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Who We Are

Our Roots

In the year 1975, after wrapping up his successful career in professional baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Charley Sands decided to venture into the culinary world by opening a chain of restaurants that he named Charley's. This ambitious project aimed to establish locations in various cities across Virginia and North Carolina. The very first restaurant in this chain opened its doors to the public in Charlottesville, Virginia, marking the beginning of what would become a beloved dining experience in the region. Following this initial success, the second Charley's restaurant made its debut in Lynchburg on September 24, 1980, conveniently located within the River Ridge Mall.

In a significant expansion of our services, we established our catering department in 2001. This department was created to offer full-service off-site catering for a diverse array of events, which include meetings, anniversaries, weddings, and birthday celebrations. Our catering menus are thoughtfully crafted to encompass not only Charley's most popular and cherished favorites but also an assortment of creative and innovative new entrées designed to delight and satisfy a variety of palates.

Today, the Lynchburg Charley's has grown and evolved into an independent restaurant. It is now proudly owned and operated by Rob and MJ Pearson, who are dedicated to upholding the high standards of quality and service that Charley Sands envisioned when he first embarked on this culinary journey. Their commitment to excellence continues to ensure that every dining experience at Charley's is memorable and enjoyable.

At Charley's Restaurant & Catering, we take immense pride in shining a spotlight on the exceptional service provided by our passionate and dedicated team members, each of whom works relentlessly to craft an unparalleled culinary experience designed specifically for our esteemed guests. Every member of our team brings their own unique skills and unwavering commitment to excellence, ensuring that your visit to Charley's is nothing short of remarkable. Our extensive menu features a delightful selection of dishes that seamlessly blend time-honored, traditional flavors with innovative, contemporary culinary techniques. The result is a thoughtfully curated assortment of entrées, each one carefully designed to surprise and satisfy your palate. We take great care to source the finest ingredients, paying homage to our storied culinary heritage while also embracing the latest food trends, creating a fusion that is both exciting and comforting.

In addition to our remarkable food offerings, we are deeply committed to creating a relaxed, welcoming environment that makes every single patron feel like they are part of our family. From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll be enveloped in an ambiance of warmth and hospitality that puts you completely at ease. Whether you choose to enjoy your meal in our vibrant, lively bar area, savor the fresh air and picturesque surroundings of our charming patio, or celebrate a special occasion with loved ones in our intimate private event room, we make it our mission to ensure that your experience with us is not only pleasurable but truly unforgettable. Every detail of our space, from the lighting to the décor, is designed with your comfort in mind, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the moment.

We are wholeheartedly devoted to maintaining the highest standards of quality in every aspect of our restaurant, from the food to the service to the overall dining experience. Our warm and friendly staff is always on hand, eager to assist and ensure that your visit exceeds all expectations. Whether you are here for a casual meal, a special celebration, or an important business event, we strive to make each visit a memorable occasion. With a passion for excellence, we invite you to join us and indulge in an experience that will not only satisfy your appetite but also delight your senses. We look forward to welcoming you into our restaurant, where lasting memories are made and every visit is a unique and cherished experience.

©2024 Charley's Restaurant & Catering​ ~ Locally Owned American Cuisine

~ blog

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