This year, the culinary scene proved resilient. Despite challenges— fires, break-ins, and heartbreak—the community thrived. We mourn the loss of Mel Walker and celebrate the continuation of his soul-food legacy at Diilishus Fish & Chik’n. Blue Moon Diner closed after nearly two decades, leaving behind memories of its role as a community hub. And we honor the first anniversary of Wilson Richey’s passing, his indelible
mark still woven into the fabric of Charlottesville’s food scene.
But let’s not forget: There were far more openings than closings this year. Here’s what to check out, what we’ll miss, and recs on how to make the most of New Year’s Eve.
Open
Ace Biscuit and Barbecue is back, baby! Don’t wait to sink your teeth into the Harris Avenue ’cue spot’s indulgent biscuits and smoked meats.
Brookville Biscuit & Brunch is your all-day brunch haven. After three years online-only, it’s bringing hazy morning vibes to life again.
Diilishus Fish & Chik’n is keeping Mel Walker’s soul-food spirit alive with classic comfort dishes in the beloved former café location.
Tangerines Kitchen started with American breakfast and Thai dinners, but now serves Thai all day. Winter calls for tom yum and tom ka soup.
Althea Bread’s shop is your carb HQ. Think flaky pastries and sourdough crafted with local grains from small, regional farms.
El Tizón is now Al Carbon’s Woodbrook location, so why not grab rotisserie chicken from both and compare? Research never tasted so good.
Currylicious at Dairy Market offers Nepalese and Indian street food. Order the momos—hot, juicy dumplings packed with spices.
Ethos Wine & Tea is the perfect spot to bring a book or a friend and cozy up with a glass of natural wine or a soothing cup of tea.
South Paddock Winery in Whitehall boasts not just wine but horseback rides across 310 scenic acres.
Roux St. Cafe brings the low country to you. Cajun Creole classics in Woodbrook—don’t sleep on the cheesy étouffée.
Camellias Bar & Roastery pushes creative decadence with offerings like crispy, pistachio-y Dubai chocolate croissants and spiced espresso martinis.
Pi-Napo’s pizzas are hypnotic—find out if those marinara swirls are as delicious as they are mesmerizing.
The Doyle, the former Quirk hotel reimagined, invites us to ring in the new year at the Lobby Bar with funky, high-energy rock ‘n’ roll from Disco Risqué or take a breather at The Rooftop for sweeping views of the city.
Little Manila’s brick-and-mortar Resto is ready to wow your taste buds with flavorful pancit and balut—a traditional Filipino delicacy of steamed fertilized duck egg.
Sbrocco’s Donuts & Espresso sweetens the deal in Fry’s Spring with a menu of perfectly composed glazed classics, and other goodness (like its buttery crunchy crumb bun).
Mejicali brings the heat with Latin dance nights and crafty cocktails made by River Hawkins—don’t sit this one out!
Closed
Blue Moon Diner, gone but never forgotten. Now to try to recreate Hogwaller Hash at home…
Moose’s by the Creek closes on December 31 after a decade in business. The restaurant’s social posts hint at a return, so keep an eye out for those antlers on a wall near you.
Rumi’s Famous Kebab was a fleeting treasure, now closed without explanation. Let Rumi the poet console us: “Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation.”
Burger Bach in Stonefield closed its doors in August, leaving us craving another Wellington burger and fries.
The fate of Clubhouse Cafe, a sandwich spot open since mid-June, remains uncertain; a December 2 social post announced a closure “until further notice” with promises of an update on its future soon.
Umma’s, with its creative Korean flavors, said farewell in September. Luckily, DOMA, MARU, and other Korean favorites carry the torch.
At Dairy Market, we said goodbye to Citizen Burger Stand, 434th Street, Al Basha, Grn Burger, and South and Central—though free parking is a silver lining.
Ring in the new year
Tavola’s New Year’s Eve prix fixe is a four-course journey through elevated ingredients, including foie gras, lobster, and venison, with optional wine pairings.
Barboursville Vineyards pairs each of its five festive courses with the perfect wine.
Kick off the year with no reservations (literally!) at Blue Mountain Brewery for a hearty brunch. Try the deep-fried bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich—pancake batter makes everything better.
Veritas hosts a Masquerade Ball with a five-course menu starting with Smoke in Chimneys Trout Rillette on sourdough, topped with crème fraîche, radish, parsley pistou, and lemon. and wine pairings.
The Alley Light offers two elegant New Year’s Eve options: a four-course dinner or an extravagant seven-course meal with wine pairings.
