1799 at The Clifton

Name: 1799 at The Clifton
Address: 1296 Clifton Inn Dr, Charlottesville, VA, United States, 22911
Telephone: (434) 971-1800
Price range: $50 and over
Rating: 4.6

4.6 (803)

$50 and over

Farm-to-table

1296 Clifton Inn Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22911

Make a reservation

2 people

Jul 29, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 7 times today

About this restaurant

Charming
Good for special occasions
Great for creative cocktails

We are serving a wonderful ala carte menu with many delicious & unique options. We have an award winning wine list, and cocktail menu available as well - ask about our 'smoked' cocktails.

Set in a charming and historic house on a ridge overlooking The Rivanna River in Charlottesville, Virginia, 1799 at The Clifton is committed to cooking beautiful, locally sourced food in a warm yet chic atmosphere. Michelin Starred Chef Matthew Bousquet and his team are dedicated to giving you the best of new Piedmont cooking in a special way. Come and explore the offerings of our Chef’s seasonal menus, featuring the bounty of our own organic vegetable and herb garden. We look forward to making your visit truly memorable! Please make any requests on seating preferences, using the reservation notes. We will do our absolute best to accommodate all request based on availability.

Dining areas

Additional information

Dining style
Fine Dining
Price
$50 and over
Cuisines
Farm-to-table, Contemporary French / American, Contemporary American
Hours of operation
Brunch Sun 11:30 am–2:00 pm Lunch Mon–Sat 11:30 am–2:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:30 pm–8:00 pm
Phone number
(434) 971-1800
Website
http://www.the-clifton.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Smart Casual
Executive chef
Matthew Bousquet
Private party facilities
Whether you’re hosting a small private dinner, a large event for up to 350 guests, The Clifton’s sprawling 100-acre estate offers an array of atmospheric settings for a function.

Location
1296 Clifton Inn Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22911
Neighborhood
Charlottesville
Cross street
North Milton Rd.
Parking details
Complimentary parking for diners.
Public transit
N/A
Entertainment
Entertainment only available for special occasions and events.
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Outdoor Smoking Area, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Featured in

50 Virginia Restaurants to Connect In For Mother's Day

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Split Pea Soup$14.00
Bacon, Fermented Mirepoix, Parsley
Shrimp & Grits$23.00
Sofrito, Bacon, Scallion, Smoked Paprika Anglaise
Pear & Arugula Salad$16.00
Bosc Pear, Arugula, Blue Cheese, Candied Pecans, Saba
Croque Madam $16.00
Fried Egg, Applewood Smoked Ham, Gruyere, Parmesan, Pickled Vegetables
Smoked Salmon Flatbread$19.00
Fried Capers, Mascarpone Cream Fraiche, Pickled Red Onions
Virginia Peanut Mousse$14.00
Meyer Lemon Jam, Local Apple, Breakfast Radish, Smoked Paprika, Olive Oil, Toast
Bone Marrow & Escargot$22.00
Pernod Butter, Lemon, Country Toast
Chili Marinated Tuna$24.00
Yogurt, Matcha-Kaffir Lime Leaf Pesto, Baby Kale, Radish, Jalapeno, Apple, Lemon, Roasted Pistachio

Entrees

Turnip Schnitzel & Warm Tuscan Kale$27.00
Walnuts, Cranberries, Spätzle, Lemon Caper Beurre Blanc
Carrot & Pea Pappardelle$23.00
Parmesan, Carrot Marmalade, Carrot Top Gremolata, Katsu, Ginger, Garlic
Pancetta Wrapped Trout$32.00
Fried Chicory, Smoked Paprika Buttermilk Emulsion, Peanut Gremolata, Port Wine Sauce
Crispy Skinned Wild King Salmon$37.00
Ham Hock, Sea Island Red Peas, Carolina Gold Rice Porridge, Red Wine Butter
Steak Au Poivre$39.00
New York Steak, Potato Gratin, Tempura Onion Rings, Madeira-Peppercorn Sauce
Beef Bourguignon$29.00
Kunz Short Rib$38.00
Celery Root Puree, Ginger, Mango, Wilted Spinach, Horseradish-Dijon Cream
Beef Burger$19.00
Herbs, Lemon, Black Garlic Aioli, House Made Mustard Seed Bun, Caramelized Onions, Mornay Sauce, Bacon, House-made Pickles & Chips

Sides

Grits$9.00
Mashed Potatoes$9.00
Papas Bravas$9.00
Brussel Sprouts$9.00

Dessert

Rhum Savarin$12.00
Chocolate Lava Cake$12.00
Canale de Bordeaux$12.00
Cheese Plate$16.00

