Restaurants in Charlottesville
Best Restaurants
French • $$$$
Mediterranean • $$$
“Jacob, Fairie, and I went to Smyrna tonight and it was exceptional. Our server, David was welcoming, attentive, and down to earth. He knows a good bit about Cville music history which was a plus for us! Orhun is also a music lover and is the reason we had to check out this amazing spot. His and the team’s hospitality is top of the line. Everything we had was great and full of flavor that would include the Meze Trio, the Charred Octopus , the Market Greens and even the carrots were outstanding. Don’t sleep on this gem, Cville.”
American • $$$
“We have been celebrating my daughter’s living anniversary at Ivy Inn for the past 3 years. Food is exceptional and wait service is golden.”
Korean Barbecue • $$
“This place is a must visit if you enjoy Korean food or if you are new to it and would like to try it for the first time. Excellent service provided by an amazing staff. The food is absolutely delicious! The kimchi is the best I’ve had and the menu is varied to please everyone’s taste. I definitely recommend Bulpan for an excellent meal and experience.”
American • $$$$
“Chef Yoder is incredibly talented. Unexpected food combinations that blew us away. Amazing wait staff and don’t skip the beverage pairing! Highly educated sommeliers on staff! It was just dinner, it was an experience that I haven’t stopped talking about weeks later!”
Bubble Tea • $$
“Delicious and super friendly staff. Wait times aren't too bad as long as you don't go during lunch rush in the summer time. Other boba stores don't compare in quality from my experience!”
Restaurants by Cuisine
Brewery • $$
“Selvedge has been one of my favorite places in the Charlottesville area. The location is perfect for a nice escape from the college town vibes. Menu and beer selection is great! My favorites are the smashburger, hotdog, wings, mac n cheese, and the kale salad! Rick and the rest of the staff are friendly and simply awesome!! Oh - don’t forget to try the popsicles!! AAA+++ 👍👍”
Southern • $$
“We are repeat customers. The food is always great with innovative twists on southern comfort food. The friendliest staff in Cville.”
French • $$
“We have lived in Charlottesville for 7 years. While we have only eaten at Petit Pois 4 times, it was the first restaurant we at at when we came up to initially look for places to live and it was the most recent place we have dine out, last night for NYE. It is small and cramped. They can't do anything about that. The service has always been top notch, warm, hospitable, engaging and friendly without being over the top. While nothing we have ever eaten there has been memorable; that isn't a slight. Everything has always been good and of the value that we have paid. A place like this with its' price point need to make good food that is better than what I can do at home and better than a chain or corporate "faux" bistro. Along with the good food and the exceptional service they always hit the mark. Last night was the 2nd time we have come in for a New Years Eve meal. We live within walking distance to the downtown mall and we aren't party animals so we typically don't make NYE reservations and just walk down to the strip and see if we can saddle up at a bar somewhere. Last week my fiancee mentioned that this year she would like to make reservations and go out. I searched everywhere in Charlottesville and the surrounding area and all reservations were booked up. Bummer. So, we decided to do our regular routine, put on decent clothes and walk and see if we could slide in somewhere----our first choice as Petit Pois. We go there and talked to the host to see if there was anything possible available, knowing the probability was low and we were OK with that. The host checked, talked to his folks, came out and showed us to a table. Yes, it was small and it was cramped but THEY MADE IT HAPPEN FOR US. Everything was what we expected. The food was good, the service as great, and the price was reasonable, and we had a nice meal and got home in time to watch the ball drop. Thanks Petit Pois. We will see you next New Years.”
Restaurants with Delivery
French • $$$$
“Delicious food, professional staff with personal attention. Quaint, romantic atmosphere.”
Mediterranean • $$$
“Jacob, Fairie, and I went to Smyrna tonight and it was exceptional. Our server, David was welcoming, attentive, and down to earth. He knows a good bit about Cville music history which was a plus for us! Orhun is also a music lover and is the reason we had to check out this amazing spot. His and the team’s hospitality is top of the line. Everything we had was great and full of flavor that would include the Meze Trio, the Charred Octopus , the Market Greens and even the carrots were outstanding. Don’t sleep on this gem, Cville.”
American • $$$$
“Chef Yoder is incredibly talented. Unexpected food combinations that blew us away. Amazing wait staff and don’t skip the beverage pairing! Highly educated sommeliers on staff! It was just dinner, it was an experience that I haven’t stopped talking about weeks later!”
American • $$$
“We have been celebrating my daughter’s living anniversary at Ivy Inn for the past 3 years. Food is exceptional and wait service is golden.”
Korean Barbecue • $$
“This place is a must visit if you enjoy Korean food or if you are new to it and would like to try it for the first time. Excellent service provided by an amazing staff. The food is absolutely delicious! The kimchi is the best I’ve had and the menu is varied to please everyone’s taste. I definitely recommend Bulpan for an excellent meal and experience.”
Brewery • $$
“Selvedge has been one of my favorite places in the Charlottesville area. The location is perfect for a nice escape from the college town vibes. Menu and beer selection is great! My favorites are the smashburger, hotdog, wings, mac n cheese, and the kale salad! Rick and the rest of the staff are friendly and simply awesome!! Oh - don’t forget to try the popsicles!! AAA+++ 👍👍”
Mexican • $
“Enjoyed a delicious and delightful lunch here today. The staff were helpful and courteous. The food was fresh and tasty. Can't wait to visit again. I frequent Qdoba locations nationwide, and this one is the best.”
Southern • $$
“We are repeat customers. The food is always great with innovative twists on southern comfort food. The friendliest staff in Cville.”
