28
6
8
26 20
24
Special Wine & Beer Issue Take a Wine Road Trip • Expert Wine & Beer Pairings • Getting to Know Virginia’s Varietals.
[CONTENTS] See what’s happening on the events calendar!
September October 2012
EVENTS 6
ARTS & ATTRACTIONS
8
Crossroads Art Center is Growing!
FASHION
9
Fashion Finds from Local Consignments
DESTINATIONS
10
Take a Wine & Beer Road Trip to Northern Virginia
4
Calendar of Events
september/october 2012
6
WINE & BEER
12 14
Perfect Pairings from Richmond Experts Getting to Know the Grapes
16 17 23 24 25 26
FLAVOR
28
GLITZ
24
River City Eats Scoop du Jour Raising the Bar In Search of Desserts Enjoying a Greek Classic at Greek Grill Cafe Dining Secrets Quiz
Step Outside the Box The World of Boutiques
26
19 www.richmondnavigator.com
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER William J. Davis, Jr. VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Cheryl T. Davis HOME & GARDEN EDITOR Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID CREATIVE DIRECTOR Alaina Rauth MARKETING MANAGER Lorraine Meade
Steakhouse?
Seafood?
It’s easy to be confused about Sedona...with all of our fresh and hand cut seafood and our Certified Black Angus Steaks. But make no mistake about it–with the largest craft beer collection in Virginia, we take craft beer VERY seriously.. Serious food and over 500 craft beers...discover your new favorite today. WESTCHESTER COMMONS, MIDLOTHIAN | 804-379-0037 | SEDONATAPHOUSE.COM
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Jared Davis, Ann Small, Steve Cook DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Barry Cook PHOTOGRAPHY Tim Hill, Robert Thomas, Photos by Dash, Mike Keeling, Zach Wingold, Guillermo Ubilla CONTRIBUTORS Steve Cook, Jennifer Saunders, Tammy Brackett, Nadine Rich, Jody Rathgeb, Meagan Moore River City Richmond is published bi-monthly by Advertising Concepts, Inc. 6301 Harbourside Drive, Suite 100 • Midlothian, VA 23112 (804) 639-9994 •RichmondNavigator.com Facebook.com/RichmondNavigator Email us at info@advertisingconceptsinc.com. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.
Visit us to find out where to dine—and enter to win Dining Gift Certificates for some of Richmond’s Best Restaurants!
[RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM]
A PUBLICATION OF
ALL ARTICLES AND CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE OPINIONS OR THOUGHTS OF RIVER CITY RICHMOND, ADVERTISING CONCEPTS,INC OR THE PUBLISHER ABOUT THE COVER The Boathhouse offers a meal to inspire wine lovers...a grilled Porterhouse pork chop with a California syrah. See the details in our Perfect Pairings article on page 12. Photo by Zach Wingold.
www.ric hmondnavigator.com
september/october 2012
5
[ CALENDAR OF E V E N TS ]
Maymont X-Country Festival September 23-24. Maymont Grounds.Organized by the Sports Backers, this course takes adults and children through beautiful Maymont, scenic sculptures, picturesque Byrd Park, and more. Visit maymont.org or sportsbackers.org for more information.
The Color Run September 15. Richmond Raceway Complex. Slip on a white shirt and race solo or with a team of four or more in the most colorful 5k of your life! Be blitzed by color each step of this race for all ages and fitness levels. Venture out on the day before for a pre-race yoga party. Check it out at TheColorRun.com/Richmond.
SEPTEMBER uuu
OCTOBER uuu
Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival.
Night Blooms September 28-October 21.
October 6. Rocketts Landing.
Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre.
Led by the rhythmic beat of a
In 1965 in Alabama, an unexpected
drum, teams of 20 synchronized
visitor changes the lives of two families
paddlers, one drummer, and one
forever, proving that personal ties are
steersperson, race 500 meters up
more intricate than politics, and that true
the river in 40-foot canoes rigged
social change demands love, humor, and
with decorative Chinese dragon
grace. First produced by Horizon Theatre
heads and tails. For details, go to
Company in Atlanta, Night Blooms was
sportsbackers.org.
named one of 2010’s top plays by the Atlanta Journal Constitution and ArtsATL. FInd more information at Va-Re.org.
Disney on Ice Rockin’ Ever After. September 20-23. Richmond Coliseum. Rock out to the hottest tunes and talent from across the kingdom. See family favorites such as royal contenders from Brave, Sebastian and Ariel from The Little Mermaid, Rapunzel from Tangled, and Belle from Beauty and the Beast. Buy tickets at ticketmaster.com.
6
september/october 2012
www.richmondnavigator.com
[ CALENDAR OF E V E N T S ] 2nd Street Festival.
COMING TO RICHMOND...
October 6-7. Jackson Ward. VentureRichmond.com The hands of time are turned back to when 2nd Street was the heart and soul of Richmond’s African-American community. Each year thousands of people come to Richmond’s historic Jackson Ward to hear live music on four stages, enjoy children’s activities, taste delicious food, shop in the marketplace, dance in the
Richmond Folk Festival.
streets, and renew old friendships.
October 12-14. Downtown Richmond’s Riverfront 2nd-7th Streets.
And it’s free!
The Richmond Folk Festival embraces the heritage and traditions of all Americans. Legendary masters and the next generation of dynamic young artists will celebrate the musical soul and cultural roots of America on six stages of continuous music and dance. Worldclass artisans, countless varieties of ethnic foods and a family area ensure there’s something for every taste and every age! For more information, visit www. richmondfolkfestival.com. NOVEMBER uuu
Carytown Food and Wine Festival October 7. Carytown. CarytownRVA.com
q The Art of Dr. Seuss SEPTEMBER 13-OCTOBER 14 Bella Arte Gallery, located at 3734 Winterfield Drive in Midlothian, is excited to host The Art of Dr. Seuss – “A Retrospective and International Touring Exhibition.” The National Curator of the event, Bill Dreyer, will be present for the exhibition opening on September 13, to provide insights into Theodor Seuss Geisel’s artistic life, his unique vision and his impact on American culture. The gallery will showcase nearly twenty of the most sought-after estate editions from the past decade, giving visitors an opportunity to view and acquire some of the most important works the collection has to offer. BellaArte.com.
This festival shines the spotlight on the great wines of this region, as well as the incredible food offered by local restaurants. Nosh on food from Amour Wine Bistro, Mezzanine, Ginger Thai, and more as you stroll the streets of Carytown. Save by purchasing tickets in advance, which include a tasting and souvenir wine glass.
Butterflies LIVE!
q
Thru October 14. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. It’s your last chance to see hundreds of graceful butterflies take flight in Lewis Ginter’s glass conservatory. Back by popular demand, the exhibit allows visitors to walk among the showy tropical species of butterflies and beautiful plants for an up-close and personal experience. For more details, visit lewisginter.org.
uuu VISIT RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM FOR MORE LOCAL EVENTS
www.ric hmondnavigator.com
Designer House & Garden Tour
September 10-October 8. Pinifer Park, a stately Queen Anne-style house in Midlothian, has been selected as the 2012 Richmond Symphony Orchestra League Designer House for their semi-annual fundraiser. Local interior and landscape designers have beautified the property. While touring, have lunch in the cafe and pick up an item from the Designer House Boutique. And if you fall in love with the home, a centerpiece to the small new development, it can be yours when it goes on sale after the event. Rsol.org. n
september/october 2012
7
[ ARTS & ATTRACTIONS ]
Crossroads Art Center is G rowing ! By Tammy Brackett. Photos by Mike Keeling.
