It is restaurant week in Charlottesville! As a food focused individual I am always quite excited to partake in the festivities as much as possible. This time around I’m starting off with South & Central. I’ve eaten here a few times and was excited to see them included on the list of participants so I’d have a convenient excuse to go back.
South & Central Charlottesville
Latin Steakhouse
This Latin Grill & Steak House is in its first year in Charlottesville but is a passion project 20 years in the making from Will Richey of Ten Course Hospitality. You can read more about his journey to open this spot here. The TLDR is he knows what he’s doing and his passion and experience both shine at South & Central.
South And Central Menu: What We Ordered
For Restaurant Week, South & Central is offering a $39 menu consisting of three courses, though diners have the option of ordering from the regular menu as well. Had my husband and I been with a group we would have opted for adding some more plates but it was just us so we decided not to be quite so gluttonous. I went with the Ceviche Criollo for my appetizer, the wood fire Filet Mignon for my main, and the Alfajores for dessert.
Bread: Served with chimichurri
Ceviche Criollo: White fish, cilantro, onion, pickled aji amarillo, lime, chilled Peruvian potato cake
4 oz Filet Mignon: Served with repollo guisado, charred carrots, and choice of sauce (there are 12 to choose from but the steak is honestly solid on its own)
Alfajores: Dulce de leche filled cookies, basil sugar
It was all delicious, but the ceviche was my favorite. Not only was it beautiful, it tasted amazing. It was fresh, the flavors were balanced and I honestly could have eaten another order. The rest of the meal was fantastic, with the filet perfectly cooked and the charred carrots a surprising standout. Although I am typically a chocolate dessert person, I decided to go with the Alfajores instead, as it was something I had never had before and always opt to try new things when able. It completely satisfied my sweet tooth.
Plan Your Outing to South & Central
Location: 946 Grady Ave @ The Dairy Market
Style: Latin Grill & Steak House
Food Costs: Brunch $10-55/item; Lunch $12-20/item; Dinner $12-50/item
Drink Costs: Cocktails $10-15/drink; Wine $8-15/glass; Draft Beer $5-7
Insight: This is a great spot for cocktails and shared plates with friends or for a date night. They welcome walk-ins but I would recommend reservations for weekends.
Even if you don’t make it for Restaurant Week, I definitely recommend trying South & Central. They offer Sunday brunch, lunch Monday – Saturday and dinner daily. When the weather warms up they have outdoor seating if you are avoiding indoor spaces, though I will note they are following CDC recommendations for COVID as well.
Cheers and happy eating!
