I understand there are over 200 restaurants in Charlottesville. It seems like there that many on the Downtown Mall, but regardless: All these restaurants can be divided into two groups. The Ivy Inn and the others. Not one compares to the consistent food, service and ambience offered by Charlottesville’s premiere eatery.
We eat at the Ivy Inn mostly on special occasions. It was my birthday on Tuesday, a special occasion indeed, and Nancy reserved a table for the two of us at the Ivy Inn. We were not disappointed.
Just when I think that the Ivy Inn can’t possibly outdo themselves, they do. Our dinner was simply remarkable.
We started with a taste of Duck Fat and Chestnut Soup to “awaken” our appetites and did it ever. If they sold this stuff in jars, I’d buy a gallon a week. Exquisite!! I had one of my favorite appetizers, Shrimp and Grits, and Nancy went for the Creamy Leek & Wild Mushroom Soup. Both were amazing.
For the main course, I ordered the Mustard Crusted Rack of Lamb. It was as good as it sounds. Nancy ordered perhaps the best steak in town. Ivy Inn’s famous Angus Beef Tenderloin. It was cooked perfectly and topped with a delightful Cabernet Sauce. We were stuffed and well satisfied, but the Brown Butter Pear Cake sounded too good to pass up, so we finished our scrumptious meal with one of the best desserts I’ve ever put in my mouth. Once again, Chef Angelo Vangelopoulos was on top of his game.
The service is always excellent. Jessica, our server, was friendly, personable, attentive, and most professional. If my water glass ran low, she filled it. She checked on us continually to make sure everything was perfect, and it was.
Each visit to the Ivy Inn is a treasure. Just dining there makes it a special occasion.
Ivy Inn is located at 2244 Old Ivy Inn. Contact them at 434-977-122 or ivyinn@ivyinnrestaurant.com.