J
enni Kirby, the owner of Crossroads Art Center and an outstanding mosaic artist, stands on the sidewalk in front of her unique establishment checking out the new entrance rugs with
relish. She is smiling, laughing, and clapping her hands as she warmly compliments the man who has installed them. She is full of enthusiasm. About rugs. Kirby is full of enthusiasm about everything it seems. Crossroads Art Center, her eleven-year-old labor of unbounded love, is thriving. There are 215 artists in residence in the 25,000 square foot space. The All Media and Featured Artists Shows push that number to well over 250 participating artists from all disciplines. Open, airy, well-lit galleries display pottery, paintings, jewelry, assemblage art, mosaics, and mixed media pieces. Around every corner is a new discovery of altered furniture, art made from found objects, stunning photography, and a plethora of clever, cool, creations. Exhibits are toured daily by local school groups, Boys and Girls Clubs, adult outreach and senior centers, and groups that are physically and mentally challenged. Kirby says, “The power of art to transform anyone into an appreciator of beauty is a moving experience to witness day after day.” And it’s indeed this dedication to art and those who make and love it that keeps Kirby and Crossroads Art Center expanding. Soon, the center will add three new classrooms and five more working artist
Discover Your Inner Artist! There’s an artist inside everyone. Even if you’ve never picked up a paintbrush or drawing pencil, Crossroads Art Center can cultivate your creative side. The center offers beginner, intermediate and advanced classes in painting and drawing, floral design, interior decorating, photography, and multi media disciplines. There’s even a class about discovering and rediscovering your artistic bliss!
studios in a 5,200 square foot addition. Crossroads is always open to the curious public. It’s a perfect place to browse, get ideas, and purchase a one-of-a-kind piece. Every other month, Crossroads hosts a Third Friday Indoor Art Walk. This event gives the public the opportunity to meet artists, watch them work, and learn about what inspires them. There’s always an event sponsor and a good cause to support. In the summer, Crossroads hosts kids and teens camps in crafting and art discovery. Kirby makes her way back to the entrance of Crossroads and opens the door for a small dark haired girl in a pretty flowered dress. The child is clutching a drawing pad as she makes her way to camp. She welcomes the budding artist with a warm smile and merry eyes and sweet words. And enthusiasm. n
8
september/october 2012
www.richmondnavigator.com
Fall Fashion Finds Here’s a sneak peak at some fabulous designer pieces we found at local consignment shops. Head to your favorite upscale consignment boutique to get the hottest pieces by high-end designers while they last! This scenic shoot was done at Rassawek Vineyards in Goochland (Rassawek.com).
Nadine Rich Fashion Coordinator Guillermo Ubilla Photographer GXUimages.com Lara Bridger Hair Designer RichmondHairandMakeup.com LuAnn “Lulu” Schwall Make-up LuluSchwall.com Lisa Powers Model Starlet Farrior Model Models from Models Supporting Animals modelssupportinganimals.com Clothes Mentor • Short Pump 873-0139 • www.clothesmentor.com Suited For Success • 914-5626 facebook.com/sfsconsignment Indigo Avenue Clothes • West End and Carytown locations www.indigoavenueclothes.com
www.ric hmondnavigator.com
september/october 2012
9
Take a Road Trip
[ DESTINATIONS ]
A Northern Virginia Itinerary to Beckon Wine and Beer Lovers
By Steve Cook
There may be no more beautiful a spot in Northern Virginia than Loudoun County. Here are our recommendations for a Loudoun County Wine & Brew Lover’s Weekend Getaway 1. Goodstone Inn & Restaurant. 36205 Snake Hill Road, Middleburg, VA. 540-687-3333. Goodstone.com “Goodstone is a most perfect venue for a wine lover’s getaway,” says William Walden, executive chef at this beautiful, historic inn and restaurant. Set on 265-acres of rolling hills and farmland, the historic property features five star-quality lodging in six distinctive dwellings. You may want to consider the Bull Barn Suite, featuring a king-size sleigh bed, and, in the lavish bathroom, a whirlpool tub with picture window, and sit-down,multijetted steam shower. 2. Goodstone Restaurant. Executive, chef William Walden, brings years of culinary expertise to this award-winning restaurant. Chef
Enjoy pizza and live music on select Fridays at Doukénie Winery.
Walden says, “My raison d’être is artistic cuisine with the greatest depth of flavor.”
Garcia, the director of brewing operations. If Garcia’s name
We asked the chef for a wine pairing recommendation:
rings a bell, he was once a brewer at Richbrau, here in
“A popular wine pairing is Poached Maine Lobster,
town.“There is a great tasting room with all of our beers
Grapefruit, Orzo, Ginger Citrus Butter and 2010 Villa
available,” says Garcia. “We also have a unique food menu.
Maria Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand.” 3. Doukénie Winery. 14727 Mountain Road, Hillsboro, VA. 540-668-6464. Doukeniewinery.com “The atmosphere in our tasting room is welcoming and cozy,” says wine maker and GM, Sebastien Marque.
“I would strongly suggest that anyone from the Richmond area should stop by our brewery when they are in Northern Virginia. They can sample some beer at the brewery and take home some growlers of their favorites to introduce their friends to Lost Rhino.”
“Many who visit us for the first time fall in love with the
5. Philomont General Store. 36550 Jeb Stuart Road, Philomont, VA.
experience and join our Heritage Club. It is a truly warm
540-338-5792. Philomontgeneralstore.com
and inviting destination.”
You want a real getaway? You can’t do better than a drive down the picturesque
We asked Marque for a recommendation:“So many of
Snickerville Turnpike to Philomont and its General Store. Established in 1913, the
our wines are special and delicious, but we are known for
store offers “a little something for everyone” including groceries, a deli, fine wine
our Cabernet Franc. It is representative of the beautiful
and cheeses, historical maps and books, local products, and crafts.” Do like the
Virginia grapes. It is spicy and peppery with a lovely
locals and sit a spell on the front porch, enjoying a sandwich or a snack.
earthy quality.”
6. Aylesbury Antique Center & Tea Room. 212 Loudoun Street, SE, Leesburg,
4. Lost Rhino Brewery. 21730 Red Rum Drive, #142,
VA. 703-868-6935. Aylesburyantiques.com
Ashburn, VA. 571-291-2083. Lostrhino.com Lost Rhino is a relatively new brewery, says Favio
10
september/october 2012
Shop for antiques and collectibles in an English country house, then enjoy a spot of tea at the Tea Room, offering authentic English afternoon teas. n www.richmondnavigator.com
www.ric hmondnavigator.com
september/october 2012
11
Perfect Pairings Richmond Experts Help You Find the Perfect Glass
By Jody Rathgeb
Nervous about making your own food
and wine pairings? Get some help from an expert. Sommelier Carol Colby, wine instructor with the cooking school Mise En Place in
class offerings. We asked some questions
rt Thomas.
Photo by Robe
on the basics.
Where do you start? Are there rules?
You can start with the wine or with the
food; either way you can have a successful pairing. If you have a great bottle of wine you want to serve, start there. Or you can start with the menu.
I usually give the guideline of having the wine match the inten-
Photos by Dash.
stand-alone class and as part of other wine
Photo by Zach Wingold.
Shockoe Slip, teaches about pairings as a
sity of the dish. Simple dishes or a simple menu – paté with bread and cheese, or a picnic lunch – need a straightforward, simpler
wine. With more complex dishes like chateaubriand or beef Wellington, you would want to pick a more elegant wine. Also, I always
try to get people to think about the dominant flavor in a dish and choose the wine accordingly. At a certain point, it becomes instinct. How can a customer be helpful to a sommelier?
Let him or her know what you prefer – fruity, structured, and
so on. If you don’t know how to articulate it, then give an example,
something you’ve liked in the past. The sommelier should be able
to then make some suggestions, or ask more questions to ferret out the right wine.
