20+ Years of Influential Restaurants in Charlottesville & Albemarle County

The C & O Restaurant opened in 1976, just as the Downtown Mall was reinvigorating downtown Charlottesville. Founders Sandy McAdams and Philip Stafford salvaged remnants of 19th century buildings to decorate the interior three floors, and 50 years of welcoming diners has only deepened the patina and charm. Through the years, the C & O has remained focused on a menu that merges European traditions with local ingredients and sets a high standard for thoughtful, never stuffy hospitality.

Iconic menu items: Steak Chinois, regionally sourced fish, and Bread Pudding

In 1977, Karen and Bob Crum opened a tiny, rustic pizza parlor in what was then the equally tiny community of Crozet. The Crums took a hands-on approach renovating the space, refining the dough-making process to achieve a distinctive crispy crust, and perfecting the sauce. This commitment to homemade food was continued by their daughter Colleen and son-in-law Mike Alexander. In fact, Crozet Pizza instigated a local revolution of gourmet pizza, which led to expansion of the restaurant, and, in 2013, the opening of a second location at Buddhist Biker Bar on the UVA Corner. Over the years the menu has expanded but the vibe remains low-key.

Iconic menu item: Feisty Italian Pizza

Bodo’s Bagels became known as a Charlottesville institution shortly after opening in 1988 for its fresh, healthy, quick, and affordable New York-style water bagels made every day, morning to close, at three locations: Emmet Street, Preston Avenue, and within walking distance of the UVA Rotunda. You can order bagels plain, with your favorite cream cheese, or as an egg or deli sandwich. Counter service is quick, the dining areas are sunny, and the soundtrack rocks out. Be prepared for long lines on UVA football weekends and graduation!

Iconic menu items: Deli Egg on Everything and Caesar Salad

1988 also marks the year Guadalajara opened on East Market Street in downtown Charlottesville. There were few Mexican restaurants in the area, and founders Gilbert Lopez, Juan Ornelas, and Jesús Arellano decided to bring the flavors of their youths to their new community. Almost 40 years later, three locations of "The Guad" are models for hospitality and entrepreneurship…with Mexican flair and a sense of extended family. The menu combines traditional and Tex-Mex dishes, and service is fast and friendly. It’s a place to enjoy colorful festive décor and frosty margaritas, jumbo-sized or on the rocks.

Iconic menu items: Chicken Fajitas or Enchilada Supremas and a Lime Margarita

The Vangelopoulos family purchased The Ivy Inn in 1995 after searching throughout the Washington, DC area for a restaurant location of their own. The early 19th century house tucked along Old Ivy Road, slightly west of UVA, had been a fine dining establishment for decades. Along with Chef Angelo, they brought renewed energy and finesse to the endeavor. From the start, Angelo’s dinner menu featured seasonal, local ingredients that celebrated the diversity inherent to American cuisine and wine. Table service is often described as stellar and each of the dining rooms is uniquely charming. Reservations are highly recommended. What started as a family business has continued as such.

Iconic menu items: Tuna Tartare, house made pastas, and, when available, Lamb

Kate and Bill Hamilton opened their namesake restaurant at the corner of First and Main Streets in February of 1996. Known for its interior pergola and accents of bright blue, including cobalt glasses and outdoor umbrellas, Hamilton’s is one of those places where you just feel good. The dining room has a sunny look during the day and candlelit warmth at night. The menu takes its cue from Southern classics with input from Southeast Asia and the Mediterranean. Popular vegetarian options like the daily Blue Plate Special highlight produce that is available at the moment.

Iconic menu items: Shrimp and Grits and Trio of Granitas in a Brandysnap Cup at lunch and Local Dry-Aged Beef Tenderloin for dinner

Business partners Vincent Derquenne and Timothy Burgess brought their first restaurant downtown in 1991 called Metropolitan. When Metropolitan expanded to a larger location on Water Street, they filled the void with Bizou and lots of love. Thirty years later, the vintage tableside jukeboxes and retro movie posters remain. The menu is an ode to American comfort food made with local ingredients and French cooking techniques. So, flavors are both layered and fresh. Bizou’s tiny open kitchen can be viewed from the dining room and Downtown Mall and sets the tone for a hip, congenial, and authentic experience.

Iconic menu items: Old School Calamari, Classic Meatloaf, and Grilled Banana Bread

In 2005, Wilson Richey purchased Revolutionary Soup. While he hadn’t founded the little restaurant, he revolutionized its menu by seeking out local farms and producers for ingredients. He also perfected the décor and kitchen efficiency. More than 20 years later, current owner Tres Pittard and “Rev” Soup continue to serve delicious soups, sandwiches, and salads in a welcoming, funky downstairs dining room, just steps from the Downtown Mall. Expect to find affordable, homestyle food with a pinch of ingenuity, and a dash of vintage travel posters and poetry! Its Peanut Tofu Soup was recently recognized nationally with a PETA Souper Vegan Award.

Iconic menu items: Go classic with Tomato Basil Bisque or Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup and Adam’s Apple Sandwich

In 2006, restaurateur Peter Castiglione and chef Christian Kelly joined forces to open Maya, a restaurant where Southern cuisine and local ingredients take center stage. Located on West Main Street in the Starr Hill-Midtown neighborhood, Maya is housed in a 1920 building with an interior featuring exposed brick walls, original art, and a convivial bar. Outside, an enclosed patio lends to the engaging yet intimate atmosphere. The menu is fun and approachable. Check out the selection of shareable appetizers, build an entrée of four sides, or forgo your diet with a dessert drink!

Iconic menu items: Pimento Cheese Fritters, Fried Oysters or Trout with caper brown butter, and a classic cocktail

Thai Cuisine & Noodle House is a hidden gem with simple décor and a menu of traditional Thai dishes and Vietnamese Pho. Portions are generous, and it’s a great experience for small groups looking for something authentic. It opened on Commonwealth Avenue in 2014, but its story began 17 years earlier and highlights the interconnectivity of food, families, and a support system that enables entrepreneurship. In 1997, the Punyanitya or Pun family founded Thai! (Simply Exquisite), with the goal of introducing fresh Thai food to the area. After selling Thai! (Simply Exquisite) in 2001, it became Thai '99 II, a local favorite to this day. In 2014, the Pun family returned to the food business to assist Sunun Sarani in establishing her own restaurant, Thai Cuisine & Noodle House.

Iconic menu items: Papaya salad and Boat Noodle Soup or Jungle Curry

You may have noticed certain things stand out about the longevity restaurants on our list. Yes, farm to table is the norm. So is a commitment to family, friendships, community – both within the industry and through the food and experiences they provide. Collectively, they have been serving guests for over 300 years and are ready to welcome you. So, bon appetit, and good eating!