Honoring Mel Walker’s Legacy in Charlottesville: How You Can Help

Few people impacted Charlottesville’s food community over the last four decades the way Mel Walker did. Mel’s Cafe is irreplaceable.

One top chef swore by his sweet potato pie. For another, it was his bologna and egg sandwich. And, one of Charlottesville’s top bakers was partial to his legendary Meta’s Burger. For others, it may have been his fried chicken, liver and onions, or potato salad, among other specialties. My own weakness? Mel’s fish sub. “I’m gonna fix you a nice sub,” Mel would predict accurately every time.

But, what Charlottesville will miss most is the love that Mel Walker emanated every day from his spot at 719 West Main. What a smile. What a heart. Time and again, people who leave Charlottesville and return say the same thing: when they arrive at Mel’s, they feel like they are home.

Thank you, Mel. There will never be another.

Ways to honor Mel’s legacy:

Go Fund Me: Fundraiser to help Mel’s family keep Mel’s Cafe alive