On our latest camping adventure, we stopped for brunch at Farm Bell Kitchen in Charlottesville, VA. Parking was tricky, as is usual in downtown Charlottesville. There is on-street parking, but we did not find any open spaces. We circled the block twice before finding a parking garage a few blocks away.
The restaurant is in an old house, rich with character. They were busy so I was very happy that we had thought to call ahead for a reservation.
We sat at a cozy table next to the window, sipping coffee as we looked at the menu. Chris ordered a Come N’ Get It Platter with a side of Cheese Grits. The beautifully cooked local eggs, served with home fries, bacon and a biscuit, were delicious. The fantastic grits had the perfect amount of cheese, and a rich, creamy texture. The house-made hot sauce was very flavorful, albeit extremely hot.
I had the Southern Benedict, a fried grit cake with blackened pork belly, topped with a perfectly poached egg and shrimp hollandaise, served over home fries. The grit cake was lovely, with a crunchy exterior, and the pork belly had a delicious fattiness. The shrimp hollandaise added an unexpected, yet fantastic, sweetness to the dish. The potatoes were tasty, with an amazing blend of crispy and soft.
Cost for two cups of coffee, a shot, two entrees and a side dish $54.54.
Both of the dishes look delish!