Best Place to Try It: Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream in Charleston
Runner-up: Potato candy from True Treats Candy in Harpers Ferry
Pawpaw has a sweet flavor reminiscent of custard, and it’s nicknamed the West Virginia banana. Pawpaw may not be known by many, but it’s a unique treat that has a very short shelf life, making it easy to miss. So, if you happen to be in Virginia in the fall, don’t miss the chance to taste it in pies, breads, jellies, ice creams, or beer. You can only get it for a few short weeks in ice cream form at Ellen’s, but it’s worth it when you sample its distinct flavor.
True Treats is a treasure trove for history lovers, featuring over 500 selections of historic teas, candies, and treats from the mid-1900s. They sell freshly made versions of their Appalachian handmade potato candy, featuring peanut butter, potatoes, and powdered sugar.