French • $$
“We have lived in Charlottesville for 7 years. While we have only eaten at Petit Pois 4 times, it was the first restaurant we at at when we came up to initially look for places to live and it was the most recent place we have dine out, last night for NYE. It is small and cramped. They can't do anything about that. The service has always been top notch, warm, hospitable, engaging and friendly without being over the top. While nothing we have ever eaten there has been memorable; that isn't a slight. Everything has always been good and of the value that we have paid. A place like this with its' price point need to make good food that is better than what I can do at home and better than a chain or corporate "faux" bistro. Along with the good food and the exceptional service they always hit the mark. Last night was the 2nd time we have come in for a New Years Eve meal. We live within walking distance to the downtown mall and we aren't party animals so we typically don't make NYE reservations and just walk down to the strip and see if we can saddle up at a bar somewhere. Last week my fiancee mentioned that this year she would like to make reservations and go out. I searched everywhere in Charlottesville and the surrounding area and all reservations were booked up. Bummer. So, we decided to do our regular routine, put on decent clothes and walk and see if we could slide in somewhere----our first choice as Petit Pois. We go there and talked to the host to see if there was anything possible available, knowing the probability was low and we were OK with that. The host checked, talked to his folks, came out and showed us to a table. Yes, it was small and it was cramped but THEY MADE IT HAPPEN FOR US. Everything was what we expected. The food was good, the service as great, and the price was reasonable, and we had a nice meal and got home in time to watch the ball drop. Thanks Petit Pois. We will see you next New Years.”
Indian • $
“Great food, fair pricing & excellent service. It was my first visit, but I’ll be back.”
Vegan • $
“Super tasty, lovely space in great location, friendly staff. Always a great visit!”
Latin American • $
“Great service and delicious food. Buen servicio y comida rica!”
Turkish • $
“Had a birthday lunch here…..had a bowl with many items ALL of which were absolutely delicious! Will come back whenever back in Cville…wish they were near where I live!!!”
French • $$$
“We had an amazing dinner with friends. Highly recommend this restaurant.”
Mexican • $$
“I'm a huge fan of Oaxacan cuisine and CONMOLE did not disappoint! The mole guajillo with pork ribs was excellent. My only suggestion would be: if mole is the pride and namesake of the restaurant and serving as a gateway into tasting more of Oaxaca, why isn't mole even more of a star? What is mole, what makes it so complex, and why is it so special to Oaxaca? I know how much work it must take to make your mole pastes - I think there's even more of an opportunity here to share and show off. Could you offer an appetizer tasting flight of your house moles, maybe with some warm tortillas and a quick run-through by the waiter of the key ingredients of each/what they are tradionally served with? I would have ordered that in a heartbeat. Hopefully next time I'm in town, I can try your delicious barbacoa. Thank you so much!”
Online Reservation Available
Mexican • $$
“I'm a huge fan of Oaxacan cuisine and CONMOLE did not disappoint! The mole guajillo with pork ribs was excellent. My only suggestion would be: if mole is the pride and namesake of the restaurant and serving as a gateway into tasting more of Oaxaca, why isn't mole even more of a star? What is mole, what makes it so complex, and why is it so special to Oaxaca? I know how much work it must take to make your mole pastes - I think there's even more of an opportunity here to share and show off. Could you offer an appetizer tasting flight of your house moles, maybe with some warm tortillas and a quick run-through by the waiter of the key ingredients of each/what they are tradionally served with? I would have ordered that in a heartbeat. Hopefully next time I'm in town, I can try your delicious barbacoa. Thank you so much!”
Venezuelan • $
“Incredible! Everyone loved their food. We had the whole tilapia (my husband finished it and said it was the best he’s had), a ribeye, the chicken breast, and half rack of lamb. Everything was delicious! We also had guacamole and arepita chips with white cheese. A perfect starter! I also got lemonade and it was some of the best lemonade I’ve ever had! Go eat here ASAP!”
Southern • $
“Our favorite brunch location in Cville. The fried green tomatoes are amazing. Excellent service and selection.”
Italian • $$$
“What an incredible little restaurant. I still can’t believe we happened across it! My boyfriend and I live in DC and eat out quite frequently, and Tavola topped some Michelin star restaurants we’ve tried. We were blown away by the kindness and knowledge of the sommelier and staff, the generosity and talent of the kitchen, and the overall atmosphere and ambiance. Every dish was on point, every service mark was hit, and I could write paragraphs about the wine recommendations. I would rate it more than five stars if I could. Huge thank you to Clay, Caleb, Kendall and everyone else we met for making our night so memorable. If you’re thinking about opening another location I vote DC!”
Seafood • $$$
“Food is amazing and the staff exemplify that of a fine dining experience but in a casual and fun atmosphere!”
American • $$
“My friend and I picked this place due to wanting to enjoy a rooftop while in Savannah. We shared a Caesar salad and each ordered a crab cake. Both were excellent. The crab cake has to be the best one I have ever had and I have had a lot of crab cakes. We agreed that it melted in your mouth. We split a delicious flourless chocolate tart for dessert. A great experience and good service.”
Italian • $$
“Highly recommend this restaurant! The house salad was the best salad I’d ever had. The cocktails are wonderful; the tender even accommodated my special request. The entrees were sumptuous; we got the Italian sausage pasta and the salmon. We travel through Charlottesville twice a year and dine here on our way up and back each year. It’s my favorite part of our trip. Service is excellent.”
Middle Eastern • $
“Absolutely delicious.
The lunch buffet is a winner.
Hands down best rice, chickpeas and samosa i have ever had. Everything elses was fantastic as well”
Seafood • $$$
“Food is amazing and the staff exemplify that of a fine dining experience but in a casual and fun atmosphere!”
Italian • $$
“Highly recommend this restaurant! The house salad was the best salad I’d ever had. The cocktails are wonderful; the tender even accommodated my special request. The entrees were sumptuous; we got the Italian sausage pasta and the salmon. We travel through Charlottesville twice a year and dine here on our way up and back each year. It’s my favorite part of our trip. Service is excellent.”
24 Hour Restaurants
Cafe • $
“I did take out, I loved their burritos, chicken, white rice, black beans, cream? sour cream? I don't know but I would ask for buffalo sauce too. Gosh, they were so delicious! I would love to have one again, but I don't work up that way anymore and I don't know if they have regained there total menu since the pandemic. But next time I am up that way I am going to check in and see!”
Breakfast • $
“I am a banquet manager of a resort so i know food and beverage pretty well.my server Shelly was great all the way around,always smiling and very attentive,,she made my dinner extra special .she is definitely a asset to WH.”
Chicken • $$
“It’s hard to find restaurant food that’s not super salty but everything here tastes like it’s homemade! I was so impressed by the flavor of the chicken and all the seasonal side dishes. A wonderful dinner experience!”