What is your favorite food and wine pairing?
I love Thai or Indonesian cuisine with a Riesling or Gewurtz-
traminer. The foods have a complexity and spiciness, and the wines have a touch of sweetness that mitigates the saltiness and heat of those dishes. That allows you to continue tasting all the spices instead of just tasting the heat after that first mouthful.
GO TO RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM FOR MORE TIPS FROM LOCAL EXPERTS FOR PAIRINGS. 12
september/october 2012
www.richmondnavigator.com
Restaurants Share Their Favorite Pairings... THE PAIRING: A Porterhouse pork chop is rubbed with a housemade blend of herbs and spices, grilled to medium, and served with a warm potato salad and bourbon apple chutney. Pair it with a 2006 Qupe Bien Nacido Hillside Estate Syrah from the Santa Maria Valley in California. The wine has aromas and flavors of ripe blackberry, mocha, rose petal, smoke, and black pepper. WHY IT WORKS: The smoky notes in the wine help bring out the grilled flavor of the pork chop. The rub on the chop complements the floral and pepper flavors in the wine. WHERE IT’S PAIRED:
The Boathouse • 4708 E. Old Main St. 622-2628 • BoathouseRichmond.com
THE PAIRING: Secco’s newest salad of wheatberries, olives, celery,
Photos by Dash.
feta, mint, and lovage, pairs well with a 2011 Ameztoi “Rubentis” Rosé Getariako Txakolina from Spain. This Rosé is completely dry and slightly fizzy with refreshing notes of citrus and red currants. WHY IT WORKS: The spritziness and acidity cuts the fat of the olives and feta, while the strawberry notes balance the saltiness. The lime flavors of the wine strikes magic with the lovage in the salad.
WHERE IT’S PAIRED:
Secco • 2933 W. Cary Street • 353-0670 • SeccoWineBar.com
Photo by Robert Thomas.
THE PAIRING: Pork is braised for about four hours in spices and hickory smoke, then tossed in a homemade spicy Carolina barbecue sauce and served on a Challah bun. Pair it with Legend Pale Ale, which has moderate bitterness and an aggressive hop flavor and aroma. WHY IT WORKS: Spicy dishes pair well with hoppy beers. The pine and citrus flavors of this brew leave the palate ready for the next bite. The clean, soft bitterness of the pale ale accents the heat, but leaves a refreshing feeling. WHERE IT’S PAIRED:
Legend Brewing Company • 321 W. 7th Street 232-3446 • LegendBrewing.com
THE PAIRING: M Bistro’s Signature Crab Cakes are made with fresh jumbo lump crab meat tossed with scallop mousse and seasoned to enhance natural flavors. Try them with the 2010 Cuvée Hortense 2010 Entre-Deux-Mers from Bordeaux, a full-bodied white blend of Sauvignon Gris, Sémillion, and Muscadelle. WHY IT WORKS: This blend has a floral aroma and complex melding flavors of grapefruit, white peach, black currant, and toast, which allow it to pair well with seafood. WHERE IT’S PAIRED:
M Bistro and Wine Bar • 4821 Old Main Street 652-2300 • MBistro-Rocketts.com
FIND MORE PAIRINGS IN RICHMOND RESTAURANTS ONLINE AT RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM. www.ric hmondnavigator.com
september/october 2012
13
Getting to KnowThe
Grapes By Meagan Moore.
In Hollywood, you occasionally get blockbusters that have it all – character, richness, dimensionality, and visual appeal – but
these characteristics can be found just as often in Indie flicks, films with less publicity but more heart, art, and critical acclaim. Believe it or not, the same is true in the wonderful world of American and, in this case, Virginia wines.
While many Virginians are probably familiar with Chardonnays, Rieslings, and Merlots, those outside the world of wine
criticism often don’t know that Virginia wines tend to be some of the most acclaimed, prize-winning vintages in the country… and that many of those vintages come from grapes that very few of us have heard of.
Featured here are a collection of lesser-known varietals – those that grow well in Virginia and those that have been the building
blocks of the Commonwealth’s robust, prestigious, and ever-expanding wine industry.
Viognier Pronounced
Norton “vee-OH-nee-ay,”
this
Cabernet Franc
If Viognier is one of Virginia’s best
“Pinot Noir is a disaster in this state
2,000 year-old white varietal has gained
known little-known varietals, Norton
– it’s a tough grape to deal with. But Cab
up with Chardonnay as an oenophile
from local vines by Dr. Daniel Norton
everyone stayed away from growing it for
much popularity, it threatens to catch favorite. While Viognier vines thrive from
Argentina to Napa Valley and beyond,
is perhaps its most historic. Cultivated in the early 1800s, this grape spent the
19th century gaining popularity until
this particular varietal put down roots in
a vintage from Virginia finally won a
was named Virginia’s official state grape.
Exposition. It was hailed as the “best red
Virginia with such success that, in 2011, it And Virginia Viognier is gaining notoriety on an international scale.
According to Julia Battaglini, owner
of River City Cellars on Cary Street, if you like a fruity Chardonnay or Pinot
Franc is so consistent, I don’t know why so long,” marvels Horton, adding, “and now everyone’s doing it!”
Mitzi Batterson, co-owner of James
gold medal at the 1873 Vienna World
River Cellars in Glen Allen and president
wine of all nations,” thus fulfilling Thomas
agrees, saying the better-known “Cabernet
Jefferson’s predictions that the United States would one day produce wines on par with the French.
Now, Horton Vineyards in Orange
of the Virginia Wineries Association,
Sauvignon is more of a hallmark of California wine, but Cab Franc is definitely a hallmark of Virginia.”
If you’re in the mood for a wine and
Grigio, you’ll probably like this honeyed,
County produces a popular local Norton.
cheese pairing, Leigh Rodgers, resident
suggestions, Dan Cotting, Wine Consultant
Vineyards, adds that “its ageability is
Market, recommends the market’s pairing
popular varietal. When it comes to serving at Charlottesville’s The Country Vintner
and an Advanced Certified Sommelier,
says, “Food pairings ultimately depend
Dennis
Horton,
owner
of
Horton
incredible – if you find a 10 year old bottle of Norton, pick it up! It will be delicious.”
Depending on the origin of the vintage,
on the wine style, but Viognier often goes
Norton wines can be full-bodied or light,
scallops, crab, and lobster.”
notes that make it good for pairing with
well with richer-style shellfish such as
but often has bright, fruity – even cherry
wine expert at Ellwood Thompson’s Local for June 2012: matching this robust varietal up with Meadow Creek Appalachian cheese.
As
for
entrees,
Batterson
recommends pairing this peppery, fullbodied wine with steak au poivre, or a
salad drizzled with balsamic dressing and
Bottles to Try:
pasta dishes or even pizza.
• Blenheim Vineyards Viognier, $19.99. Ellwood Thompson’s.
Bottles to Try:
Bottles to Try:
• Horton Norton, $13.99. Ellwood Thompson’s.
• Viognier Reserve, Barboursville Vineyards, $21.99. River City Cellars.
• Chrysalis Estate Bottled 2011, $17.00. J. Emerson’s Fine Wine & Cheese.
• La Cerisaie (Domaine de la Bergerie), $13.99. River City Cellars.
• Virginia Wineworks Viognier, $35.00. Barrel Thief.
• Cooper Vineyards Norton Reserve, $20.99. Total Wine and More.
14
september/october 2012
black peppercorns.
