What Makes it Special
Every family has that one night when nobody can agree. One kid wants pizza, the other wants noodles, you want something with vegetables in it, and the toddler wants ice cream and nothing else. Dairy Market is the answer to that night. Fourteen locally owned merchants share one big room in the restored 1937 Monticello Dairy building, so everyone orders what they actually want, and you all still sit at the same table.
Why Families Love It
The variety is the headline, and there really is something for everyone. Dino’s serves up wood-fired pizza, Maizal brings Latin-inspired favorites like tacos and arepas, Mashu Festival offers ramen and poke, and Currylicious specializes in Indian and Nepali dishes, including momo dumplings. Sizzle Shack has burgers, sandwiches and loaded fries, while Juke’s Kitchen serves up sandwiches, soups and pasta dishes. And no family visit is complete without a stop at Moo Thru for Virginia made ice cream. Need a morning pick-me-up? Kafe Mont Bleu is now serving coffee, pastries, breakfast and more from its bright corner of the Market.
For parents of younger kids, the Kids Corner is a major bonus. The play space is stocked with toys and books, giving little ones a place to stay busy while parents finish their coffee or meal. Add plenty of communal seating and free parking, and Dairy Market makes a family outing refreshingly easy.
There’s plenty to keep older kids and adults entertained too. SunPins offers duckpin bowling, darts, games and its own food and drinks. Starr Hill anchors the Market with its taproom and frequently hosts live music and special events. Relay Active offers yoga and fitness classes, including popular kitten sessions, while Quattro Tizi brings boutique shopping to the mix.
The Market also hosts year-round events and weekly programming, from movie nights and trivia to Crafternoons, Mahjong, live music, seasonal celebrations and UVA-focused events. There’s almost always another reason to come back.
One local favorite: CharlottesvilleFamily’s own Moms Lit Society meets quarterly at Starr Hill inside Dairy Market, offering local moms an easy way to connect over books, conversation and a night out.
What to Expect
Pull into the free lot on Grady Avenue, head inside and take a lap before deciding what sounds good. The Market’s open layout has merchants around the perimeter with communal seating throughout, making it easy for everyone in the family to order from a different spot and meet back at the table.
Hours vary by merchant, so if your family has its heart set on something specific, check Dairy Market’s website before heading over. Highchairs and restrooms are available, the Kids Corner is easy to find, and outdoor seating offers another option on nice days.
Planning a celebration? Birthday parties, group outings and private events are available, and the 6,000-square-foot Brick Cellar provides a unique space for larger gatherings.