Southern • $$
“My wife and I had an amazing dining experience at Maya! The food was absolutely delicious and the presentation was impeccable. The staff was very attentive and friendly, making us feel welcome from the moment we walked in. The ambiance was perfect, creating a delightful atmosphere for a very memorable meal. I can't wait to return and savor their fantastic cuisine once again. This restaurant is a must in Charlottesville. Highly recommended!”
Wineries • $$
“Wonderful experience! Hubby and I visited the tasting room for Valentine's Day. We shared the Reserve flight and Valentine's Wine & Chocolate flight. We took home bottles of four of the eight wines in the flights. The food, corn chowder and a crimini mushroom flatbread, was excellent too. It's all cooked to order & served at the table. Very attentive service. Beautiful setting with sweeping views. I'm so happy that we chose it to celebrate Valentine's Day. It'll be easy to persuade hubby to take me again for my birthday in the summer.”
Takeout Restaurants
Bakery • $
“Taste of Paris! Confused? Buenos Aires, Argentina, is known as the Paris of the Americas. These brothers have brought their home to us. Enjoy!!!”
Bubble Tea • $$
“Delicious and super friendly staff. Wait times aren't too bad as long as you don't go during lunch rush in the summer time. Other boba stores don't compare in quality from my experience!”
Bakery • $$
“Such a beautiful place, beautiful faces greeting you as you walk in. The smell is just magical. The creations of cookies, cakes, and desserts are just out of this world. Everything i have tried, I have loved. 🥰”
Cafe • $
“This place is owned by two chefs. The food is great! The coffee is good.”
Afghan • $
“The food was deliciously spiced to perfection and allowed the natural flavors to shine. Friendly staff and good atmosphere. Great quality of food for the price point.”
Soul Food • $
“Food Review: Royalty Eats Catering – A Soulful Delight at Our Block Party We had the absolute pleasure of working with Royalty Eats for our recent block party, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. From start to finish, the service was nothing short of exceptional. Nakesha and her team went above and beyond. They worked with us to create a customized menu that perfectly matched the vibe of our event, and every dish was prepared with obvious care and love. It’s rare to find a catering team that not only delivers on taste but also on professionalism, punctuality, and genuine warmth. Now let’s talk about the food — simply delicious. Every bite was bursting with flavor, from the perfectly seasoned meats to the rich, comforting sides. It’s clear that Royalty Eats brings real soul to their soul food. If you're looking for top-tier catering with heart, flavor, and flawless execution, Royalty Eats is it. We’ll definitely be calling them again for future events!”
Latin American • $
“The food is delicious and if you're looking for the best Cuban coffee in CVille, this is your place!”
Barbecue • $
“The team at mission bbq in Charlottesville delivers excellent customer service every time we come in. My husband and I have been to many Mission bbq’s along the east coast but this one is the our favorite! The food is always on point and the staff is extremely helpful and friendly!”
Coffee Shops • $
“Such nice people and delicious ice cream and milkshakes with an awesome selection.”
Bakery • $
“A delicious lunch today at Cou Cou Rachou. The staff was helpful and croissants mouthwatering.”
Bagels • $
“Best food value in Charlottesville. High quality food, served quickly at a reasonable price.”
Brewery • $
“01.28.25 The beginning of January we had our Wedding Welcoming Party at Random Row in lieu of a traditional Rehearsal Dinner. The outcome was exactly what we were hoping for. It was a laid back and fun environment where 80 of our guests were able to have great pizza and refreshments in a way that brought all of the different families and friend groups together. Cori and her staff from the planning stages until the end of the night couldn’t have been easier to work with and we had great reviews from everyone that attended. They all commented that it was exactly what they wanted and many of the people that were there that had more traditional Rehearsal Dinners for their weddings wished they had done something like what we did. Random Row allowed us to rent out the entire facility for 4-hours at a cost that was very affordable. There were some negotiations during the planning stages regarding costs and operations and even the few places that Random Row was not able to have much wiggle room there was always an attitude of “lets try to figure this out and make it happen.” With that said, they were amenable to most of our requests and budget limits. Without commenting too much on pricing and expectations because those conversations are always unique to each situation, Random Row afforded us 4-private hours and we paid for 2-hours of pizza, salad, olives, and an open bar with our guests opening tabs for the rest of the night. The cost was affordable for a middle-class couple and the experience was worth every penny. We live around the corner from Random Row and have been visiting them for years for a quick pizza and a beer. It has been one of our go-to neighborhood spots since we moved to Charlottesville. Luckily, no matter where we go, Random Row will be part of our wedding memories. Thanks again to Cori, her staff, and all of the folks that made that evening special. Joel Frank and Marie Thomas”
Cideries • $
“I really like these guys! We’ve been fans of Potters for years, back when they had a small trailer! Now, they’ve got a great location, cider and food! Highly Recommend!”
Sandwich Shop • $
“I've had a bagel in NYC and the bagel I had at Bodo's was better. I bit into the everything bagel, and found the combination of flavors and textures to be absolutely delectable. If you go to Charlottesville and don't go to Bodo's, you're missing out big time!!!!”
Pizza • $$
“Great service, excellent flavors and choices!! Pizza was so flavorful and amazing!!”
Seafood • $$
“Food and service were both great! We had a wonderful anniversary dinner tonight. Our waitress, Jillian, was awesome and very attentive!”
Korean • $$
“Always a good sign when you get to a place and there are lots of people there picking up food and eating in. Went with a few coworkers and we all enjoyed our meals. Price was right for the serving sizes and the flavors were great!”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
Tacos • $
“I finally got to try their food due to the new 2nd truck on Berkmar. WOW. The torta de milanesa is sooo good and massive. Quick and friendly service. I’ll be a regular.”
Salad • $
“The best salads on town, fast and awesome service and great healthy options ... I just love it ❤️”
Bar & Grill • $
“Great atmosphere and probably the best burger I’ve ever ate. I’m new to the area and was really looking for something special that reminds me of just home and I found it and more. A must to all the new travel nurses in the area.”
Asian Fusion • $
“My family frequents Nguyen's Kitchen weekly. It is the only establishment we want to spend our money anymore because we never leave dissatisfied. The food is absolutely delicious and the staff is incredibly kind. The space is small so there isn't much seating for dine-in service, but the food is so good we don't mind waiting for a table when they're busy.”