• Soif du Jour Bourgueil (Domaine du Bel Air), $16.00. River City Cellars. • Church Creek Blend Cabernet Franc Blend, $21.49. Ellwood Thompson’s. n www.richmondnavigator.com
804.643.8080 kobesteakandsushi.com
MORI SOBA
HIYASHI CHUKA
SPICY CHIRASHI
Chilled Buckwheat Noodles
Cold Ramen
Sashimi Rice Bowl
BINGSU Red Bean Shaved Ice
Traditional Dining
Hibachi Grill
Sushi Bar
In The Historic Shockoe Slip 19 South 13th Street, Richmond, VA
Full Bar
River City African Africanne on Main 200 E. Main St. 343-1233. chefmamusuafricanne.com Goree 1823 E. Main St. 269-5375. goreerestaurant.com
American
eats
The Black Sheep 901 W. Marshall St. 648-1300. theblacksheetrva.com Caliente 2922 Park Ave. 340-2920. Capital Ale House 623 E. Main St. 780-ALES. capitalalehouse.com
1800 Bar & Grill 1800 E. Main St. 780-1800.
Carlyle’s Cafe 1201 W. Main St. 358-0127.
Arcadia 1700 E. Main St. 417-4005. arcadiarichmond.com
Chez Foushee 203 N. Foushee St. 648-3225. chezfoushee.com
Aurora 401 E. Grace St. 644-5380. aurorarichmond.com
City Dogs 1309 W. Main St. 359-DOGS.
Baker’s Crust 3553 W. Cary St. 213-0800. bakerscrust.com Belly Timber Tavern 1501 W. Main St. 592-5592. bellytimbertavern.com
Comfort 200 W. Broad St. 780-0004. comfortrestaurant.com Curbside 2525 Hanover Ave. 355-7008. curbsiderichmond.com
THE HALLIGAN BAR & GRILL
Come pay tribute to firefighters everywhere at The Halligan. Smoky meats are the star of the menu. Down a Chutes-N-Ladders drop shot as lights flash and sirens blare. 3 N. 17th Street. 447-7981. www.thehalliganbar.com
The Dairy Bar 1602 Roseneath Rd. 355-1937. dairybarrestaurant.com
Gibson’s Grill 700 E. Broad St. 644-2637. gibsonsgrill.com
Fish Bowl 101 S. 15th St. 562-1438. fishbowlrva.com
Kitchen 64 3336 N. Boulevard. 358-0064. kitchen64.com
F. W. Sullivan’s Bar & Grill 2401 W. Main St. 308-8576. fwsullivans.com
Legend Brewing Company 321 W. 7th St. 232-3446. legendbrewing.com.
Galaxy Diner 2924 W. Cary St. 213-0510.
LuLu’s 21 N. 17th St. 343-9771. lulusrichmond.com Mansion Five 26 526 N. 2nd St. 266-2021. hippodromerichmond.com The Marshall Street Café & Jazz Bistro 23 W. Marshall St. 269-3537. marshallstreetcafe.com McCormack’s Whiskey Grill 204 N. Robinson St. 648-1003. Mezzanine 3433 W. Cary St. 353-2186. mezzaninerva.com Millie’s Diner 2603 E. Main St. 643-5512. milliesdiner.com
16
september/october 2012
www.richmondnavigator.com
By Steve Cook By the time you’re reading this, there should be a cool (make that really cool) new restaurant on the James, near Rocketts Landing. The restaurant is Flatheads, and, it’s located on an 82-foot yacht, docked just west of Rocketts. When I spoke with owner, Matt Gleason, he was anticipating a late August or early September opening. Gleason has had years of experience in the hospitality industry with the Omni and other local hotels. The past six years, he’s been with the Bull and Bear Club. But now he’s ready for something completely different, and I have a feeling that Richmond residents and visitors alike will be ready for it too. “It’s not going to be fine dining at all,” Gleason says. “But it will be fun. Our motto is “Everything but ordinary.” Fun sounds like the operative word, to hear him describe his new venture. Even the food will be fun. “We’ll have unique burgers and hot dogs and lots of seafood. We’ll have dishes you can’t find anywhere else,” Gleason says. “We’ll have some childhood (food) favorites. We encourage playing with your food.” He says if you don’t have time for a vacation this year, take your vacation on board Flatheads. “You can even wear your bathing suit and sandals,” he tells me. And there’ll always be some good beach or reggae music on the sound system, unless, of course, there’s a live band playing. “On Sundays we’ll do an ‘Overboard’ special with deejays, crawfish boils and lots of fun things,” he says. He also mentions that he wants to encourage workers in the hospitality industry to join in the Sunday fun since many are off that day. “Besides,” he adds, “we offer the best view in the city.” n
Be part of Scoop! Send new restaurant openings, menus, chefs and more to alaina@richmondnavigator.com. www.ric hmondnavigator.com
september/october 2012
17
[ R I V E R C I T Y E ATS ]
Join us every Sunday for Brunch. It all starts at 11am with a great brunch menu & Bloody Mary, Mimosa & Sangria Bar.
Restaurant & Bar Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11:30am - 11:00pm Fri.-Sat. 11:30am - Midnight Sun. 11:00am - 10:00pm
BlueGrass Music ay Every Sund Night
The area’s Award Winning Bar and Restaurant with great beer, great food, and captivating views of Richmond
Offering Appetizers ~ Snacks ~ Burgers ~ Sandwiches ~ Dinner Entrees
321 West 7th Street Richmond, VA (804) 232-3446 www.legendbrewing.com Close to all hotels in The River District & only a short drive from Broad St., Short Pump, Midlothian or the Airport
18
september/october 2012
www.richmondnavigator.com
[ R I V E R C I T Y E AT S ] On The Rox 119 N. 18th St. 303-9444. www.roxrva.com
Strawberry Street Cafe 421 Strawberry St. 353-6860. strawberrystreetcafe.com
Pasture 416 E. Grace St. 780-0416. pastureva.com
T-Miller’s Sports Bar & Grill 500 East Broad Street. 648-2255. tmillerssportsbar.com
Popkin Tavern 123 W. Broad St. 343-1909. sparetimechicago.com
Tastebuds American Bistro 4019 MacArthur Ave. 261-6544. tastebudsamericanbistro.com
The Republic 2053 W. Broad St. 592-2148. therepublicrva.com
TJ’s Restaurant and Lounge 101 W. Franklin St. 788-8000. jeffersonhotel.com
River City Diner 7 N. 17th Street. 644-9418. rivercitydiner.com
The Tobacco Company 1201 E. Cary St. 782-9555. thetobaccocompany.com
Rowland Fine Dining 2132 W. Main St. 257-9885. rowlandfinedining.com
Weezie’s Kitchen 3123 W. Cary St. 726-1270. weezieskitchen.com
Star-Lite 2600 W. Main St. 254-2667. starlitediningandlounge.com
Xtra’s Café 3322B W. Cary St. 355-0446. xtrascafe.com
Station 2 2016 E. Main St. 249-4702. station2richmond.com
Asian Akida 814 N. Robinson St. 359-8036. Carytown Sushi 2923 W. Cary St. 355-0058. Kobe Japanese Steak & Sushi 19 S. 13th St. 643-8080. kobesteakandsushi.com The Lucky Buddha 1421 E. Cary St. 648-5100. theluckybuddha.com Sumo San 1725 E. Main St. 643-6500. sumosanrva.com
Bakeries & Coffee Cartwheels & Coffee 2820 W. Cary St. 355-5437. cartwheelsandcoffee.com Jean Jacques Bakery & Café 3138 W. Cary St. 355-0666. carytownbakery.com Williams Bakery 3544 W. Cary St. 612-6130. thewilliamsbakery.com
Barbecue Alamo BBQ 2202 Jefferson Ave. 592-3138. alamobbqva.com Buzz & Ned’s 1119 N. Boulevard. 355-6055. buzandneds.com
Caribbean Island Bistro 400 N. 2nd St. 643-1319.
