For nearly 90 years, Riverside Lunch has been one of Charlottesville’s local favorites for no-frills, perfectly crafted burgers. Since opening its doors in 1935, this unassuming counter-service restaurant has weathered shifting dining trends, economic ups and downs, and waves of new competitors, all while staying true to its simple formula: high-quality ingredients, friendly service, and unwavering consistency.

Riverside Lunch uses only locally sourced beef.

When founder William “Bill” Parker flipped the first patty, he knew two things: local beef tastes best, and a warm smile goes a long way. Today, Riverside Lunch continues to source its beef from area farms across Albemarle County. They grind fresh batches daily to maintain that signature juicy texture, with no shortcuts and no frozen patties.

The atmosphere always feels welcoming.

Step inside Riverside Lunch and you’ll find a handful of classic diner stools, a neon “Open” sign that’s seen more birthdays than most of us can count, and a welcoming greeting. Longtime customers recall childhood visits with grandma, high-school graduation celebrations with friends, and late-night study breaks fueled by crispy fries and tall milkshakes. That cozy, come-as-you-are vibe is no accident: staff members, some of whom have been here for a decade, treat every guest like family.

Attention to detail ensures each burger bite is delicious.

Riverside’s famed “all the way” burger isn’t just a pile-on of fixings; it’s a carefully balanced ensemble of lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, mustard, and mayo, each layered with purpose. The art of assembly happens at the counter, where the kitchen team times each step to ensure the bun stays warm, the patty stays juicy, and the toppings stay crisp. That attention to detail ensures each bit of the burger is unforgettable.

They still focus on timeless classics, rooted in local flavor.

In an era of gourmet sliders and specialty burgers, Riverside Lunch could have chased every trend. Instead, it doubled down on what works: locally sourced beef, generous portions, and genuine southern hospitality. That blend of quality and authenticity is why newcomers and lifelong locals alike agree, Riverside Lunch still serves the best burger in Charlottesville. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch break or gathering friends for dinner out, you’ll discover that some classics never go out of style.

Get a $50 Gift Certificate to Riverside lunch for only $25!

Riverside Lunch is a family-owned business since 1935, that still, “flat-out”, has the best burgers in town. Now you can feed your crew! Here is your chance to purchase a $50 Gift Card for only $25.
Photo courtesy of Riverside Lunch

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