Mexican • $
“My husband and I enjoyed lunch here today for the first time and highly recommend this small family operated and friendly Mexican restaurant with numerous fresh and homemade options to customize and built your own plate. Access from the downtown mall or from Water Street. Good wine, beer and soft drink choices. Planning to return soon!”
Sandwich Shop • $
“This shop is a special find filled with character and owned/operated by a terrific local family. Whether you dine in and sit outside to people watch on the downtown market — or you get a massive to-go order for a big group… you are sure to be delighted!”
“Hands down the best pizza! Cooked to perfection. Be sure to try a slice of the chipotle pizza.
In addition to that, the owner came out and spoke to us after we ate. Very friendly, and we will be back!”
Vietnamese • $
“Omg as a foodie I can say that the food there is just so good everything is fresh and taste delicious. Will definitely come back .”
Southern • $$
“My wife and I had an amazing dining experience at Maya! The food was absolutely delicious and the presentation was impeccable. The staff was very attentive and friendly, making us feel welcome from the moment we walked in. The ambiance was perfect, creating a delightful atmosphere for a very memorable meal. I can't wait to return and savor their fantastic cuisine once again. This restaurant is a must in Charlottesville. Highly recommended!”
American • $
“The music was off the chain, best local band I have ever seen and I’m 63, and haven’t had that much fun in a long time”
Middle Eastern • $
“My two girlfriends and I had excellent lunch with you on Wednesday, July 24th....Welcoming, excellent service, -- good and plenty of food,...two of us had the #4 that gave us three kabobs...the seasoning was tops, one girl thought squash the best she has ever had ! I had the spinach and the salad was excellent. We will try the buffet when we go again ! This was our first time with you !Thanks !!”
Italian • $$$
“What an incredible little restaurant. I still can’t believe we happened across it! My boyfriend and I live in DC and eat out quite frequently, and Tavola topped some Michelin star restaurants we’ve tried. We were blown away by the kindness and knowledge of the sommelier and staff, the generosity and talent of the kitchen, and the overall atmosphere and ambiance. Every dish was on point, every service mark was hit, and I could write paragraphs about the wine recommendations. I would rate it more than five stars if I could. Huge thank you to Clay, Caleb, Kendall and everyone else we met for making our night so memorable. If you’re thinking about opening another location I vote DC!”
American • $$$
“Service excellence. Perfect setting. Fantastic food. Everything was great”
Steak House • $$$
“We went for the first time last night for my wife’s birthday. Seeing the wood stacked outside and then the grill going inside, I knew we were in for a treat. I had the KC Strip Steak and my wife had the Halibut with the Brussels and Smashed Potatoes. Everything was amazing and the service was just as good. Thank you for a great experience. We will definitely be back next time we come to Charlottesville.”
Cheap Eats
Juice Bar & Smoothies • $
“Everything I've ever had from Corner Juice has been delicious. Their Dank Sinatra smoothie has been the only nutrients we can get into my mom in the hospital lately. The staff are so incredibly kind and compassionate, I can't say enough positive things about this business.”
Mexican • $
“Had a delicious breakfast burrito with chorizo this morning! Bravo y'all!”
Brewery • $
“Awesome brewery!! Very welcoming and great local feel. Don’t really love beer BUT Decipher always has at least 2-3 that I love….pet friendly and veteran owned—-highly recommend!”
Coffee Shops • $
“Kudos to Katie for the inspiration and her staff for fulfilling her dream. Everything about Kindness cafe feels good. 👍👏👏👏❤️”
Tacos • $
“100% recommendation!! Delicious all around! We had tacos, tortas and quesadillas; all amazing and the salsas were great too!”
Pizza • $
“Best pizza in Charlottesville and a great atmosphere. Super kid friendly!”
Chinese • $
“I wouldn't call this the best dumplings ever. It was delicious, but not the best ever. I'm pretty sure some of my chicken dumplings were still a bit raw. If I was at the restaurant I'm confident they would have fixed it, but I had taken out so couldn't. Staff is very friendly. Flavors were okay. I'd go again, just with different expectations.”
Coffee Shops • $
“Awesome little local spot working closely with The Pie Chest. Awesome espresso, awesome coffee. They just started roasting/selling their own coffee and so far, it's nothing but gold. Try the Ethiopian! Straight blueberries and one of my absolute favorite coffees.period.”
American • $
“Seriously everything on the menu here is absolutely incredible. And it’s always quick getting out to you. If you don’t come here you’re doing yourself a disservice.”
Mexican • $
“I can’t say enough positive things about Torchy’s! The staff is top notch and we especially love the Happy Hour Specials! If you haven’t been before and decide to check it out… ask for Maggie, Dak, or Brian and this review… and they’ll hook you up!”
Burrito • $
“LOVE THIS PLACE! It’s fantastic from top to bottom, from Barbie to barn. Can’t wait to come back (probably tomorrow morning for lunch!)”
Breakfast • $
“Great diner for breakfast and lunch. Friendly and prompt service. Food was delicious and reasonably priced. Sweet tea was really good also. Be sure to try the homemade cookies. Close to UVA medical facilities, & wheelchair accessible.”
Brewery • $$
“This is where the magic happens. The food spans from the traditional ramen broth of the Nas Original to the warming depths of Mr. Spicy, the smoky vegetarian and vegan options of Smokey and the Veg to the incredible umami powerhouse of the Momo Chicken. Bowls are absolutely easy to share, and pairing a spicy ramen with even the Fiery Ahi Poke Bowl gives you a contrast of hot and cooling flavors as you alternate between bowls. You have to try it! The sushi is delicious, and the appetizers (especially the spicy edamame) round out the bill for an unforgettable flavor journey. This is meditative food for the soul. The attentive staff meet all of your needs, and the playlists running are chill and fun. This restaurant delivers foodie zen with great value and should be on your Charlottesville list of places not only to try but to visit again and again.”
Japanese • $$$
“Perfectly executed modern Japanese cuisine. Their wine list and sake options are exceptional. Do ask for recommendations on the Sake flights, they have some real gems. The fish and cooked dishes are impeccably prepared.”