Cocktails

The 1799$18.00
Cucumber Vodka, Elderflower Liqueur, Lime Juice, Pineapple Juice
Pomegranate Martini$18.00
Cirrus Vodka, Pama, Cointreau, Lemon juice
The Copper$18.00
The Botanist Gin, Aperol, Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth, Lime Juice
A Trace Old Fashioned$22.00
“Impossible To Find” Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Sugar, Angostura Bitters, Orange Peel
Maple Walnut Manhattan$20.00
Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Antica Vermouth, Maple Syrup, Black Walnut Bitters
Charlottesville Sour$18.00
Ragged Branch Charlottesville Bourbon, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Topped With Virginia Red Wine

What 803 people are saying

1799 at The Clifton reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6

4.6 based on recent ratings

4.5Food
4.5Service
4.7Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Virginia
Best Ambiance
Charlottesville
Best Overall
Charlottesville
Best Ambiance
Charlottesville
Best Value
Charlottesville
Innovative
Charlottesville
Healthy
Charlottesville
Great for fine wines
Charlottesville
Great for outdoor dining
Charlottesville
Romantic
Charlottesville
Good for special occasions
Charlottesville
Lively

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

1799 at The Clifton offers "outstanding service" and "exceptionally delicious food" in a "beautiful and historic" setting. Guests praise the attentive staff and delightful ambiance, perfect for special occasions. The menu features top-quality ingredients, with standout dishes like shrimp and grits and honeycomb cheesecake. An ideal spot for refined dining experiences.

803 Reviews

D
Debbie
Virginia4 reviews
4.0
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 2
4. Ambience 3
While the food was as savory as usual (compliments to the Chef), the time it took to receive our order was extraordinarily and surprisingly long. It seemed as if there may have been an issue with the kitchen, the tip was not affected by the slow service.
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B
Bonnie
Virginia7 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Another great experience. All experiences at the Clifton have been outstanding.
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M
Marilyn
Washington, D.C. Area6 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Wonderful place for a celebration meal. We dined in the library which is very nice! Our waiter, Ethan, was one of the best we've ever had. Just the right amount of attention, spoke clearly with enthasiasm, and was knowledgeable. We even had an extra surprise from the chef! Delightful food and overall experience!
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D
Darrin VIP
Washington, D.C. Area4 reviews
5.0
Dined on July 21, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The Clifton has been outstanding for years, and we have been many times. But last night was special: the sommelier who also ran service was a total pro: gracious, thoughtful, and completely cool under pressure. The food was extraordinary…watermelon and feta salad, prawns and grits (with sofrito!!), bacon wrapped trout, honeycomb cheesecake…all this put other VA wine country inn restaurants to shame. Not overly complicated but the best ingredients perfectly executed. Really really good. Check it out.
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S
Steve VIP
Virginia16 reviews
3.0
Dined on July 18, 2025
1. Overall 3
2. Food 3
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
The pear arugula and watermelon salads were excellent. The chicken entree was excellent. The room was lovely, the service was attentive.
1799 at The CliftonResponded on July 21, 2025
Dear Steve, Thank you for your feedback and for the insightful message you sent. We're glad to hear you enjoyed your salads and chicken entrée, as well as our ambiance and attentive service, which added to your dining experience. Your comments have been noted and shared with the appropriate teams, and we thank you again for your patronage and time. We look forward to welcoming you back for another night out or a special occasion again soon! Sincerely, Luda Gokas
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J
JP
Washington, D.C. Area2 reviews
3.0
Dined on July 16, 2025
1. Overall 3
2. Food 3
3. Service 3
4. Ambience 4
Disappointed. Kitchen issues apparent, entrees took an hour to arrive. Half my meal was room temp, mixed quality. Was served a warm beer. Confusion about wine list. Maybe just an off night, too bad as the setting is gorgeous.
1799 at The CliftonResponded on July 21, 2025
Dear JP, Thank you for sharing your experience. We're sorry for any long wait, inconsistent food quality, and confusion with our wine and beer service. It sounds like we missed the mark, and we sincerely regret that it affected your evening. Rest assured, we'll address these matters promptly with our team to ensure a better experience moving forward and that we uphold our high standards. We hope to welcome you back in the future to change your perceptions. Sincerely, Luda Gokas
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C
Christy
Washington, D.C. Area1 review
5.0
Dined on July 13, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We were there to celebrate a birthday and the whole team made it so special for us! Great ambiance and amazing food — can’t wait to get back!
1799 at The CliftonResponded on July 16, 2025
Dear Christy, Thank you so much for celebrating such a special occasion with us. We're thrilled to hear our team helped make your birthday memorable. It means a lot to know you enjoyed the ambiance and loved the food. It was truly our pleasure having you here, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon. Sincerely, Luda Gokas
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L
Lisa
Washington, D.C. Area3 reviews
3.0
Dined on July 9, 2025
1. Overall 3
2. Food 3
3. Service 3
4. Ambience 4
The enclosed veranda setting is lovely and peaceful. The food is uninspired and rather overpriced.
1799 at The CliftonResponded on July 12, 2025
Dear Lisa, Thank you for sharing your impressions. We're pleased to hear the enclosed veranda provided a serene and inviting setting; however, we regret that our cuisine did not meet your expectations. Your observations regarding both the quality and value of the offerings have been noted and will be shared with our culinary leadership for careful review. We hope to have the opportunity to deliver a more memorable dining experience on your next visit. Sincerely, Erin Scala
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N
Nicole
Virginia2 reviews
5.0
Dined on July 4, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Everyone was extremely friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal and time spent at 1799. It’s pricey but worth it!
1799 at The CliftonResponded on July 7, 2025
Dear Nicole, We're delighted you enjoyed a delicious and personable meal with us at 1799 Restaurant at The Clifton, and we truly appreciate your review. We look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable dining experience. Sincerely, Erin Scala
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n
nancy VIP
Washington, D.C. Area65 reviews
5.0
Dined on July 3, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The cheese platter and salad was very generous. Shrimp and grits were delicious!Lovely atmosphere and attentive service. Look forward to coming back.
1799 at The CliftonResponded on July 7, 2025
Dear Nancy, Thank you for the kind words and five-star rating! We're so glad you enjoyed our generous portions along with the warm atmosphere and our team's attentive service. We look forward to welcoming you back to 1799 Restaurant at The Clifton again soon! Sincerely, Erin Scala
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FAQs

