Happy Hour Guide : Events Calendar : Tastebudz News
September / October 2018
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DISCOVERING
Loudoun County’s Wineries DESTINATION
BBQ
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Barnes & Diehl shareholder profiles
J
ohn Karanian has been a family law attorney with Barnes & Diehl for 14 years. He is a former practicing forensic and clinical psychologist with the CIA and is currently licensed in Virginia as a Clinical Psychologist. John earned his law degree from the University of Richmond, his Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) from the University of Hartford, and his undergraduate degree (B.A. in Psychology) from Georgetown University. John has litigated multifaceted cases throughout Virginia. He represents clients in all family law matters including divorce, complex property distribution, spousal and child support, separation agreements, compliance with court orders, and protective orders. John is known for his diligent and passionate representation and expertise in the courtroom. His experience as a clinical psychologist provides a unique understanding of mental health issues that arise in family law matters. John was voted by his peers as a Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2007 through 2014 and then a Virginia Super Lawyer from 2015 through 2018. He has lectured and published on family law and psychology topics.
H
arris W Leiner grew up here in Virginia, earned his undergraduate degree (B.A., English) from the University of Florida and graduated from the University of Richmond School of Law in 2001.
Harris has been in private practice for seventeen years and during that time has always focused on the area of family law. Representing clients in the Court of Appeals, Circuit Courts and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts, he has earned a reputation as skilled negotiator and litigator. This reputation has resulted in his being asked to speak at numerous family law legal seminars on topics including custody, support, distribution of property and business valuation. Further, Harris has been named as a Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2007 through 2012, a Super Lawyer from 2013 through 2018, and was included in the Virginia Business Legal Elite for 2010 through 2017. In addition to his dedication to providing zealous representation for his clients, Harris has taken a significant amount of time over the years to give back to the community.
BarnesFamilyLaw.com A Tradition of Experience and Devotion to Family Law
Richmond/Chesterfield Office Boulders VI 7401 Beaufont Springs Drive Richmond, VA 23225 Phone: (804) 796-1000
Henrico Office Three Paragon 6806 Paragon Place Richmond, VA 23230 Phone: (804) 762-9500
Hanover Office Lockwood Office Building 9097 Atlee Station Road Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone: (804) 569-5515
BEST
Welcome to Virginia Family Dentistry, Jr. Your child should start seeing the dentist as soon as their first birthday. And they shouldn’t see just any dentist. They need to go to a practice that has the specialists, the equipment and the setting for pediatric dentistry & orthodontics. That would be Virginia Family Dentistry, with pediatric specialists in four locations across the area. Go to VAdentist.com to learn more.
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Ironbridge – Chesterfield 6441 Ironbridge Rd. N. Chesterfield, VA 23234 (804) 743-8166
West End Pediatric & Orthodontic Specialty Center 12390 Three Chopt Road Henrico, VA 23233 (804) 351-5432
Huguenot Pediatric & Orthodontic Specialty Center 1801 Huguenot Rd. Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 362-2400
P R E S E N T E D
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U R B A N N A
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Friday, November 2 or Saturday, November 3, 2018 Every VIP ticket holder will receive the following: Six beer tastings Two oyster shooters Six oyster tastings Discounts at local businesses November 2018 – April 2019 VIP seating at Saturday’s 11:00 am Shucking Contest Artist-signed 61st Urbanna Oyster Festival poster
PURCHASE TICKETS AT WWW.URBANNAOYSTERFESTIVAL.COM
LI RA M IN 2 IT O I D 1 ED R R AN T SH E I IN Q D C K U I R U E E. E P. TS D . .
Access to three hospitality tents throughout Urbanna during the festival –Town Marina, Craft Beer Tent & Wine Tasting Tent Exclusive VIP tables and seating Support from a festival concierge to help you navigate the event Private restroom facilities Bottled waters Six wine tastings
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Pla-Mor Pools Named
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CONTENTS SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018
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10 West End's Best
RichmondNavigator.com
Fall in love with
Autumn Color From vibrant holiday traditions to a garden to make the neighbors orange with envy, fall is alive at RVA’s favorite locally-owned florist & garden center. 12111 WEST BROAD ST 804.360.2800 3313 MECHANICSVILLE PIKE 804.321.2200
STRANGES.COM
THINGS TO DO
18 Calendar of Events
WEST END LIFE
20 A Moving Concern
21 Here Comes the Parade 21 Ashland Train Day
HEALTH
22 Breast Cancer 24 Blood Pressure
FLAVOR
29 In Search Of: BBQ 32 Tastebudz 35 Wines Around Town
42 52
37 Happy Hour Guide 38 Craft Brew Directory 42 Sports Bars
TRAVEL
46 Destination BBQ 48 Loudon County Wineries 52 Boones Mill & Rocky Mount
HOME 58 Mosaic at West Creek:
62
Here We Grow Again
62 Smart Technology Comes to Your Bathroom
12 West End's Best
RichmondNavigator.com
“Exceeding customer expectations in a unique and outstanding way.”
M
anorhouse Assisted Living & Memory Care would like to thank the Richmond Community for voting us as one of the top five senior living communities in the Richmond area. The rating was awarded by the Richmond Times-Dispatch’s annual “The Best” contest. With over three decades of experience in senior living, Manorhouse Management, Inc. has always called the West End of Richmond our home. As a locally owned and operated community, we are very proud of this achievement in the first year of operations in our new location. Many families have chosen Manorhouse through word of mouth referrals from current satisfied residents and families. We are truly honored and appreciate all the support and votes
• NO LARGE ENTRANCE FEES • 2 bedroom, 2 bath independent living cottages with garage and outdoor patio • Deluxe 1 bedroom assisted living apartments, suites and studios
of confidence from our residents, families, and vendors in the community. In addition to local ownership and local corporate support that takes great pride in a strong reputation, it is our great team of compassionate and dedicated professionals, our nurses, caregivers, cooks, housekeepers and the experienced leadership that led Manorhouse to the Times- Dispatch’s “The Best” Top Five Senior Living Communities. To our team, we thank you for all you do. To our community, we thank you again Richmond! To experience our commitment to exceed customer expectations in a unique and outstanding way, contact our Director of Marketing & Admissions Valerie Robinson at (804) 360 7777. • Memory care suites and studios on ground floor with two secure courtyards • Licensed nurses on site 24 hours every day • State-of-the-art nurse call response and security systems • Locally owned and operated
Call Valerie Robinson at 804.360.7777 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
www.ManorhouseRichmond.com
13500 North Gayton Road, Henrico, VA 23233 (A half mile South of Strange’s Garden Center)
From the Editor
Contributors
Over the past several issues of West End’s Best Magazine, we have shared with you some of the most interesting small towns throughout Virginia. In being one of the contributors to our Small Town Virginia feature, I have had the opportunity to visit and to discover a number of these fascinating small towns sprinkled throughout the state. While I’m not one to pick a favorite, I will make an exception and say that Boones Mill, the small town featured in this issue, is, by far, my favorite of all towns, anywhere. I say that unashamedly. Boones Mill is my hometown, at least that’s what I tell everyone. In truth, I was born in Richmond. I’ve lived in Richmond for about 75% of my life. I only lived in Boones Mill about 5% of my life. But, from an emotional and sentimental standpoint, Boones Mill is my hometown. In this issue’s Small Town feature, I wrote that I lived in Boones Mill, in Franklin County, from ages 5 to 10. I mention that my father was the town doctor. What I didn’t mention is the reason my family left Boones Mill. My father was killed in an automobile accident when I was 9 and my mother decided that it would be beneficial to move back to Richmond to be closer to the rest of the family. While I’ve always loved returning to the town and visiting with my old friends, I would never have thought that Boones Mill could qualify as worthy of being the subject of a Small Town feature. But in recent years, the little town, thanks to a whole lot of generous community-minded residents, has done some cool things that, combined with the development of Rocky Mount, which sits about 15 minutes south of Boones Mill, make the entire region a great place to get away for a weekend or a vacation. Of course, the presence of Smith Mountain Lake, also in Franklin County, has turned the entire county into a premier vacation destination. Come fall, there’s no more beautiful place anywhere on earth than along the Blue Ridge Mountains. Boones Mill sits just minutes off the Parkway. I’m planning on getting away to the town’s annual Apple Festival on September 22. I’ll look for you there. Besides the Boones Mill piece, we have some excellent travel ideas in this issue. If you’re interested in getting out of town and discovering other Virginia destinations, check out our feature spotlighting some of the gorgeous wineries in Loudoun County. We also have our Richmond Navigator Barbecue Trail showcasing some of the best barbecue spots around the state. As for fantastic barbecue in the West End, well, we show you some of our favorites in that regard, too. There is a whole lot going on in this issue. I hope you enjoy it all.
Steve Cook,
Steve@RichmondNavigator.com
Writer? Photographer? Both? One of Metro Richmond’s largest Lifestyle Magazine Publishers is seeking freelance writers and photographers for a wide variety of editorial assignments.
Send resume and work samples, or link to online portfolio, to Jobs@AdvertisingConceptsInc.com
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14 West End's Best
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Zach Brown
Zach first moved to Richmond to attend VCU, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Writing in 2010. Serving as a poster child for obsessive behavior, Zach has never been able to casually enjoy anything as subjects that interest him hit ‘allconsuming’ levels in a matter of days. The greatest example of this defect being his love of writing. When he wraps up his daily word quota, you’ll find him playing drums with his band, reading, or enjoying a craft beer from one of his many favorite local brewers.
Lisa Puster
Lisa Puster is a web content manager, writer and mom of two teenage daughters, Meredith and Morgan. Lisa is a selfproclaimed shopping, yoga and wine enthusiast. Her interest in wine began after working for a wine distributor years ago. She enjoys pairing her love for wine with her love for writing!
