A plaque at the base of a flag pole erected outside The Wonder Bar Steakhouse pays tribute to restaurant’s founders, Betty and John Folio Jr., and their daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Mickey Cherubino. From left are Dave Alvarez, new co-owner, Debbie and Mickey Cherubino, D.J. Cherubino and Daniel Watts, co-owner.
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — The Wonder Bar Steakhouse celebrated the beginning of the third chapter in its 68-year history Thursday by hosting the Harrison County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours.
In November 2012, Manuel and David Alvarez teamed up with hospitality executive Daniel Watts to purchase the historic steakhouse from Mickey and Debbie Cherubino.
They embarked on a renaissance that maintains the history of the restaurant that hosted Joe DiMaggio, John F. Kennedy and many others.
The trio is poised to grow with the future of North Central West Virginia, said Dave Alvarez, co-owner.
Renovations include a new facade, reconstructed expansive deck, state-of-the-art kitchen and a redesign of the dining space.
The large upstairs dining room accommodates up to 50 people and provides views of Clarksburg’s rolling hills.
“I grew up in this community,” Alvarez said. “I remember coming here for special occasions. We want to carry on that tradition and meet the growing needs of North Central West Virginia to enjoy The Wonder Bar. It has been transformed with nostalgia and updates.”
Private dining areas have been added, such as the wine room for up to 14 people with a rustic Old World feel, and a Marcellus room with a mural to exemplify environment, energy and community thriving together.
Watts said the most important renovation is the American flag and pole erected next to the building. At the base of the pole, a rock holds a plaque in honor of The Wonder Bar founder and World War II veteran John Folio Jr. and his wife Betty Folio.
The plaque also commends the foresight of Debbie and Mickey Cherubino, previous owners, to take the restaurant to the next level.
“This is a touching moment for us,” Mickey Cherubino said. “My wife’s parents started this. When we decided to retire and take on the restaurant, our children helped. We tried to keep up the standards they set…
