Well, well, well, Richmond. Looks like you've been busy while we weren't looking. Our River City has sprouted some seriously cool new hangouts within this last year that are giving our old favorites a run for their money. From taco joints to workshops where you can build your dreams (literally), RVA's newest hotspots are redefining what it means to eat, drink, and be merry in our beloved city. Buckle up, folks—we're taking you on a whirlwind tour of Richmond's freshest faces that have been turning heads since they burst onto the scene.
In the heart of Midlothian, 1870 is serving up a slice of culinary history with a side of modern flair. Opened earlier this year, this French-inspired steakhouse is the latest brainchild of Chef David Dunlap, and it's quickly becoming the talk of the town.
Housed in a building that's been standing since—you guessed it—1870, the restaurant blends historical charm with cutting-edge cuisine. But the real story here is Dunlap himself. He isn't just any chef; Dunlap cut his teeth under Alain Ducasse, the culinary maestro who holds more Michelin stars than anyone else. From there, he honed his skills at the three-Michelin-starred Inn at Little Washington. It's safe to say the man knows his way around a kitchen.
The menu at 1870 is an ode to French cuisine, skillfully infused with a Virginia twist. Take the Lobster Bisque en Croute, for instance. It's the perfect rainy day comfort food, rich and velvety with a flaky puff pastry top that'll make you forget all about the weather outside. The Shrimp Cocktail appetizer, while classic in concept, gets a Dunlap twist with a delicious cocktail sauce that'll make you question why you ever settled for the bottled stuff.
But it's not all classical French fare. Let's not forget the steaks—dry-aged to perfection and served with a choice of sauces that'll have you wondering whether it's acceptable to lick the plate clean. And for those with a sweet tooth, the Blueberry Lavender Cheesecake is a must-try. It's a dessert that manages to be both familiar and surprising, much like 1870 itself.
The space mirrors the menu's blend of old and new. White tablecloths and Virginia-style paintings create an atmosphere that's both elegant and inviting. The upstairs bar offers a more relaxed vibe, perfect for those nights when you want to feel fancy but don't want to fuss with a reservation.
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just someone looking for a memorable night out, 1870 offers a dining experience that's uniquely Richmond. It's not just a meal; it's a journey through culinary history, guided by a chef who's learned from the best. And the cherry on top? You don't need to cross the Atlantic to enjoy it.
Richmond's culinary scene has a new gem to boast about with the arrival of Farm + Oak, the latest venture from the acclaimed Lindsey Food Group. This charming eatery, located in the Innsbrook/Short Pump area, is set to become a fast favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Farm + Oak is Lillie Pearl's sister restaurant, yet it still manages to bring its own unique flair to the table. While it shares the same commitment to quality and innovation, Farm + Oak carves out its own unique identity with a menu that both honors and expands upon its sister's offerings. And with a sprawling outdoor patio perfect for soaking up RVA's sunshine and a private dining room, Farm + Oak caters to every mood from "casual Tuesday" to "fancy celebration."
But let's talk food. Their Charred Heirloom Carrots appetizer might win over even the staunchest veggie skeptics, and the Braised Beef Short Ribs are so tender, they effortlessly slide off the fork. And don't even get us started on the Peach Cobbler Bread Pudding—it's the kind of dessert you find yourself dreaming about for days. But don't stop at dinner - their brunch menu is already creating buzz with indulgent offerings like cinnamon rolls and peach cobbler French toast.
Perhaps most endearing is Farm + Oak's responsiveness to its clientele. When their featured summer cocktail, the "Strawberry Titorita," was slated to leave the menu, customer outcry promptly brought it back. Now their best-selling drink, it's a delicious example of how Farm + Oak listens and adapts to its patrons' desires.
Whether you're a Richmond regular or just visiting, Farm + Oak offers a fresh take on local dining. It's more than just a meal—it's a taste of what happens when culinary creativity meets a passion for great ingredients. Come see why this new spot is fast becoming a Richmond favorite.
Hold onto your sombreros, amigos—Taco Bamba has landed in Willow Lawn, and it's been a game-changer since day one. This Northern Virginia transplant, helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Victor Albisu, isn't just serving tacos—it's redefining them with a distinctly RVA twist.
Take the "Scott's Addiction," for instance. It's not just a clever nod to our beloved neighborhood; it's a flavor bomb that marries local beer-braised brisket with sweet potato fries and a Richmond-style white BBQ sauce. For those who like their tacos with a global flair, the "Shrimp Bing Bang Boom" is a Korean-Mexican fusion. Grilled shrimp gets cozy with gochujang glaze and kimchi, all topped with a crispy rice crunch.
