Photo credit: Riley Goodman, Birdie's The Evergreen
Richmond, it's time to trade in your pumpkin spice for peppermint and immerse yourself in the holly-jolly vibes sweeping the city. This season, RVA's local scene is serving up more than just festive cheer—it's gifting us pop-ups and seasonal hotspots packed with creative cocktails, twinkling décor, and cozy menus that'll have you singing "fa-la-la-la-food!" From holiday-themed bars to culinary winter escapes, we've curated the best spots to make your season merry and bright.
Beaucoup, Robinson Street's newest oyster bar, is decking the halls with its Noël pop-up, running through New Year’s Day. This festive transformation turns the space into a Parisian-inspired winter wonderland, complete with holiday-themed cocktails, nightly specials, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for celebrating the season.
Start with a shareable snack like the Frites served with garlic aioli, a simple yet irresistible treat. For a heartier option, indulge in the Beef Bourguignon, a rich, slow-cooked classic that brings a taste of French comfort food to your holiday table. Pair your meal with cocktails like the festive Oh Snap! featuring gin, pineapple, and ginger, and let the seasonal cheer take over. With reservations already filling up, Noël at Beaucoup promises an unforgettable holiday experience.
111 N Robinson St, Richmond
beaucoup-rva.com
If holiday cheer had a home, it would be The Evergreen, Richmond’s iconic Christmas pop-up bar at Birdie’s. Through January 4, this Arts District hotspot dazzles with over-the-top décor, twinkling lights, and a lineup of creative cocktails that’ll make your spirits bright. Sip on the Uncatchable Gingerbread Man, a decadent blend of vodka, Kahlúa, gingerbread syrup, and espresso—it’s like dessert in a glass with a festive twist. Or try the Five Golden Rings, a warming combination of bourbon, fig, honey, lemon, and five spice, perfect for cozying up on a cold night.
Pair your drink with Birdie’s hits, like the Braised Beef Short Ribs or Coconut Rice Pudding, for a perfectly cozy night. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome (especially Mondays), and the fully decorated Wine Cellar is available for groups of 5–8. The Evergreen is your ticket to an unforgettable, holly-jolly night out.
305 W Broad St, Richmond
birdiesva.com
Stepping into The Jefferson Hotel during the holidays is like entering a fairytale. This Richmond icon transforms into a glittering display of poinsettias, twinkling lights, and oversized ornaments, creating a magical atmosphere that runs through January 5. The highlight? A breathtaking 30-foot Rotunda Christmas tree adorned with hundreds of ornaments, bows, and thousands of sparkling lights. The decorations extend throughout the hotel, with garland-lined staircases, smaller themed trees, and even a surprise gingerbread display that fills the air with the scent of fresh-baked nostalgia.
For an extra indulgence, visit Lemaire for a holiday-inspired meal or sip on festive cocktails at TJ’s while soaking in the dazzling décor. Whether you’re capturing memories by the tree or marveling at the opulence of it all, The Jefferson is the perfect spot for a dose of holiday elegance.
101 W Franklin St, Richmond
jeffersonhotel.com
Step into a 1920s-inspired Alpine chalet this holiday season at WinterFreuden Apres Ski Chalet, the cozy seasonal transformation of Hotel Greene. This unique pop-up blends old-world charm with a playful, festive atmosphere, offering mini-golf, drinks, and German-inspired holiday magic. With its ornate decor—crafted by local set designers and featuring German expressionist touches—every corner of the 7,000-square-foot space feels like a scene from a Wes Anderson film.
The cocktail menu is just as immersive, featuring German Glühwein, creamy boozy hot chocolate, and dangerously smooth house-aged eggnog. Pair these with festive bites as you enjoy live music on select dates or sip your drink while navigating the indoor golf course. With no reservations required, this walk-in-only spot is perfect for spontaneous holiday fun.
508 E. Franklin St, Richmond
hotelgreene.com
This December, JewFro, known for its fusion of Jewish and African culinary traditions, transforms into a festive wonderland for its Jingle Belle celebration. With holiday cheer and creative dishes, it’s a dining experience full of warmth and flavor.
Start with appetizers like Oysters Jingle Bell Rock with challah breadcrumbs and creamy spinach or the Latke “Tostada” with house-made gravlax. Dive into entrées like the Duck Tamale with persimmon-pomegranate salsa or A Jewish/Mexican Christmas, featuring roast duck Peking style and cumin pickled carrots. For dessert, indulge in the Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie "Twix" or enjoy the fun of building your own gingerbread house.
Pair your meal with festive cocktails like the Cranberry Ginger Spritz or cozy Spiked Hot Chocolate. With its vibrant flavors and festive atmosphere, JewFro’s Jingle Belle is a holiday experience you won’t forget.
1721 E Franklin St, Richmond
jewfrorestaurant.com
Carytown’s beloved bar, The Jasper, is back with its Miracle on Cary pop-up, spreading holiday cheer through New Year’s Eve. This festive transformation offers a dazzling atmosphere with twinkling lights, holiday-themed décor, and a stellar lineup of seasonal cocktails and snacks.
Sip on the Christmapolitan, a festive twist on the classic with vodka, elderflower, spiced cranberry sauce, and a rosemary garnish, or the Snowball Old-Fashioned, featuring rye whiskey, gingerbread, and aromatic bitters. For something rich and indulgent, try the Stocking Stuffer, a bourbon-based iced hot chocolate topped with a marshmallow. Each drink is served with the whimsy and care you’d expect from this beloved holiday pop-up.
With first-come, first-served seating, Miracle on Cary is the perfect spot for a spontaneous night of festive fun and seasonal sips.
3113 W Cary St, Richmond
jasperbarrva.com
Step into Helen’s this holiday season and experience a Richmond tradition that blends Southern charm with a touch of the paranormal. Originally a 1912 pharmacy turned juke joint, Helen’s has transformed into a cozy, festive escape with over-the-top holiday decorations that nod to its historic roots. The spirit of Helen Donati, the namesake and original owner, is said to linger, ensuring the magic—and maybe the swing music—never stops.
Dinner service runs from 5:30 to 9 PM (reservations highly recommended), but the 4-5:30 PM window is perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail. Sip on something festive before indulging in their Southern-inspired plates, like Shrimp & Grits with cheddar-gouda grits or the Moroccan Spiced Braised Pork with green lentils and sweet collard greens. For dessert, the Vanilla Crème Brûlée is a must-try. Whether you’re here for the holiday spirit, the history, or a hint of ghostly charm, Helen’s delivers an unforgettable experience.
2527 W Main St, Richmond
helensrva.com
Santa’s Cocktail Shop at Cirrus Vodka is the ultimate holiday destination for cocktail lovers. This seasonal pop-up, running through January 1, transforms Cirrus Vodka’s tasting room into a whimsical winter wonderland, brimming with festive vibes and creative cocktails that are sure to make your holidays merry and bright.
This year’s lineup of signature sips includes the indulgent It’s a Wonderful Chai, a dreamy blend of chai vodka, house-made chai tea, and your choice of almond or whole milk, topped with nutmeg. For a sweeter twist, try the Cozy by the Campfire, featuring marshmallow vodka, chocolate liqueur, and Kahlúa, finished with a graham cracker rim. If something refreshing is more your speed, the Cran-Rosemary Mule combines Cirrus vodka with rosemary and grapefruit flavors for a tangy, herbaceous delight. With no reservations required, Santa’s Cocktail Shop invites you to simply swing by, soak in the festive décor, and toast the season in style.
1603 Ownby Ln, Richmond
cirrusvodka.com
