About This Spot

Stepping into The Whiskey Jar feels like coming home to a lively, warm neighborhood gathering spot where the pace is easy and genuine connections are made over hearty plates and well-crafted drinks. Nestled along Charlottesville’s Main Street, this southern restaurant balances the comfort of classic Southern hospitality with the buzz of a spirited evening out. Whether you’re sliding into a cozy booth or finding a spot on the patio, the atmosphere hums with a relaxed energy, where familiar faces and newcomers alike share stories beneath soft lighting and the gentle hum of conversation.

Here, the menu is an invitation to savor the rich, layered flavors of Southern cooking — unpretentious but thoughtfully executed. Imagine the pleasure of a smoky bourbon bread pudding paired with the equally comforting notes of fried chicken or shrimp and grits, each dish enhanced by the kind of care that feels personal, not just professional. The whiskey and bourbon selections anchor the experience, offering something to sip and contemplate whether you’re diving into a classic mint julep or following a tasting flight guided by knowledgeable staff who remind you that this is a place built as much around hospitality as its spirited pours.

The friendliness of the team and the genuine, attentive service quietly shape each visit into something relaxed yet memorable. It’s the kind of place where you might linger a little longer to enjoy live music or gather with friends for an impromptu celebration of local flavors and good company. Here, the charm isn’t from flashy trappings but from the unmistakable feeling of being in a place where time slows just enough to savor the moment — and the meal.

What’s Available Here

  • IconOutdoor seating
  • IconKerbside pickup
  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconFast service
  • IconGreat beer selection
  • IconGreat cocktails
  • IconGreat wine list
  • IconLive music
  • IconServes local specialty
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible toilet
  • IconAlcohol
  • IconBeer
  • IconCocktails
  • IconCoffee
  • IconComfort food
  • IconHappy-hour drinks
  • IconHappy-hour food
  • IconLate-night food
  • IconQuick bite
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconSpirits
  • IconWine
  • IconBrunch
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconDessert
  • IconSeating
  • IconTable service
  • IconBar on site
  • IconToilet
  • IconWi-Fi
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconLively
  • IconTrendy
  • IconGroups
  • IconTourists
  • IconUniversity students
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconHigh chairs
  • IconKids' menu
  • IconFree of charge street parking
  • IconPaid multi-storey car park
  • IconPaid parking lot

Location & Hours

Monday 11:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Tuesday 11:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Wednesday 11:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Thursday 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Friday 11:00 AM - 02:00 AM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 02:00 AM
Sunday Closed

Guest Reviews

Julie Ackerman Montross 02 Jan 2026

I've lived in Charlottesville for nearly five years and have been to The Whiskey Jar a handful of times. It never disappoints. Excellent cocktail menu, always excellent service and good food. Whenever I have out-of-town guests, I make sure they get the local flavor and Whiskey Jar is always on the itinerary.

Food Lover 21 Dec 2025

I’ve been here before to go to the bar and enjoy live music, but didn’t realize they had an entire robust menu! On top of that, the food is excellent! Got the beet salad and it was very good! Going to try the chicken sandwich next and will update if I do.

Seth Arnold 21 Nov 2025

Dining at The Whiskey Jar was an experience that left a lasting impression. From the moment of arrival, the welcoming atmosphere set the tone for a wonderful meal. The staff provided excellent service, attentive without being intrusive, friendly, and eager to ensure everything was perfect. Their genuine hospitality made the visit feel relaxed and personal, which is rare in many restaurants today. The real highlight, however, was the food. The menu showcased Southern-inspired flavors with a modern touch, and every bite delivered. The catfish sandwich stood out among the offerings it was perfectly cooked, lightly crisp on the outside, and tender within. The seasoning was on point, allowing the natural flavor of the catfish to shine through, complemented by fresh toppings and a soft, toasted bun. The side dishes were equally impressive, especially the fries, which were golden and perfectly salted. The overall dining experience felt both comfortable and elevated a blend of casual charm and culinary quality. The Whiskey Jar is the kind of place that invites you to linger a little longer, savoring the balance of good service, excellent food, and genuine Southern warmth. It’s definitely a spot worth revisiting.

Adam Hovak 15 Nov 2025

The bourbon selection is pretty fantastic at the whiskey jar and the staff were great. We stopped in on the way through town and had a few local brews and had some dinner. On a recommendation from the server, I got the BLT and it was unquestionably the best one I’ve ever had. The kids had grilled cheese and they were also raving about it. We had to wait about 25 minutes to get a seat outside, but that’s probably because we showed up around 6pm on a Friday night. I’ll definitely stop here the next time I’m in Charlottesville.

Greg Miller 09 Nov 2025

Very cool vibe! Plus it has fantastic BBQ, amazing whiskey and craft beer choices and great service. Will definitely go back!

Brandon Crawford 14 Oct 2025

I absolutely love this place!! The bartenders were amazing. My wife and I were celebrating our 2 year anniversary and they gave us a complimentary first round! I had the smoked old fashioned and my wife had smoked apple mule and both were wonderful. My wife had the chicken sandwich with fries and it was so dam good lol I had the cheeseburger salad woth goat cheese ranch and it was simple but tasted wonderful. So many selections of burbon/whisky, scotch, and beer! The bathrooms were clean aswell as the restaurant. They have outside seating and there open late which it kinda turns into a little club vibe. I highly recommend to stop at this restaurant every time your at the downtown mall.

Charles Smith 06 Oct 2025

Good experience with attentive staff and decent food - nothing to write home about. The Wilson sandwich was tasty and the house salad was good (w/ shrimp). The drink were a bit strong for my taste.

Zoe Gehman 01 Oct 2025

The restaurant is so cute and the food is amazing! I absolutely love the cornbread and have to get it every time. I’m also a huge fan of the blackened catfish. This past time I got the oyster poboy with the broccoli salad and both of those were so good.

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