Mel's Cafe

"Wonderful old-school cafe a short distance from UVA Hospital. I have walked past a few times recently and wanted some of the finest comfort food in town. Service with a smile. I got a Philly steak with onions and added peppers and mushrooms. Perfect size and the taste and bread were good. Also ordered some mac & cheese and coleslaw. Both were good but the slaw was better. I want to get the chicken next time for sure and eat there. Cost per person is very reasonable with dinners available for approximately $11."

"My husband got the hamburger melt and fries My chicken dinner was the star of the show! This might be the best fried chicken I've ever had! The mac and cheese was excellent! The fried potatoes with onions and cornbread were like from my mom. The ambiance is like a little eight table diner and very homey with lots of pictures. The service was excellent. You go to the window to place your order and they bring it to your table. After you eat you pay as you're leaving. I will definitely be going back on my visits to see my cousin in North Carolina. And the prices cannot be beat. The menu is current from January 2, 2024. I wouldn't mind trying other things on their menu at all, but all I want is their chicken from now on so I'll have to talk my husband into getting something else so I can taste from his plate too. That chicken was so crispy and delicious and juicy inside. Just excellent!"

"While touring Monticello, we worked up an appetite for lunch. Hit the Google, and found Mel's was open and had great reviews, so we head to downtown. The reviews were spot on. The fried chicken was juicy and flavorful, and had a nice, crispy crust. The Mac and cheese was very good. The stewed tomato's were oddly sweet, so not a favorite. The small burger was cooked perfectly and the added bacon was nice and crispy. The homemade pulled pork had a nice flavor, not too much sauce, and topped with crispy slaw, a nice touch. Both were served on toasted buns. The fries were fresh, cooked just right, and seasoned to perfection. This place is a hole in the wall, but the food is prepared with love!"

"The fried chicken was excellent! I also enjoyed my Mac and cheese. We were all pleased with our food and would happily return!"

"Soul food. Went for a late dinner when visiting town. Fried chicken was recommended and two pieces was a hearty portion. Side of rice and beans plus cabbage made a nice compliment. With a drink I still think it was only $15. Great value but more importantly solid food. Staff was super nice as well."