The Virginian
1 / 10

The Virginian

4.6
·491k reviews·,

Charlottesville's oldest restaurant since 1923, offering classic American fare and a lively student bar scene. A true local tradition.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
The Virginian

The Virginian

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Charlottesville's oldest restaurant since 1923, offering classic American fare and a lively student bar scene. A true local tradition.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A corner tradition! The burger brought back amazing memories from my college days."

TIP

Visit during off-peak hours

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid longer wait times for your food due to occasional slow service.

Enjoy the outdoor seating

Opt for outdoor seating on sunny days to soak in the ambiance, even if service might be a bit delayed.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens Monday 11AM

Cuisine

American

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(434) 984-4667

Address

1521 University Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Charlottesville's Oldest Restaurant

Charlottesville's Oldest Restaurant

Step into a piece of history at Charlottesville's oldest restaurant, serving locals and visitors since 1923. Experience tradition and charm.

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Signature "Stumble Down Mac N' Cheese"

Signature "Stumble Down Mac N' Cheese"

Indulge in the legendary "Stumble Down Mac N' Cheese," a creamy dish topped with a cheddar potato cake, a must-try signature item.

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Lively Student Bar Scene

Lively Student Bar Scene

Embrace the energetic "Wahoo bar" atmosphere, a favorite among UVA students and alumni, offering a vibrant casual dining experience.

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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

in his rookie season too 🤯😅 #server #restaurant #charlottesvilleva #bar
@cvillevirginian
494 likes • 7.5K views

Visit during off-peak hours

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid longer wait times for your food due to occasional slow service.

Enjoy the outdoor seating

Opt for outdoor seating on sunny days to soak in the ambiance, even if service might be a bit delayed.

We 💙 you @Guajiroscville #gastronomia #charlottesville #foodie #brunch #charlottesvillevirginia
@maestra.mcghee
1.9K likes • 56.6K views

Try signature dishes

Don't miss out on their famous "Stumble Down Mac N' Cheese" or other traditional favorites like club sandwiches.

Expect a casual college vibe

This spot is geared towards college students, so expect a lively and casual atmosphere, not fine dining.

Tips

from all over the internet

Visit during off-peak hours

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid longer wait times for your food due to occasional slow service.

Enjoy the outdoor seating

Opt for outdoor seating on sunny days to soak in the ambiance, even if service might be a bit delayed.

Try signature dishes

Don't miss out on their famous "Stumble Down Mac N' Cheese" or other traditional favorites like club sandwiches.

Expect a casual college vibe

This spot is geared towards college students, so expect a lively and casual atmosphere, not fine dining.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Virginian is celebrated for its rich history and lively atmosphere, particularly among UVA students. While many praise the classic American fare and signature mac 'n' cheese, some reviewers note that service can be slow, and the food is more traditional than gourmet. The restaurant offers a genuine taste of Charlottesville's past with a casual, energetic vibe.

"We visited on a Monday night around 6:30pm. We were sat almost immediately and given prompt drink service. Our food arrived pretty swiftly after as well. The food was great, and the portions were generous.

My only demerit for the service was that after we paid our check, our waitress never returned with the box I had requested. We waited for several minutes, and eventually I grabbed my own box."

Ash

"Still very reminiscent of a bar and restaurant founded in the early 1900’s. The atmosphere was very good. Has an upper and lower level. The food is amazing! Great choices. Our food came out hot, fast, and correct. Service at first was very good. It tapered off after our food was served. There are a few TV’s, but not considered a sports bar. Price was reasonable at about $30 a person. We did not partake in any drink specials. Dinner menu starts at 5PM."

Brian Sprague

"Service is very slow so be sure you have enough time before dining here. But the little outdoor seating is very nice on a sunny day and I really like the food. Prices are good!"

Zoe Gehman

What People Like

Historic ambiance and "old school" feel
Signature "Stumble Down Mac N' Cheese"
Lively student bar atmosphere

What People Dislike

Occasional slow service
Bathroom cleanliness
Food is good but not gourmet

Frequently Asked Questions

The Virginian is famous for being Charlottesville's oldest restaurant (since 1923) and its signature "Stumble Down Mac N' Cheese."

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Yes, the lively atmosphere and casual setting make it suitable for group dining, especially for those looking for a student-friendly spot.

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While reservations aren't explicitly mentioned as required, it's advisable to call ahead during peak times, especially for larger groups.

The atmosphere is described as lively and casual, reminiscent of a student bar or a historic diner, with a rustic wood decor.

Where to drink with your out-of-town guests this seasonGoogle Review

Yes, The Virginian offers pet-friendly outdoor seating, which is particularly nice on sunny days.

