Riverside Lunch
A historic Charlottesville diner since 1935, celebrated for its legendary smash burgers and craveable fried sides in a no-frills, welcoming setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Riverside Lunch
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Charlottesville diner since 1935, celebrated for its legendary smash burgers and craveable fried sides in a no-frills, welcoming setting.
Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
This popular spot fills up quickly; arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.
Don't Miss Signature Items
Be sure to try their highly recommended smash burgers and unique fried appetizers like cheese balls.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American Diner
Price
$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Best Smash Burgers in Town
Renowned for their delicious smash burgers, Riverside Lunch has earned a reputation for serving up some of the best burgers in the area.
Unique Fried Delights
Beyond burgers, indulge in unique fried options like pepper jack cheese balls and crispy fried mushrooms that are a must-try.
Warm, Classic Diner Atmosphere
Experience a friendly and personable atmosphere with dedicated staff in a nostalgic, old-school diner setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
This popular spot fills up quickly; arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.
Don't Miss Signature Items
Be sure to try their highly recommended smash burgers and unique fried appetizers like cheese balls.
All-Fried Food Fanatic?
Reviewers suggest that the all-fried food options, including cheese balls and mushrooms, are highlights.
Sweet Tea Delight
Fans from Georgia rave about the amazing sweet tea, so don't miss out on this refreshing beverage.
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
This popular spot fills up quickly; arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.
Don't Miss Signature Items
Be sure to try their highly recommended smash burgers and unique fried appetizers like cheese balls.
All-Fried Food Fanatic?
Reviewers suggest that the all-fried food options, including cheese balls and mushrooms, are highlights.
Sweet Tea Delight
Fans from Georgia rave about the amazing sweet tea, so don't miss out on this refreshing beverage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Riverside Lunch is lauded for its exceptional smash burgers and unique fried appetizers, all served in a friendly, old-school diner atmosphere. While the food quality and value are consistently praised, a few reviewers noted that portion sizes could be slightly larger and one mentioned an unusually high sales tax.
"You would never expect anything unassuming place like this to be so great. We got there at 10:55 AM and there were already people waiting, which is a great sign. I checked my watch and about 30 minutes after we got seated, the entire place was full. The food was excellent. If I could I would have 4.5 stars for the food because, although delicious, the portions were a tiny bit small. The service was excellent. Even though it was as busy as it was, the waitress was very friendly towards us and even gave us recommendations of things to see around Charlottesville! Prices are very reasonable as well. Would definitely eat here again."
Caleb Watson
"Riverside is one of the best family diners I have had the pleasure eating at. The staff is patient and passionate about their diner. I went one time a few years ago and it too this day is my favorite place to eat dinner out or quick grab while coming home from work. I highly recommend the carrot cake it’s hard to find a good one that is moist, sweet, and they use natural ingredients."
Haley Watkins
"Went on a Saturday afternoon and it was full but not crazy busy. The prices are very reasonable. I got all fried food for my meal and my partner got a burger. The burger was good but I really think the fried foods are the highlights. The cheese balls were so good. They’re pepper jack cheese cubes battered and fried. Also had fried mushrooms which I loved."
Zoe Gehman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Riverside Lunch is famous for its smash burgers, a simple yet delicious recipe that has been a local favorite for decades.
Many guests rave about the pepper jack cheese balls and the fried mushrooms, calling them highlights of the menu.
The restaurant is very popular and can get busy, especially during peak hours. Arriving early is recommended to avoid long waits.
Yes, they offer a veggie burger, making it an option for vegetarian diners.
You can call in your order for takeout, but they do not have a website for online ordering.
It has a classic, old-school diner feel with friendly and engaging staff, creating a warm and down-to-earth local vibe.
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Go-to lunches that won’t drain your wallet
Another restaurant with a deep history in the Charlottesville food scene, Riverside Lunch opened in 1935 and moved to its current location in 2000. Owner Lee Shifflett, who bought the place in 2018, says he serves 700 pounds of burgers a week, and his dedication to simplicity and consistency has turned the Riverside smashburger into a Charlottesville classic. With a simple recipe and veteran staff—most of whom have been there for decades—Riverside has stayed in business this long by not fixing what isn’t broken.
Top 12 Best Restaurants in Charlottesville, VA
If you're looking for a place with no-frills and all-flavor, Riverside Lunch is the place for you. This Charlottesville staple has been serving up juicy burgers, fried foods, and other American classics since 1935. Known for its laid-back vibe, affordable prices, and convenience, Riverside Lunch is a favorite hangout for many locals.
Top 20 Lunch Spots Under $10 In Charlottesville
Riverside Lunch has been doing business since 1935 and they are “Flat out, STILL the best burgers in town!. ” If you haven’t been there, you are doing yourself a disservice. Check them out for lunch or dinner, get yourself a double-cheeseburger and tip your waitress when you’re done!
The Townsman Collection
Established in 1935, Riverside Lunch offers smash burgers, hot dogs, and subs in an unassuming setting. Open every day, it's the perfect spot to slide up to the counter and chow down at an excellent price point.
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