Orzo has been around for about two years if I can remember correctly. Anyway, that’s not the point. When Orzo first opened, I thought it was alright. They had a relatively small menu, some things were not so interesting and flavors were naive. I did the lunch thing a few times, but the Caesar Salad got a little old.
Perhaps I was insane back then or perhaps Orzo did really go through a change, but I have been very impressed with Orzo of recent. Orzo calls itself a “Kitchen & Wine Bar.” It is non-pretentious, modern and sensual. At dinner, the overlords dim the lights more than most establishments in town. I like it, but it’s not for the old folks. Or, is it? Who is it for?
I look over the Orzo Dinner Menu and am happy to find that I can get a healthy portion of pasta for $15 or a large chicken dinner for $13. Holy sh*t! Did you guys realize it was that cheap? Well, the wealthy white haired people do. I parked in the Main Street Market and found an abnormally high number of luxury vehicles and plenty of grey haired business types in Orzo.
Despite the abnormally low prices for a restaurant as nice looking as this, I think it’s partly due to the convenience of parking, the wine side of the businesses and the casual feel. Orzo has found its niche in Charlottesville.
Kitchen
Orzo serves Mediterranean cuisine which means unique dishes for Charlottesville. From the crispy Yia Yia Chicken, to the Braised Lamb, to the Grilled Salmon with Falafel, Tomato-Zucchini Compote and Cucumber Yogurt, you will discover that Orzo really has a unique taste for town. Much like Zo Ca Lo, Orzo knows how to bring new and exciting flavors to a deserving crowd. I recommend experimenting with the appetizers and the specials when you visit. It pains me to not see more patrons sitting at the bar and enjoying the wine, experimenting with unique spices and overall finding something off the beaten “taste” path. I expect more young people to frequent the bar in the next few weeks. Trust me on this one. You guys should visit.
Wine
You can taste the wine before you buy it. They encourage it for their wine by the glass. (*COUGH*). Orzo sells a good selection of $30 bottles and $8 glasses. You can spend boatloads of cash, but they pick some fantastic bottles that don’t break the bank. Rumor has it they have one of the wine buyers from Inn at Little Washington working for them. I can’t really go over the wine list, but maybe our more educated readers can let us know what they think. I like it and have yet to be disappointed.
The bottom-line is if you want unbelievably well priced food, good service and a nice place to take a date or yourself and a small appetizer, visit Orzo. It’s worth it.
P.S. Try the Pot de Creme. Also, they have a siesta menu from 2 to 4pm Tuesday to Sunday.
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Tagged as: Charlottesville, Restaurants, Restaurants/Bars, Reviews, Wine
As one of those grey haired business types who parks his luxury vehicle in that lot, I can confirm the quality of the food, and the comfortable atmosphere. Orzo’s wine list is very good, and what appeared to be the manager the night I was in recently, has a real handle on wine - I had selected a Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley (my new favorite Pinot origin) - he asked a couple of questions about the taste I sought and came up with a new addition (one not on the menu) that was one of the best I’ve had. Drank it, and took the rest of his stash home. Great addition to the C’ville scene.
Oh, MAN. Pot de Creme. My mom used to have a killer recipe for that. I didn’t know anyone in town made it! I’m presuming you’re referring to the uber yummy, super dense chocolate dessert? It’s like a chocolate mousse’s bad ass big brother.
Exactly, ThatGrrl. They put a little whipped cream on top and have big chocolate chips in it.
Interesting. Never had it with chips in it, Thor. I think that a trip to Orzo is in order. Thanks for the info!
LOVE orzo
I always find myself eating at the bar to avoid the wait (I’m not good at making reservations mid-week for the weekend) and highly recommend it.
People actually make reservations in Charlottesville?
The two reds I saw on the Orzo wine list from Oregon were strong offerings, even at the price points. The Tyrus Evan Syrah is from Ken Wright, who is a world-class winemaker. The New Mexico Blanc de Blanc by the glass shows serious knowledge. Color me impressed!
there’s a restaurant in charlottesville that actually takes reservations?
go to orzo! especially on tuesday nights when one of my favorite people works there (and probably other days too, but that’s the only day i know for sure). try the roasted red pepper salad…yum…
yup - I would recommend making a reservation if you want to be seated. otherwise bar is great.
we’re having valentines day dinner at orzo… or are we ?? i have to go make reservations!
I adore Orzo — I’ve had great business lunches there, group dinners and one unforgettable romantic dinner with my husband. I second (or third) the pot de creme recommendation. It’s all delicious and the wine recommendations should be taken very seriously.
Well I am sure no one is surprised that one of the CRUSH owners also is “invested” in ORZO….Some people just know how to get it right. I concur, winelist is great.
Best. Veggieburger. Ever!
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