The best that Charlottesville has to offer

The opinions expressed here are those of the author solely, and does not represent any endorsement by St. Anne's-Belfield School

BEST BREAD: Albemarle Baking Company on Main Street.
They have different breads for each day of the week! I can’t recommend a particular one, they are all too good! Very French! Just stepping in the bakery and smelling warm bread takes me right back to France!

BEST BAKERY: Albemarle Baking Company on Main Street (yes, again!).
Everything is so delicious, it will make you swear in French! Don’t miss the chocolate croissants for your breakfast, the Alexandrin and the chocolate éclairs for tea, the butter brioche on Saturday morning, the chocolate hazelnut crunch cake or the princess cake for your birthday, and anything else you want for no reason at all!

BEST CHOCOLATES: Gearharts Chocolates on Main Street.
Homemade chocolates full of flavor. In France, it is a common custom to go to a “chocolatier,” select a few chocolates and give the “écrin de chocolats” as a present. My favorite (and I heard I was a minority on that) is the “Maya” chocolate, not because it’s the name of my daughter, but because it has some bitterness to it that makes it natural.

BEST APPETIZERS: The French love to take “apéritif.” It’s like a ritual before the meal, and for the kids, it’s often the best part of the meal. You get to drink soda and eat finger food! What else do you need? Here are some essential ingredients you will need:

  • Cornichon: Get the brand “Maille.” They are the best! Small and crunchy. Just perfect! I have seen them at Foods of all Nations, Harris Teeter and Giant.
  • Paté: Feast on Main Street carries my favorite pâté “Mousse au Porto.” Spread on little toasts with a piece of cornichon and you are all set!
  • Salami: What’s a French meal without a plate of Salami! The most authentic ones you will find are at Delicio on 29 North. Best quality, best price! Great with French butter and of course, don’t forget the cornichons!
  • Tapenade: This is an olive spread (with or without anchovies). Foods of all Nations and Giant carry good brands. Spread on toast with goat cheese, it’s delicious!

For great appetizer recipes, go to French Recipes.

BEST CHEESES: Feast, Integral Yoga and Whole foods have a great selection of cheeses. I recommend St. Marcellin, St. Albray, Roquefort Societe, Vieux pané and all the others.

You already know about “fondue,” but do you know the best dish of all? “Raclette” it is! And trust me, it doesn’t taste like it smells! You can ask for French Raclette or Swiss Raclette. In the US, they are basically the same!

BEST MARKET: Charlottesville City Market on Water street. This small city market happens every Saturday morning from May to October. Several local merchants come and sell plants, flowers, vegetables, fruits and different crafts. Compare to French “marchés,” this is rather small but the atmosphere is still there. This is a great place to find local products at a better price. Just like in France, the best part of the “marché” is to meet old friends!

Best of Charlottesville | Charlottesville Restaurant Reviews | French Recipes