Dog Friendly American Restaurants in Charlottesville, VA

The restaurant is known to be open late, with some reviews indicating service until 1 AM, though some lights may be turned off earlier.

Google Review

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The Virginian claims the title of "Charlottesville's oldest restaurant," with its doors first opening in 1923, and it continues its legacy of Corner culture. The food might not be Michelin-starred, but that's not what The Virginian is about; it's about the history, the tradition, and the famous made-to-order "Stumble Down Mac N' Cheese," topped with a cheddar potato cake.

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Take the UVA alums here to soften the blow of St. Maarten being replaced by a Roots catering kitchen (love you, Roots) or the cool, up-for-anything types who want to have a few drinks at a “real wahoo bar.” Winter break is one of the finest times to head to the Virginian, because there will probably be space at the bar, and you’ll be able to talk without the entire bar breaking out into Sweet Caroline, ba ba ba when the song comes on. You decide if that’s a plus.

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In uniting coffee and wine under one roof, Belle joins local stalwart C’ville Coffee & Wine; Crozet’s Rocket Coffee, which recently added a tasting room for offerings from nearby Lovingston Winery; Charlottesville’s Smallest Wine Shop, whose modest by-the-glass selection enhances the ever-eclectic offerings at Milli Coffee Roasters; and local chain Grit Coffee, which has served wine alongside its house-roasted coffee at its Stonefield location since 2017.

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Most are on University Avenue, including The Virginian Restaurant (tel. 434/984-4667; www.virginianrestaurant.com), which has been serving traditional fare since 1923, and the Greek-Italian College Inn Restaurant (tel. 434/977-2710; www.thecollegeinn.com), which has been around since 1950. More are on Elliewood Avenue, a block-long, alleylike street off University Avenue, including the inexpensive Buddhist Biker Bar & Grill (tel. 434/971-9181).

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The Virginian, located in Charlottesville, VA, serves up a wide variety of menu options including appetizers, salads, sandwiches, steak,ribs, pasta, chicken, seafood, and more. Fido is welcome to join you at one of their eight pet-friendly outdoor tables while you enjoy your meal. Start with a cold beer and an order of the Stumble Down Mac N Cheese - creamy pepper jack macaroni and cheese topped with a housemade cheddar potato cake.

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The Virginian, commonly known as “Virg,” has served UVA students drinks and dinners with friends since 1923, taking the claim of Charlottesville’s oldest restaurant. Not only a student hotspot on the weekends, the Virginian also employs many UVA students as waiters and waitresses. With a classic American style menu, Virg has become famous for its affordable and delicious food, particularly the mac ‘n’ cheese.

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The salads on The Virginian‘s menu are often overlooked by the infamous mac n’ cheese, but this no longer needs to be the case. Charlottesville’s oldest restaurant is serving up one of the best Caesar salads around. Top off this already great salad with one of the Virginian’s famous crab cakes for the ultimate flavor packed, grade-A salad.

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1521 University Ave, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903 Website | Facebook | Twitter | Photo: The Virginian. Charlottesville’s oldest restaurant has been a tradition since 1923, and they are also rightly famous for their mac ‘n cheese!. If you liked this post, you might also enjoy 11 Awesome Places For Mediterranean Food In CVille!

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The Virginian Restaurant is lauded as “one of the South’s most famous eateries” in Coy Barefoot’s book, The Corner, a history of UVA’s commercial district. This well-loved restaurant is proud to be the oldest one in town (established in 1923). The Virginian Restaurant is one of the most iconic brands in CVille.

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1521 University Ave, Charlottesville VA • (434) 984-4667 • Official Website. HOURS: Mon to Sun 11AM-2AM; Sunday brunch at 10AM. Reigning as the oldest restaurant in Charlottesville VA, The Virginian is a C’Ville icon and always on our list of the best food in the downtown area.

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For lunch, head to The Corner, a bustling area adjacent to the university. The Virginian, established in 1923, is the oldest restaurant in Charlottesville and is a popular spot among students and visitors alike. Enjoy classic American fare in a cozy, pub-like setting.

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We decided to round out the day by heading to The Virginian on the Corner. I love that place so much—when I walk in, I feel like I’m at home. We even decided to impulse-buy t-shirts so now I have some march from one of my favorite spots, hah!

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First opening its doors in 1923, The Virginian is Charlottesville’s oldest restaurant. Their menu includes burgers and sandwiches, fresh salads, signature crab cakes, and their famous mac ‘n cheese. 1521 University Ave.

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Though it specializes in comfort food, there is something for everyone on the menu. When you go to The Virginian, remember that any side can be substituted for a bowl of their delicious, creamy macaroni and cheese.

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The Virginian—A Charlottesville tradition since 1923, serves lunch, dinner, and late-night food like sandwiches, burgers, and their signature crab cakes.

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