I didn't take any pictures, but I can summarize my experience. We reported several issues to the server, but unfortunately, nothing was done to address them. About a month ago, we visited a different Matchbox location, and this time, we were in Charlottesville looking for a late lunch around 3 PM on a Saturday. We ordered three entrées: fish and fries. Sadly, the fish was not cooked properly; it was still loose and moist underneath the breading, indicating it needed a few more minutes in the fryer.
For comparison, I have had perfectly cooked fish at the Matchbox location in Alexandria, VA. While packing our appetizers in a to-go box, I also found a long blonde hair mixed in with the chips and spinach artichoke dip. We brought all these issues to the server's attention, but they never offered to make things right.
I generally avoid causing scenes in restaurants, so I decided to share my experience on Google instead. Ultimately, it is the management's responsibility to ensure their employees are adequately trained, and when this is done, it reflects positively on the service. It is better to get things right from the beginning than to wait for a complaint. I could see the capability of the staff; there was a large party nearby, and what appeared to be the manager checked if the noise was too much and asked if we wanted to be seated at a different table or outside. We were fine where we were and declined the offer.
Lastly, the Fire and Ice Mojito drinks were subpar; they lacked proper muddling to bring out the mint flavor, and it seemed like they missed any resemblance of alcohol in the drink. I always aim to provide an honest review, which is...
Read moreMatchbox in Charlottesville is a dining experience you don’t want to miss. This spot has quickly become one of our favorites, and it's easy to see why. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for a memorable meal. The interior is stylish yet comfortable, making it a great place to relax with friends or family.
The food at Matchbox is nothing short of spectacular. Their menu offers a wide variety of options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The wood-fired pizzas are a standout, with a perfect balance of crispy crust and delicious toppings. If you're a burger lover, you have to try their signature burgers, which are juicy and packed with flavor. Their appetizers and salads are also top-notch, with fresh ingredients and creative combinations.
What truly sets Matchbox apart is its convenient location. Situated just a short walk from the local movie theater, it’s the ideal spot to grab a bite before or after catching a film. This proximity adds a layer of convenience that makes it an excellent choice for a complete evening out.
The service at Matchbox deserves special mention. The staff are always friendly, attentive, and eager to ensure you have a great dining experience. They’re knowledgeable about the menu and happy to offer recommendations if you’re undecided.
In summary, Matchbox Charlottesville combines great food, a convenient location, and outstanding service to create a dining experience that is both enjoyable and memorable. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this place is a must-visit. Highly...
Read moreStopped in for the first time tonight--I was really looking forward to trying out Matchbox, But we were pretty disappointed. My Dad and I got burgers, my husband the Margherita pizza- we all got Cesar salads. We were very surprised when the entire order arrived at our tiny table at once, leaving us with our food stacked in a precarious manner. The salads were little more than romaine, dressing and little unseasoned toasts. No pizzazz there. Our burgers were just okay-- two very well cooked patties and american cheese, though they had a nice grilled/smokey flavor that I enjoyed. The French fries on the side were probably the best part of my meal. The biggest disappointment, however, had to be the pizza. They really must get braver with their pizza oven, if that is indeed how it was cooked! Entirely under done, the dough was pale and gummy, with no sign of a good "wood fired" char. There was twice as much sauce as needed, pooling on the top, that came spilling down your arm as you lifted a piece, and the little slices of mozzarella had barely melted--you could actually see the layers of raw cheese when you bit into it. They were generous with the fresh basil, however. The restaurant was very busy this evening, but our server was pleasant and timely , checking on us now and then. It is an extremely noisy, echoing place, hard for conversations-- no fault of the owners, just the nature of big rooms full of people. Though there's room for improvement, my hope is that Matchbox will smooth out any "new place" rough spots over time. We may try it...
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