Cuban
Ethiopian Addis Ethiopian Restaurant 9 N 17th Street. 308-3649. addisrichmond.com Nile Ethiopian Restaurant 309 N. Laurel St. 225-5544. nilerichmond.com
European Bistro 27 27 W. Broad St. 780-0086. bistrotwentyseven.com Café Rustica 414 E. Main St. 225-8811. caferusticava.com Lemaire at Jefferson 101 W. Franklin St. 788-8000. lemairerestaurant.com Tarrant’s Cafe One W. Broad St. 225-0035. tarrantscafe.org
Farm Fresh Selba 2416 W. Cary St. 358-2229. selbarichmond.com Urban Farmhouse Market & Cafe 1217 E. Cary St. 325-3988. theurbanfarmhouse.net
French Amour Wine Bistro 3129 W. Cary St. 353-4020. amourwinebistro.com Bistro Bobette 1209 E. Cary St. 225-9116. bistrobobette.com
Havana 59 16 N. 17th St. 780-2822. havana59.net
Can Can Brasserie 3120 W. Cary St. 358-7274. cancanbrasserie.com
Kenn-Tico Cuban Bar & Grill 204 E. Grace St. 225-9216. kennticocubanbargrill.com
Greek
Deli New York Deli 2920 W. Cary St. 358-3354. ny-d.com
www.ric hmondnavigator.com
Perly’s Restaurant & Deli 111 E. Grace St. 649-2779.
Bacchus 2 N. Meadow St. 355-9919. bacchusonmain.com Stella’s 10122 Fayette St. 358-2011. stellasrichmond.com
september/october 2012
19
[ R I V E R C I T Y E ATS ]
Indian Farouk’s 3033 W. Cary St. 355-0378. Kebab and Biryani 2452 Old Brick Road. 658.3174.
Irish/Pubs Penny Lane Pub 421 E. Franklin St. 780-1682. pennylanepub.com Rosie Connolly’s Pub 1548 E. Main St. 343-1063. rosieconnollys.com Sine 1327 E. Cary St. 649-7767. sineirishpub.com
International 3 Monkeys Bar & Grill 2525 W. Main St. 204-2525. 3monkeysfan.com Avalon 2619 W. Main St. 353-9709. avalonrestaurant.com
Sample One N. Morris St. 248-9157. samplerichmond.com
La Grotta 1218 E. Cary St. 644-2466. lagrottaristorante.com
Bandito’s Burrito Lounge 2905 Patterson Ave. 354-9999. banditosburritolounge.com
Italian
Mamma Zu’s 501 South Pine St. 788-4205.
Cha Cha’s Cantina 1419 E. Cary St. 726-6296. chachascantina.com
Amici’s 3343 W. Cary St. 353-4700. amiciristorante.net Arianna’s Grill 700 N. Sheppard St. 353-6002. ariannasgrill.com Avenue 805 805 N. Davis Ave. 353-2505. avenue805.net Coppola’s 2900 W. Cary St. 359-6969. coppolasdeli.com Europa 1409 E. Cary St. 643-0911. europarichmond.com Joe’s Inn 205 N. Shields Ave. 355-2282. joesinn.com/Fan
Maximo’s Spanish & Italian Bistro
14 N. 18th St. 447-0654. maximosbistro.com
La Bamba 19 N. 18th St. 225-8883.
Mediterranean
Little Mexico 1328 W. Cary St. 525-4216. littlemexicova.com
The Cellar Door 1600 Monument Ave. 716-0346. cellardoorva.com Cous Cous 900 W. Franklin St. 358-0868. couscous900.com
Nacho Mama’s 3449 W. Cary St. 358-6262. nachomamasva.com
New American
Emilio’s Restaurant 1847 W. Broad St. 359-1224. emiliosrichmond.com
Balliceaux 203 N. Lombardy St. 355-3008. balliceauxrva.com
Mexican
The Belvidere 506 W. Broad St. 344-0644. thebelvidere.com
Baja Bean Co. 1520 W. Main St. 257-5445. bajabean.com
Bonvenu 2915 W. Cary St. 342-1003. bonvenu.com
Where Good Times and Great Food Go Together...
Perfectly
Whether you’re seeking a casual, relaxed night out, enjoying the city’s best tapas (at the city’s most beautiful tapas bar) along with a delighful wine or are seeking a truly exceptional feast of the finest gourmet Spanish and Italian cuisine, Maximo’s is your ultimate Shockoe Bottom destination. The atmosphere is fun and casual. The food is simply fantastic.
14 N. 18th Street • 804-447-0654 • www.maximosbistro.com 20
september/october 2012
www.richmondnavigator.com
[ R I V E R C I T Y E AT S ]
Finally, a Shockoe Bottom Neighborhood Bar and Grille
Just For You!
• Exceptional Food • Reasonable Prices • In a Fun, Casual Atmosphere
Café Gutenberg 1700 E. Main St. 497-5000. cafegutenberg.com
Old Original Bookbinder’s 2306 E. Cary St. 643-6900. bookbindersrichmond.com
Citizen 909 E. Main St. 780-9038.
Pescados 626 China St. 644-3474. pescadoschinastreet.com
Julep’s New Southern Cuisine 1719 E. Franklin St. 377-3968. juleps.net Laissez Faire Café 500 Dinwiddie Ave. 392-2360. M Bistro 4821 Old Main St. 652-2300. mbistro-rocketts.com
roxrva.com 119 N. 18th Street • 804-303-9444 • roxrva@hotmail.com
The Water Grill 3411 W. Cary St. 353-3411. thewatergrill.com
Steakhouse
Six Burner 1627 W. Main St. 353-4060. sixburner.net
Buckhead’s 8510 Patterson Ave. 750-2000. buckheads.com
Pizzeria
Morton’s 111 Virginia St. 648-1662. mortons.com
Blow Toad 2907 W. Cary St. 355-8623. blowtoad.com Bottom’s Up 1700 Dock Street. 644-4400. bottomsuppizza.com The Pizza Place 1731 E. Main St. 343-1300. richmondpizzaplace.com Sette 7 N. 23rd St. 788-7077. settepizza.com
Seafood
Kobe 19 S. 13th St. 643-8080. kobesteakandsushi.com
Thai Alex’s Thai Cuisine 13 N. 17th St. 343-3934. Beauregard’s Thai Room 103 E. Cary St. 644-2328. thairoom.com Elephant Thai 1100 W. Cary St. 353-0106.
Acacia 2601 W. Cary St. 562-0138. acaciarestaurant.com
Ginger Thai Taste 3145 W. Cary St. 254-7373. gingerthaitaste.net
The Boathouse 4708 E. Old Main St. 622-2628. boathouserichmond.com
Mom’s Siam 2811 W. Cary St. 359-7606. momsiam.com
Conch Republic 11 Orleans Street. 226-6242. conchrepublicrocketts.com
Thai Dinner Too 3028 W. Cary St. 353-9514. tdtoo.webs.com
Croaker Spot 1020 Hull St. 269-0464. croakersspot.com
Thai Top Ten 911 1/2 W. Grace St. 254-8195. Thaitoptenrestaurant.com
Edo’s Squid 411 N. Harrison St. 864-5488.
Vegetarian
The Hard Shell 1411 E. Cary St. 643-2333. thehardshell.com
www.ric hmondnavigator.com
Sam Miller’s 1210 E. Cary St. 644-5465. sammillers.com
Fresca 22 S. Addison St. 359-8638. frescaonaddison.com n
september/october 2012
21
22
september/october 2012
www.richmondnavigator.com
MANSION FIVE 26 526 N. 2nd Street. 266-2021. HippodromeRichmond.com HOURS: Tues-Sat 11-2, 5-10pm. Sun Brunch 11-2.
