Get out.
That’s what was on her mind while doing her time at Bellaire High.
Get out this town. Get out of this valley. Get out and go find the real world where dreams are possible. That was Alicia Manning’s plan. Plain and simple … see ya!
And initially, that’s exactly what she did. She put the Wheeling area in the rear-view mirror, went off to college, and believed she’d never look back. Sure, she’d return for holidays to see her hardworking mother and father, scoff at what she abandoned, and return quickly back to where she had spread her wings and planted roots.
But then, well, Alicia opened her adult eyes and took a look, and that’s when one epiphany after another brightened every bulb in the bunch so she could clearly see where the grass was greener. Her and her husband, Mike, moved home in 2011, and Alicia joined her parents with the operation of Centre Market’s ultra-popular Market Vines.
The Mannings are now raising their three sons in the same valley Alicia once believed was done and dead, and that’s because they came home to help it grow.
When people ask, how do you describe the fajitas served at Market Vines?
Delicious!
Our Fajitas are prepared on a flat-top grill and are available in chicken, steak, or shrimp. They are presented on a sizzling cast iron skillet, accompanied by a blend of red peppers, grilled onions, and broccoli. Each order comes with three warm tortilla shells and is served with Mexican rice, fresh lettuce, a homemade salad, and sour cream on the side.
And then I tell people to join us for Fajita Night at Market Vines every Thursday starting at 4 p.m.
How do you feel about there being night games at Nelson Field now?
The lights symbolize not just change, but a bright future ahead.
While traditions hold value, adapting is essential for growth. Change can bring new opportunities, and it’s important to embrace it. What will always remain constant is our town’s spirit and pride—elements that are irreplaceable and will continue to unite us, no matter what evolves around us.
Why the food business?
My professional journey began at the age of 15 when I worked concessions at the Bellaire pool for two summers. After graduating high school, I attended college and I waited tables to support myself financially. I found great joy in this role, particularly in meeting new people.
Following graduation, I moved away and pursued a career in mental health. However, I soon realized I missed the immediate financial rewards of service work, so I took on a bartending position.
Eventually, my husband and I relocated back to our hometown when my parents opened a restaurant, and I have been working there for the past 13 years. While I initially attempted to focus solely on management, I discovered that I truly miss the personal connections with my regulars and interactions that come with serving.
What are the best and worst parts about doing business at Centre Market?
I have nothing but positive things to say about having a business in Centre Market.
As Wheeling evolves, it continues to attract more visitors and opportunities to our area. Centre Market is often the first destination for those visiting Wheeling; many customers have shared with me that they specifically came to check out the Market.
Over the past 13 years, I have witnessed significant growth in Centre Market since we began our business. I am excited to see what the future holds for all of us here.
We hear people say the Upper Ohio Valley is a great place to raise kids. Do you believe that to be true?
In high school, I was convinced I would never return to the valley.
However, when my husband and I decided to come back to support my family’s business and raise our son closer to relatives, I realized the valley has a promising future for families. The area is experiencing economic growth, a variety of cultural events, and ample opportunities for both outdoor and indoor recreation.
I’m truly excited to see what the future holds for our children here.