Constance Whitney
After spending the majority of her formative years living overseas, when it came time to settle down Constance quickly chose Richmond as her home. The history, the people, the culture — the food! As dedicated word mercenary, Constance writes for the technical world during the day and uses her gift of prose after hours to document her never-ending quest to explore all life has to offer.
Josh Young
Josh Young is a photographer and educator, as well as a recent Richmond transplant. He earned his degrees from West Virginia University where he worked as a photo journalist, and an event and portrait photographer. His news photos have been used nationwide through the Associated Press. When he’s not behind the camera, he can be found reading a good book, or trying to sample all the great food that Richmond has to offer. To see some of his work, view his Instagram: @joshuayoungphoto.
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Fall in Love with our Dog Training Program PRESIDENT / PUBLISHER William J. Davis, Jr. VICE-PRESIDENT / PUBLISHER Cheryl T. Davis EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Steve Cook ASSISTANT EDITOR Ashley Jefferson COPY EDITOR Tammy Wersinger CREATIVE DIRECTOR Michael Lay GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ryan Hooley DIGITAL MANAGER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joey Wharton PHOTOGRAPHERS Steve Cook, David Masucci, Danny Spry, Josh Young
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EDITORIAL INTERN Cosima Pellis DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jimmy Davis SALES CONSULTANT Emily Sanders ADVERTISING West End’s Best Magazine is published bimonthly by Richmond Navigator Media 6301 Harbourside Drive, Suite 100 Midlothian, VA 23112 P: 804-639-9994 E: Info@RichmondNavigator.com ONLINE / SOCIAL RichmondNavigator.com Facebook.com/RichmondNavigator Twitter.com/RichmondNav All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. A PUBLICATION OF
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ABOUT OUR COVER
BBQ earned our cover spot thanks to its status as our In Search Of topic for this issue in addition to our Destination BBQ feature. You’ll read about discovering the wineries of Loudoun County with our writer, Lisa Puster, take a leisurely sidetrip to Boones Mill and Rocky Mount in Franklin County with our editor Steve Cook, and get up to speed on wine venues, breweries and happy hours.
16 West End's Best
Full Service • Express • Self Service • Family Owned Monthly Unlimited and Loyalty Plans Available Located off Dominion Blvd. and West Broad St. Near Innsbrook
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RICHMOND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA LEAGUE
Designer House
TOUR HOLLY LAWN
Sept. 17 - Oct. 14, 2018
Photo courtesy of Richmond Magazine.
Smoke Pit Grill Café | Fabulous Boutique open during tour hours
M-F 10am-3pm Sat. 10am-5pm Sun. 1-5pm 4015 Hermitage Road Richmond
Thirsty Thursdays Photography courtesy of
Happy Hour Garden Party House Tour Hors d’oeuvres • Live Music Wine • Hardywood Beer
September 20, 27 October 4, 11 5:30-7:30pm GOLD SPONSOR
TITLE SPONSOR
SILVER SPONSORS
Elizabeth G. Schneider Charitable Trust The Peachtree House Foundation
Anne Carter and Walter R. Robins, Jr. Foundation MEDIA SPONSORS
PAINT SPONSOR LIGHTING SPONSOR
BEER SPONSOR
Tickets & Information: WWW.RSOL.ORG
antiques | vintage | mid-century modern | furniture | lighting | collectibles | art
West End Antiques Mall & Project1 Home Furnishings
60,000 sq ft 250+ dealers mon - sat 10-6 sun 12-6 westendantiquemall.com
2004 & 2012 Staples Mill Rd Richmond, VA 23230 near the intersection of Staples Mill & W Broad in the Crossroads Center September / October 2018
project1home.com West End's Best 17
Events Calendar by West End’s Best staff
OCTOBER 6 & 7
A Jackson Ward Tradition
SEPTEMBER 17 – OCTOBER 14
Richmond Symphony Orchestra League Designer House Tour See 27 spaces in the gorgeous Queen Annestyle home, Holly Lawn, transformed by top designers. This bi-annual event, which raises funds for the Richmond Symphony, kicks off on with a special preview gala on September 17 featuring live music by the Symphony. See the website for full schedule of related events. Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 – 5 p.m./ House tour $30 / 4015 Hermitage Road / RSOL.org
SEPTEMBER 29
Dog Days of Fall It’s the Inaugural Richmond Dog Festival! Feel free to bring lawn chairs . There’ll be live music and tents to kick back under, as well as a chair check service. Your four-legged friends are the guests of honor – must be socialized and leashed. This is a rain or shine event! 11a.m. – 4p.m. / $1 suggested entry donation to Enrichmond / 17th Street Market/ Enrichmond.org
Nearly 40,000 people visit historic Jackson Ward to reminisce about the days when 2nd Street was the heart and soul of Richmond’s African American community and was known as “the Harlem of the South.” The music, art, food, laughter and fun will be bigger and brighter this year, as Richmond celebrates 30 years of reuniting the Jackson Ward community! The 2nd Street Festival features four stages of live musical entertainment along with a Kidz Zone, popular food vendors, a marketplace and Artists Row to shop, and the Richmond metropolitan Antique Car Club. See website for schedule / Free / 2nd Street in Jackson Ward / VentureRichmond.com
OCTOBER 12
Mosaic/Ardent Brewing Beer Pairing Dinner Enjoy a special five-course dinner consisting of fresh, local and delicious fare from Mosaic restaurant, paired with some of your favorite brews from Ardent Craft Ales.
6:30 p.m. / $50 / Mosaic restaurant, 6229 River Road, 804-288-7482 / MosaicEdibles.com
SEPTEMBER 21 – 23
OCTOBER 4 - 6
Bier Und Brezel
Who’s Up For Some Greek Tragedy?
St. Benedict Oktoberfest has grown to become one of the largest Oktoberfest events in Virginia! In the true Oktoberfest spirit, over 50 craft and German beers will be offered at this year’s Oktoberfest. German and Austrian wine will also be offered, in addition to authentic German food and desserts. German music and dance, as well as a wildly popular stein holding contests will take place through the weekend.
In a story that is as contemporary as it is classical, this famed Sophoclean tragedy, Antigone, explores the calamity produced by placing a headstrong young woman against an autocratic political tyrant. The story may be straightforward and simple, but the themes of power, family love, and defiance are certainly complex.
See website for times / Free / 300 N. Sheppard St. / StBenedictOktoberfest.com
18 West End's Best
7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. / Free, ticket required / Cousins Studio Theatre, Modlin Center for the Arts, 50 Crenshaw Way / Modlin.richmond.edu
RichmondNavigator.com
OCTOBER 12-14
Richmond’s Big Gig The Richmond Folk Festival continues its celebration of the roots, richness and variety of American culture through music, dance, traditional craft and food. The Festival, sponsored by Venture
Richmond, features more than 30 performing groups on seven live music stages with continuous music and dance performances, along with a Virginia Folklife demonstration area, children’s activities, a folk arts marketplace, regional and ethnic foods and more. See website for times / Free / 2nd to 7th St., Byrd St. to the James River/ RichmondFolkFestival.com
NOVEMBER 10
Richmond’s Big Race
OCTOBER 27 – APRIL 14 OCTOBER 14
Singing in HARMONY The HARMONY concert features two worldacclaimed A Cappella groups, The Maccabeats, a Jewish group formed in 2007 at Yeshiva University, and Naturally 7, an American beatboxing vocal group. HARMONY is the fusion of spectacular vocals and distinct singing styles. By bringing this unique musical collaboration to Richmond, the hope is to provide an opportunity for individuals of all ages to experience live A Cappella music. 2:30p.m. / See website for ticket pricing (Etix.com)/ 6 N Laurel St. / AltriaTheater.com
Fresh Paint: Murals Inspired by the Story of Virginia This unprecedented exhibition for all ages at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture brings together original large-scale artwork created by current Virginia-based artists with historical objects, books, letters, diaries, and photographs from the museum’s world-class collection. The gallery walls will be transformed with fresh paint and expressive reflections on Virginia’s past. Using the mural aesthetic, artists will blend the present with the past creating a first of its kind display for a history museum in the Commonwealth. View live painting by the artists from September 10 to October 12
Members free; Non members included with admission to Museum – Adults – $10, Seniors (65+) – $8, Youth (6-17) – $5 / Virginia Museum of History and Culture, 428 N Boulevard, 804-340-1800 / VirginiaHistory.org
No matter which distance you choose (full, half or 8k), when you run Richmond, you’ll receive VIP treatment! With thousands of volunteers and spectators encouraging you, and more race perks than you can count, you’ll see why this race has earned it’s rep as “America’s Friendliest Marathon!” 7a.m. – 8k; 7:30a.m. – Half Marathon; 7:45a.m. – Marathon / See website for prices, varies by event / 5th and Grace Streets / RichmondMarathon.org
NOVEMBER 10
Who’s Cider You On Anyway? Richmond kicks off Cider Week VA right! As the first event of this statewide celebration, the Richmond Cider Celebration draws cideries and attendees from across Virginia. Feel free to bring lawn chairs . There will be a free chair check service to hold your chair till you’re ready to watch the band. Your four-legged friends are welcome – must be socialized and leashed. 11a.m. – 4p.m. / $1 suggested entry donation to Enrichmond / 17th Street Market / Enrichmond.org
OCTOBER 23 – 27
Hugo First
Cameron Mackintosh presents the new production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables, direct from an acclaimed two-and-a-half-year return to Broadway. With its glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, this breathtaking new production has left both audiences and critics awestruck, cheering, “Les Miz is born again!” Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. Oct. 23, 24, 25 7:30p.m.; Oct. 26 8p.m.; Oct. 27 2p.m. / See website for ticket pricing (Etix.com) / 6 N Laurel St. / AltriaTheater.com
NOVEMBER 16 – 18 NOVEMBER 2 & 3
Urbanna Oyster Festival Waterfront exhibits give visitors a hands-on opportunity to discover how the industry operates today. Local vendors offer these bivalve delicacies prepared in a number of different ways. Don’t forget to try the wine and oyster pairings and the Virginia craft beer tastings . See website for schedules and additional information / UrbannaOysterFestival.com
September / October 2018
54th Annual Craft + Design Presented by Altria This museum-quality show has garnered a reputation for showcasing the finest in contemporary craft, including ceramics, precious metals, glass, wood and recycled materials. Patrons’ Preview Party (Nov. 16: 6 – 9 p.m. ); General admission shopping (Nov. 17 & 18: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m). See website for tickets and additional times / Main Street Station Renovated shed, 1500 E. Main St. / VisArts.org
West End's Best 19
WEST END LIFE
Metro
Beat by Cosmy Pellis
A Moving Concern In order to create and head Boomers Transitions, a West End-based business that specializes in assisting seniors with their transition and relocation needs, Elton Brown (CEO of the company) had to make a life-changing transition of his own. He was formerly a professional basketball player, but he left the court for two meaningful reasons. The first was to be with his wife and children, but, he shares, “even more than that I saw an opportunity to fulfill a need for people who may not necessarily be able to make life-stage transitions for themselves.” For Brown, this cause is extremely personal. His grandmother had a difficult transition, which instilled in him a passion for softening this process for other seniors. Brown remarks, “My mission is to make the moving process as pleasurable and effortless as possible.” While Boomers Transitions does offer moving services to clients of any age, they specialize in aiding seniors through a time that can otherwise be very tumultuous. The value of Boomers Transitions extends far past removing clutter and calling it a day. Brown describes the decluttering process as, “ex20 West End's Best
tremely emotional.” There are many types of clutter that people carry with them aside from the physical, like social, emotional and financial clutter, which can be overwhelming and unsettling for seniors to deal with. As Brown puts it, “People see their possessions as an extension of themselves which can make it extremely challenging to detach from these possessions.” The folks of Boomers Transitions are experts in all facets of the decluttering process, and they believe that it is essential to many aspects of daily life such as positive mental health, visual processing and healthier eating. There is one more aspect of Boomers Transitions that is very personal to Brown, and that is his involvement in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Brown has seen the impact the disease has had on friends and family members. For every service completed, Boomers Transitions donates $50 towards the fight, and they also support The Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Boomers Transitions has been making the moving process smoother for our senior community, and it all began with one man and his passion for giving back. For more information, visit online at BoomersTransitions.com.
