For 17 years, Rhett Craddock has been serving his Charlottesville patrons the finest in seafood, soups, steaks, raw oysters and sandwiches at his cozy restaurant at 2335 Seminole Trail in Riverside Center. Hopefully, he will continue to serve the same great foods with the same great service for the next 17 years and more, but it won’t be at the Riverside Center, which has morphed into a medical center with no retail establishments or restaurants. The landlord basically gave Rhett his walking papers, but the officials in Louisa county welcomed Rhett with open arms and it appears Zion Roads will be the new home of Rhett’s River Grill and Raw Bar. It’s a little longer drive for Nancy and me, but we’ll continue to eat and patronize one of our favorite restaurants.
On Valentine’s evening, Rhett managed to personally squeeze in our last-minute reservation for two where we were greeted by our long-time friends, June and Herb Craddock, Rhett’s proud mom and dad. On a very busy night, June and Herb were working tables, seating guests and making everyone feel at home.
As usual, Nancy and I had another terrific dining experience.
I had a plate of Fried Oysters with a delicate, delicious breading. The side dish of Diced Baked Potatoes were also exceptional, a definite upgrade from a traditional order of French Fries. Nancy had a basket of Fish & Chips that were as good as I’ve ever tasted.
Over the years, I have really enjoyed Rhett’s Crab Cakes and his Thick Burgers are also yummy. I often take advantage of the specials like Monday – Shrimp Night; Tuesday – Crab Legs Night; Wednesday – Wine Night; Thursday – Oyster Night and Friday- Fish Fry.
Rhett’s will be making the move around April. When asked why he didn’t choose a site closer to town, Rhett admitted that he no longer wanted any part of Albemarle County. Their arrogant and anti-business attitude was just too much. On the other hand, when Louisa County heard that Rhett might be interested in locating there, they sent an official to thank him for considering coming to their county
What a contrast.
Rhett’s is open from 11 am to 2:30 pm for lunch from Monday through Saturday and open from 5 to 10, Monday through Thursday and 5 to 10:30 on Friday and Saturday. Sunday hours include Brunch from 10 to 2 and dinner from 5 to 9. For reservations, call ahead or take-out orders, call 434-974-7818.
Make it a point to stop by Rhett’s soon and wish him well in his new location. Rhett’s River Grill and Raw Bar – great food, great service and great people.