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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
4.7
Exceptional(2337)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 14 times today
Hamiltons' At First & Main in Charlottesville offers a delightful American dining experience that stands out for its "simply outstanding" cuisine and impeccable service. Nestled in the heart of the Downtown district, this contemporary fine dining spot is perfect for both a casual lunch or a romantic evening. The restaurant's menu, featuring "out-of-this-world" dishes like crab cakes and shrimp and grits, exemplifies the rich flavors and traditions of American cuisine. Guests rave about the "lovely ambience" and the attention to detail from the friendly staff, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic American flavors in a vibrant setting.
A photo of Black Cow Chophouse restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(492)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 20 times today
Black Cow Chophouse in Charlottesville is a shining example of authentic American cuisine, offering a "top-notch" dining experience that highlights quality and tradition. Renowned for its extensive selection of both dry-aged and non-dry-aged steaks, this chophouse sources premium beef locally and nationally, ensuring a "rich and meaty" flavor that diners rave about. Guests consistently praise the expertly cooked steaks, describing them as "cooked to perfection" with a "lovely sear." The restaurant's ambiance, coupled with an exceptional service team, makes it an ideal spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. A visit promises an unforgettable taste of true American gastronomy.
A photo of Public Fish & Oyster restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2630)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 25 times today
Public Fish & Oyster in Charlottesville offers a sublime Contemporary American dining experience that stands out for its dedication to freshness and authenticity. Their seafood dishes are celebrated in glowing reviews, with diners lauding the "creative menu" and "great presentation." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every bite, from the "delicious oysters and crab cakes to die for" to the "outstanding shrimp cocktail." Guests appreciate the lively yet welcoming atmosphere, as well as the consistently "excellent service" provided by the staff. If you're seeking an unforgettable dining experience with top-tier seafood, Public Fish & Oyster is a must-visit gem.
A photo of Hillock Neighborhood Kitchen restaurant
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
4.7
Exceptional(222)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 3 times today
Rapture in Charlottesville is a culinary gem offering exceptional Contemporary American cuisine that beautifully melds farm-to-table Southern flavors in a vibrant atmosphere. Diners rave about the "delicious food" and "excellent service," with standout dishes like the Southwest steak salad and the Cuban sandwich receiving high praise. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every bite, from the "well-seasoned, light and fluffy" omelets to the "crispy and full of flavor" bacon. The relaxed yet swanky setting, complete with outdoor dining and live music, enhances the dining experience, making Rapture a must-visit spot for those seeking authentic and memorable meals.
A photo of The Local restaurant
4.5
Awesome(2530)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 30 times today
The Local in Charlottesville is a haven for Comfort Food enthusiasts, offering an extraordinary culinary experience that truly captures the essence of homestyle cooking with an elevated flair. Diners rave about the "crispiest, juiciest fried chicken" and the "flavor-packed Gnocchi Bolognese," which are described as reminiscent of dishes from "your grandmother's kitchen." The commitment to using fresh, local ingredients shines through in every bite, making each meal feel authentic and satisfying. The ambiance is warm and inviting, complemented by attentive service, which makes every visit memorable. Whether you're indulging in the meatloaf or savoring a brownie sundae, The Local promises a delightful comfort food experience that keeps diners coming back for more.
A photo of The Ivy Inn Restaurant restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3842)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 15 times today
Nestled in Charlottesville, The Ivy Inn Restaurant is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its seasonal and locally-sourced dishes. Diners rave about the "creative & outstanding" meals, which highlight the region's freshest ingredients. The restaurant's historic ambiance adds a charming touch to the dining experience, making it a perfect setting for special occasions. Patrons consistently commend the "impeccable" service and the expertly prepared dishes, from tender Texas short ribs to exquisite homemade pasta. The Ivy Inn's commitment to quality and authenticity ensures every visit is a memorable culinary journey, making it a must-visit destination for true American flavors.
A photo of Maya restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1512)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 10 times today
Nestled in the heart of Charlottesville's vibrant Midtown, Maya stands out as a beacon of exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. This charming eatery delights guests with its "made from scratch" menu, paying homage to the Old Southern Kitchen while infusing it with a modern twist. Patrons rave about the "creative drinks and outstanding service" that complement the delightful dishes, from the succulent pork belly appetizer to the perfectly cooked NY strip. Maya’s dedication to "comfort food" with a contemporary flair ensures an unforgettable dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and innovative American flavors.
A photo of Fig Bistro restaurant
4.2
Awesome(58)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
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
4.5
Awesome(746)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Charlottesville
Booked 13 times today
Nestled in the charming and historic setting of Charlottesville, Virginia, 1799 at The Clifton offers an unparalleled dining experience with its exquisite Contemporary French / American cuisine. Led by Michelin Starred Chef Matthew Bousquet, the restaurant showcases the best of new Piedmont cooking, enriched with locally sourced ingredients and the bounty of its own organic garden. Diners rave about the "superlative experience," highlighting the "delicious food" and "exceptional service" that make each visit memorable. Signature dishes like the short rib with wilted spinach and horseradish cream are often described as "melting in your mouth." Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a quiet evening, 1799 promises to impress with its warm, chic atmosphere and beautifully crafted seasonal menus.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Ellen
    Baltimore / Maryland •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Always happy to be at Hamilton's. Love the food, drinks and service. Recent visit included a reunion with some dear friends I hadn't seen in over a year- we go back more than 50 years. So of course we stayed a long time- 2 hours. Our reservation was for 7 pm. Despite not leaving til 9 pm, the staff never gave any indication we were overstaying. Gracious hosts til the end. I so appreciated it. Who knows when we will see each other again.
    More info
    Hamiltons' At First & MainPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Charlottesville
    4.7
  • TinaVIP
    Charlotte •43 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Our favorite restaurant in Charlottesville! Cocktails and Food are amazing. My husband and I got the mussels and smash burger both were incredible.
    More info
    Public Fish & OysterPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Charlottesville
    4.9
  • Gwynne
    Virginia •38 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Wow, just wow - the food is outstanding. We had 4 in our party and everyone got steak - rib-eye, NY, and filet (2). They were all cooked perfectly and the portions are large. We had sides of smashed potatoes and mushrooms - both were outstanding. It makes my mouth water just thinking about it. John, our server, was great. He was perfectly attentive and time everything very well. The salad that comes with the dinner is underwhelming - I like my salad lightly dressed however it tasted like there was no dressing at all. That could definitely be better. If I would change one thing, it would be the seating. The tables along the back are high tables with chairs and a bench. Unless you are very tall, the table is high so you feel your face is too close to the table and the seating just isn't very comfortable. I hope to sit in a booth sometime which looks much more comfortable. Overall we will definitely be back to enjoy the amazing food and highly recommend Black Cow!
    More info
    Black Cow ChophousePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Charlottesville
    4.9
  • Joe
    South Carolina •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Our waiter/server was excellent. So was the food. We will be back again.
    More info
    RapturePrice: Moderate• Southern• Charlottesville
    4.7
  • Nelson
    Virginia •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 16, 2024
    Wonderful tradition breakfast with every offering being top quality
    More info
    Hillock Neighborhood KitchenPrice: Moderate• American• Charlottesville
    3.7

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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