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Spotlight on Breast Cancer: Bon Secours Breast Team Offers Full Spectrum of Care
Here Comes the Parade
The 67th Annual Parade of Homes, sponsored by The Home Building Association of Richmond (HBAR) returns to the Metro Richmond area in October. The event is the premier scattered-site home showcase and is free to the public. The self-guided tour begins on October 6 and will run all four weekends of the month. This year’s Parade features 73 new homes built by 30 HBAR builder members. Well over half of these homes, which are located throughout the Greater Richmond area including the Counties of Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, King William, New Kent, and Powhatan are decorated models. The event gives area residents an opportunity to discover what’s available in the Richmond market and to see innovative ideas, stunning design features, amazing floor plans, and master craftsmanship, at prices spanning from the low $200s to over $1.1 million. “The Greater Richmond area is a unique market; there are more builders here than you will find in other regions of Virginia,” said Danna Markland, HBAR CEO. “The Parade of Homes offers the public a single
source to find builders, locations, and styles of homes from a wide array of price points and ideas. The Parade will be held October 6 and 7, 13 and 14, 20 and21, and 27 and 28 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Both the Parade of Homes Plan Book and the website, RichmondParadeofHomes.com, include detailed information about the event and the individual homes on the tour. The Plan Book is free and will be available beginning September 22 at area Kroger supermarkets and Wawa convenience stores, as well as at the HBAR headquarters located at 400 N. Ridge Road. “The Parade of Homes is one of the top new home events of the year,” said Markland. “With so many stunning homes to tour, there is something for everyone.” HBAR’s charity partner this year is the ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation. ASK is Central Virginia’s largest and most comprehensive provider of support services for children with cancer and their families. For more information about ASK, visit AskCCF.org.
All Aboard for Ashland Train Day “We are proud to showcase all that Downtown Ashland has to offer. This is a great event for our community and for visitors,” says Bill Gatewood referring to the upcoming 16th Annual Ashland Train Day festival, which takes place on October 3. Gatewood is Chairman of the event, which is hosted annually by Ashland Main Street Association along with business and community partners. Train Day features something for everyone, including kids’ activities, model trains, railroad history, antique cars, touch-a-truck area, farmers market, live music, arts and crafts vendors and local food. Trolley buses bring participants from parking to the festival and two kiddie trains offer rides throughout the day. (Ashley Jefferson) “The event takes place rain or shine,” says Suzanne Hemingway, owner of Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys in downtown Ashland (104 S. Railroad Ave). “Smile at the sun or walk like a duck,” she jokes. Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys hosts the popular scavenger hunt at Ashland Train Day, leading participants to visit special train exhibits and earn a prize at the end. This year’s event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. features raffle of four tickets to ride the Ashland Santa Train on a private historic rail car (an $800 value). Check the website for more info: AshlandTrainDay.com. September / October 2018
West End's Best 21
HEALTH
Spotlight on Breast Cancer:
Bon Secours Breast Team Offers Full Spectrum of Care October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the U.S. Statistically speaking, about 300,000 women nationwide will be diagnosed with some form of breast cancer in 2018. Here in the Richmond region, Bon Secours Richmond Health System provides a comprehensive continuum of expertise and holistic care encompassing the entire spectrum of breast cancer including awareness, research, clinical trials, mammography, assessment, surgery, radiation, treatment, complementary and integrative therapies, rehabilitation and recovery. Dr. James Pellicane
James Pellicane, M.D., director of breast surgical oncology at the Bon Secours Virginia Breast Center, explained several new tests and developments in the assessment of breast cancer: • A saliva test can determine if patients are at higher risk for breast or other cancers. • A blood test called Videssa Breast can identify the presence of certain tumor antibodies and proteins in the blood associated with specific breast cancers. • Genomic profiling tests run on the patient’s tumor tissue can decrease the amount of treatment given to a patient with Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS). For example, a test called DCISionRT can help determine the recurrence risk of an individual’s DCIS and whether radiation will or won’t be helpful in reducing that risk. • Genomic tests such as Oncotype Dx, Mammaprint, or Prosigna have led to a reduction in the use of chemotherapy for many patients.
Dr. William Irvin
Dr. Susan Schaffer
22 West End's Best
“We can create a personalized risk reduction plan depending on the patient’s level of risk,” said Dr. Pellicane. “Our goal is to give patients the best chance of avoiding breast cancer or finding the cancer at a very early stage.” William Irvin, Jr., M.D., director of medical oncology and director of clinical research for Bon Secours Cancer Institute, shared that Bon Secours is actively involved in breast cancer research and clinical trials that could ultimately lead to breakthrough advancements. “We offer clinical trials to improve treatment outcomes, surgical outcomes, radiation therapy and quality of life,” said Dr. Irvin. “Patients who enroll in clinical trials are truly heroes, because these trials are the key to improving the lives of patients with cancer. There has never been a more exciting time in the field of breast cancer oncology.” Members of the Bon Secours breast team actively engage in opportunities to stay on the leading edge of new technologies, treatments and therapies for breast cancer. For example, Susan Schaffer, D.O., a medical oncologist with Bon Secours Medical Group, earned a fellowship at the Arizona Center of Integrative Medicine. At the Center, she learned about the practice of healing-oriented medicines that address mind, body and spirit. Integrative medicine emphasizes the therapeutic relationship between practitioner and patient and makes use of both conventional and alternative therapies to achieve optimal health and healing. At every step along an individual’s journey with breast cancer, patients and their families will receive quality, compassionate care from the Bon Secours breast team of dedicated physicians, nursing professionals and trained technicians. For more information, visit bonsecours.com/Richmond.
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September / October 2018
West End's Best 23
HEALTH SPONSORED CONTENT
Why does blood pressure matter, and why does your dentist care? by William B. Perkinson, DDS, Powhatan office
How is blood pressure measured? Blood Pressure check during a routine cleaning and exam at Virginia Family Dentistry. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers, corresponding to the highest and lowest pressure in your blood vessels. As the heart beats, the pressure will increase as the heart squeezes blood out into the blood vessels. This is the higher number called the “systolic”. The heart then relaxes in preparation for another squeeze, and the pressure will drop to the lower number, the “diastolic”. The ideal blood pressure is around 110/70 (but don’t be alarmed if yours is a little higher). Blood pressure in the 150/90 + range is cause for concern.
ery time you come see us as an added check on your health. It doesn’t take long, is noninvasive, and it provides us with great information as to your risk for cardiovascular disease. I recommend that you see a dentist for a cleaning and a thorough exam twice a year. It is always better to catch things before they become a problem, whether it be for cavities, gum disease, or high blood pressure. As dentists, we fix teeth, but we pay attention to rest of you too!
What are the risks of high blood pressure? In the short term high blood pressure isn’t a problem. If you are being chased by a bear it is natural for your blood pressure to rise, it helps you run away. If you are an athlete, your heart is very efficient and your blood pressure may be lower than normal. Higher blood pressure puts more stress on the vessels carrying blood around your body, and on the organs themselves. Over time this causes damage. In the long term, uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems including kidney disease, heart failure, and stroke. These long term problems associated with high blood pressure can be mitigated by maintaining normal blood pressure. This can be accomplished medically with drugs, or through lifestyle changes including a healthy diet and exercise.
