Explore All The Hidden Gems In Richmond, VA
Credit: Courtesy of Visit Richmond
Richmond, Virginia might be the culinary world’s best kept secret right now, but to me, it’s home. Known for its creative food scene, trendy bars, and bustling art community, I’ve watched this city grow into a seriously desirable destination. From the talented Chef Brittanny Anderson showcasing her talents in a variety of different venues to vintage furniture hunting that might inspire a road trip, I’ll take you through all the can’t miss spots in my hometown.
A Hotel For Every Vibe
Credit: Courtesy of The Quirk Hotel
Richmond lives in two worlds, old school luxury and artistic elegance. To embrace a historical vibe, treat yourself to a few nights at The Jefferson Hotel where, in the early 1900s, baby alligators once swam in the front fountain and the dramatic red velvet staircase was rumored to have inspired the set of Gone With The Wind. Today, the hotel retains all the beauty of decades past with jaw dropping suites and endless amenities. ProTip: Don’t sleep on Sunday Champagne Brunch.
If you're looking for a more artistic take in this creative city, try the Quirk Hotel. Each room features a loft-like vibe with original artwork from local artists. Get the best view of the city from the killer rooftop bar.
Brenner Pass
I always treat myself to at least one amazing dinner while I’m away and Brenner Pass was definitely the right choice. Award Winning Chef Brittanny Anderson has created a truly special dining experience blending Alpine cuisine with traditional European flavors. The showstoppers for me were the Cacio e Pepe Roast Oysters, Beef Tartare, and the Duck entree. Ask your server for the perfect wine pairing to round out an incredible experience. After dinner, check out Black Lodge for an elevated take on your favorite dive bar.
Can’t miss restaurants
Credit: Hannah Huber
Lost Letter: This classic Italian trattoria is serving up fresh pasta and delicious traditional flavors.
Perly’s: If you only go to one place in Richmond, let it be Perly’s. This Jewish deli is serving up dishes that might give your bubbie some competition. I’m convinced that the matzo ball soup could cure anything.
Stella’s: Richmond has a bustling Greek community and Stella’s is the star restaurant of Grecian cuisine in the area. Be sure to visit Stella’s grocery to grab a bottle of their famous olive oil to take home.
Grisette: Traditional French dishes are expertly executed in this intimate restaurant in the Church Hill neighborhood.
Sub Rosa: Your neighborhood bakery but so much better. From artisanal breads to buttery pastries, Sub Rosa is where to start your morning in RVA.
Credit: Hannah Huber
Bar scene
The Jasper: The vibe at The Jasper is speakeasy chic with spirit forward cocktails to match. Try to score a couch in the back to feel like a VIP.
Emerald Lounge: Give us a tiki bar all day. Dreamy 70s boho decor sets the scene for their tropical drink menu.
Jardin: This is your pre-dinner stop for a classic French charcuterie plate and a beautiful glass of wine. Bring your nightcap back to your hotel when you purchase a bottle from their extensively curated selection.
Top notch breweries
The brewery scene in Richmond is among the best in the country. Beer lovers come from all over just to get a taste of the latest releases. Start at The Veil Brewing Co. and don’t sleep on their Japanese inspired restaurant, Nokoribi. Save room for tastings at Stone Brewing, Ardent Craft Ales, Hardywood Brewery, and Triple Crossing Brewing to start. The Scott’s Addition neighborhood of Richmond is a great place to wander around and hop from brewery to brewery.
Credit: Hannah Huber
Bring an extra suitcase (or a trailer)
Little known fact – Richmond is a great place to shop for vintage furniture. If MCM is your thing, you’ll feel like you’ve struck gold. At Two Rabbits Vintage you’ll find a slew of vintage pieces in near perfect condition. Class and Trash RVA is for the hunter. Housed in a giant warehouse, you’ll want to spend a few hours going through these treasures. Small but mighty, Boho To Go is definitely worth a stop. From scalloped velvet couches to rare oil paintings, you’re not going home without snagging a gem.
Support local
From musicians to muralists, RVA is bursting with creative talent. Make sure to support local and pick up something special to take home. Check out Haywire Honey, a local artist serving up unique designs on mediums ranging from prints to shipping containers. Looking for something specific? A walk through the Carytown neighborhood is the perfect venue for discovering new artists.
Getting there & getting around
Planes, trains, and automobiles are all easy ways to arrive in Virginia’s capital city. If flying, Richmond International Airport is your hub. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, take the Amtrak into the historic Main Street Station to arrive in the heart of the city. Down for a road trip? I-95 takes you where you need to go.
Accessibility & Dietary
Richmond is an old city and with an old city comes cobblestone streets. If you are using a wheelchair or any sort of movement assistance, consider renting a car instead of exploring the city by foot. This city is pretty spread out, so you’ll want to plan transportation to explore different neighborhoods. Uber and Lyft are both readily available. There are a lot of accessible bus and van tours that can take you all over the city without any hassle. As far as dietary restrictions, there is something for everyone in Richmond!
