I don’t like to go to Downtown Charlottesville. It’s no longer Historic Charlottesville, it is now Politically Correct Charlottesville. I go only if the Charlottesville Band or a good show is playing at the Paramount. And it’s too bad, because one of Charlottesville’s best burger restaurants is on the Downtown Mall, and that’s Citizen Burger Bar. We ate there not long ago, and their burgers were excellent.
This is a Yuppy kind of place with original brick walls and Craft Beers, but they serve up a mean burger, locally raised and grass-fed beef, which imparts a distinct flavor. The Burger Bar – unlike many other places – will cook your burger to order. You want it red, they’ll bring it red. I ordered pink and it was pushing red, but it was good. You can also custom-build your burger with a wide choice of toppings, cheeses, and premium toppings. The buns are all freshly made by Albemarle Bakery with several choices, and the buns were very, very good. If you’re not into beef, you can choose a Turkey, Chicken, or Vegan Burger, even an All-Cheeseburger if you want, but, of course, beef is the only way to eat a real burger.
Their Regular and Sweet Potato French Fries are served in something akin to a Jefferson Cup and they are also very good.
The downside for us was very slow service and it’s so loud there is no chance for conversation. Just eat your burger, keep quiet and be on your way. The restaurant is located at 212 E. Main across from the Paramount. They are open until 11:30 on weekends and till 10:30 other nights.
If you don’t mind paying for the privilege of shopping and eating downtown by paying the Trolls at the Parking Garage a handsome fee, the Citizen Burger Bar is an excellent choice for one of Charlottesville’s best burgers.