HAPPY HOUR Thursday nights offer the “biggest happy such delicacies as crab cakes, ham drop biscuits, crab and artichoke dip, and pork tortillas for $5. There are deejays and live music every Thursday. Happy hour specials run
Photos by Dash.
hour in town,” with $3, $4, and $5 drink specials. Feast on
from 5 until 7 and the party goes on ‘til 11 p.m. ENTERTAINMENT In addition to the weekly “Happy Hour Party,” there’s always something going on at the Hipp. Check the website for schedule. GRAB A BITE The kitchen is open until closing every night. QUENCH YOUR THIRST Enjoy specialty drinks such as the Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and, of course the Bojangles. See their website for a descrip-
Where Can You Get a Drink Around Here? Part II While Richmond could be quite the rowdy trading (and drinking) town in its earlier days, preprohibition laws, followed by national Prohibition quieted things down considerably. Following the repeal of Prohibition, Richmond (and Virginia as a
tion of these and other refreshing adult beverages. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Virginia Living Magazine just voted the Hipp as the best party venue in the state. It would be difficult to disagree. The place is so cool, our advice is that you just have to see it, experience it, to believe it. And the food is fantastic.
MAXIMO’S SPANISH & ITALIAN BISTRO 14 N. 18th Street. 447-0654. MaximosBistro.com HOURS: Tues-Thurs 5:30-10. Fri ‘til 11:30. Sunday Brunch 10:30-3:30.
whole) remained somewhat subdued as far as public consumption of alcohol was concerned. Liquor-by-
HAPPY HOUR Tuesday through Friday 5–7pm. $4 wine
the-drink legislation, in public restaurants, wasn’t
selection; $4 cosmos, bloody mary, or frozen daiquiri ; $4 beer
instituted until 1968.
imports/$3 domestic. Special pricing on select tapas such as
During the years between 1934 and 1968, private
codfish fritters, pork skewers, and pincho moruno.
clubs sprang up around the city. As a private club, as
GRAB A BITE The kitchen is open ‘til closing.
opposed to a public restaurant, such establishments
QUENCH YOUR THIRST Bar manager, Beth Turk, offers
could serve alcohol, even if it was supplied by the
lemon and limeades, virgin or with vodka or rum, flavored with Stevia…excellent for those
guest (member). Some referred to these restaurants
seeking to limit their sugar intake…and very refreshing as well.
as “brown bag” establishments because members would bring their alcohol, often in brown bags, and the club supplied the set-ups. One of the most popular such clubs was Tantilla Gardens (located on West Broad Street at Hamilton Avenue), mentioned in our previous issue. With its retractable roof that allowed for dancing under the stars Tantilla became known as “the South’s most beautiful ballroom.” Many Richmonders still recall traipsing up the narrow staircase, brown bag in hand. In many such clubs, each member had his own
THEIR CLAIM TO FAME This Shockoe Bottom bistro is quickly becoming a downtown favorite. The food, ambience, and professional and attentive staff make for a great evening of fine dining. Be sure to check out their secluded outdoor courtyard dining area.
PENNY LANE PUB 421 E. Franklin Street. 780-1682. PennyLanePub.com HOURS: Monday-Saturday 11am-2am. Closed Sunday (except soccer)
HAPPY HOUR Monday-Friday 4-7pm. $3.50 all drafts 16 oz. $2 domestic bottle beer. $4 glass of wine, $3 house drinks. ENTERTAINMENT Monday nights karaoke at 9pm. Tuesday
cabinet space in which to store his favorite beverages.
and Thursday poker nights. Wednesday Pub Trivia. All events
And while liquor-by-the-drink put an end to most
are free and prizes and gift cards are given out nightly.
such clubs, a few remain ‘til today.
GRAB A BITE Dinner is served until 10pm. Order from the
Since 1968, restaurants have proliferated around
Pub Grub menu until 1am.
town. Formerly quiet, older, residential or industrial
QUENCH YOUR THIRST All the draft beers are British/European or American craft beers.
neighborhoods, such as the Fan and Shockoe Slip
THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Operated by Richmond’s most famous Liverpudian, Terry
have become lively nightlife districts. In our next issue, we’ll take a look at some of the city’s most memorable nightspots that quenched the thirst of Richmonders who could now enjoy a refreshing adult beverage with their meal. www.ric hmondnavigator.com
O’Neill, since 1979, Penny Lane Pub is a downtown landmark. O’Neill says, “We are the best soccer bar in Richmond.” And with 15 HDTVs throughout the restaurant, carrying virtually all televised soccer, Penny Lane may well be. The pub also features 2 bars, including a smoking area in the upstairs bar, plus a pool table and, of course, darts.
september/october 2012
23
1
[ I N S EARC H OF ]
2 3
DESSERT Photos by Tim Hill and Robert Thomas.
1. Baked Alaska
2. Orange Crepe
3. Avocado Tart
Chef Stuart Lowrie brings his personal touch to this traditional dessert using pistachio cake and Homestead Creamery vanilla ice cream. Top it off with Italian meringue, raspberry coulis, fresh berries, and mint. The Continental Westhampton 5704 Grove Avenue • 285-0911 TheContinentalVa.com
An orange flavored crepe is filled with lemon mousse and topped with pistachios and blackberry sauce for a French dessert with an artistic touch! Amuse • vmfa.state.va.us/amuse 200 N. Boulevard • 340-1580 Inside the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
A sweet coconut cookie crust with a creamy refreshing filling that looks and tastes like chilled cheesecake and key lime pie. Surrounded with a ring of red wine syrup. Pescado’s • 626 China Street 644-3474 • pescadoschinastreet.com
24
september/october 2012
www.richmondnavigator.com
[ F L AV O R ]
Enjoying a Greek Classic
Greek Grill Cafe By Steve Cook. Photos by Robert Thomas.
A
s you enter the somewhat nondescript
So who is behind the creation of such tempting
white brick building, there’s very little to
dishes? I took the opportunity to speak with the
suggest that you are about to embark on
older gentleman at the register and learned that he
an adventure in excellent Greek dining. Sure the
was the owner. “He” is Ulysses Avgeros. Avgeros, who
sign outside tells you that you are at the Greek Grill
owns and operates the Greek Grill Café, along with
Café (2313 Westwood Avenue #B/355-4001/www.
his wife Christina, is from both the old country and
greekgrillcafe.com.
the old school.
As you enter, the first things you might notice are
Born in Athens, he’s been in this country for 42
the murals. Oh yes, huge murals, done by none other
years. “One day in New York,” he says, “and the rest of
than Happy the artist, project colorful images of
the time, here in Richmond.”
Greek scenes. There’s the Parthenon and a seacoast village and happy tourists snapping pictures.
As for the old school, Avgeros understands the importance of providing each customer with an
Perhaps the lightheartedness of the artwork is
exceptional experience. That starts, he says, with the
somewhat deceptive. On my first visit, I really had no
food, but not just any food. “Everything has to be of
expectation that I was about enjoy the delights of a
the highest quality,” he says.“You can be a great cook,
phenomenal Greek feast.
but if the quality isn’t there, it’s no good.”
And then, the food arrived. Huge plates of
Avgeros credits his wife with her meticulous
delicious delicacies. First to be delivered to our table
attention to every detail. It is Christina, he says, who
was the appetizer platter. When I saw how high it was
runs the kitchen, doing much of the preparation and
piled, I knew we had ordered too much food, but I
cooking, herself. “No one makes dolmades like she
was also glad we did.
does,” Avgeros says with pride.
