These famous rolls, native to West Virginia, are perfect for a fast-casual meal or a snack for the road. The story behind these savory treats is as interesting as they are tasty. Learn more about the origin of the pepperoni roll below.

How Pepperoni Rolls Came to Be

The Iconic West Virginia Treat

If you’re not from West Virginia, you may not be aware that pepperoni rolls were first created there in the 1920s. During this time, Italian immigrants in the area primarily worked in coal mines. This rapid industrial expansion brought thousands to work 10 hours a day, 6 days a week. Sticks of pepperoni were common snacks during lunch breaks. Eventually, Giuseppe “Joseph” Argiro was credited with being the first to combine the Irish lunch of white bread with the Italian pepperoni sticks to form the iconic pepperoni rolls you know today.

Argiro opened a bakery after leaving the mines, and the simple yet delectable creation of dough folded over pepperoni sticks was a hit. Over time, pepperoni rolls spread across the state and became a West Virginia favorite.

Now Available in Dayton

Although the heart of this invention lies in West Virginia, the delightful snack has made its way to 416 Diner in the heart of Dayton, Ohio. Each restaurant carries its own special recipe. In Dayton, OH, curious diners can try pepperoni rolls filled with ingredients like provolone cheese, marinara sauce, or top it with 416’s “Almost Famous Gravy” for added layers of flavor. These portable rolls also stand on their own without additional fillings. Spicy and savory pepperoni sticks are surrounded by soft bread with just the right amount of crunch. Today, it’s easy for Dayton residents to pick up these perfectly portable meals.

Hungry for the mouthwatering taste of a pepperoni roll? Visit 416 Diner in the Oregon District in Dayton, Ohio for their famous pepperoni rolls. Their signature rolls are the ideal ratio of salty and savory to sweet and starchy, so they’re bound to satisfy your cravings. This diner is open late on weekends for night owls and late shift workers alike. Come in to eat whenever your hunger strikes. To learn more about their menu, visit their website or call (937) 461-0416.