American • $$
“My friend and I picked this place due to wanting to enjoy a rooftop while in Savannah. We shared a Caesar salad and each ordered a crab cake. Both were excellent. The crab cake has to be the best one I have ever had and I have had a lot of crab cakes. We agreed that it melted in your mouth. We split a delicious flourless chocolate tart for dessert. A great experience and good service.”
New American • $$
“Hands down the best food I’ve gotten at a restaurant EVER!!! My husband and I do t go out to eat due to all my food allergies but I think we’ve FINALLY found somewhere that won’t kill me. Amazing gluten free options and so so friendly!! The cook, seasoning and freshness of the food was phenomenal… happy friendly and knowledgeable staff! Our server was such a sweetie! definitely will be our date night go to from now on.”
Fondue • $$$
“This was our first time there. And we were very impressed. They have a couple entree special for around $100.00 for two people. They have a lot of other less expensive options too but this one we highly recommend. But fear not it is totally worth every penny. You get a full, four course dining experience. The wait staff is five star quality. Our server Kosta. She was absolutely amazing! Best service I have had in a restaurant in years! The food from start to finish was beyond amazing. Virtually unlimited main course. There is zero chance you will walk away hungry. You can mix and match your entree however you like. So it truly is a custom experience for each person. Our server did not rush us at all and made us feel so comfortable, explaining all the options in a very relaxed way. If your looking for a restaurant that truly is a five star dining experience, Melting Pot is a sure fit for a date night. We will definitely be return customers. Thanks Kosta, you made the experience perfect!”
Ramen • $$
“Everything is great there food , sake, people, atmosphere. I highly recommend”
Seafood • $$
“El Lugar es espectacular, la comida exquisita y tengo que decir que tienen el mejor servicio que he experimentado. Muy amables y serviciales.”
American • $$
“Staff were very attentive and helpful with our food and beverage selection. When it got crowded, it got a little loud but you could still hold a conversation. T-shirts and goodies were cheap!!!! Parking was good. I'll go back when I visit!!”
Latin American • $$
“We had an absolutely incredible dining experience at Zocalo. The presentation and quality of the food were exquisite. We started with the gazpacho, a deliciously complex blend of flavors. The scallops were perfectly seared, the octopus delightfully tender, and the salmon expertly seasoned and cooked to perfection. My personal favorite was the passion fruit dessert. The staff were kind and extremely attentive, and Chef Will even came out to greet us and inquire about our meal. I can't say enough great things about this restaurant. You won't be disappointed by a visit to Zocalo. It is now, hands down, one of my favorite restaurants I’ve ever been to!”
Indian • $$
“Incredible experience! Some of the best food I’ve ever had!”
Brewery • $$
“This is a neat little place. Great people very relaxing atmosphere. The down side for me was there was very little selection of beer and food. The pretzel was great the beer was good just don't go looking for a large variety.”
Brewpubs • $$
“Great service, AMAZING food, Logan was a wonderful server! Will be back for sure!”
Wineries • $$
“Jefferson Vineyards is an absolute gem in Virginia wine country. The setting is stunning, with rolling hills and a peaceful atmosphere that makes for a perfect escape. The tasting experience is exceptional—each wine is thoughtfully crafted, and the staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about what they do. I especially appreciated how they shared the history behind the vineyard and guided us through the unique flavor profiles of their wines.
What truly set this visit apart was the incredible customer service. I called ahead and spoke with Lisa, who went above and beyond to help me set up my son’s impromptu proposal. Her kindness and attention to detail made the moment unforgettable, and I’m so grateful for her help in making it special.
The quality of the wines truly stands out. From crisp whites to bold reds, every pour reflects care and expertise. The grounds are well-maintained, offering beautiful views that pair perfectly with a glass of wine. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing day trip, Jefferson Vineyards delivers an unforgettable experience.
Highly recommend visiting for a tasting or enjoying a bottle on their scenic patio—you won’t be disappointed!”
Korean • $$
“Loved the serve, atmosphere, food and the price. Great Experience”
Indian • $$
“WOW! That's the first word that comes to mind when we think about our dinner at Lazeez. Without a doubt, it was the best Indian cuisine we've had. The staff is super knowledgeable and friendly. The dining room is beautiful. The prevention was of our meal was beyond compare. It broke my heart to actually eat my meal and destroy the artwork on my plate! Do yourself a favor and book a table at Lazeez. You won't be disappointed.”
American • $$$
“Performed with Soundnation Band of the Washington Talent Agency, and the hospitality was simply amazing”
Indian • $$
“The food was delicious and the service was wonderful.”
French • $$$
“We went for a girls night out to celebrate wonderful friends. The food, wine recommendations and service were outstanding. The fried mushrooms were absolutely delicious. And the scallops with squid ink risotto was the best. We also enjoyed the halibut and creme brulee. Our server, Dylan, was fun and appropriately attentive. He made great recommendations on the food and wine.”
Southern • $$
“Loved this place! Very friendly bartender who made awesomely yummy Old Fashioneds and in a cozy and quaint little atmosphere. Will definitely be returning.”
Dessert • $$
“All the icecream we ordered was amazing. I always have a hard time finding Blueberry icecream and the Blueberry Waffle Cone was incredible. Great selection as well.”
Brewery • $$
“It was my birthday yesterday, so we decided to take the train to Charlottesville and arrived in time for breakfast. Wanting to visit the breweries, we found they all opened on or after 3 PM. We hoped to visit the Decade Pinball but they were closed until 12:30 PM and the Antique Shop was closed. Not being shoppers we wandered around, sat around, and then went to the movies. When 3 PM finally arrived we went into the Rockfish Brewing Company on W. Main St. Being past home brewers ourselves and having friends who own breweries in New York State and here in Virginia we were excited to have a tasting. The name Rockfish intrigues us as Rockfish Valley in Nelson County is one of ours ancestral home. Being that it was a Tuesday we didn't expect a crowd. Bartender was not very expressive, she seemed a bit distracted but still polite and approachable. We ordered a flight of four to help us decide which one we would like as our pint. The whole flight process was very low key and unceremonious. I was really looking forward to trying California Common “Steam Beer” unfortunately they were out of it. A customer recommended the Cream Ale. For our flight we chose Helles, Cream Ale, English Pale Ale, and Wit. When we looked at their website before visiting the only one on the website is the Cream Ale. For our pints we ordered Helles and English Pale Ale, both good. We also ordered the Sourdough pretzel with mustard. It looked so good, however it was cold and dry, the yellow mustard didn't make it any better. I guess we should have asked the bartender to warm it up some more but she seemed busy running back and forth to the restaurant down the hall. We had a great chat with the other customer who recommended the Cream Ale. Glad we were able to visit.”