Richmond native Dr. Will Perkinson graduated cum laude from Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Dentistry in 2002 and joined Virginia Family Dentistry where he engaged in a a two year internship with Dr. Baxter Perkinson in full mouth reconstruction and implants. Dr. Perkinson provides routine services including fillings, crowns, veneers, and root canals as well as surgical procedures including wisdom tooth removal, hard and soft tissue grafting, and implants. Dr. Perkinson also provides several levels of sedation for anxious patients including oral and intravenous conscious sedation. Dr. Perkinson attended the Misch Institute for post doctorate work in dental implants and bone grafting and received his sedation training in 2006 at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. He was adjunct faculty in the VCU Advanced Education in General Dentistry from 2007 to 2012, as well as an occasional lecturer on implant dentistry. Dr. Perkinson is a fellow in the International College of Oral Implantologists, a member of the American Dental Association, the Virginia Dental Association, and the Richmond Dental Society. Dr. Perkinson is also a board member of the Powhatan free clinic, where he enjoys contributing to the local community.
Why does Virginia Family Dentistry care about my blood pressure? As dentists, we fix teeth; we do not treat high blood pressure. However, we do our best to recognize systemic disease and refer you to a physician for management if necessary. We measure your blood pressure ev-
Virginia Family Dentistry is a group practice of more than 50 doctors specializing in Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Dental Implants, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics, Cosmetic and General Dentistry. With 14 convenient locations in the Richmond Metro Area, we can assist you in creating your youthful smile. For a location near you, visit VAdentist.com.
Our four West End locations: Short Pump (804) 364-7010; West End Orthodontic & Pediatric Specialty Center (804) 351-5432; Patterson/Parham (804) 364-7090; Staples Mill (804) 672-4900 — VAdentist.com 24 West End's Best
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SENIORS ADVENTURES IN AGING
CONSTANCE BECOMES A LANDLORD
M
by Constance Whitney
r. Roper made it look so easy! Have a place to rent. Rent it, and enjoy. How hard could it be, right? Wrong. While we’re not talking a Freddy Krugeresque type situation, my life as a landlord was a nightmare waiting to happen. On the shoulda-woulda-coulda scale, I really shoulda listened to the experts. As with a lot of people in my age bracket, the loss of our parent(s) is often accompanied by the gain of real estate. The Greatest Generation was big on owning their own home, and in passing said property to their child(ren). Which means I now own a fully paid-off home. So, what does one do? There are, as I discovered, three options: Move to where the house is and live in it; sell the house; or rent it out. As I have no intention of living in the area where the house is, I eliminated option one all on my own. And then I asked my panel of experts. Shelby is just about the smartest person on the planet when it comes to stuff like this. She said to sell. Denise is also in the genius-sphere and knows me better than any person on the planet. She said to sell. So, I opted to rent it out. I hired a property management company, watched endless hours of Three’s Company to learn the ins and outs of being a landlord, and got ready to sit back and let the dough roll in.
Then the stove broke. Replaced that. Then the HOA fined me for having a dog on the golf course, twice. Tenant was not allowed pets but had them and let them run on the fairway. Paid the fine. Then the tenant stopped paying the rent. Paid to start eviction proceedings. Then the tenant abandoned the property. Paid to have the house emptied out and refurbished. Again. I have always considered it my responsibility to take immaculate care of my home, whether I owned it or was renting it. Apparently not everyone got that memo! So instead of dough rolling in, money flowed out like the dam had burst, and I got a crash course in landlord-tenant case law (note: law isn’t on the landlord’s side!) So, what did I learn from my adventures as a landlord? While I am not cut out to be Mr. Roper, I will not allow this situation to shatter my rose-colored glasses. I choose to believe that the tenant was just a bad apple and that the overwhelming majority of people are good. I also learned that there is a reason that experts are experts, and their advice should be valued. To Shelby’s and Denise’s credit, neither one has taken to skywriting “I told you so” over my head. For which I am very grateful. So, in their honor, I’m broadcasting the message myself. They told me so. I shoulda listened.
September / October 2018
West End's Best 25
MORE THAN
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Nourish Body & Soul Ever-changing menus | healthy, eclectic, world cuisine | local, seasonal ingredients Full-service Bar | Patio Dining | Group-friendly 14 craft beers and wine on tap Happy Hour Monday to Friday 3pm-7pm Sunday Brunch 10am to 3:30pm • Dinner 4:30 pm to 9 pm | Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm • Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm
6229-A River Rd., River Road Shopping Center, Richmond | 804-288-7482 | mosaicedibles.com/restaurant/richmond 26 West End's Best
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Bringing You the Best of Local Food Dining & Drinks, Recipes & News
ISO: BBQ ........................... 29
tastebudz............................32
Wines Around Town...........35 Happy Hour Guide......... 37
Sports Bars....................42
TD’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ SMOKEHOUSE PLATTER A Smokehouse platter filed with such delicacies as a smoked half chicken, beef briscuit, pulled pork and a slab of ribs as well as crawfish and sausage jambalaya and etouffee. The platters perfectly blend BBQ, Cajun, and soul food for the contrast of the sweet Kansas City sauce, and Cajun heat.
Photo: Josh Young
HAPPY HOUR
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FINEST SEAFOOD ON THE EAST COAST
Stop by for a Craft Cocktail or enjoy a glass of beer or wine from one of our 20 taps!
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SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & RAWBAR
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Gleneagles Shopping Center
BBQ There are certain subjects about which most everyone has very decided opinions. One of those oft-debated issues is, who has the best barbecue. Based on the feedback that we get from many of our readers, here are a few places whose names often come up in the discussion as offering great barbecue in the Metro area.
Buz ‘n’ Ned’s
8205 W. Broad St.; (804) 346-4227; BuzAndNeds.com After 25 years in the business, Buz Grossberg is still using the same process and recipes today that put his barbecue on the map over two decades ago. It’s all 100-percent wood-smoked meats, and his meticulous attention to detail shines when it comes to Buz and Ned’s variety. Pictured here are the spare ribs, babybacks, and beef ribs served with slaw, hush puppies and baked beans). All pay tribute to Buz’s goal of serving authentic and delicious barbecue.
Photo: Josh Young
Hickory Notch Grill
2031 Broad Street Road, Maidens; 804-556-2742; HickoryNotch.com New ownership has brought on several new dishes, including fresh seafood and rib eye steak, but the Grill’s always-popular BBQ remains the same. That includes their award-winning babyback ribs. These tender hickory-smoked ribs are the specialty of the house. You’ll really enjoy their secret maple-sweeented BBQ sauce.
September July / August / October 20182018
West End's Best 29
BBQ TD’s Smokehouse BBQ 8919 Patterson Ave.; 804-741-9804; TDsSmokehouse.com
When it comes to barbecue, TD’s Smokehouse and Catering covers all of their bases. Their goal is to cater to whatever the customer wants. For our visit, owner and pitmaster Scott Bonds created a Smokehouse Platter filed with such delicacies as a smoked half chicken, smoked beef briscuit, smoked pulled pork and a slab of ribs as well as crawfish and sausage jambalaya and etouffee. The platters perfectly blend BBQ, Cajun, and soul food for the contrast of the sweet Kansas City sauce, and Cajun heat.
Jake’s Place Restaurant & Market
Can you resist the aromas and delicious smells roaring from the big barrel smoker when you pull up to Jake’s Place Restaurant & Market? Not a chance! John and Wendy Yohman are there serving up some of the State’s best Southern Comfort food every day. Low and Slow — that’s how the smoked meats are done at Jake’s. Whether it’s the pork, chicken, ribs or beef brisket — you just can’t go wrong. Collards, baked beans, macaroni & cheese……well, you’ll think they came out of Grandma’s kitchen! Fresh-baked desserts will tempt your eyes as soon as you enter through those old double doors of what once was a gas station built in 1929! Folks come from far and wide to visit Jake’s Place and then visit again and again!
30 West End's Best
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Photo: Josh Young
511 Thompson St., Ashland; 804-798-3287; JakesPlaceAshland.com
BBQ Smohk BBQ
1312 W. Leigh St.; 804-278-6326; SmohkRVA.com They’re smohking at Smohk and it shows. Savor the delicious flavors of such smoked meats as pulled pork, ribeye and chicken, served with exceptional side like smoked mac and cheese, jalapeno jack mac, creamy Cole slaw, collard greens, pasta salad, potato salad and garden salad. Enjoy their “real southern food” in the restaurant, take out or take advantage of their catering services, for any size event. Who can resist this mouth-watering smoked ribeye sandwich, served on an onion poppy seed roll?
ZZQ
3201 W. Moore St.; 804-528-5648; ZZQRVA.com A slice of Texas in the heart of Scott’s Addition. When Food and Wine Magazine names you as the best BBQ in Virginia, you must be doing something right. Sink your teeth into their tasty brisket or try the pulled pork shoulder, the pork spare ribs or their smoked sausages. Or go for the Tres Hombres, which includes the chopped brisket, the pork and the sausage. Sides include jalapeno mac & cheese, Texas Caviar, Terlingua Cole Slaw and buttermilk potato salad.
September / October 2018
West End's Best 31
tastebudz with Ashley Jefferson and Steve Cook
I want to welcome one of our newest TasteBudz, Ashley Jefferson. Ashley has recently joined our staff as assistant editor at West End’s Best Magazine. As a relative newcomer to the area, she’s taken the time to do a little exploring. I look forward to getting her take on the all the many fine dining spots throughout the West End. In fact, let’s start this edition of TasteBudz with this report from Ashley.
WEST COAST FLAVOR: I absolutely love Seafood. So the smell of fresh oysters that filled the air in West Coast Provisions (301A Maltby Blvd, Henrico) made my mouth water. I stopped by for happy hour and was very pleased to see that a doz- Photo: Ashley Jefferson en, Chesapeake oysters were on the menu for only $9. I purchased a double order. Afterwards, I enjoyed an order of their Tuna Tartare tacos, which features a ponzu, lime, cilantro, scallion, pickled chilies, sesame and wasabi emulsion. Can I just say that I was in heaven? Finally, I washed the entire meal down with a glass of their house white wine and fought back the urge to order more. This place is definitely a seafood lover’s dream. (AJ) By the way, learn more about West Coast Provisions’ bartender Brett Jackson in our “Meet the Mixologists” feature in this issue.
