A gem in a weird spot. But try the Crab Melt...fantastic sandwich.

I don't know if it was the time of year, or what, but my wife and I were so disappointed we actually left and went somewhere else.

The "buffet" was ridiculously expensive ($15+/person) and included fried chicken, half ears of corn, and a couple other items. I was really looking forward to some "authentic" food, but this was like the cafeteria at a hospital.

Another warning, the place was full of tour bus groups going to see Monticello.

This place looks like an old, run-down cracker barrel but the food is pretty decent and it's hard to screw up breakfast. I have to admit that I do prefer it over Tip Top, which typically gets more applause.

good value.

This used to be one of my favorite restaurants in Charlottesville. You just couldn't beat having a drink on the upstairs patio, enjoying some appetizers, followed by a delicious meal. The menu is small, but typically has some great items on it for all budgets.

However, I am not sure it has come back from the whole "owner's feud" earlier this year that resulted in everyone getting laid off and the place shutting down for a long while.

My other biggest complaint is that the place can get quite smokey inside.

If you do go, be sure to have the snakebite... a mixture of beer and cider.

My biggest complaint about Siips is the wine selection can be too overwhelming. However, they do have excellent selections. The food menu is quite large, but some apps/entrees simply aren't good.

I don't recommend the brushetta for one.

I personally prefer Enoteca (also on the downtown mall) just because I feel it is easier to select wine and parings (food) there and I prefer the atmosphere a little more.