Italian • $$
“Amazing. Everything. Food, wine, service, ambiance, dessert. Just go.”
American • $$
“Tonic, a hidden gem of Cville?
Tonic so far has not failed us. Early in the pandemic it was hit and miss, however we have gone back for brunch and dinner. So, its the kind of place that you should know about. The atmosphere, if you're sitting outdoor, its lovely especially in the fall, spring or winter cool, the cocktails are inventive, and selective. I personal am not a Gin fan, however they do have a different drink for everyone. Tequila, whiskey, vodka and an Aperol spritz. Also, drinks are reasonable for Cville. NOW, the food! Absolutely delicious.
I ordered the spicy chicken sandwich, and not your average sandwich. They use a juicy, chicken thigh that’s perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection. I think double or triple breaded. SO MUCH CRUNCH FACTOR like, audible-in-a-quiet-room kind of crunch. The spice level hits a sweet and bold spice, just enough to wake up your taste buds, but balanced.
The staff is very nice, however if a large party is there just be prepared, because they do the best they can, with what they have.
if you got this far, sorry for no photos. I'm the person that will usually leave my phone at home, so I can have more engaging with my guest. Cheers everyone!”
Dessert • $$
“Cookies were delicious and my delivery person Carmen was WONDERFUL! She literally saved me from having to chase my dog around the neighborhood in 95° temperatures 95° temperatures as she got out and Carmen had ninja reflexes and caught her for me!!!!! Carmen gets a 20 out of 10 rating from me!!!! ❣️🐾🐶”
Mediterranean • $$
“Outstanding food! I had to keep coming back for more… ultimately I tried the chicken platter, lamb special, hummus, pita, 3 types of samosas, dolmas, and falafel. Everything was very flavorful and well seasoned. You’ll definitely see me again!”
Fine Dining • $$$
“We can’t say enough good things about our experience at Duner’s! We had mixed drinks, appetizers, entrees, salads, soups and dessert. There were 6 of us and we all agreed EVERYTHING was delicious! Usually at most restaurants there’s at least one thing that isn’t as great when that much is ordered, but that definitely wasn’t our experience! We each tried a bite (or more) of everything that was ordered and we couldn’t have been more impressed! The only downside is the noise level, which unfortunately we contributed to a good bit, but the staff handled our larger party with grace and patience! The excellent food and service more than makes up for the noise. Highly recommend!!”
Bar & Grill • $$
“No comments about the food, but, if you reserve a table you better double check. Yesterday was the second occasion when I had reserved a table for a special event and when I showed up on time I was told they were so busy and therefore had no table available. Not good business!”
Bar • $$
“Went to Glass Half Full with a friend for a quick lunch before shopping. We were seated quickly and waited on by a very friendly server while there. The service was fast, although I was a big fan of the grilled fish tacos I ordered. I think I would have preferred the fried version better. My friend however very much enjoyed her grilled salmon salad. I was also pleased at the attention that the server gave to my friends dairy allergy.”
Mexican • $$
“Every time I've been here the Bartenders have been insanely friendly. And the owner is a friend of my good friend Jackie and I only hear good things about her! I hope to be back sometime soon. 10/10 every time. Unsure if this is something already done. I didn't see a changing drink menu. But it'd be really awesome seeing a seasonal mezcal cocktail menu with the fruits of the season. Maybe just one a month or every few weeks. if this is something already done ignore me! I love this place and can't wait to come back. I recommend it to my friends all the time.”
Italian • $$
“For a pre anniversary dinner , I chose Vivace and glad I did. Service was a little slow as was the kitchen but that made for a relaxed and enjoyable, romantic atmosphere. Our server Tim was friendly and courteous even if was a bit confused at times. Many tempting choices on the menu but after conferring we opted to share a bottle of San Pelligrino ( I don’t drink and drive ) , the house salad ( home made Gorgonzola dressing was delicious!) and the Veal Picatta. Fantastic presentation and flavor ; tender and tasty veal and the crusty warm Italian bread kept us occupied while waiting for our meal. All in all a wonderful experience and very reasonable prices for such good quality as well. Highly recommended.”
Korean • $$
“Absolute established gentleman by the name of Aniu (Finest apologies if I misspelled) was amazing with service and made my party have a ba ba ba blast. Love that guy and can't wait to go back.”
Brewpubs • $$
“We had the opportunity to visit and was greeted by Jenny, who was our host/server for our time there. She was absolutely amazing, and helpful with suggesting what wines to taste. If you haven't visited Mount Ida... You need to, ASAP. Thank you, Jenny!”
American • $$
“I recently had the BEST SALAD of my life at Bizou (the roasted beet, mango + goat cheese salad!) It was a gorgeous Wednesday afternoon in summer, sitting in the lovely shade of a patio umbrella, a chilled glass of Virginia-made Rose wine…. A quintessential Charlottesville experience. I will definitely be back, and I highly recommend!”
Italian • $$
“We had delicious food and even better service. Was a great stop on our visit.”
Cocktail Bar • $$$
“The lobby bar and bartender were wonderful!!! We arrived late needing a bite to eat. She kindly made us a charcuterie board right at closing time. It wasn’t thrown together, it was handsome and delicious. Everything about this place was wonderful!!”
American • $$
“Food great, amazing staff, very knowledgeable about the area. Definitely must visit to experience for yourself. Service is quick and efficient, also child friendly. Would recommend to anyone visiting the Charlottesville area.”
Bar • $$
“Had a relaxing lunch the other day. The chicken and rice soup was excellent. The chicken salad sandwich was good too as was the house salad; great service; just need to remember to get parking validated with any food check greater than $25.”
Thai • $$
“If you like spicy, the Hell’s Fire fried rice is amazing. I added the pork belly and it was awesome!”
Steak House • $$
“This place is pretty good overall. We have had a couple of not-so-great experiences here. Management is responsive. However, it would be nice if a person didn't have to involve the management to get things right the first time.”
