Part of West Main proclaimed as “Mel’s Walk”

For many years, Eugene “Mel” Walker operated a restaurant at 719 West Main Street that was known as an important part of the Charlottesville community. Now the stretch of roadway along that block has been designated in honor of both his life and his establishment.

“This is a way that for future generations that won’t know, but it will be a visible marker for people to know about Mel’s,” said Charlottesville Mayor Juandiego Wade.

Walker died on May 28, 2024.

Charles “Alex-Zan” Alexander, one of the Charlottesville 12, filed an application for an honorary street designation.

“Last May I was approached by Mel’s mom about doing something in his honor,” Alexander said.

City Councilor Natalie Oschrin read from a resolution.

“Mel’s Cafe was an essential community gathering spot and institution, playing host to all people of the community from residents, students, politicians and unhoused community members,” Oschrin said.

“Mel’s Cafe served as the unofficial center of the historically black Star Hill neighborhood, as it was the only black owned restaurant on West Main street,” she continued.

“Mr. Walker was a member of the First Baptist Church and was known for offering a free meal to those in need that the church sent over,” Oschrin said. “Walker spent much of his life nurturing and nourishing family, friends and community with not only his homemade sweet potato fries and fried chicken, but also his infectious love of life.”

Wade said he had dinner at Mel’s shortly before Walker’s death.

“He pulled me aside and said, ‘Mayor Wade, I would like to talk with you about something, some ideas that I have, and I’ll get with you later,’” Wade said. “And, you know, I mentioned this at the funeral, that I never had the opportunity to have that conversation. We talked about, you know, you would never promise tomorrow, and so you have to live fully today.”

A restaurant called Diilishus Fish & Chik’n now operates at the site.

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