Vitis vinifera and native apples soak up the praise for the nationally acclaimed pressings that fill Virginia’s cellars. For every drop that makes it to the vintner’s bottle, loads of wine and cider base are blended out or sold in bulk, in order for producers to stay under target case counts. Spoiled bits and trimmings […]
Vitis vinifera and native apples soak up the praise for the nationally acclaimed pressings that fill Virginia’s cellars. For every drop that makes it to the vintner’s bottle, loads of wine and cider base are blended out or sold in bulk, in order for producers to stay under target case counts. Spoiled bits and trimmings […]
From zero-proof takes on classic cocktails to innovative new concoctions, local bartenders are flipping the script on mocktails with bold flavors, sustainable practices, and a whole lot of care. These drinks aren’t just substitutions—they’re their own thing, standing tall on flavor, creativity, and style. Whether you’re giving your liver a break (and heeding the Surgeon […]
Donuts have been on a certain trajectory for the last two decades: bigger, more toppings, more creativity—an arms race of candy, cookies, and fried pork. After several years working with semi-traditionalists Jason Becton and Patrick Evans at MarieBette Café & Bakery, Melissa Sbrocco went in a different direction when she opened her namesake donut shop […]
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 […]
Somewhere is better than nowhere If Virginia had a flavor, it might taste like Fine Creek Brewing’s Somewhereness Festival. On Saturday, December 14, the brewery will host its second annual celebration of Virginia’s fields and forests. Featuring beer, cider, and wine made primarily with Virginia-grown ingredients, this event is a true toast to terroir. Sip […]
By BJ Poss, Sarah Golibart Gorman, and Ella Powell The simple recipe of ingredients and technique Behind an ever-changing food scene, local cooks, mixologists, and makers are working every day to bring out the best in their fields of expertise, and teach a deeper appreciation of what grows in the backyard. From olive oil and […]
Exploring geographies that produce distinctive flavors, the Terroir Tapes Listening Sessions—Act II blends hip-hop history with wine-tasting in a bold and vibrant manner. Hosted by Emmy Award-nominee Jermaine Stone of the Wine and Hip Hop podcast, the sessions inform guests of the environmental factors responsible for shaping the flavor profile of a particular wine region, […]
Dine and out Blue Moon Diner has us feeling, well, blue with the news of its closure after 18 memorable years. Owners Laura Galgano and Rice Hall announced on social media that they are closing the beloved diner, with its last day of service on November 27. More than just a restaurant, Blue Moon Diner […]
What do we always say? If you’ve got it, haunt it—and Charlottesville’s got “it” in spades, as long as “it” is a frightening amount of Halloween (and pre-Halloween) fun. You’ve got just over three weeks to drink in all the boos you can handle, and we’ve scared up the best options in (and out of, […]
New name, same flame The charcoal-roasted chicken artists in the Route 29 kitchen formerly known as Al Carbon are asking to be called El Tizon. According to owner Claudio Hernandez, “Only the name has changed, not the fine quality food which we have always served and will continue to serve.” Yelper Duane Z. clears up […]