Quite possibly the supreme realization of Jeffersonian ideology, Bodo’s is a veritable mecca for the bagel enthusiast, an oasis for those expatriates
who maybe once called New York City home. Founded in 1988, the franchise has three locations: near downtown Charlottesville on Preston Avenue, on the Corner near right across from UVA Grounds, and on Emmet Street. Open at 6:30 am during the week, Bodo’s is known for schlepping an incredible amount of coffee and bagels of all different varieties. They feature authentic, NY-style “water bagels,” which are boiled just before baking to make them moist and delicious. These bagels are made several times daily, completely from scratch. Despite the incredible taste and texture, Bodo’s does not use fats or preservatives. Their flour is always unbleached and unbromated, for health and taste reasons. Their wheat bagels will make you feel better about your choices, and they actually taste great. This quick, fast-casual restaurant boasts many offerings, from breakfast fare to cold cut sandwiches, soups, salads, and dinner omelettes. Grab a pastrami and onion bagel and some cold lemonade for lunch, or a bacon, egg and cheddar and a cup of joe if you’re racing off to work in the morning. Morning Bodo’s and coffee is almost synonymous with Charlottesville life. The bagels are $0.70 for any flavor: plain, sesame, poppy, onion, everything, garlic, salt, 100% whole wheat, everything (also available as whole wheat everything) and cinnamon-raisin. There is seriously some delicious meal for every time of day/year. And they pay their employees around or over $9 an hour, well above the state’s $7.25 minimum wage.
Favorite sandwiches: #1 Cinnamon-raisin bagel with butter and cinnamon sugar (under $2!) #2 Turkey, muenster, tomato and veggie cream cheese