Serious Eats - seriouseats.com

Anything that my mom or my husband makes. Or for that matter, if they made it together, I could eat with them and be a happy woman. From mom: her stewed kabocha, stuffed cabbage and oden. From my husband: his thai curries or grilled cheese sandwiches.

(I like iluvbacon's post.)

I went to school and worked in C'ville for a bit. Greenberry's for coffee is a local favorite (and their tea selection is impressive too). I agree with others about Continental Divide, Bodo's, Albemarle Baking, Bashir's and definitely a gusburger at White Spot. I recall a Blue Moon Diner close to the Downtown Mall which had good ole fashioned delicious dishes. And if you like BBQ, go to Big Jim's BBQ on route 29. It's unabashed, Nascar-loving, Virginia BBQ. Not sure if it's changed since last time I was in C'ville was about 7 years ago. But you can't go wrong if you stay in the Downtown Mall and have limited time.

Karashi - Japanese mustard. Super spicy but very good.

Good steaming bowl of Pho - Vietnamese beef noodle soup.
Great all year round.

Outdoor space. Living in Manhattan...grilling is just not possible. Which is why we're moving off the island and getting a place with a big terrace!