I spent my summer gallivanting around Europe, and one of the things I found myself missing most when I got back to the United States was a sandwich dripping in fresh mozzarella and arugula on fresh baked schiacciata.
I was finally able to satiate my cravings with the authentic eats at Ciaccia. In nearby Belmont, a taste of Central Italy has ventured into Charlottesville. This adorable counterpart to the bakery Belle has the same owners creating authentic Roman-style flatbreads and Tuscan-style schiacciata sandwiches. With fresh ingredients and knowledgeable staff, Ciaccia is my new corner of Italy to escape in.
The expansion of Belle — an extremely popular french bakery where Ciaccia resides — into lunch has been wildly successful. The restaurant is built into the bakery, with the order counter in the front surrounded by the kitchen. The aroma of doughnuts wafts in as you order your food and is surrounded by sunny yellow tables and chairs for diners to enjoy their lunch…