A large number of guests find their way to Foxfield Inn for a romantic getaway–to reconnect with one another by spending relaxed, quality time together, enjoying all that Charlottesville, Virginia has to offer. Sharing meals, of course, is an important component of this experience, so we’ve brainstormed the ultimate Downtown Mall progressive dinner to add variety to date night. What better way to experience the myriad restaurants our pedestrian mall has to offer than to enjoy each course at a different venue!
Here’s the route we propose:
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A – Begin with drinks and a small plate at
Bang! Known for their creative martinis and Asian fusion tapas-style plates, Bang! is an eclectic spot to get your evening started. Choose from the most popular drinks
Lychee Avalance, Sin City, or the
Monet, and munch on creamy cilantro wontons with chile sauce to whet your appetite.
B – Walk across Water Street to the brick-laid walking mall and head up the stairs to enjoy a first course at
Brookville where all ingredients are locally sourced (even the beer!) and transformed into fabulous dishes. The menu may change seasonally, but right now we’re craving the squash and herb “short stack” and the beef and bacon meatballs. (Reservations recommended).
C – Stroll down toward the other end of the mall and stop for a second course at one of Dan’s favorite restaurants,
Zo Ca Lo. Sit outdoors to watch passersby and listen to live amateur musicians, or take in the hip scene in the tastefully swanky interior. Enjoy the sultry flavors of Latin America with dishes like key lime chicken with black bean rice and avocado salad, or the chili-dusted sea scallops in a decadent carrot-vanilla sauce.
D – For a little hit of something sweet to conclude your meal, head to
Splendora’s Gelato Cafe. If you’re feeling ambitious, share the “artist’s palette” which includes multiple scoops for your tasting pleasure. But if you’re feeling full, order a cup of espresso and the “bambino” size scoop for the perfect finishing touch. You can sample any of the flavors before ordering. We’ve never been disappointed with the
dulce de lece.
E – If you’re still hungry or not yet ready to call it a night, head to the Charlottesville mainstay,
C&O, for their late-night menu, and linger over a bottle of wine or champagne and an artisanal cheese plate. Steeped in history, this is the perfect spot to share your dreams, reflect on the evening, and conclude your edible “tour de Charlottesville.”
So, there you have it. To tour the Downtown Mall through food and to add variety to your next date night, try our progressive dinner idea, and let us know how we at Foxfield Inn can make your next trip to Charlottesville unforgettable. What other can’t-miss spots on the Downtown Mall would you recommend? Leave a comment with your ideas below.
Your Innkeepers,
Dan and Kathryn Bundy
Foxfield Inn | A Charlottesville, VA Bed & Breakfast