GRILLE OF MY DREAMS: If you’re a sports fan, this is the most exciting time of year. Football season is underway and baseball is heading into the post season. If you’re looking for what may be the sports bar of your dreams, may I suggest you take a look at Legends Grille in Willow Lawn. I had the opportunity to sit down and chat with Mark Merrix this week. Mark is the owner of the recently opened restaurant. . The place has such a polished look, I assumed it was part of a chain. I was wrong. It’s locally owned and operated by Mark Merrix, who lives in Ruther Glen. The Richmond location is Mark’s second Legends Grille. His first has been a big hit in Fredericksburg for about seven years. “We are not a traditional sports bar,” Mark says, “but rather a sports-themed restaurant…very family friendly.” Mark says his goal is to offer a place where you can feel comfortable bringing the kids after a little league game. He says many of the restaurant’s guests will come in and spend three hours watching a game, or whatever they may want to see on one of the 20 TVs. “Some will come in and watch the Dancing With the Stars finale,” he says. And with speaker boxes at each 32 West End's Best
table, you can listen to the game (or program) as well as watch it. The cool indoor/outdoor bar with garage doors that open to the great outdoors are perfect this time of year. (SC)
SHOW US YOUR MUSSELS: So here’s a little secret. I know Capital Ale House (4024-A Cox Road, Glen Allen) is best known for their beer. However, there’s another thing that they have mastered and that is their mussels! My goodness, they are so delicious. And they come in three amazing flavors. Their Garlic-Herb Mussels are steamed in Belgian wit beer, garlic, butter, and other herbs, which makes for a slightly bitter yet delicious combination. The Jalapeno Cream Mussels are sautéed in savory cream sauce with a jalapeno kick. And my favorite, the Smoked Gouda & Bacon Mussels, are sautéed in smoked Gouda and bacon cream sauce. Oh my goodness! They are absolutely divine. Every Thursday, Capital Ale House offers their guests all you can eat mussels for only $16! And almost every Thursday, you can find me sitting on the patio enjoying as many as my stomach will allow. (AJ)
DILLY OF A DEAL: If you’re looking for some real home style cooking in a cozy, friendly environment, head on out to about as far west as you can go in Henrico County to the Pickel Barrel Restaurant (12912 Plaza Dr.). This place is quickly becoming one of my go-to dining destinaPhoto: Jimmy Davis tions when we’ve invited friends out to dinner. I can tell you the reason why in one word: Consistency. Don’t you hate to recommend a place, only to go and be disappointed with the service or the food or both. Who wants to look bad when making a recommendation? The Pickel Barrel never disappoints. The service is always friendly and efficient. And the home-cooked food is always very good. Whenever I recommend the place, I hear rave reviews from those who try it out.
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So, what should you order. I guess that depends on you, but here are my top picks: Everyone loves the fried chicken. Same goes for the spoon bread. It’s delish. And even though I try to avoid fried foods, their fried fish is excellent. So are the biscuits. So is the cobbler. Let me know what you think. (SC)
LIVE FROM ASHLAND: I was up in Ashland the other night, and as I tend to do when I get up that way, I stopped in at the Iron Horse Restaurant (100 S. Railroad Ave.). I would guess that most West Enders have been in Ashland a time or two, but if you’re a relative newcomer and haven’t discovered both this quaint little town as well as the fabulous Iron Horse, you’re in for a treat. Rusty Stone, the GM was there. Rusty is a great chef, but he tells me that his time, these days, is spent mostly in the day to day operation of the place. I was there on a Wednesday, which meant there was a local band getting ready to perform. There are few really great restaurants anywhere in the Metro area that also offer regularly scheduled live entertainment and no one does it better than the Iron Horse. They frequently offer live music, or maybe an open mic night or a poetry reading on Wednesdays and there’s live music virtually every weekend night. The lineup of entertainment is heavy on some of the area’s best local musicians. Check their Facebook page for the upcoming schedule. The Iron Horse is also the perfect spot for your private parties. In fact, Rusty tells me they’ve been doing some renovation on one of the spaces used for private events. It’s not too early to schedule your end-of-year gatherings and you’d be hard pressed to find a better place to host it. (SC)
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FOOD: If you’re looking for fine Italian food, head over to Chianti Ristorante & Pizzeria (1304 Gaskins Rd). Chianti serves up some of Richmond’s finest Italian fare with exciting dishes and a unique ambiance. Everything is made from scratch, resulting in a truly, authentic Italian experience. Customers love their veal parmesan. And we do, too! It’s hard to resist the tender fried veal baked with sauce and Mozzarella cheese. Pair it with a glass of white wine and you’ll really have a treat! Chianti’s also has some great weekly deals. Every Tuesday, diners can enjoy $2 off their traditional pasta dishes and on Wednesdays, they can receive the same deal on their large pizza order. Yummy!
Sleep Under The Moonshine: Sometimes, we all need a little moonshine in our lives. And on these occasions, Sleepy Fox Distillery (11670 Lakeridge Parkway Suite 3, Ashland) is the place to go. This one-of-a-kind
distillery makes and distributes premium quality moonshine, whiskey, bourbon and rye. And their customers can’t seem to get enough of it. Stop by any day of the week for a tasting and to sample some of their greatest creations. The maple whiskey is a real winner. And their apple pie flavored moonshine is a delicious twist on an old, American classic dessert. You can’t really go wrong with anything they have to offer there. One extra treat, every Monday thru Saturday the Amish Kettle opens up, offering Amish Jams & Pickles, Country Cured Hams, Virginia Wines and Hoop cheese. It’s a real treat that you won’t want to miss!
A Delicious Mashup: One of my favorite Restaurants, which is just on the north side of the James, at the Huguenot Bridge, is Mosaic Restaurant ((6229 River Road). Mark your calendar for October 12. That’s the night the folks at Mosaic team up with the folks at Ardent Brewing for a special fivecourse dinner consisting of fresh, local and delicious fare from Mosaic, paired with some of your favorite brews from Ardent Craft Ales. The cost for this special pairing is just $50. Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. For more info or to make reservations, phone them at 804-288-7482 or go online to MosaicEdibles.com.
A Breath of Fresh Air: Sometimes, it’s necessary to exchange the hustle and bustle of the city for the sweet pleasantries of the country. And when I go, I head over to Lola’s Farmhouse Bistro (1840 Manakin Rd, Manakin). One great thing about Lola’s is that it’s less than 10 minutes from the Short Pump mall. Other great things are their food, atmosphere and staff. Everyone is so friendly, there. Maybe that’s because they are kind of out there, away from the traffic and congestion. The last time I went, I enjoyed a delightful glass of merlot in their cozy little bar area. It’s not a full service bar, but they do serve some excellent boutique wines and craft beers. They also have a delicious sauté shrimp pomadora that cannot be missed. Served with fresh tomato, garlic, olive oil and capellini, this dish alone is worth the trip.
That’s going to do it for this issue. Want to share your restaurant news, or simply share a pleasant dining experience? Send it to us at Tastebudz@ RichmondNavigator.com.
Read Tastebudz Online each week at RichmondNavigator. com. If you have any restaurant news or recommendations, email us at TasteBudz@RichmondNavigator.com. September / October 2018
West End's Best 33
DINE IN - TAKE OUT - DELIVERY - CATERING
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34 West End's Best
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WINES AROUND TOWN T
by Ashley Jefferson
he history of wine is about as old as mankind. Since about 4100 B.C., when the oldest known winery was operating out of a cave in Armenia, friends, families, associates and even enemies have celebrated, mourned and prayed with help from the juice of the vine. But where in the Richmond area can one go to enjoy a fantastic glass of wine? Here are some of our favorite places . Enjoy.
Secco Wine Bar
325 N Robinson Street (Richmond); 804-353-0670; SeccoWineBar.com Mondays are often stressful. But they don’t have to be. Grab a friend or two and head over to Secco Wine Bar after work. Every Monday night is “Flight Night.” Enjoy a trio of wines hailing from a specific region, or made from a particular grape, or connected only by the staff’s imaginations so you can try something new and exciting.
Both members and non-members can sample a variety of wines in the spacious tasting room. An extensive wine list complements their eclectic menu.
Iron Horse Restaurant
100 S Railroad Avenue (Ashland); 804-752-6410; IronHorseRestaurant.com Very few restaurants sit right along side a railroad track. However, Iron Horse tends to break the mold. Either from your seat in their Corner Bar or on their sidewalk café, Iron Horse offers the ideal spot to sit and sip a glass of wine as you watch the traffic of the busiest rail line on the East Coast. The wine selection here changes frequently. So come often. We suggest you take the train.
Hondo’s Prime
4120 Cox Road (Glen Allen) 804-968-4323; HondosPrime.com Hondo’s is the perfect place for an intimate setting with your closest friends. While there, take a moment to savor the flavors and textures of their famously tender steaks. Pair the dish with a glass of their spicy red Syrah or a bold Merlot. And if you’re not a meat lover, Hondo’s has a terrific selection of soups and salads that pair well with any of their white wines. Need help selecting your glass? No worries. The entire wait staff is ready to help you with your wine choice.
C’est Le Vin
15 N 17th Street (Richmond); 804-649-9463; CestLeVinRVA.com When you really want to have some fun with wine, pay a visit to C’est Le Vin. If the live jazz band and poetry nights don’t pull you in, the extremely large selection of wines will. The selection is so large, in fact, that it covers the walls almost completely. And if you don’t know what to order, grab a hold of the owner, Genet Semere. She’s a natural sommelier who can explain each and every bottle in both French and English. While you have her attention, ask Genet which wine pairs the best with the chicken kebabs. Their spicy flavor is nearly divine.
