5 Best Things to Order at Citizen Burger Bar in Charlottesville
Citizen Burger Bar is a popular stop on Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall, especially for anyone craving a classic burger with a local touch. The restaurant focuses on grass-finished beef and locally sourced ingredients, creating a menu that feels simple, fresh, and full of flavor.
The Signature Burger
1. The Citizen Burger
The signature Citizen Burger is a natural place to start. It combines Timbercreek beef with McClure Swiss cheese, black onion, garlic aioli, iceberg lettuce, tomato, and a fried pickle on a brioche bun. The creamy aioli, tangy pickle, and rich beef create a balanced bite with plenty of texture.
2. Wild Mushroom & Swiss Burger
For mushroom lovers, the Wild Mushroom & Swiss Burger brings together grass-fed beef, Swiss cheese, wild mushrooms, black onion, Citizen sauce, lettuce, and tomato. The mushrooms add an earthy flavor, while the melted Swiss gives the burger a rich and savory finish.
3. The Executive Burger
The Executive Burger takes a more indulgent approach. It features grass-fed beef, pit-smoked pork belly, Swiss cheese, black onion, a fried farm egg, garlic aioli, and truffled brioche. The combination of smoky pork belly, creamy egg, and truffle creates a rich burger that feels especially satisfying.
4. Crispy Fried Pickles
A burger meal would not be complete without a good side, and Citizen's crispy fried pickles are a fun choice. The beer-battered pickle spears offer a crisp outside and tangy center, while sriracha mayo adds a little heat.
5. Hand-Cut Citizen Fries
The hand-cut fries are another simple favorite. Citizen makes its fries in-house, giving them a fresh texture that pairs naturally with the restaurant's burgers. They are a classic side for a casual meal on the Downtown Mall.
A Local Favorite on the Downtown Mall
Citizen Burger Bar brings together local ingredients, straightforward cooking, and a relaxed downtown setting. For visitors exploring Charlottesville, it is an easy place to add to a Downtown Mall food stop, especially for those looking for a burger made with Central Virginia ingredients.

