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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Charlottesville

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Hamiltons' At First & Main restaurant
1. Hamiltons' At First & Main
4.7
Exceptional(2306)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 14 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Charlottesville’s Downtown district, Hamiltons' At First & Main stands as a beacon of American culinary excellence. This contemporary fine dining spot is celebrated for its "terrific decor, service, and food" and is especially renowned for offering the "best crab cakes in town." Patrons consistently praise the authenticity and high quality of its American cuisine, noting dishes like the "mushroom & Parmesan stuffed rainbow trout" and "shrimp and grits" as highlights. The attentive and professional service complements the cozy, cheerful atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions. Whether it's a sunny afternoon on their seasonal patio or a romantic evening dinner, Hamiltons' promises a memorable dining experience with every visit.
A photo of Black Cow Chophouse restaurant
2. Black Cow Chophouse
4.9
Exceptional(469)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 27 times today
Nestled in the heart of Charlottesville, Black Cow Chophouse shines as a beacon of American culinary excellence. Renowned for its superb selection of locally and nationally sourced beef, this restaurant offers an authentic taste of American cuisine with its expertly prepared steaks and chops. Patrons rave about the "consistently fabulous" food and service, highlighting the cowboy ribeye and filet mignon as must-try dishes. The ambiance, coupled with a finely curated beverage program, makes every dining experience memorable. Whether it's the praised steak tartare or the indulgent desserts, every dish showcases the quality and authenticity that Black Cow Chophouse proudly represents. Join them during their daily happy hour for the best steak deals in Charlottesville, and enjoy an experience that’s "well worth the drive."
A photo of Public Fish & Oyster restaurant
3. Public Fish & Oyster
4.8
Exceptional(2600)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 27 times today
At Public Fish & Oyster in Charlottesville, the Oyster Bar stands out as a beacon of quality and authenticity. Diners consistently rave about the "outstanding oysters" and the variety that includes "usually 7 choices," making it the best in town. The experience is enhanced by the knowledgeable staff, like Ian, who is repeatedly mentioned for his exceptional service. The restaurant's commitment to freshness and responsible sourcing elevates each dish, from the raw oysters to the Oysters Rockefeller. Patrons describe the atmosphere as "charming and friendly," perfect for savoring the best seafood in Charlottesville. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual outing, Public Fish & Oyster ensures a memorable dining experience with every visit.
A photo of Hillock Neighborhood Kitchen restaurant
4. Hillock Neighborhood Kitchen
3.7
Very Good(10)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Hillock Neighborhood Kitchen offers Breakfast and Lunch in a casual restaurant overlooking Charlottesville's Downtown Pedestrian Mall. Our outdoor patio is a perfect place for seasonal outdoor dining!- Breakfast and Lunch- Complimentary Omni Hotel parking
A photo of Rapture restaurant
5. Rapture
4.6
Exceptional(220)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 2 times today
Rapture in Charlottesville is a true gem for Southern cuisine enthusiasts. Known for its farm-to-table approach, this restaurant serves up authentic Southern dishes with a playful twist, ensuring every bite is as delightful as the last. Patrons rave about the "sublime" gumbo and the shrimp and grits where the grits are "by far the star." The atmosphere is described as akin to stepping into a New Orleans eatery, complete with antique decor and live music, creating a cozy yet swank dining experience. Generous portions and reasonable prices make Rapture a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Southern flavors in a charming setting.
A photo of The Local restaurant
6. The Local
4.6
Exceptional(2511)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 32 times today
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Belmont in Charlottesville, The Local is a culinary gem renowned for its exquisite Comfort Food cuisine. Diners consistently rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with glowing reviews highlighting the "delicious crab cakes," "superb meatloaf," and "scrumptious raspberry cheesecake." The Local prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, creating dishes that are both comforting and elevated. The atmosphere is described as "casually elegant," perfect for enjoying standout dishes like the short ribs and fried chicken which guests describe as "truly incredible." Whether you're a local or visiting, The Local promises a delightful dining experience with "excellent service" and a vibrant setting that makes every meal memorable.
A photo of The Ivy Inn Restaurant restaurant
7. The Ivy Inn Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3804)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 20 times today
Nestled just a mile west of the University of Virginia, The Ivy Inn Restaurant in Charlottesville offers a remarkable showcase of American cuisine, highlighted by its dedication to seasonal, local ingredients sourced from nearby farms. This charming, historic home-turned-restaurant provides an intimate setting with its cozy dining rooms and a heated patio, perfect for year-round dining. Celebrated for its "excellent selection of options for starters and entrees" and described by patrons as a place where "every meal is special and delicious," the Ivy Inn has been a beloved family-owned establishment since 1995. Praised for meeting special dietary needs and consistently delivering a delightful dining experience, it's clear why guests say, "We will definitely be coming again the next time we are in town!" and recommend it highly for anyone seeking authentic, top-quality American fare.
A photo of Maya restaurant
8. Maya
4.7
Exceptional(1496)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 15 times today
Maya, nestled in the heart of Charlottesville, Virginia, is a beacon of Southern comfort cuisine. Known for its “made from scratch” menu, Maya redefines traditional Southern dishes with a modern twist. Diners rave about the authentic flavors and hearty portions. One customer exclaimed, “the ribs fell right off the bone and our steak was perfectly cooked and delicious,” highlighting the meticulous care in preparation. Another noted, “The mac and cheese was cheesy and creamy, definitely habit-forming.” The glowing testimonials underscore the consistent quality and innovation that Maya brings to its comfort food offerings, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of the South with a contemporary flair.
A photo of Fig Bistro restaurant
9. Fig Bistro
4.4
Awesome(56)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 6 times today
Fig offers innovative southern cuisine with an emphasis on organic locally sourced product. Fig featuring vegan, vegetarian and gluten free dishes as well classic and creative New Orleans cocktails.
A photo of 1799 at The Clifton restaurant
10. 1799 at The Clifton
4.3
Awesome(732)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 14 times today
1799 at The Clifton in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a gem for Contemporary American cuisine. Nestled in a historic house with scenic views, the restaurant offers a unique blend of local flavors and modern culinary techniques under the guidance of Michelin Starred Chef Matthew Bousquet. Diners rave about the "fantastic dinner" and the "best short rib" they've ever had, highlighting the chef's skill in crafting dishes that are both innovative and comforting. The restaurant's commitment to using ingredients from its organic garden ensures freshness and quality, making each meal "truly memorable." Whether it's a special occasion or a casual outing, 1799 at The Clifton promises an exceptional dining experience with its "award-winning wine list" and "smoked" cocktails, set in a "warm yet chic atmosphere."

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Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Charlottesville

Discover the vibrant dining scene of Charlottesville, Virginia, where contemporary American cuisine takes center stage. Nestled in this historic city, a variety of restaurants offer a delightful exploration into modern American cooking, emphasizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. Whether you're seeking a sophisticated dining experience with expertly crafted dishes or a casual eatery with a creative menu, Charlottesville's contemporary American restaurants cater to every palate. Patrons can expect menus rich with diverse flavors, ranging from exquisite seafood to hearty vegetarian options, each prepared with a unique twist that highlights the region's rich agricultural heritage. The dining atmosphere in these establishments ranges from intimate and rustic to elegant and modern, ensuring a memorable meal for locals and visitors alike. With a commitment to quality and a vibrant culinary culture, Charlottesville's contemporary American restaurants are truly a cornerstone of the city's gastronomic landscape, offering a taste of American culinary innovation at its best.

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