Welcome to The Virginian
Nestled in the heart of Charlottesville, Virginia, The Virginian is a cherished institution known for its warm atmosphere and classic American fare. Revered by University of Virginia students and locals alike, it boasts a menu that highlights comfort foods like the iconic Stumble Down Mac ‘n’ Cheese and the flavorful Virginian Burger. With a selection of local wines and a vibe reminiscent of a classic college sports bar, The Virginian is not just a dining destination; it's a beloved gathering spot. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal, this restaurant promises a satisfying experience steeped in tradition and community.
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1521 University Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22903 Hotline: (434) 984-4667
Welcome to The Virginian, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Charlottesville, Virginia. Located at 1521 University Ave, this American restaurant stands as a beloved landmark, particularly cherished by University of Virginia students and families alike. With its inviting atmosphere and a menu filled with comforting classics, The Virginian captures the essence of home-style dining and local flavor.
In a town brimming with dining options, The Virginian has made a name for itself with hearty classics like the famous Stumble Down Mac 'n' Cheese, which is a must-try, featuring a decadent baked style crowned with a crispy cheddar potato pancake. Customers rave about the Virginian Burger, earning its place as the ideal bar burger. Reviewers like Ben M. aptly describe it as “everything you’d want in a bar burger,” highlighting the perfect blend of flavors and juicy goodness.
Expect a lively pub atmosphere where locals and visitors converge, especially during the dinner rush. The setting is intimate yet vibrant, adorned with hints of nostalgia that resonate with the restaurant's rich history. From TV screens showcasing local sports to the buzz of conversation, The Virginian encapsulates the spirit of college life while welcoming all who enter.
The menu is diverse, catering to a variety of tastes. For those craving something lighter, offerings like the Cobb salad and the classic pimento cheese sandwich have garnered praise for their freshness and flavorful balance. Kelly N. captures this sentiment perfectly, emphasizing the creamy, spicy allure of the pimento cheese, a southern staple done right.
What sets The Virginian apart is not just the food but the welcoming service. Many patrons speak highly of the friendly and efficient staff, primarily college-aged individuals who foster a warm, inviting atmosphere. This personable touch enhances the overall dining experience, making each visit feel special.
When it comes to beverage pairings, The Virginian offers a selection of local wines that beautifully complement their dishes. Whether you choose a Prince Michel Cabernet Franc with dark cherry notes or a Horton Black Cat Chardonnay with its enchanting flavors, you are sure to find the perfect sip to elevate your meal.
In summary, dining at The Virginian is not just about satisfying your hunger; it's an experience steeped in community, flavor, and memory. With its renowned dishes, friendly service, and a lively ambiance, it’s no wonder that a visit to this UVA hotspot is deemed essential by many. So, whether you're a local or passing through, make sure to carve out time for this iconic restaurant—you won’t regret it!
I'm told no trip to Charlottesville is complete without a visit to The Virginian. It's clearly a beloved legend on the campus of UVA. My wife and I stopped in for a quick dinner after walking the campus. We split the Virginian Burger, which was exactly everything you'd want in a bar burger. They're known for their Stumble Down Mac 'n' Cheese, which is a baked-style macaroni and cheese in a crock topped with a cheddar potato pancake. Both were delicious, and if you stop in for anything, try the mac 'n' cheese. Prices are extremely reasonable for the locale, and the service was very friendly.
Had the Southern Fried Chicken with sides of mashed potatoes & gravy, as well as the mac & cheese with the potato cake. Super delicious and generous portion well worth the price.
Fun atmosphere. Fast and friendly service. TVs show local sports. Mix of families and UVA students during the dinner rush. Decent pub food.
When visiting UVA for a college tour, be sure to stop in for a bite at The Virginian Restaurant. My son and I enjoyed a Cobb salad and classic pimento cheese sandwich. The pimento cheese was creamy and spicy, just the way it's meant to be! The restaurant offers something for everyone. It's a landmark that shouldn't be missed!
This place looks, feels, and is quite old. It's is the quintessential college sports bar/restaurant. The place is incredibly small on the inside with almost no seating for parties larger than 4 people. The food was quite good. I really enjoyed the Mac and cheese app with a potato cake on top. While my club sandwich was not all that great it may have been more due to the fact I'm not a big club sandwich guy. I just fall for "famous *insert name of restaurant*" every time I see it on the menu. I heard from a little birdie the burger was quite good so that would likely be my next option. Fries were spectacular though. An incredible amount of seasoning was added... which always gets bonus points for me. The workers here are comprised of most college aged individuals and they were extremely polite, efficient, and knowledgeable. Would recommend.
This place is one of the places you gotta stop by and I had to and this mid summer day special drink was a pleasant surprise! Highly recommend. It was indeed refreshing