But Taco Bamba isn't just about tacos (though we'd totally understand if you never made it past that section of the menu). They're slinging empanadas stuffed with pimento cheese—because why should Georgia have all the fun?—and a "Chancho in a Pancho" hot dog taquito (yes, you read that right), dressed up with sweet chili relish and salsa roja.
And here's the kicker: this taco haven features a full bar, perfect for pairing spicy delights with a chilled margarita or a local craft beer. And with most tacos running you less than a Lincoln, you can afford to sample your way through the menu without breaking the bank.
Stock is redefining the furniture shopping experience with a dash of Nordic flair. This innovative concept marries TXTUR, a custom furniture showroom, with Stock, a Nordic-inspired bistro that's quickly becoming a culinary destination in its own right.
TXTUR showcases furniture crafted in-house by third-generation artisans, offering a level of customization that would make even the pickiest designer swoon. But here's where things get interesting: while you ponder fabric swatches and wood finishes, you can sample the goods quite literally. Stock invites you to dine on the very pieces you're considering for your home.
Stock's menu is a tribute to Nordic culinary traditions. From the Smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches that are a meal in themselves) to the Smoke In Chimneys Trout, each dish offers a taste of Scandinavian comfort with a Richmond twist. The Stock Board, featuring house-smoked fish and Nordic cheeses, is a particular standout – perfect for nibbling while you debate between oak and walnut.
What sets Stock/TXTUR apart is its laid-back approach to luxury. Spill your Aquavit cocktail on that chair you're eyeing? No worries – the performance-grade fabrics can handle it. It's this blend of high-end products with a no-fuss attitude that makes the concept so appealing.
For those who like their furniture shopping with a side of horticulture, the weekend flower cart offers locally grown blooms from River City Flower Exchange. For $20, you can create a bouquet that might just inspire your next custom piece.
Whether you come for the furniture or stay for the food (or vice versa), Stock/TXTUR offers an experience that's uniquely Richmond. It's not just changing how we shop for furniture; it's changing how we think about the spaces we inhabit – one lingonberry-topped dish at a time.
In a world of ready-made and mass-produced, WorkbenchRVA is a breath of freshly cut pine. This state-of-the-art makerspace, which opened its doors earlier this year, is turning Richmond into a city of creators, one handcrafted piece at a time.
Imagine having access to every tool you've ever dreamed of, from precision table saws to 3D printers, without having to explain to your significant other why you need another "investment" in your garage. That's WorkbenchRVA in a nutshell. This isn't your grandpa's dusty workshop. WorkbenchRVA is a sleek, state-of-the-art facility that's part makerspace, part social club for the DIY crowd.
But WorkbenchRVA isn't just about the tools—it's about the community. The diverse membership base means you're just as likely to rub elbows (and share tips) with a novice building their first birdhouse as you are with a pro crafting custom furniture.
For those who prefer a more guided experience, WorkbenchRVA offers classes that'll take you from "I can barely build a Lego set" to "watch me whip up this farmhouse dining table." They've even had members craft their own wedding rings. Talk about putting a ring on it—and bragging rights for life.
What sets WorkbenchRVA apart is its commitment to accessibility. With 24/7 access for members, it caters to everyone from weekend warriors to nocturnal creators. And with a range of membership options, it's making the maker movement accessible to all of Richmond.
Whether you're looking to dip your toes into woodworking, need a space to bring your grand designs to life, or just want to be part of a community that values creation over consumption, WorkbenchRVA is your new happy place.
This isn't your daddy's sports bar—it's what happens when a sports fanatic and a foodie decide to join forces and create the ultimate playbook for game day indulgence.
Let's start with the "Personal Bag of Fritos," a gourmet twist on Frito pie, topped with chili, cheese, and all the fixings. It's like the childhood snack you loved, all grown up.
For those who take their pizza as seriously as their fantasy league, the "VA Fat Boy" is a must-try. This isn't just any pizza; it's a love letter to Virginia's finest ingredients. Andouille sausage cozies up to Surry County ham and bacon, all nestled on a bed of tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella.
But the dish that's really stealing the show? The "Undertater Nachos." Forget tortilla chips—Parlay ups the ante with sidewinder fries as the base for this nacho extravaganza. Topped with queso, black beans, and all the classic nacho fixings, it's the ultimate nacho dish.
What sets Parlay apart is its commitment to the full game-day experience. With semi-private pods equipped with dedicated screens, you can create your own VIP sports-viewing experience. It's like having your own luxury box, minus the nosebleed heights and plus some seriously good eats.
Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or just in it for the food, Parlay Bar & Lounge offers a game-day experience that's leagues above the rest. It's not just watching sports—it's a full-sensory celebration of athletics and appetite. Just be sure to stretch before attempting to finish that "Undertater Nachos" solo. It's a marathon, not a sprint, folks.
