If you have ever wished that you could go to an eighteenth-century tavern, look no further than Union Tavern located on Main Street in Union, West Virginia. Restaurant owner Robert (Rob) Morgan-Jackson said the place has a unique look and atmosphere with a historical feel of taverns “back in the day.”
Morgan-Jackson began the journey to opening the Union Tavern while home from the Navy. He said he saw the building and fell in love with it and the area. His mother and stepfather had previously moved to the area 10 years prior and run multiple businesses. At the time, they were preparing to open a bar in one of their other buildings. Morgan-Jackson said after seeing the building and wanting to turn it into something, he decided he wanted to “put some roots down here myself.”
When asked what his favorite part of running the Union Tavern is, Morgan-Jackson enthusiastically said “the clientele.” He noted that the amount of support they have received since beginning the process of opening has been incredible. He noted the overwhelming support from many of the people he has met who have been willing to help. Those who “truly want us to succeed.”
If he had not decided to open the tavern, Morgan-Jackson said he was on the verge of going back into the military. Instead, he along with his mother and stepfather opened the restaurant. He noted that the original intent was for the tavern to be a bar, but it quickly became a restaurant instead.
They already have plans to expand the restaurant. The Union Tavern is joining forces with The Deli on Main to expand its lunch menu. Also, they have purchased the building behind the tavern to expand the property. They have a backroom that they intend to open for a more romantic/intimate dining experience and possibly a family-feel environment.
All of the recipes on Union Tavern’s menu are “tried and true.” Morgan-Jackson said, “Our food is basically a collection of recipes that stem from ideas from all across the United States that people love the most.” He went on to say, “Our biggest concern is how awesome our food is.”
When it comes to recommendations, Morgan-Jackson suggests trying the chicken alfredo. He said, “The cook put years into making this sauce the way he loves it and how everyone else loved it, it’s just a great, great sauce.” He also said if you are looking for the best bar food option, try the California burrito.
The Union Tavern is located at 285 Main Street, Union, West Virginia. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Thursday from 4 p.m. until midnight, Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. until 2 a.m., and Sunday from noon until midnight. For more information call 304-994-0903 or visit the website at www.uniontavern.business.site. You can also visit the business’ Facebook page, Union Tavern, or reach out by email at uniontavernllc@gmail.com.