La Cucina
Richmond Wine Station
2930 W Broad Street (Richmond); 804-254-4500; RichmondWineStation.com When you really want to brush up on your wine skills, visit Richmond Wine Station. They are currently offering wine classes every other Sunday. At each gathering, five to seven different wines from various regions of the world are provided to sample. The price for the tasting is just $20. Reservations are strongly encouraged. So visit their website to sign up.
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Richmond
11792 West Broad Street (Richmond); 804-461-2244; CoopersHawkWinery.com Cooper’s variety of wine is so extensive that they have a membership club available. Members have the choice of receiving one or two bottles each month, which can be picked up at the restaurant, or shipped directly to you.
1440 W Huguenot Road (Midlothian); 804 -378-8940; LaCucinaVA.com If you love Primitivo, La Cucina is the place to be. Order a glass for just $8.95, or a bottle for $32 and pair with a pasta, veal or chicken entrée. Or, double down on a delicious slice of Margarita pizza. The fresh mozzarella, plum tomatoes, fresh basil and olive oil with pair well with the flavors in your glass, creating a delicious explosion of flavor.
Palermo Italian
15717 City View Dr (Midlothian); 804-378-7643; DineAtPalermo.com Every hour is Happy Hour at Palermo. But if you really want to get happy, come by after work. Every weekday, this Italian restaurant serves their house Pinot Grigio and Chianti wine for only $4 a glass. Either pairs well with one of their meaty or cheesier dishes. Try the Manzo Caprese with the Chianti for an exciting combination.
September / October 2018
West End's Best 35
2003
corporate events holiday parties company social events client appreciation events
Award-winning pizzas delivering to Midlothian and surrounding areas. Gluten-free option available
Celebrations with a Southern Flair Our private back dining room may be reserved for up to 50 or the entire restaurant for up to 200 guests.
Tavern 19 | (804) 601-8611 or visit us online at independencegolfclub.com
Book on Yelp or Call 804.377.3968 for reservations | Juleps.net
GREAT FOOD IN A COZY FARMHOUSE ATMOSPHERE
RICHMOND’S PREMIER CHOPHOUSE
420 East Grace Street, Richmond, VA Monday - Saturday 4:30pm-Close • Sunday Brunch 10am-3pm
Open for Lunch & Dinner: Wednesday through Sunday | Sunday Brunch 10:00 a.m. 804-784-2000 | Facebook@LolasFarmhouseBistro | www.lolasfarmhousebistro.com
Just 4 Miles West of Short Pump Mall 36 36 West West End's End's Best Best
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HAPPY HOUR GUIDE Ya Ya’s Cookbook 11674 W Broad St. | 804-360-8301 Ya Ya’s Cookbook serves up a tasty selection of authentic Asian Street fair, with menu items hailing from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Laos and Thailand. MONDAY-FRIDAY 4-7 PM Draft beers – $1 off Canned beer – ½ off Bottled beer – $1 off Appetizers – $4-6
Ironhorse Restaurant 100 S Railroad Ave. | 804-752-6410 Iron Horse specializes in serving fresh regional seafood, handcut steaks, and local produce with a flair of true, southern hospitality. MONDAY-FRIDAY 3:30-5:30 PM Happy Hour changes frequently. However, you can typically expect something similar to the following: Domestic beers on tap – $2.50 House cabernet and pinot grigio by the glass – $4
BonChon Chicken 8026 West Broad St. | 804-716-2029 BonChon offers Korean-style fried chicken as well as a variety of savory Asian fusion dishes and Korean specialties. You can order more BonChon Chicken goodness using online ordering apps such as Yelp and EatStreet. MONDAY-FRIDAY 3-7 PM Draft beer – $3-4 Bottled beer – $3.95
Cooper’s Hawk Winery 11792 W. Broad St. | 804-461-2244 Enjoy a wine tasting in their Napa-style tasting room (daily from open to close). Tastings include seven to eight different wines. MONDAY-FRIDAY 3-6 PM Wines by the glass – $5 Lux wines – $6 Specialty wine drinks – $7 Select cocktails – $5-9 Asian BBQ pork belly tostadas – $7
If you are a restaurant or beverage manager, please send your Happy Hour specials to Steve@RichmondNavigator.com. Our Happy Hour Guide is provided as a service to our readers. This is not an advertisement, nor is any compensation involved. All happy hour listings are subject to change. Please drink responsibly.
For a more extensive guide visit RichmondNavigator.com/flavor/happy-hour-guide
September / October 2018
West End's Best 37
RICHMOND NAVIGATOR’S FLAVOR
There’s no doubt about it, Richmonders love their beer. Here are few of the most popular places where they show and share that love.
BREWERIES The Answer Brewpub 804-282-1248; 6008 W. Broad St. TheAnswerBrewpub.com An Bui, owner of Richmond’s internationally recognized Vietnamese restaurant, Mekong, founded the Answer Brewpub. After featuring craft beers in Mekong, Bui decided to open his own craft brewery. His vision behind The Answer Brewpub is to expand the Richmond beer community, and he does this with 56 taps, 2 bars, and even a stage for live music.
Ardent Craft Ales 804-359-1605; 3200 W. Leigh St. ArdentCraftAles.com According to their website, the mission of Ardent Craft Ales is twofold, first, to create innovative beers and introduce others to historic brewing methods and beer styles. Secondly, they aim to produce and celebrate exceptional and ambitious beers with the ever-growing craft beer community. Castleburg Brewery and Taproom 804-353-1256; 1626 Ownby Ln. CastleburgBrewery.com The owner and brewmaster of Castleburg Brewery, Karl Homburg, has a purist attitude when it comes to brewing beer. Because of this, Castleburg’s beers offer honest, back-to-basics flavor. Champion Brewing Company 804-344-5108; 401 E. Grace St. ChampionBrewingCompany.com With a production brewery dubbed “The Missile Factory,” 15,000 barrels of beer are produced a year here. Champion will offer three new releases coming out in September: “The Pils Are Alive,” a dry-hopped pilsner; “Canis Lupulus,” a barleywine-style ale; and “Fruit Casket,” a double India pale ale. 38 West End's Best
Extra Billy’s Smokehouse and Brewery 804-379-8727; 1110 Alverser Dr., Midlothian ExtraBillys.com Is Extra Billy’s one of the city’s most popular destinations for bbq pork, smoked chicken and beef brisket or is it one of the city’s top breweries? Thankfully, for its legions of fans, it’s both. Here’s a spot when you can pick the brains of those who know both great barbecue and great beer. Let them help you with the perfect pairings. Final Gravity Brewing Company 804-264-4808; 6118 Lakeside Ave. OGGravity.com Final Gravity Brewing Co., a nanobrewery in the same space as Original Gravity, provides supplies for athome brewing. You’ll find a variety of brews on tap at any given time, and they even provide arcade games, dartboards, outdoor seating and snacks. Garden Grove Brewing 804-918-6158; 3445 West Cary St. GardenGroveBrewing.com While Garden Grove Brewery does have roots in classic styles and traditions of brewing, they also strive to push the limits and create their own new ideas. They value experimentation and exploration. Coming up soon: an East Coast Lager and a Honey Wheat Ale.
Isley Brewing Company 804-716-2132; 1715 Summit Ave. IsleyBrewingCompany.com Isley is the home of “Choosy Mother,” Richmond’s original peanut butter beer. Since 2013, owner Mike Isley has been offering Richmonders delicious beer in a fun and lively tasting room.
Kindred Spirit Brewing 804-708-0309; 12830 W. Creek Pkwy. KindredSpiritBrewing.com Kindred Spirit Brewing specializes in creating new takes on classic beer styles. One such example is their Orange Dream Ale, which is a cream ale with orange and vanilla.
Legend Brewing Company 804-232-8871; 321 West 7th St. LegendBrewing.com Open since 1993, Legend Brewing Company has an amazing beer list as well as an extensive menu in their 180-seat restaurant, a 200-seat deck and a small beer garden. Legend offers both lagers and ales. Currently, they’re working on an “Urban Legend Inspirations” series, and “Norfolk Experiment,” an imperial stout, will be released in October.
Hardywood Craft Brewery 804-420-2420; 2408-2410 Ownby Ln. Hardywood.com Hardywood brews with local ingredients, renewable energy, and “a whole lot of passion for their craft.” Cofounders, Patrick Murtaugh and Eric McKay, got their start as home brewers and are committed to high quality beers that can be traditional or experimental.
Lickinghole Creek Brewery 804-314-2093; 1717 E. Franklin St. LickingholeCreek.com “Virginia’s Farm Brewery,” Lickinghole Creek Brewery, is set on a 290- acre farm in Goochland. Offering a variety of seasonal brews, the folks at Lickinghole will soon be offering their Russian Imperial Stout – Virginia Black Bear.
Intermission Beer Company 804-585-0405; 10089 Brook Rd., Unit A, Glen Allen IntermissionBeer.com The owners of Intermission Beer Company have roots in TheatreVCU, and their love of beer comes from home brewing. Their two passions combine in the shared dream that is Intermission Beer Company. Look for a Brown Sugar Porter coming soon!
Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery 804-237-1684 11800 W. Broad St. (Short Pump Town Center) RockBottom.com The main focus is freshness, and Rock Bottom beers are never exposed to light, heat, or air. Malted barley is their main ingredient, and it’s kept onsite in a whopping 30,000-pound silo.
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CRAFT BREW DIRECTORY Steam Bell Beer Works 804-728-1876; 1717 Oak Lake Blvd., Midlothian Steambell.beer Steam Bell Beer Works has a goal of honoring tradition, history and innovation in the beer industry through their exceptional beers. They’ve recently released a beer they’re calling “Extra Plenty.” It’s a hibiscus cucumber gose with a light watermelon flavor. Word is on the street that this is one fantastic beer.
