Baja, No Humbug
at Charlottesville Eatery

Baja Bean Co., Charlottesville, Virginia

By Patricia B. Mitchell, 2006.


Baja Bean Company

Baja Bean Company, Charlottesville.

Our daughter Sarah recently had lunch at the Baja Bean Co. at 1327 West Main Street on the Corner in Charlottesville. She filled out one of our restaurant profile sheets and took notes so that I could write this little report.

The restaurant's interior is like a dark, old-fashioned bar with booths, stools, and tables. There is a hint of Mexican decor and a big-screen TV. The service was pleasant, and prompt once her order was placed. Warm, not-too-salty corn chips and salsa were brought to the table soon after she sat down. The freshly-made salsa was medium-hot and a little watery.

Sarah ordered a grilled vegetable quesadilla (a large flour tortilla) containing very fresh cauliflower, zucchini, yellow squash, carrots, broccoli, and cheddar cheese. It came with lettuce and tomato on the side. The tomato tasted a bit odd. (Perhaps it had been marinated in lime juice?) Beware of the question, “Do you want sour cream and guacamole?” There is an extra charge for these items.

She drank ginger ale (with free refills). Her bill, not including tip (or sour cream and guacamole), was $5.84.

At the Baja Bean Co. one can get a quick, sit-down lunch for a reasonable Charlottesville price. (The “Restaurante y Cantina” — see their website — is located near the University, in an area where rents are sky-high.)

One can select from a fairly large menu, and many adult beverages are available. Sarah speculated that the place really gets hopping at night.