Welcome to the ‘Ohana
At Tropics, we believe that family isn't just about where you come from—it’s about who you build your life with. When we moved from the shores of Hawaii to the mountains of West Virginia in 2012, we brought more than just recipes; we brought the spirit of ‘Ohana. To be so far from home and build a new family with our employees and guests is truly priceless. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, when you step through our doors, you’re part of our island family.
Our Journey: From the Pacific to the Appalachians
In 2012, Brendan and Maria Burchfiel traded the Pacific Ocean for the West Virginia hills. They saw an opportunity to introduce Morgantown to something it had never experienced: authentic Hawaiian cuisine. While Brendan’s family roots were in West Virginia, the move was a leap of faith. With the diverse community of the university nearby, they knew they had a unique flavor that could bridge the 4,600-mile gap between their two homes.
Learning & Growing
Every great adventure has its hurdles. Our story began in Westover at a small spot called The Sandbar. While we loved the food, we quickly learned that location is everything. As Maria says, "Everything happens for a reason." That initial challenge led us to our permanent home in Cranberry Square in Cheat Lake. We took the lessons from our first year and poured them into Tropics, creating an island oasis in the heart of the mountains.
Decades of Passion
Hospitality is in our DNA. Brendan started as a dishwasher at 16, working his way through every role—cook, bartender, and manager—before becoming an owner. Maria began serving at 20, mastering the front-of-house experience and management. Before Tropics, we successfully owned and operated The Shack, Shack Waikiki, and even Shack Attack Fishing Charters in Hawaii. We’ve spent our lives in this industry because we love the connection that happens over a great meal.
A Taste of Hawaii in West Virginia
Whether you’re craving a taste of the islands or just a place where you feel like you belong, Tropics is here for you. We are proud to serve the Morgantown community and are so grateful that you’ve chosen to be a part of our extended family.