What should I order at The Virginian?
The Virginian
Mac and Cheese
Frequently praised for its unique presentation with a potato cake on top and pepper jack cheese sauce, this dish is described as decadent, heavy, and a standout item that guests dream about and strongly recommend ordering as an entree.
Club Sandwich
Mentioned multiple times as one of the best club sandwiches ever had, noted for its simplicity, excellent taste, and generous portion size, often paired with excellent French fries.
Baby Back Ribs / BBQ Spare Ribs
Highly recommended for their tenderness and delicious barbecue sauce, with large portions that can satisfy multiple people. Guests have returned specifically for the ribs and praised their flavor.
French Onion Soup
A particular favorite mentioned more than once, appreciated for its classic taste and as a comforting side dish, though some guests noted the cheese could be melted more thoroughly.
Steak and Cheese Sandwich
Well-liked for its good taste and served as a solid main course option, often paired with soup or salad, and recommended by multiple reviewers.
Potato Soup
Described as amazing and satisfying, often cited as a favorite side or starter along with other hearty sides like mashed potatoes and gravy.
Virginian Burger / Coal Miner Burger
Loved for its fresh quality, perfect medium cooking, large size, and well-seasoned fries, evoking nostalgia and strong positive memories for locals and visitors alike.
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Sunday | 10 AM to 2 AM |
About The Virginian
Local institution since 1923 serving American fare amid rustic wood decor, with a student bar scene.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
Pets
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is The Virginian known for?
The standout dish is the mac and cheese, which reviewers describe as especially rich and memorable, often topped with a cheddar potato cake and served in a portion large enough to work as a meal. It is also known for French onion soup, steak and cheese, and a long-running local reputation as a UVA-area favorite.
What dishes are most recommended at The Virginian?
Reviewers most often recommend the mac and cheese, French onion soup, steak and cheese sub, club sandwich, and Virginian burger. Other frequently praised items include the baby back ribs, potato soup, fries, and the pimento cheese sandwich.
What is the atmosphere like at The Virginian?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and historic, with a bar-and-restaurant feel, upper and lower levels, and rustic wood decor. Reviewers say it feels like stepping back in time, and it works well for groups, families, and solo diners.
Is The Virginian good value?
Yes, many reviewers call the portions generous and the prices reasonable, and the listed price range is $10 to $20. People often mention that dishes like the mac and cheese, burgers, and sandwiches feel filling enough to justify the cost.
When is the best time to visit The Virginian?
Reviewers say it handles busy periods well, including game days, with fast service even when packed. Several mention getting seated quickly around dinner time, and the restaurant also accepts reservations if you want to plan ahead.
Is parking available at The Virginian?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid parking lot is available.
Is The Virginian kid-friendly?
Yes, The Virginian is good for kids.
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