Mehlman's Cafeteria in St. Clairsville, Ohio

On a trip to the Wheeling, West Virginia, area, my husband's relatives and I stopped to have dinner at Mehlman's Cafeteria in St. Clairsville, Ohio. Mehlman's is a family-owned business started by Mary Mehlman in 1961. Today, it is owned by third-generation family members who state that they still use recipes that their mother used all those years ago. The owner, Fred Mehlman Jr., states that his employees serve nearly 2,000 customers on a typical weekday and on the weekends that number rises to 3,000. On Fridays over 500 pounds of fish are prepared, and during a typical week 5,000 pounds of potatoes are served and 40 dozen rolls are made each day. Mehlman said everything is cooked from scratch.

Upon entering the cafeteria, you walk down the entryway to the counter and pick up your tray and silverware. Immediately your eyes are met with a variety of desserts to select which can cause one to become frozen with indecision as you try to make your selection. As you move down the line, friendly employees ask you what entree you would like to select. They are eager to answer questions about menu items and will offer a suggestion if you like. Mehlman's offers a variety of American cuisine each day. The dishes vary according to the particular day. The food is expertly prepared. tasty and filling. I had stuffed chicken breast with homemade creamy mashed potatoes, vegetables and custard dessert. Other members of our party had stuffed peppers, fried whitefish and the Mehlman's trademark coconut cream pie. You may find it necessary to bring home a doggie bag. If the parking lot is any indication of the popularity of Mehlman's cafeteria, then Mehlman's does a booming business. While we were dining, there was no lack of customers patronizing the cafeteria.

Comfortable Seating
The dining room is of ample size with comfortable seating at tables of various sizes to accommodate family style dining. You do not feel cramped nor do you have to be concerned about the back of your seat being wedged against the chair of the person seated behind you. There is no loud music to interrupt your dining so conversation can be held at a normal decibel.

Reasonable Price
Whenever dining out, price is a consideration. We found the prices to be quite reasonable and the bill for my husband and me totaled $17.49 which is a fair price for the meal we enjoyed. The other members of our party also agreed that the price paid for the value received was quite satisfactory. If traveling with children, even the most finicky eater can find something that would be appealing.

So, whether you are a local resident or a wayfarer passing through town, I recommend that you make a stop at Mehlman's Cafeteria for a hearty, delicious home cooked meal. Mehlman's is conveniently located off Route 70 and you can look for the tall, sky high Mehlman's Cafeteria sign to lead you to culinary delight. With reasonable prices, home cooked food and variety of menu items, you reap the benefits.

Map the Route
If you are planning to be in the St. Clairsville, Wheeling, West Virginia area, I recommend that you include Mehlman's Cafeteria on your itinerary. Before leaving home, map out the route so you will have directions on hand. I suggest that you also view and download the menu from its Web site to have an idea of the available menu and minimize the time spent in line. Note: The restaurant is closed Mondays.