More than 30 years ago, we planted over 100 peonies here at Clifton, and every May
they reward us with the most magnificent blooms. One of my greatest joys is gathering
armfuls of them for the Copper Bar restaurant because they brighten every corner.
May also happens to be National Hamburger Month (who knew!), and truly, who doesn’t
love a great burger? When we moved here 25 years ago, Burger King was the only
option, and I’ll admit I enjoyed it at the time. Today, Charlottesville is full of choices!
Citizen Burger on the Downtown Mall serves big, juicy burgers in a charming setting.
After a morning of kayaking or tubing on the Rivanna River, Högwaller Brewing next to
the Rivanna River Company hits the spot with a hearty burger and fries. Their ice cream
sandwich is a must try.
My personal favorite is Jack Brown’s. It’s a classic-sized cheeseburger with playful
toppings like pimento cheese, BBQ chips, or house-made mac and cheese, plus crinkle
fries. I prefer mine plain because the beef is so fresh and flavorful, it reminds me of
Friendly’s from years ago! Also, if you want to go local…stop into Riverside
Lunch, this diner atmosphere offers flat-out STILL one of the best burgers in town!
Charlottesville’s Farmers Market is back for the season at IX Park every Saturday from
8 AM to 12 PM. You’ll find fresh produce, flowers, organic meats and fish, and an
incredible range of street food representing many different culinary traditions from
around the world.
If you enjoy cycling, Blue Ridge Bicycle Tours offers a beautiful 28mile scenic loop
through the countryside and along the Blue Ridge Mountains. Bring your own bike or
rent one! Tours run Wednesday through Sunday. For details, call 4342936789.
The long-loved Crozet Arts Festival returns with more than 120 artists from across the
country, along with live music, food trucks, and beverage tastings. It’s a wonderful
outing for all ages.
And finally, a little neighborhood gem: Belmont. After a delicious breakfast and coffee at
Belle, my husband, and I stumbled upon a tiny spot called Ciaccia, recently named Best
New Restaurant in Charlottesville! They make Roman style pizza and classic Tuscan
sandwiches. We were too full to indulge, but the ham and cheese sandwich looked
incredible, and the pizza recipes come straight from the owner’s travels through Rome,
Florence, and Tuscany. Deliziosa!!
Cheers,
Ann