Best Casual Restaurants in Charlottesville

Had a GREAT experience at Public Fish and Oyster. The food, as always, was great, yet it was the service that really was excellent. Our server, Cody, went above and beyond to make our evening so enjoyable, and was so friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. The bartender overheard us ordering our cocktails and had our drinks out to us within seconds. It was astonishing. The atmosphere was happy, and energetic, yet the noise level was low enough that we could carry on a conversation, and the restaurant was not overcrowded. It was very pleasant. We were not rushed from our table and had a great meal, with a well thought out wine list. We cannot wait to return.

Great food. Perfect for pre-show dinner (right next door to Paramount).

The Ridley offers a mix of strengths and little areas for improvement, but overall, it’s a spot worth visiting, especially for its warm atmosphere and accommodating service. As someone who isn’t a Southern food expert but is quickly becoming a fan, I found this experience enjoyable and eye-opening. The Skillet Cornbread is a standout dish—rich, flavorful, and perfectly baked. The ribeye is cooked to the requested doneness and absolutely delicious, while the lava cake is rich, decadent, and the perfect end to the meal. The Chef’s Seasonal Crème Brûlée is fantastic, with a satisfyingly crunchy crust and a delightful surprise at the bottom. Some dishes could use a bit more refinement. The Fried Wings in Phoenix Rub lack flavor, and while the chicken isn’t notably fresh, it thankfully doesn’t have an off taste. I’m looking forward to trying the maple BBQ rub next time for comparison. The gumbo is decent but not extraordinary, and the blackened salmon is unfortunately dry, which diminishes its potential. But then again, as someone who is not familiar with Southern Dish, they don’t taste bad, they just lack texture for them to be memorable. The service is impeccable. The staff is attentive and accommodating, with Lucas standing out for his professionalism and attentiveness. Their hospitality added to the enjoyment of our meal. The Ridley shines in its standout items and excellent service. It’s a place we’ll happily recommend to friends and family visiting the area. Looking forward to our next visit!

Wonderful tradition breakfast with every offering being top quality

Smash burger and fries were both fabulous!! Service was great.