Siren
by Charlottesville29
247 Ridge McIntire Road . Charlottesville, VA . (434) 296-3185
https://sirencville.com/
Why Siren?
Perhaps Charlottesville’s most renowned chef, Laura Fonner has dominated Food Network game shows, won awards for best chef in Charlottesville, and earned praise for her philanthropy. And yet, until Siren opened in 2021, the longtime chef of Duner’s and fixture of the Charlottesville food community had never had a restaurant of her own.
With Siren, she draws on both her passion for seafood and her Mediterranean roots. The result is unlike anything else in town. Zaatar, tzatziki, Shawarma spice, Aleppo pepper, Calabrian chili, and other Mediterranean ingredients spice up a menu heavy on creatures of the sea. And, true to the restaurant’s name, its décor has a feminine touch, designed by Fonner herself, with help from her mother and friends. Part woman, part fish, Siren’s allure commands a spot on The Charlottesville 29.
What to Order
Siren’s menu changes with the season and Fonner’s inspiration, so don’t get too wedded to a single dish. For example, her famous dumplings are only sometimes available, but if they are when you visit, don’t hesitate. With that said, below are our favorites.
Our Picks
- Golden Beets
- Calamari
- Dumplings
- Seared Sea Scallops
- Vanilla Labneh