Vasen Brewing 804-588-5678; 3331 Moore St.; VasenBrewing.com With Belgian and American craft beer influences, Vasen Brewing has a 20-tap draft system, complete with sessionable beers as well as a few new beers premiering weekly.
TAPHOUSES Sergio’s Pizza 804-744-0111; 4824 Market Square Ln., Midlothian SergiosItalian.com Owner Joe Conigliaro has combined his Sicilian heritage and his love for craft brews to create one of Midlothian’s most popular destinations both for excellent pizza and other Italian delicacies as well as plenty of great beers. With more than 30 frequently rotating craft beers on tap, you’re going to find something that suits your taste and that goes perfectly with that slice of pizza.
Strangeways Brewing 804-303-4336; 2277A Dabney Rd. StrangewaysBrewing.com Strangeways strives to provide craft beer that is unconventional, out of the ordinary, and thought provoking. There are two tasting room spaces as well as an outdoor Biergarten. Choose from at least 36 beers on tap at any given time. Three Notch’d RVA Collab House 804-269-4857; 2930 W. Broad St. ThreeNotchdBrewing.com There’s always something new at Three Notch’d. Many of their beers are brewed in collaboration with restaurants, homebrewers, musicians, artists, and more. Three Notch’d has just released a yummy sounding “Dark Dessert,” which is a mint chocolate milk stout. And coming in mid-September, is their “As You Are,” a pineapple and mango gose. Triple Crossing 804-495-1955 113 S. Foushee St. & 5203 Hatcher St. TripleCrossing.com Triple Crossing offers a tasting room, a patio, and a brewery on Foushee and a brewpub with brick-oven pizza, a huge patio and another brewery in Fulton (Hatcher St.). The Veil Brewing Company 1301 Roseneath Rd.; TheVeilBrewing.com The Veil focuses on hop forward beers, high gravity, barrel aging, lagers, wild ales and spontaneous fermentation. They offer many inventive brews on tap daily, such as the “Dub Razz Tastee,” which is a kettle sour with double raspberry.
Capital Ale House 804-780-2537; 623 E. Main St. (Downtown) 4024 Cox Road (Glen Allen) 13831 Village Place Dr. (Midlothian) CapitalAleHouse.com There are over 40 beers on tap and more than 140 beers in the bottle at Capital Ale House (more, depending upon location).The menu features beer pub food as well as salads, soups, burgers, tacos, sandwiches and more. The Cask Café and Market 804-355-2402; 206 Robinson St. TheCaskRVA.com The Cask has outstanding beer taps that rotate regularly, as well as bottles and cans. Their menu includes a variety of cheeses, sausages, cheese and meat boards, soups and salads. Rosie Connolly’s Pub 804-343-1063; 1548 E. Main (at 17th St.) RosieConnollys.com Fancy a brew from across the pond? You’re in luck. The menu features many proven favorites including Guinness, Harp, Smithwicks, Newcastle And And Boddington’s Pub Ale. Enjoy along with traditional Irish comfort foods. September / October 2018
Southern Railway Taphouse 804-353-4901; 111 Virginia St. SRTaphouse.com An enormous selection of craft beers awaits Known for their club-like atmosphere, this taphouse offers live music, American fare, and 40 beers on tap and 60 served in the bottle. They also host one of the most popular Sunday brunches in town. Station 2 804-249-4702; 2016 E Main St. Station2Richmond.com Station 2 brings a great selection of local craft beers to the Bottom. Their draft list changes frequently.
RETAIL Bottleworks 804-320-6477 3078 Stony Point Road BottleworksRVA.com No local beer list would be complete without mentioning one of the region’s top retailers, Bottleworks, a familyrun bottle shop located in the Stony Point Shopping Center. You’ll discover more 700 beers, along with about 350 wines and an ample selection of ciders. As we approach fall, look for a good selection of both local and German Oktoberfest beers. West End's Best 39
BARTENDERS SHARE THEIR
Favorite Cocktails Brett Jackson
BRINGING A DOWNTOWN VIBE TO THE WEST E ND
O
ne of the more exciting dining establishments to open recently in the West End is West Coast Provisions at 301 Maltby Blvd. in the new GreenGate mixed-use development. GreenGate is described by its marketing people as “Like the Fan, only west-er.” That description could easily apply to this cool, bright and open restaurant, which provides a “west-er” version of East Coast Provisions in Carytown. Both restaurants are owned and operated by the Richmond Restaurant Group. I asked bar manager Brett Jackson how he would describe West Coast Provisions. “It’s high-end seafood, but without high-end prices,” he says. As for the bar scene, Brett tells me, “It’s hard to get a great cocktail in the West End. This place has a Downtown Richmond sort of vibe. I agree, although the modern, sleek décor might be more fitting for its West End digs. One thing for sure, Brett knows what he’s doing behind the bar. He says the thing he likes most about his job is the constant action and interaction with the crowd, which he describes as very eclectic. I ask him what beverage one could always expect to find in his refrigerator. “Mountain Dew,” he immediately replies. “I don’t drink coffee, so I need the caffeine to keep me going.” When he chooses an adult beverage, he says it tends to be beer. “I’m around cocktails all day. When I’m off, a shot of Bud Light or PBR is what I prefer.” Brett says he grew up in the West End and went to Godwin High School. I ask him if, as an unmarried bartender, he gets hit on by the ladies. “Not as much as I would have thought here in the West End,” he laughs. I’m always interested in finding out what a bartender’s best tip might be. Brett tells me of a time when one of his regular customers was giving everyone a hard time. “The guy asked me what I was
worth,” Brett says. “I told him a hundred bucks. The guy takes the bill and writes a ‘zero’ on the tip line. I’m thinking oh no, what have I done. The guy then pulls a hundred dollar bill out of his pocket and gives it to me.” I ask Brett to give me a tip of sorts. I want to know about his favorite drink. “It’s one that I just created and that will be put on our new menu,” he replies. It’s called A Crime of Pure Passion. The tequila-based drink “is tart and sweet at the start,” Brett says. “But then the jalapeno comes in as you’re drinking it and gives you a little heat at the end. The recipe is below. You may want to try this at home, but I’d encourage you visit West Coast provisions, enjoy the drink and get to know Brett Jackson.
CRIME OF PURE PASSION
40 West End's Best
2 muddled jalapenos
¼ ounce lime juice
2 ounces Anejo Tequila
¼ ounce Thai chili syrup
1 ounce passion fruit puree
Serve over a big cube of ice
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BARTENDERS SHARE THEIR
Favorite Cocktails Ashley McLaughlin MIXING DRINKS AND BRIGHTE NING THE DAY
D
o you remember the old Mary Tyler Moore Show theme song? Like Mary Richards, Ashley McLaughlin, who has been tending bar at Hondo’s Prime in Innsbrook (4120 Cox Road) for about two years, can turn the world on with her smile. It’s a smile that lights up the room and that goes well with her personality. “I absolutely love tending bar,” she says. “Every night is completely different. We have so many regulars. You get to know them. It’s fun, lighthearted.” Those regulars include business people as well as many couples who choose Hondo’s for their date nights. “We have lots of travelers, dining alone, who sit at the bar,” she says. And as for the couples, she says, they prefer the bar because it’s more casual. Whether she’s serving food or tending bar (she does both), Ashley says she enjoys trying to make each guest’s day better. Her smile would go a long way in accomplishing that. Whether at work or at home, Ashley’s 4-year-old daughter is her primary interest. “I’m a mom all the time.” Hence, when asked if she has any favorite restaurant or hangout spots, she smiles and says, “I wouldn’t be able to tell you. I never go out.” She does say that Hondo’s is her favorite restaurant in town. For my visit, Ashley prepared a very enjoyable and refreshing Hondo’s Lemonade Martini (See recipe below). I asked for some recommendations on an appetizer to go with the drink. “They’re all really good,” she says. “I might go with the ahi tuna
or the fried oysters.” During Happy Hour (4 to 6:30 p.m., daily) several of the appetizers are offered as small-plate specials. Perhaps Ashley chose the drink because she prefers Bourbon as her adult beverage of choice (or a red wine). She calls the lemonade martini an uncomplicated drink. After looking at the recipe, you might decide you could easily make this at home. The only drawback is if that’s what you did, you’d miss out on that smile.
HONDO’S LEMONADE MARTINI 2.25 ounces Absolut Citron vodka
Splash of sour mix
.75 ounce Amaretto Di Amore
Splash of sprite
1 ounce cranberry juice
Garnish of your choice
September / October 2018
Shake it really well and serve in a martini glass
West End's Best 41
FLAVOR
Sports Page Bar & Grille
by Ashley Jefferson
504 England Street (Ashland); 804-496-6700; SportsPageBarAndGrille.com
‘Tis the season of football. And while the best seats to watch the game are down on the 50 yard line, a spot at the best sports bar in town is definitely a close second. But what makes a sports bar so great? What does a bar have that will keep you coming back, game after game? Well, we’ve searched high and low for the best sports bars in Richmond. And while many of them stand out from the crowd, a few of them are in a league of their own.
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BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
12010 W Broad Street (Richmond); 804-298-2950; BJsRestaurants.com The one area where BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse will always score points, is with food. This family-friendly pub specializes in all that is handcrafted. Burgers, beers and sodas are skillfully made by hand and quickly devoured by their patrons. And if burgers aren’t on your list of game day necessities, there are over 120 other items on the menu, that you can order and enjoy. RichmondNavigator.com
Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name. This is why Sports Page Bar & Grille is one of our favorite places. Their friendly staff and filling food makes this place an easy after work hang out spot. The sports enthusiast, beer lover and solo players all find solace here with no hassle and no cares. If you ever stop by, try the Texas Rub wings. They are absolutely delicious and are probably some of the best served in Virginia.
