In an exciting turn of events, the iconic Mel's Cafe in Charlottesville's Starr Hill neighborhood will soon see a new establishment take its place.
Diilishus Fish & Chik'n
, a family-owned and -operated business, is set to open its doors at 719 W. Main St. this October, offering a variety of mouthwatering fried foods.
Bringing a Taste of the Midwest to Charlottesville
Co-owner Eric Goodwin, hailing from Kansas City, Missouri, brings a taste of the Midwest to Charlottesville with his new venture. While Diilishus will offer similar menu items as Mel's Cafe, such as fried chicken, burgers, and hotdogs, the cuisine is decidedly Midwestern in character. Goodwin draws inspiration from his two decades living in the heart of the Midwest, offering a unique culinary experience to the Charlottesville community.
A Fresh Take on Traditional Favorites
With a delicious array of menu items, including fried fish, chicken, and weekly specials like barbeque chicken, ribs, and pork chops, Diilishus promises to satisfy even the most discerning palates. The restaurant will also offer large quantities of fried fish or chicken for catering events, ensuring that customers can enjoy their favorite dishes on any occasion.
Innovative Offerings and Late-Night Service
In addition to its delectable menu, Diilishus will feature two soft serve ice cream machines, bridging the gap between dessert destinations in the area. Goodwin and his team plan to provide late-night service on Fridays and Saturdays through a walk-up window, catering to the hungry crowds looking for a savory treat when most eateries have closed their doors.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere
With plans to install televisions both inside and outside the restaurant, Goodwin aims to create a lively dining experience for his patrons. The outdoor seating area will feature a new sign with a green fish in a chef's uniform, paying homage to the past while embracing the future. Diilishus plans to open its doors from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, with additional late-night service on weekends.
As the Charlottesville community eagerly anticipates the opening of
Diilishus Fish & Chik'n
, Goodwin invites everyone to a special preview event to sample the flavors of Kansas City. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting addition to the local culinary scene.