Secret Sandwich Society operates at 1004 Quarrier St in Charleston, West Virginia, occupying a niche in the state capital's dining scene as the definitive artisan sandwich destination and a reliable source of quality craft beer in the Quarrier Street corridor. The shop has built a loyal following among Charleston office workers, residents of the nearby neighborhoods, and visitors who discover it during exploration of the downtown area.
The menu takes the sandwich as a serious culinary form, applying ingredient combinations and preparation techniques that separate the results meaningfully from convenience-food alternatives. The WV Country Ham Cubano adapts the classic pressed sandwich into a West Virginia format, replacing traditional fillings with locally sourced country ham and accompanying elements that reflect the state's cured meat traditions — the result is a sandwich that feels genuinely placed in Appalachian food culture while still recognizable in its Cuban format. The brisket sandwich draws on barbecue-adjacent preparation, with slow-cooked beef and house-made accompaniments that reward an appetite built up over a busy morning. The kimchi grilled cheese represents the more contemporary, globally influenced side of the menu, balancing fermented heat with the melted richness of the format.
The craft beer selection complements the food program, with local West Virginia producers represented alongside regional and national options. The combination of serious sandwiches and quality beer has made Secret Sandwich Society a natural anchor for the working lunch and early afternoon crowd that populates the Quarrier Street neighborhood.
The shop operates Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 8 PM and Saturday from 11 AM to 7 PM, with Sunday closed. The format is walk-in with no reservations accepted. Located at 1004 Quarrier St in Charleston, the shop sits within easy reach of the Capitol building, several downtown hotels, and the Clay Center arts complex.
Signature dishes
- WV Country Ham Cubano
- Brisket sandwich
- Kimchi grilled cheese
Good to know
- Known for
- Creative artisan sandwiches and local craft beer; a Charleston lunch institution
- Hours
- Mon-Fri 11 AM - 8 PM; Sat 11 AM - 7 PM; closed Sunday
- Reservations
- Walk-in only
Location
1004 Quarrier St, Charleston, WV 25301
38.3523, -81.6347 View on map
Highlights
- WV Country Ham Cubano — a locally adapted pressed sandwich using Appalachian cured ham, a Charleston cult favorite
- Artisan brisket and kimchi grilled cheese representing the range from regional tradition to contemporary global influence
- Craft beer selection featuring West Virginia producers alongside national options
- Prime Quarrier Street location making it a natural lunch stop when exploring downtown Charleston
Tips for visiting
- The WV Country Ham Cubano is the most distinctive dish — it directly reflects West Virginia food traditions and stands apart from anything available elsewhere in Charleston
- Arrive before noon on weekdays to beat the office lunch rush from the nearby Capitol complex
- The craft beer list changes — asking the counter staff about current West Virginia taps is worth the conversation
- Saturday is the most relaxed service day; the weekday lunch rush means faster turnover that works against lingering
Accessibility
Secret Sandwich Society occupies a street-level commercial space on Quarrier Street with ground-floor entry. The counter ordering format and open seating area are accessible for standard mobility aids.
Frequently asked questions
What makes the WV Country Ham Cubano distinctive?
The sandwich adapts the Cuban pressed format using West Virginia country ham in place of traditional fillings, creating a preparation that connects the familiar pressed-sandwich form to Appalachian cured meat traditions.
What are the operating hours?
Secret Sandwich Society is open Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 8 PM and Saturday from 11 AM to 7 PM. It is closed on Sundays.
Does the shop accept reservations?
No. The format is counter ordering with walk-in service only. No reservation system is in place.
Is Secret Sandwich Society near downtown Charleston attractions?
Yes, the shop is at 1004 Quarrier St, within walking distance of the West Virginia State Capitol, the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, and multiple downtown Charleston hotels.