Their concept is simple — provide the best ingredients from local farms around Charlottesville and put them in a high voltage burger that packs a punch. This means Virginia cheeses and local produce when possible, not to mention free range chicken and beef. If you are going to eat meat, this is the way to do it.
My journey began with an appetizer of their truffle fries. The fresh-cut fries are covered in truffle oil, chives and freshly grated Parmesan and served with a garlic aioli, a traditional French dipping sauce. Though the serving was quite generous and could easily satisfy four, the dish was addicting enough to keep my party of two coming back for more.
Next came one of Citizen’s signature burgers: The Steakhouse. Comprised of Timbercreek beef, Tillamook cheddar, Neuske’s bacon, barbeque sauce, onion straws and compound butter on a house brioche, I was confident I couldn’t go wrong. The burger came out relatively quickly, considering the restaurant was packed on a Saturday afternoon, yet still managed to deliver on all marks. The beef was succulent and juicy, the cheddar had the perfect amount of bite and the local bacon — Need I even say it? — was pure deliciousness. Combined with onion straws to provide a nice crunch and a very well-balanced sauce, this beef lover was on cloud nine.
I capped things off with some of their local key lime pie made by a one-woman operation within 10 miles of the bar. The homemade graham cracker crust is by far some of the best I’ve ever had. For citrus lovers, the key lime might be a little lacking in tartness, but the texture of the pie is perfect overall. If you still have room in your stomach after appetizers and a colossal burger, definitely indulge in some of this local deliciousness.
Not a fan of beef? Don’t you worry child, Citizen’s got a plan for you. Their local free-range chicken sandwich combines cheddar, bacon, barbeque sauce, an onion ring, mayo, iceberg lettuce and tomato on a house brioche to provide a hearty lunch or dinner. Want some seafood? Try the equally hearty lobster club on toasted country wheat. If you are a vegetarian the “Kinda Vegan” combines a whole grain beet vegan patty, boursin cheese, sprouts, tomato, onion, avocado, cucumbers, tarragon vegenaise and a vegan bun to create a vegetarian option that leaves even beef-eaters’ mouths watering.
Citizen Burger Bar also provides a great atmosphere, complete with mason jars and brick walls, making a contemporary establishment feel like it will never lose its good vibes. If you are on the Downtown Mall and looking for a hearty meal or a great drink, look no further.
Tyler’s column runs biweekly Tuesdays. He can be reached at t.gurney@cavalierdaily.com.
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