The tiny White Spot Restaurant at the UVA Corner in Charlottesville, Virginia is amazing. Delicious food is prepared there and served, all in a very narrow room. On one side is a counter with stools facing a long wall mirror. On the other side of the room the counter is just a little farther from the wall, leaving enough space for the “galley kitchen.” There, right before your very eyes, the cook prepares such treats as the Motor Burger.
Part of my family and I were there recently and son Jonathan ordered the just-mentioned burger. I did not think to ask why this double-cheese, double-hamburger-pattie, fried-egg, slice-of-ham stack, served with choice of lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and mayo is called a Motor Burger, but Jonathan called it “good!”
Sarah ordered the Gus Burger (one hamburger pattie, cheese, and a fried egg). “One of the three best burgers I've had in my adult life,” she stated.
Henry and I ordered a Gyro and a Chicken Souvlaki, and split halfsies. The Chicken Souvlaki is outstanding! Tender chunks of chicken breast, hot off the griddle; lettuce, tomato, onion, and feta cheese on a pita add up to a great sandwich. The Gyro (with pre-sliced beef/lamb meat) was satisfactory, but “nothing to write home about.” We asked for the Souvlaki sauce “on the side” of both Greek sandwiches.
The cook and his helper were fast, efficient, and agreeable. Our meals cost an average of $5.00 each.
The White Spot's Gus Burger
This surprising little restaurant, which has been in operation for over 50 years, also serves breakfasts, lots of other kinds of sandwiches, soup, salads, and desserts. (The lemon pie looked especially tempting.)
The name “White Spot” comes from the fact that long ago the space housed a barber shop. When the barber chair was removed, it left an untiled spot. White paint was applied — hence the restaurant's name.
The White Spot's street address is 1407 University Ave (telephone 434-295-9899). The eatery is open from 8 a.m. until late. — Don't miss this unique Charlottesville tradition!
Irresistible Chicken Souvlaki.
The awesome Motor Burger.
The White Spot's busy griddle.
Copyright © 2005 Patricia B. Mitchell.