We have visited several times primarily because the service is good and the atmosphere pleasant and relaxing. Last night we realized that we were one of only two remaining tables at 10:00pm with no pressure to leave. That was nice. The waitstaff has always been...very friendly and efficient. This is not a complaint, quite the contrary, but the staff reminds me of "Hooters" light. The female waitstaff leave little to the imagination. Even though the website states that they will not split checks for parties of six or more, that has always been readily waived. I never return to any restaurant that enforces that obnoxious rule.
Now the food. Generally, I find it decent but not particularly memorable. I love a good shepherd's pie, but I find this iteration unremarkable. It was way too salty. The samosas were OK but I doubt that I would order them again. The lamb curry Potjie was tasty but visually unappealing. It was basically brown mush. The ginger salmon was fine as was the steak pie. Actually, my favorite dish was the samp and beans.
Overall the place is a bit pricey, but that seems the norm in Charlottesville. This market takes itself much too seriously. For the same money, one can dine much better in Richmond, Norfolk, Charleston, New York City, New Orleans, etc. That's not to say that there aren't a few exceptional venues based on value, food, ambiance and service, but they are few and far between. I guess this market is just used to mediocrity.More