1799 at The Clifton offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (434) 971-1800.

1799 at The Clifton is rated 4.6 stars by 803 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

Jul 29, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 7 times today

1296 Clifton Inn Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22911

Dining areas

Additional information

Cross street
North Milton Rd.
Neighborhood
Charlottesville
Hours of operation
Brunch Sun 11:30 am–2:00 pm Lunch Mon–Sat 11:30 am–2:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:30 pm–8:00 pm
Price
$50 and over
Cuisines
Farm-to-table, Contemporary French / American, Contemporary American
Dining style
Fine Dining
Dress code
Smart Casual
Parking details
Complimentary parking for diners.
Public transit
N/A
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Matthew Bousquet
Entertainment
Entertainment only available for special occasions and events.
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Outdoor Smoking Area, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.the-clifton.com/
Phone number
(434) 971-1800
Private party facilities
Whether you’re hosting a small private dinner, a large event for up to 350 guests, The Clifton’s sprawling 100-acre estate offers an array of atmospheric settings for a function.

Featured in

50 Virginia Restaurants to Connect In For Mother's Day

1799 at The Clifton

Make a reservation

About this restaurant

Dining areas

Additional information

50 Virginia Restaurants to Connect In For Mother's Day

Small Plates

Split Pea Soup$14.00

Shrimp & Grits$23.00

Pear & Arugula Salad$16.00

Croque Madam $16.00

Smoked Salmon Flatbread$19.00

Virginia Peanut Mousse$14.00

Bone Marrow & Escargot$22.00

Chili Marinated Tuna$24.00

Entrees

Turnip Schnitzel & Warm Tuscan Kale$27.00

Carrot & Pea Pappardelle$23.00

Pancetta Wrapped Trout$32.00

Crispy Skinned Wild King Salmon$37.00

Steak Au Poivre$39.00

Beef Bourguignon$29.00

Kunz Short Rib$38.00

Beef Burger$19.00

Sides

Grits$9.00

Mashed Potatoes$9.00

Papas Bravas$9.00

Brussel Sprouts$9.00

Dessert

Rhum Savarin$12.00

Chocolate Lava Cake$12.00

Canale de Bordeaux$12.00

Cheese Plate$16.00

Cocktails

The 1799$18.00

Pomegranate Martini$18.00

The Copper$18.00

A Trace Old Fashioned$22.00

Maple Walnut Manhattan$20.00

Charlottesville Sour$18.00

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Review summary

FAQs

Does 1799 at The Clifton offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is 1799 at The Clifton restaurant rated?

Is 1799 at The Clifton currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Dining areas

Additional information

Featured in

50 Virginia Restaurants to Connect In For Mother's Day