We've eaten several times at the Ridley and can recommend it as a reliable restaurant inside the Draftsman. The seasonal cocktails change, but the rest of the menu is consistent each time we visit. The deviled eggs are worth trying! And the Brussels sprouts are a little spicy, in a good way.

I still think the Ridley is a good restaurant choice in cville - the food has been slightly inconsistent the few times I've been (same with the service) so knocking off a star. If you're in, ask for Angela - she's the best server they have!

I love when the richness of the origin story of a restaurant matches the delectable dishes that come out of the kitchen. This black owned restaurant located in Charlottesville, VA was named after Walter Ridley who was the first to receive an academic doctoral degree from the University of Virginia. As part of the Thompson Restaurant Group was familiar with the aesthetic and I was excited to experience the menu at this establishment. My order consisted of: - Pineapple Lime Martini - Crispy Brussel Sprouts - Gumbo - Collard Greens Everything was beyond delicious and I would definitely comeback to order everything I ate again.

We had an amazing birthday brunch! Our waitress Shelly took great care of us!!! She was so kind and gave us free dessert! Will be coming back!

We took a drive over to Charlottesville for some quick shopping and a movie. We wanted to try a new spot (to us). We chose the Ridley and met Shelley! She was awesome with her personality, attentiveness and recommendations! We took her up on her recommendations and loved the cornbread, shrimp and grits, and fried chicken with smashed sweet potatos!! All was sooooo good! She connected with us almost immediately and helped us have a wonderful dining experience!! Check them out!!

Ordered the Poy boy and Nashville hot per the waitresses recommendation and both were tasty. Both not too big, decent portions. The Nashville chicken sandwich had a little sweetness to it. They make their ranch in house so you gotta have it to dip your fries in. It's a really nice vibe, a lot of sunlight inside, great place to get friends together for brunch. They have a bar with a couple tvs that's separate from the main dining area too if you want to catch a game and have a beer or cocktail. Also several outdoor tables, perfect if the weather is nice.