Steak House • $$$
“We had the best experience at Aberdeen Barn. The Oysters, Filet Minion and NY Strip steak was cooked to perfection! I have never had a steak that was cooked perfectly to what I ordered. The waiter Mike was outstanding. He was attentive to us and he anticipated our needs before we knew what we may have wanted. The entire staff was attentive to our needs so we had no wants. I would highly recommend this 5 Star restaurant for the wonderful staff and delicious food!”
American • $$
“The customer service was fantastic. The rooms were clean, food was good and the coffee was available 24/7, and the atmosphere was very nice. Want to give kudos to Michelle, Ila, Tee who were behind the desk for check-in/checkout on all three shifts because they deserve raises and acknowledgments. I have stayed in many hotels but this hotel has three of the best employees that I have ever seen as far as customer service goes. I would recommend this hotel 100 percent!.”
Japanese • $$
“Yes, Zen and Now can be very tasty, almost authentic. But they need to maintain quality control and take their time preparing dishes. It’s such a popular place it can get frenetic and this is when preparation can miss. Service is fantastic, we have never experienced anything but sweet professionalism and just nice people. My only real gripe is the music is TOO loud - what happened to conversational level volume, that means - in the background! Also, what happened to playing Japanese music?! I’m from San Francisco - the best Japanese food and style…never loud, pleasssse.🙏”
Bar • $$
“Had a bacon breakfast burrito that was pretty legit. Real bacon. Real eggs and real cheese in a light toasted tortilla . Warning the burrito was the temperature of the sun but still ate it. It could have been bigger for the price however it’s an airport. What can. You expect!”
Japanese • $$
“Good food, good prices, excellent service, broad menu selection.”
American • $$$
“Wonderful food in a lovely environment- beautiful fireplace and bar in a cozy setting. The service was top notch and the quality of food was fitting to the price. I really enjoyed my cocktail made complimentary by our server - so sweet! Will definitely return.”
American • $$$
“Really great service and the food was incredible. As a business traveler, I look for locally owned restaurants. I'll definitely be back in the future.”
Hamburger • $$
“Great burger love it but the fries need work they sit on the counter and wait for the server to bring them with your order and they are cold and greasy by the time you get them. Last time there in May I sent them back and asked for a fresh cooked batch which they did and they were so much better”
Southern • $$
“Fig is one of my favorite spots in Charlottesville! The food’s always great, the drinks are great, and the vibe is perfect — chill but classy. Brunch, dinner, or just drinks, Jambalaya is very good.”
Gastropubs • $$
“We have dined at many Charlottesville restaurants over the years, but always come back to our favorite casual dining place, The Local. Great food, service and beverages. It’s like a fun family get together!”
Steak House • $$
“Waitress was extremely nice and I didn’t even have to ask to be put in a quiet corner since my autistic child was with me.
We got their version of a deep fried onion and burgers. They were massive and everything was good.”
Japanese • $$
“The dinner was beautifully prepared with Fire and Volcano 🌋 😍 😋 Food was very well done and fun time for a 66 year olds first time 😀 A Big Thank you to CJ Rachel and Abby Crawford ! Having Mike there was special especially this year!!”
American • $$
“We highly recommend fried green tomatoes as an opener!!!!! Wowza!!!! We had a fantastic meal and the service was A1!!!!!”
Southern • $$
“My best friends, husband and I had dinner there on Saturday evening. My choice. We had the most endearing, lovely server, Shelly. Driving from Virginia Beach, she really made our Anniversary special. She sang Happy Anniversary while presenting us the most amazing chocolate dessert! Highly recommend to anyone celebrating anything special in their lives!”
American • $$
“My party had a total of 17, which we made a reservation days prior. once we are there and seated, the 1 waitress took our drink orders whiched took about 35 minutes. We did receive water. I sat there almost 2 hours without the drink I ordered. We placed our order which took another hour, just to be told after 35 minutes of placing the order that most of what we ordered, they were out of. Two and a half hours of being there we received biscuits which was frozen in the center. One member of our party decided to order a To Go order online. That order was ready within 25 minutes. I was absolutely disappointed in the service given and the food. We had to advocate for ourselves just to receive a rightful discount or no bill at all. During this whole process we was there a little over three hours, some without drinks. some without food. We was given pizza to take home. I don't recommend!”
Sports Bar • $$
“We went here for dinner on a Saturday and we're seated right away. The tender meal was very good and fresh. My wife's burger was also good. Our server was very attentive. We would go here again.”
Latest Reviews
Sandwich Shop • $
“I recommend the 66 steak and cheese portabella sub was very flavorful and satisfying. The restaurant was clean and friendly. Hats off to everyone And Thank you”
Italian • $$$
“What an incredible little restaurant. I still can’t believe we happened across it! My boyfriend and I live in DC and eat out quite frequently, and Tavola topped some Michelin star restaurants we’ve tried. We were blown away by the kindness and knowledge of the sommelier and staff, the generosity and talent of the kitchen, and the overall atmosphere and ambiance. Every dish was on point, every service mark was hit, and I could write paragraphs about the wine recommendations. I would rate it more than five stars if I could. Huge thank you to Clay, Caleb, Kendall and everyone else we met for making our night so memorable. If you’re thinking about opening another location I vote DC!”
Seafood • $$$
“Food is amazing and the staff exemplify that of a fine dining experience but in a casual and fun atmosphere!”
Japanese • $$
“Yes, Zen and Now can be very tasty, almost authentic. But they need to maintain quality control and take their time preparing dishes. It’s such a popular place it can get frenetic and this is when preparation can miss. Service is fantastic, we have never experienced anything but sweet professionalism and just nice people. My only real gripe is the music is TOO loud - what happened to conversational level volume, that means - in the background! Also, what happened to playing Japanese music?! I’m from San Francisco - the best Japanese food and style…never loud, pleasssse.🙏”
Sandwich Shop • $
“This shop is a special find filled with character and owned/operated by a terrific local family. Whether you dine in and sit outside to people watch on the downtown market — or you get a massive to-go order for a big group… you are sure to be delighted!”
