The perfect appetizer isn’t just a prelude—it sets the tone. Whether it’s crispy, creamy, smoky, or spicy, a well-crafted starter can elevate a meal from average to unforgettable. In the Martinsburg area, local restaurants are raising the bar on bites before the entrée, blending creativity with comfort in every dish. Voters in this year’s Best of the Best contest clearly have a taste for the bold and the craveable, spotlighting eateries where the apps deserve center stage.
Kitzie’s doesn’t just serve appetizers—they showcase them. With locations across Martinsburg and beyond, this local favorite offers a menu loaded with crowd-pleasers like loaded nachos, cheesy crab dip, and golden-fried everything. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, but the kitchen takes its starters seriously. Whether you're sharing plates during happy hour or launching into a full meal, the apps at Kitzie’s are built to impress and built to share.
For flavor-packed starters that go beyond the usual suspects, Thai Martinsburg delivers. This downtown spot blends traditional Thai recipes with a modern presentation, and the appetizer menu reflects that balance perfectly. Crisp spring rolls, spicy satay, and creamy crab rangoon hit all the right notes—savory, sweet, and full of texture. It’s the kind of place where ordering “just one app” turns into a full sampler spread before you know it.
In Inwood, Toasted has carved out a niche for inventive comfort food with a twist. Known for their elevated grilled cheese and sandwich creations, this cozy eatery also offers a lineup of appetizers that punch well above their weight. Think loaded tots, shareable dips, and rotating seasonal bites that always hit the mark. It’s the kind of spot where the starters could be the meal—and often are.
This food truck turned culinary force in Martinsburg brings the heat with wood-fired flavor in every bite. Food By Fire’s appetizers lean into bold, smoky profiles, whether it’s flame-kissed wings, pulled pork nachos, or fire-roasted veggie platters. The mobile setup keeps things fresh and flexible, while the flavors stay consistently unforgettable. If you see their truck parked nearby, don’t walk—run.
At The Cider Press in Inwood, appetizers are more than an afterthought—they’re an essential part of the experience. With a menu that balances upscale pub fare and creative takes on comfort food, this restaurant serves up apps like loaded fries, fried pickles, and zesty cauliflower bites that are perfect for sharing. Pair them with a local cider or craft beer, and you’ve got the ultimate start to any night out.
Thanks, ChatGPT.