Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Charlottesville food expert and Charlottesville 29 creator Simon Davidson joined Cville Right Now Live to share both bittersweet and exciting updates from the city’s dining scene. Davidson confirmed the recent closure of two beloved sandwich shops, Little John’s and Chickadee. “A group of owners revived it last year, and it only lasted about a year, so it’s too bad. It’s a tough environment right now,” Davidson said of Little John’s, noting the challenges facing the restaurant industry post-pandemic. Chickadee, known for its chef-driven sandwiches, also shut its doors, though the space may soon transition into a grocery-style market.
But it’s not all bad news for sandwich lovers. Davidson shared that a new spot, the Maple Tree Cafe, has opened at 920 9 1/2 St NE, and it’s already turning heads. It marks the return of Lauren McRaven Hockaday, the beloved former owner of The Flat, a cozy crepe stand with a loyal following. “She’s back now… making sandwiches, really good sandwiches,” Davidson said. And for fans of her famous crepes, keep your eyes on Instagram—she’s been doing occasional pop-up events that are getting plenty of attention…