My daughter quickly proclaimed the dolmades
Avgeros has every reason to be proud. He finally
to be the best she had ever had. My wife was equally
has his own Greek Restaurant. He’s also proud and
as appreciative of the food.
happy to have, along with his wife, his two daughters
I was already delving into the Athenian Pizza,
and a grandson working with him in the restaurant.
which had arrived just after the platter. Generously
“In all my years (in the business),” he says with a
topped with feta cheese, spinach, tomato, onions
twinkle in his eye, “This is the first restaurant where
and olives, this was a great pizza and at just $10.95,
I have never had a complaint.” I can believe that.
a great deal.
Having visited Greek Grill Café several times since
By this point, I was somewhat regretful that I had
I discovered it, just a few short months ago, having
also ordered pastitsio, but when it arrived and I took
tasted a variety of dishes and having paid attention
that first bite, my regrets were gone. This, without
to the comments of others, guests and employees
a doubt, is the most delicious pastitsio I have ever
alike, it’s pretty obvious that Ulysses Avgeros has
tasted. Of course, this is one man’s opinion, but I think
something very special going on at the Greek Grill
I know pastitsio pretty well.
Cafe. n
www.ric hmondnavigator.com
A TASTE
of the Menu
Appetizer Platter with feta cheese, Kalamata olives, dolmades, and pitas. Athenian Pizza with feta cheese, spinach tomato, onions and olives. Gyro with beef and lamb, tomato, lettuce, feta cheese, onions, and tzatziki in pita bread.
Souvlaki served with rice and Greek green beans Mousaka made with eggplant, beef, squash with Bechamel sauce. Pastitsio. Greek macaroni, ground beef and Bechamel sauce.
september/october 2012
25
[ F L AV O R ]
SELF: GRADE YOUR
get out more u really need to Yo : t ec rr Co g 3 0doubt, enjoyin od. You are, no go ty et Pr t: ec 4-7 Corr nts y fine restaura River City’s man ay home more all re y should st u Yo t: ec rr Co 8 and above
How much do you really know ab out Richmond’s re staurant scene? You m ay be surprise d and delighted to discover some hidden g ems.
By Ste ve Co o
k
describes his place as “an American pub with an Irish twist. Our baby-back ribs are second to none. So is our Sunday brunch.” 3. It’s a downtown delicatessen/grocer offering a wide range of international foods, plus a cool little sandwich shop featuring an authentic
1. Wouldn’t it be great if there were a restaurant that only served desserts? Yes, we think it would be great. And, here’s the good news: There is! It’s Shyndigz Cake Café (5716 Patterson Avenue; 938-3449; www.shyndigz.com). By day, Shyndigz is a wonderful bakery and cake shop. But on Thursday and Friday nights, from 4 to 11 p.m., and on Saturday, from noon ‘til 11, it becomes the Shyndigz Cake Café. Just the name conjures up visions of loveliness. Wait until you see the cakes.
Liv t
Laura Shibu oto courtesy of
Ph
Skirpan, at Shyndigz, says they start with a rotating selection from their cake menu, and then they add in some specialty items, including a selection of pies and other desserts. The slices are big, but if you bring friends or family, try the sampler platter, which includes your choice of four cakes or pies. “What makes our desserts so great,” Liv says, “is that we don’t cut corners. It’s all fresh, made from scratch. Nothing is ever frozen.”
2. What 20-year-old Shockoe Bottom establishment may be the most misunderstood dining spot in town? (Hint: You’ll find Raven Fries on the menu.) “Even though our food here is fantastic, people still think we’re a biker bar” says Mike Britt, owner of Poe’s Pub (2706 E. Main; www.poespub.com), who acknowledges that Poe’s is “biker friendly.” Mike, who is of Irish descent,
26
september/october 2012
country ham sub. What is it? It’s Nick’s International Foods (400 W. Broad Street; 644-0683; www. nicksinternationalfoods.com). Owner, Manuel Mooris, says his father started the business in 1952, selling produce out of the back of his old Pontiac. If you’re in the market for the highest quality, authentic Mediterranean foods, this is the market you need to be in. And, as for his meats, Manuel says his roast beef, corned beef, and pastrami are unbeatable. There’s also a neat little sandwich shop in the back. 4. An all-woman management team operates this Museum District’s oldest and newest restaurant. Name it. It’s The Franklin Inn (800 N. Cleveland Street; 716-9493; www.franklin-inn.com). And, yes, this is a trick(y) question. The Franklin Inn first opened in 1930. After several name changes, it’s now back to its original name, and the four lovely ladies, Dale, Tonya, Jaime, and Jen (she runs the Cleveland Market), are working together to create one of the city’s coziest, friendliest, and coolest dining spots. Everything we sampled was delicious, but you really need to try the wings…some of the best I’ve ever had. 5. In what hidden, marina-based hole in the wall (meant in the best possible way) would Kermit feel quite at home? It’s the Lilly Pad (9680 Osborne Turnpike, at Kingsland Reach Marina; 7954155). If you looked up “Relaxed, fun, laid-back hangout” in the dictionary (can you do that?), you’d see a picture of this place. Sail in or drive in, it really don’t matter, none. You’re gonna have fun. For sure, there’s cold beer in cans and lots of fresh seafood. But wait, there’s more. Owner, Candace Atkins is a trained sushi chef, and every Tuesday is Sushi Night. Candace says,“There’s not a lot of turnover here. People tend to come and camp out.” She also says she doesn’t mind that one bit.
www.richmondnavigator.com
6. Wouldn’t it be neat if someone came up with a root beer float shooter? Yes, it would be neat. The good news is that someone has. It’s the folks at Curbside
9. There’s a tiny strip mall on Staples Mill with a tiny sub shop that serves some of the most delicious sandwiches in town. Name it. It’s Subs and More (7306 Staples Mill Road; 266-8917). And
Café (2525 Hanover Avenue, at Robinson;
the “More” is so good, I haven’t gotten around to trying the subs
355-7008;
yet. This family-run sandwich shop is so “down home” that you
www.curbsiderichmond.com).
Co-owner, Matt Bailey and his partners
can even get a delicious bologna burger, and I’ve already put their
have a good thing going at this friendly Fan
hamburger on my top-five list. Everything is made fresh to order,
establishment. The root beer float shooter,
and it shows (tastes).
made with Whipped Cream vodka, Bailey’s Irish Cream and root beer, is just the icing on the cake. There’s something special going on virtually every night, such as 35 cent wing night on Mondays or 75 cent tacos on Tuesday. On Wednesday, Matt says,
10. What 1920s-era filling station is now the home of the Richmond area’s only family-style restaurant? It’s Tanglewood Ordinary (2210 River Road – Route 6; 804 556-3284; www.ordinary.com) and
the place is packed for the half-price burgers.
when it comes to restaurants, there’s nothing 7. At what classy restaurant on the Boulevard can you
ordinary about this place. According to Anne Hardwick, who has owned and operated the
jelly up to the bar? The answer will Amuse you. Of course, with my amusing hint, you probably got this
restaurant, along with husband, Jim, since 1986,
one…Amuse (200 N. Boulevard; 340-1580; www.
the atmosphere is pretty much like “having
vmfa.va.us/Amuse) It’s a clever name for a wonderful
dinner at grandma’s house.” The family-oriented
restaurant, located right inside the Virginia Museum
restaurant is famous for its Southern comfort
of Fine Arts. The masterpieces are not just hanging on
food, served family style. That means great food and lots of it. Believe me, it’s
the wall, here. They’re coming out of the kitchen, to
well worth the beautiful drive west on Patterson Avenue (Route 6).
