Featuring a relatively simple menu of various items such as sandwiches, spaghetti, ravioli, and steaks, Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House is a staple of Huntington, West Virginia culture and a spot that shouldn’t be discounted by readers unfamiliar with the brand. Opening in 1938 as a burger and milkshake joint, the evolution of Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House is as unlikely as it is enchanting.
A brief read on their website tells the story of Jim Tweel, a young engaged man looking for work in the form of self-employment and entrepreneurship. An apparent initial success, the story would take a different turn in 1944 when an Italian man named Roberto Elmoro crossed paths with Jim and his wife, Sally. Expanding his venture to include Roberto’s original spaghetti recipe, Jim’s business would eventually settle on its current name, shifting its focus to the Italian dish.
After finding its signature dish, Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House appears to have been caught in a time warp of sorts. Marshall Thundering Herd memorabilia line the brick walls, along with historical pictures of various important people eating at Jim’s, such as then-Presidential candidate John F. Kennedy. The waitstaff wear green aprons over neatly-tucked white polo shirts, representing the professionalism of the business, and the green booths shine like a newly waxed car, reflecting the warm glow of the overhead lights and creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
As a lifelong Ashlander, I had only been to Jim’s one time in my life, going with my grandparents as a child, ordering a well-done steak and finding myself confused. As an adult, my lackluster attitude towards spaghetti prevented me from considering it as a cure for my hunger pangs, and Jim’s became something I simply passed by while driving down 5th Avenue, until my girlfriend suggested we try it out.
This time would be different. After hearing good things from a friend of mine, I got the famous haddock fish sandwich, which came with homemade coleslaw and tartar sauce. The fried fish had a really good flavor to it, and I could taste the love that the coleslaw and tartar sauce were made with. The bun also had good flavor, albeit a little bit unstable. Overall it was a great experience and one that I highly recommend for anybody from Ashland or Portsmouth who may be looking to have a Friday night dinner in Huntington.
Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House is a living testament to Huntington’s history and culinary heritage. Stepping into its doors is like taking a trip back in time, where classic comfort food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere reign supreme. Whether you’re a lifelong Huntingtononian or a first-time visitor, Jim’s offers a unique dining experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Next time you find yourself in Huntington, make sure to add Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House to your itinerary. Embrace the nostalgia. Savor the flavors. Create memories that will last a lifetime! You might discover a new favorite dish along the way.