The avocado adds richness to each bite and pairs well with the shrimp and spicy crab inside. Finished with a light drizzle of eel sauce, it’s a flavorful.



It appears the restaurant may have since closed - but unclear. Have you been?



Grade: B

Located at 210 Logan Street in Williamson, West Virginia, Hurley Drug Company Inc serves the surrounding rural community of Mingo County. The independent pharmacy provides prescription fulfillment, over-the-counter medications, and home-medical equipment. The pharmacy drew national attention during congressional investigations into the opioid epidemic when data showed that between 2006 and 2016 the town of Williamson — including Hurley Drug — received more than 10.5 million opioid pills. Hurley Drug is more than just a pharmacy —it’s a local institution. But what truly sets Hurley Drug apart is its old-fashioned lunch counter, where locals line up for one of the area’s most beloved hot dogs. I got one hot dog with chili, slaw, mustard & onions: The slaw offered a creamy, slightly sweet contrast to the standard hot dog. The bun holds together well, keeping things from getting too messy. BLT: Thick, crispy bacon layered on fresh, lightly toasted bread with lettuce and tomato slices; the mayo adds a smooth richness and the tomato’s juiciness balances the salty bacon. Simple, clean, and full of classic flavor—no frills, just a solid sandwich done right. Grade: B

Nestled along the Ohio River in nearby Williamstown, River Town Grill has quickly become a go-to spot for Parkersburg-area diners seeking hearty comfort food with a touch of polish. The restaurant pairs a casual steakhouse atmosphere with a lively bar and patio overlooking the water, making it ideal for both laid-back lunches and special evenings out. The menu features everything from ribeyes that to creative appetizers like Monte Cristo bites. The Monte Cristo Bites are a fun mix of sweet and savory. Crispy fried tortillas are filled with ham, turkey, and melted cheese, dusted with powdered sugar, and served with melba sauce. The crunchy outside contrasts with the gooey, cheesy center, and the fruity dip adds a bright finish. They’re rich but addictive. My house salad was wonderful. Fresh greens and tomatoes and onions, served with a tangy French dressing. Simple but satisfying. The steak at River Town Grill is very good — tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The sear gives it a perfect crust while keeping the inside melt-in-your-mouth soft. Grade: A

Bōc-Hord Brewery & Bakehouse opened in September 2024 at 833 Mercer Street in downtown Princeton. The business combines a brewery and bakery under one roof, serving house-brewed beers and fresh, made-from-scratch food. Owners J.W. Groseclose and Ginger Conley bring backgrounds in brewing and artisan baking, respectively. The name “Bōc-Hord,” taken from Old English for “library,” reflects their focus on craftsmanship. The brewery’s early lineup includes Golden Goose Ale, Bitter Queen ESB, and Irish Ord’s Stout. The bakehouse produces pretzel buns, sourdough loaves, and bread bowls, which are used in sandwiches, pizzas, and soups. The Creamy Crab Dip served in a bread bowl is exactly what you want when you’re ready for something hearty. You get a deep, hot bowl of rich crab‑cheese dip, full of lump crab meat and seasoned just enough to let the seafood shine, surrounded by a freshly‑baked bread bowl that soaks up every bit of the creamy sauce. It’s indulgent and heavy, and the bread makes it fun to eat—tearing off chunks, dipping, scraping the bowl. The Golden Goose Ale (4.7% ABV), is light, clean finish and very drinkable. Grade: A