Diner • $
“Great food. Never had a bad experience eating there. Kim is excellent. She knows our grand kids by name and usually what they want to eat. Best in town”
Bar & Grill • $$
“No comments about the food, but, if you reserve a table you better double check. Yesterday was the second occasion when I had reserved a table for a special event and when I showed up on time I was told they were so busy and therefore had no table available. Not good business!”
Middle Eastern • $
“My two girlfriends and I had excellent lunch with you on Wednesday, July 24th....Welcoming, excellent service, -- good and plenty of food,...two of us had the #4 that gave us three kabobs...the seasoning was tops, one girl thought squash the best she has ever had ! I had the spinach and the salad was excellent. We will try the buffet when we go again ! This was our first time with you !Thanks !!”
Restaurant • $
“This place was great! Lots of flavor and you can’t beat the great service. I highly recommend.”
Vegetarian • $
“Great vegan place. I got salad with no- bull burger was delicious. All vegan which is fabulous. Charlottesville needs more of this.”
Most Popular Restaurants
Middle Eastern • $
“My two girlfriends and I had excellent lunch with you on Wednesday, July 24th....Welcoming, excellent service, -- good and plenty of food,...two of us had the #4 that gave us three kabobs...the seasoning was tops, one girl thought squash the best she has ever had ! I had the spinach and the salad was excellent. We will try the buffet when we go again ! This was our first time with you !Thanks !!”
American • $
“Ordered pizza for the first time from here today and it did not disappoint! So tasty, good price and will be my go to pizza place for lunch!”
Mexican • $
“Enjoyed a delicious and delightful lunch here today. The staff were helpful and courteous. The food was fresh and tasty. Can't wait to visit again. I frequent Qdoba locations nationwide, and this one is the best.”
Chicken • $
“I visited this location this evening to pick up dinner for myself, my son and his friends. I cannot say enough wonderful things. From the lady taking the orders, to the young man at the window. Everything was fast, efficient, and the staff were extremely polite and friendly (which is hard to find in society today). We didn’t wait at all and the food was hot and fresh! This was our first time but we will be back!”
Bakery • $$
“Such a beautiful place, beautiful faces greeting you as you walk in. The smell is just magical. The creations of cookies, cakes, and desserts are just out of this world. Everything i have tried, I have loved. 🥰”
Turkish • $
“amazing food, amazing service, at a most amazing price. we highly recommend. we will be back.”
Vegan • $
“Super tasty, lovely space in great location, friendly staff. Always a great visit!”
American • $
“Hands down. Some of the best food. Fish tacos General Tso’s cauliflower and wild mushroom ravioli 10 out of 10 Definitely coming back to try more.”
Bagels • $
“Best food value in Charlottesville. High quality food, served quickly at a reasonable price.”
Turkish • $
“Had a birthday lunch here…..had a bowl with many items ALL of which were absolutely delicious! Will come back whenever back in Cville…wish they were near where I live!!!”
Latin American • $
“The food is delicious and if you're looking for the best Cuban coffee in CVille, this is your place!”
New Restaurants
Coffee Shops • $
“Great space. Large and open. Family atmosphere. Softly played background music. Highly recommend a visit.”
Coffee Shops • $
“More expensive than other local shops but really, really good coffee. The baristas clearly are well trained and the curated coffee selection for sale is the best in town. Having been spoiled by Europe's coffee scene after being over there for a few years, this is closest I've come to that style of artisan coffee drinks and beans for sale. Highly recommend!”
Brewpubs • $
“Top notch! Small place but great people and the bartender was awesome”
Indian • $$
“WOW! That's the first word that comes to mind when we think about our dinner at Lazeez. Without a doubt, it was the best Indian cuisine we've had. The staff is super knowledgeable and friendly. The dining room is beautiful. The prevention was of our meal was beyond compare. It broke my heart to actually eat my meal and destroy the artwork on my plate! Do yourself a favor and book a table at Lazeez. You won't be disappointed.”
Coffee Shops • $
“This is my 2nd visit to Camellia’s, and I am hooked. Their coffee is VERY good. I basically want to guzzle my latte. Their baristas and cashiers are super nice. Their pastry selection is insane. I’ve now tried three different pastries (no, I didn’t get two although I wanted to. I tried a piece of my friend’s lol), and all were delicious. The atmosphere is cozy, and they have lots of different searing options. You can sit at tables, in armchairs, on couches etc. This is now my new favorite coffee shop, and I spend a lot of time in coffee shops - so they’re about to get to know me really well!”
Ice Cream Shop
“I'm staying at a resort in Virginia and the treat shop has a few flavors of this ice cream and oh my gosh I am obsessed!!!!! The chocolate orange blossom cheesecake ice cream is the most delicious flavor of ice cream I've ever tasted. The Ooh La La! is a close second.”
Nepalese • $
“The BEST samosas I have EVER had!! Goat biryani was very good (good portion too) and the front desk attendant was lovely. 10 mins wait time. Overall good experience!”
Coffee Shops • $
“I tried the Pumpkin Pie Latte, and it was absolutely incredible! I closed my eyes as I was enjoying half of it and imagined I was eating pumpkin pie because it truly tastes spot on!”
Chicken Wings • $
“Walked in. Was invited in on jokes and good conversations. The wait was exactly as long as i was told
The wings are being prepared and cooked well. Lota of seasoning (jerk sauce with the fries tho? Ooooommmmggggg so good)
Fries were standard but seasoned. Add the jerk sauce and oooweee
Absolutely never wanna go into the 29 location so this new spot is a huge plus for me and everyone on pantops”
Fast Food • $
“Raising Cane’s was really good overall. The chicken was hot, crispy, and fresh, and the Cane’s sauce definitely lived up to the hype — super flavorful and addictive. The fries and toast were both solid, especially when you dip them in the sauce.
The only thing I didn’t care for was the coleslaw. It just didn’t have much flavor and kind of felt like a filler side. Other than that, everything else hit the spot. The service was quick and friendly, and the restaurant was clean and well-kept.
Overall, great place for chicken tenders — just not a fan of the slaw.”
Mexican • $
“My absolute favorite healthy go to. I use to eat it about 3 times a week. They are so busy they need to hire more staff to clean the dining area. Those kids work very hard in there and I appreciate them.”
“Delicious food, professional staff with personal attention. Quaint, romantic atmosphere.”