I just returned from a summer trip across Europe, and one thing I truly missed was a sandwich filled with fresh mozzarella and arugula on warm schiacciata. Thankfully, I discovered Ciaccia in Belmont, a delightful spot that brings a taste of Central Italy to Charlottesville.
Ciaccia is an extension of Belle, a well-loved French bakery known for its pastries. This cozy eatery specializes in Roman-style flatbreads and Tuscan-style schiacciata sandwiches. With fresh ingredients and an inviting atmosphere, it’s like stepping into a piece of Italy.
Ciaccia is located at 407 Monticello Road, just a short drive from the heart of the city—perfect for a quick lunch between classes. There’s a small parking lot that uses ParkMobile, which had plenty of space when I visited.
They are open limited hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday. You can order at the counter or ahead of time, and there’s seating available outside—although no indoor space.
On a recent Wednesday, my friend and I enjoyed a leisurely lunch without any wait. The staff was friendly and eager to help us navigate the menu. All sandwiches are priced at $12, which might seem a bit high for the simple ingredients, but the flavors make it worthwhile. You can also get pizza by weight, allowing you to choose exactly how much you want.
I ordered the Bionda sandwich, packed full of bright flavors between two crunchy pieces of schiacciata. The creamy burrata cheese blended beautifully with the sharp arugula and tangy pepperoncini. The freshness of the prosciutto and crispy cipollini brought the whole dish together. Each bite was a delicious reminder of my time in Italy.
My friend opted for the vegetarian option, Le Fair. It featured the same delightful bread with melted burrata, fresh pesto, and juicy tomatoes. The pesto had a bright, lemony flavor, although a bit oily for my taste. The sandwich’s simplicity allowed the ingredients to shine, making it truly enjoyable.
We also shared a prosciutto pizza. This Roman-style pizza had no crust, making it perfect for those who prefer more toppings than bread. At about $4.81 per slice, it was a good deal for a generous portion. We paired our meal with Galvanina Italian Sodas—refreshing but maybe not necessary for the price.
As an Italian food lover just back from Europe, I can say Ciaccia exceeded my expectations. If you’re looking for a new lunch spot with authentic flavors, this charming café is a fantastic choice for a sunny day.
Interestingly, recent trends show that interest in authentic global cuisines is growing. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 50% of diners are seeking unique, authentic culinary experiences. Ciaccia’s offering aligns perfectly with this trend, proving that local eateries can provide flavors that transport you across the globe.
For more about authentic Italian food and various culinary experiences, you might want to check out resources like Eater and the James Beard Foundation.