the delight of guests, daily. But what about that jelly comment? While we were there, bartender Brian Riley whipped up a delightful concoction. Made with Simonet, a sparkling wine, and gelatin shooters, the drink is called Jelly Jewels. The
11. Where can you have breakfast and dinner at Lunch? Well, we kinda gave the answer away. It’s Lunch ((1213 Summit Avenue; 353-0111; eatlunchrva.com) . That’s the name of Rick Lyons’ newest restaurant. You may remember Rick from Starlight Diner, Bandito’s, and the Republic. Lunch is a tiny place, serving up big platters of delicious foods for breakfast,
gelatin “jewels,” are created with such liqueurs as
dinner, and, of course, lunch. Rick says that chef, John Seymore, is “Southern
Midori, Crème Yvette, Limoncello, Cointreau, and Aperol, to create a variety of colors and flavors. At first glance, you might imagine the drink was created by Picasso, himself. 8. Do you remember the old Thalhimer’s six-layer cakes? Any chance I can get one of those somewhere?
trained,” and offers such treats as shrimp and grits, and meatloaf. “We get fun and creative with the food,” he says. And with its location, in Scott’s Addition, Rick says parking is never a problem. 12. What local dining spot features AYCE serving stations featuring such delights as cooked-to-order pasta dishes, brick oven pizzas, a
Yes and Yes! There’s a very good chance. You can head over to Michaela’s Bakery (207 W. Brookland Park Boulevard;
burger buffet and fried chicken. And, it’s all located on one of the nation’s most beautiful college campuses?
321-0025). I asked owner/baker, Michael Hatcher, how close his
Just across the lake from Boatwright Library at the University of Richmond,
six-layer cake is to Thalhimer’s famous six-layer of yesteryear.
sits the beautiful Heilman Dining Center (www.dining.richmond.edu). For
“This is the Thalhimer’s cake,” he assured me. He should know.
starters, disregard everything you’ve ever known about school cafeterias.
Michael was a baker at Thalhimer’s for 11 years, and he has the
“It is easy to forget it is a campus dining facility,” says Cynthia Stearns,
recipe…not just for the six-layer beauty, but for a host of the
assistant director of UR’s Marketing and Special Programs Department.
popular pastries from the long-gone
“Healthy and fresh daily choices begin in the morning with cooked-to-order
legendary Richmond department store.
omelets and eggs for breakfast. For lunch and dinner the choices are endless.”
If you don’t have time to drive over
And even if you don’t look like a student or a professor, no worries. “We
to Brookland Park, you can purchase
welcome our local community,”
Michael’s
Westbury
crowd of local people who will
Deli, Padow’s (all of ‘em), Melito’s,
come for brunch.” Check out
Barksdale Theater, and the Glen Allen
the website for hours, calendar,
Supermarket.
and menu information. n
pastries
at
Stearns says. On Sundays we have a good
[ F E AT U R E ]
STEP
outside
THE BOX
Discovering the Personal Attention of Local Boutiques By Jennifer Norvell Saunders No one likes showing up at a party and seeing their outfit on someone else. Or giving a gift and finding out
Find Unique Items Like These at Loca l Boutiques Richmond Dinnerware A line of plates, wine glasses, and more help you show off Richmond’s neighborhoods and landmarks to your dinner guests. Very Richmond Gifts 1051 E. Cary Street, Ste. 104 644-3613. VeryRichmondGifts.com “Linsii” Print Blouse. Finland’s Marimekko, a Jackie O favorite, is famed for artist-designed prints. Eurotrash. 3009 West Cary Street. 622-3876. ShopEurotrash.com
the recipient got three more just like it. And no one enjoys searching for a salesperson when they want to make a purchase. But in our world of big box stores, that kind of thing happens. And it happens a lot. So what’s a shopper to do? Go local, of course. Go boutique. Unique offerings, carefully curated, are a point of pride for local boutiques. Because the shops are owned by individuals, inventories often reflect a personal vision of what’s needed or desired by their customers. For Janet
Tote Bags Carry these unique totes to show off your favorite book or a little Virginia history. The Virginia Shop 800 East Broad Street 692-3524 • TheVirginiaShop.org
Brown of Janet Brown Interiors that means sharing her love of mixing old and new. She created an explore-worthy shop packed with inventory from her travels, estate sales and antique finds as well as visits to the Atlanta and New York markets. “My inventory creates options. We don’t have ten pillows you can only use one way. We have hundreds so you can mix and match to create something unique to your personality. Chain stores think everyone should have a certain item. I think no house should look exactly like another.” Stan McCulloch, co-owner of Mongrel with Mark Burkett, also sees their personal vision reflected in their gift inventory. “I describe it as an ever-evolving boutique that’s design driven. It’s an exploration,” says McCulloch. “Our mainstay is cards but there’s so much more. We’re interested
28
september/october 2012
www.richmondnavigator.com
in things made by people, not corporations and in finding things our customers have
services, wish lists, fashion shows and private parties,
never seen before. Our customers are always telling us they come here first to find
we want to make your experience wonderful,”
something new, something interesting.”
Davenport says. They’ve even been known to take a
Le Visage Makeup Boutique, which offers cosmetics and skin care, takes curating
sale over the phone, wrap it and run it out to the curb
very seriously by getting the entire staff of professionally trained makeup artists into
for a hurried shopper. They also use social media to
the mix.“We choose American-made products, including national brands not found in
interact with customers. “We use our web store, blog,
many other stores, by researching what’s new. But we don’t offer a product until we get
Facebook page, Pinterest and Twitter nearly every
samples and have the staff try it out to decide if it meets our standards,” says owner,
day, whether it’s to post photos of new arrivals, blog
Lina Sogomonyan.“That means we all have extensive product knowledge and we can
about European fashion trends, or promote private
find exactly what works for you whether it’s for a personal makeup consultation, a
sales.
wedding or a production.”
At Mongrel, the experience may also include a
For many boutiques, it’s the experience shoppers have as much as the inventory
laugh or two. “When people come through the door,
they see that sets them apart from the big box or chain stores. From customer services
they hear laughing and it’s fun,” says McCulloch.
touches like gift wrapping and gift registry to special orders and helping you find the
“We’ve even overheard customers asking other
perfect item, they work hard to make sure you feel special. Eurotrash, a unique shop
people what they’re laughing at! They come in
offering “European lines you can’t find anywhere else in the city” calls their customer
expecting to have a good time.”
service interactive. “It’s very hands-on,” says manager Kerensa Davenport. “From helping you take the right European size into the dressing room to offering styling
www.ric hmondnavigator.com
Chances are, you can’t say that about your last encounter with a big box. n
september/october 2012
29
[ C I T Y S PA C E S ]
Look Your Best! No Incisions. No Discomfort. No Downtime. No More Excuses! Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Ruth Hillelson is one of the country’s leading practitioners of Thermage, the radio-frequency cosmetic procedure that utilizes heat to tighten skin and form new collagen. When lotions and potions are not enough and surgery is too much, Thermage is the effective solution. Call us today at 804.290.0060 for a consultation and get started looking your best.
On the face, Thermage can improve sagging skin, loose jowls, lack of definition in the jaw line, sagging neck skin, fine lines and wrinkles. Before Thermage Before Thermage
Two months post treatment
Around the eyes, Thermage can improve under eye bags, hooding, rough texture on the eyelids and other contributors to tired looking eyes.
Immediately post treatment
On the body, Thermage can improve wrinkled, crepey, sagging or bulging skin as well as the appearance of cellulite.
Before Thermage
Two months post treatment
804.290.0060 Conveniently located in the West End off Gaskins and Mayland
Ruth Hillelson, MD, FACS 9900 Independence Park Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 www.americanself.com • INFO@americanself.com Like American Self on FACEBOOK