Big Al’s Sports Bar & Grill 3641 Cox Road F. (Richmond); 804- 270-4454; BigAlsRVA.com
Glory Days Grill
10466 Ridgefield Parkway (Richmond); 804-754-3710; GloryDaysGrill.com
If you know sports, you know Big Al’s Sports Bar & Grill. Created by AM Sports Radio show host, Al Coleman, this bar is known for its food and total dedication to sports. Flat screen TVs strategically align the walls so that no matter where you sit, you’ll always have a view of the game. And if you must take a time-out from the dining room, don’t worry. The audio of the broadcast is piped into the bathroom and onto the patio outside. And here’s one extra bonus. If you’re lucky enough to visit the bar at the right time, you may be greeted at the door by Big Al himself.
If your whole family needs to get out of the house, head over to Glory Days Grill. Known for their great service and delicious food, you and your personal team members can enjoy delicious hamburgers, fries and buffalo wings at great prices. On Monday nights, classic burgers are only $5.99! And while the family enjoys their food, you can enjoy the game on one of the many flat screen TVs hanging on the walls. Speaking of the walls, they are all covered with the paraphernalia of your favorite sports teams, which helps to make you feel like you’re right in the game.
Home Team Grill
11351 Nuckols Road (Glen Allen); 804-967-9060; HomeTeamGrill.com Home Team Grill bills themself as “a great place to gather any time of the day.” And this is pretty accurate. Their menu features homemade soups, fresh salads, burgers, sandwiches, wraps and entrees. Plus, they have a bar area that offers a variety of beers and a full selection of wine and spirits. There’s literally something here for everyone. Perfect for family and other large groups, if you need to feed the whole team, head over to Home Team Grill.
September / October 2018
West End's Best 43
The perfect setting for your tailor-made event. Full Event Services • Corporate • Social • Wedding Megan Campbell • (804) 601-8602 • Megan@playigc.com or visit us online at independencegolfclub.com
Main Street Station
November 16 –18, 2018 + 150+ artists from across the country + Two full days of shopping + Hardywood Beer Garden + Local food vendors + McKinnon and Harris Patrons’ Preview Party + Rise + Shine Brunch
Learn more and buy tickets at visarts.org
Kaitlyn and Ryan Lawless, 50 United Plates, porcelain, various sizes, 2018. Photo by EE Berger.
September / October 2018
West End's Best 45
TRAVEL
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Pellis
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Blue Ridge Pig
2198 Rockfish Valley Hwy., Nellysford; 434-361-1170
Founded in 1988, Blue Ridge Pig is real Southern BBQ done the traditional way. Run by Strawberry and Mary Goodwin, all their meats are smoked over hickory and the barbecue is served in a red tomato-based sauce. Mary’s side dishes are extremely popular, “especially the potato salad,” according to Strawberry, so be sure to check them out when you stop in for a bite.
Due South BBQ
1465 Roanoke St.; Christiansburg 540-381-2922; DueSouthBBQ.com
The Due South BBQ team has, in a way, created a BBQ style of their own. They use a special rub that is blended in house. They pit smoke their pork over hickory and finish with one of their five distinctive sauces. Two of the sauces are from the Carolinas and one, Hot Red, a sweet and spicy sauce, is their take on a Virginia Sauce. What’s unique about the way they smoke their meat? They say, “Lots of work and lots of love!”
Buddy’s BBQ
948 Tanyard Rd, Rocky Mount 540-482-0369; BuddysBBQVA.com
Located in Franklin Country, known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World,” Buddy’s BBQ incorporates Virginia moonshine into three of their seven homemade BBQ sauces. Their sides and desserts are made from scratch, “with time and love being the main ingredients.” Prepared in the North Carolina style, they use dry rubs. Their BBQ is smoked over locally harvested hickory and locally manufactured lump charcoal, and no gas is ever used in their smoker.
46 West End's Best
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Monk’s BBQ
251 N. 21st St., Purcellville; 540-751-9425; MonksQ.com
Monk’s is well known for their juicy brisket, which is slow smoked for extra tenderness. They offer a wide variety of sides and meats, which represent many aspects of barbecue culture. Focusing on multiple styles of barbecue, predominantly Texas and Carolina styles, Monk’s is a great way for barbecue lovers to get a sense of a few different types and discover which is their favorite.
The Barbeque Exchange
Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company
102 Martinsburg Ave., Gordonsville 540-832-0227; BBQEx.com
25 S. Quaker Lane, Alexandria; 703-778-9663; Rocklands.com
Rocklands Barbecue and Grilling Company uses only red oak, hickory and charcoal to smoke their meats; never gas or electricity. Their Barbecue is prepared in the “DC style,” meaning that it is served in a unique vinegar and molasses-based sauce. Three convenient locations in Arlington, Alexandria, and D.C. render them hard to miss. They also offer an impressive and exciting beer selection, making Rocklands a must see (and taste) on the BBQ trail.
The folks at the Barbeque Exchange are fond of saying, “We make literally everything in house – except the ketchup.” Their baking team bakes hundreds of rolls daily, as well as cornbread and pumpkin muffins. Working directly with Autumn Olive farms and “thoughtfully sourced distributors,” they truly care about where their products originate. Using locally sourced green hickory to smoke their meats, “they first char the logs in a separate fire pit to burn off the outer layer, essentially produce house-made charcoal.
King’s Barbeque
2910 South Crater Road, Petersburg; 804-732-0975; KingsFamousBarbeque.com
Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que
447 East Rochambeau, Williamsburg; 757-565-2955; Pierces.com
Family owned and operated since 1946, King’s Barbecue is, as the folks who run the place see it, “old school” compared to the modern BBQ scene. Their barbecue is Southern Virginia style, so no rub is applied before cooking, and it’s finished in a tomato, vinegar and mustard-based sauce. King’s uses white oak wood for smoking their pork, and, says Matt Keeler, whose wife Alicia is one of the daughters of the King family, “We think it has a very universal appealing flavor when it comes to cooking different types of meat.”
Serving pork, chicken, and ribs for almost 48 years, Pierce’s has the only outdoor brick pit in Virginia. They smoke about 6,000 pounds of Tennessee-style pork daily, which is doused in a tomato-based red sauce. They source many products from a farm eight miles up the road, so farm-totable certainly rings true for Pierce’s. With an amazing outdoor seating area, this restaurant is truly family friendly and a really fun place to grab some lovingly prepared food.
Saucy’s Walk-up
257 E. Bank St., Petersburg; 207 E. City Point Road, Hopewell 804-504-3075; SaucysWalkUpBBQ.blogspot.com
Started in 2010 in a 20-foot Conex shipping container, Saucy’s was quickly named the “South’s Best Butt” by Southern Living Magazine. While traveling as musicians, the founders were influenced by different styles of American barbecue, which they had enjoyed at various places they had dined countrywide. Their favorites have been blended together to create Saucy’s recipes. Their pulled pork is Kansas City style, meaning it’s rubbed with spices and served in a thick tomato-based sauce, and their meat is smoked dry and sauced to order.
September / October 2018
Didn’t see your favorite? Then why not share? Send your recommendations for the Richmond Navigator Barbecue Trail to Info@RichmondNavigator.com. Discover our updated list at RichmondNavigator.com. West End's Best 47
TRAVEL
Stone Tower Winery
DISCOVERING
Loudoun County’s Wineries by Lisa Puster
Loudoun County, located minutes from Dulles International Airport and a short drive from the Nation’s Capital, is quickly gaining a reputation as “D.C.’s Wine Country.” The area offers more than 40 wineries and tasting rooms, located down tree-lined, country roads with stunning mountain views, award-winning wines, live music, food pairings and local artwork, within six wine “clusters” — Loudoun Heights, Waterford, Potomac, Mosby, Harmony and Snicker’s Gap. Since it wasn’t possible to visit six clusters and more than 40 wineries in one day, we focused our road trip tour on the Harmony Cluster, named after a nearby town originally called Harmony, but now known as Hamilton. The cluster, home to seven wineries, leads you down the winding, scenic roads of Catoctin Mountain.
48 West End's Best
Our first stop was Stone Tower Winery, and while I had heard it was one of the largest wineries, I wasn’t prepared for it to be quite so impressive with something for everyone. In just the first five minutes, you could tell it was family — and pet — friendly, with kids frolicking, dogs lounging, families bonding, live music playing, food truck offerings and, of course, plenty of wine! I told our photographer I felt like I was at a wine festival, while he jokingly described it as a wine compound. But we both agreed the initial vibe was fun, friendly, lively and laidback. While waiting in line, we made friends with the people behind us who frequented the winery often and said Stone Tower was their favorite. When it was our turn to sample the wines, our pourer couldn’t have been any nicer, as she enlightened us about each wine. While all the wines were delicious, I really enjoyed the 2017 Estate Sauvignon Blanc, offering floral and lemon zest on the nose. With a small amount of the estate’s Semillon grape blended in to round out the palate, it was the perfect summer wine. After I mentioned we were there working on an article about Loudoun County wineries, we were whisked away by their Estate Manager, Cort Grubb, for a much-appreciated, private tour of the winery. The tour included the winemaking facilities, a tasting room for families and one for adults, and four unique event spaces — from the rustic ambience of the Harvest Barn to the upscale elegance of the Vineyard View Ballroom. Vineyard and winery tours, as well as private tastings, are available upon request. Stone Tower is a D.C. area destination winery well worth the road trip! 19925 Hogback Mountain Road, Leesburg, VA 20175 703-777-2797 | stonetowerwinery.com
Photos: Danny Spry
RichmondNavigator.com
Photos: Danny Spry
Zephaniah Farm Vineyard
Zephaniah Farm Vineyard was our second stop. When we met Bill Hatch and Bonnie Archer, they could not have been more gracious hosts! Upon arriving at the winery, we were greeted outside by Bill, who warned us the cannons were getting ready to go off in the vineyard to scare away the starlings that harm the grapevines. He then welcomed us into their circa 1819, antique-filled home where we sat around the table, sampling the wines and carrying on conversation like old friends. We learned the winery was named after Bill’s great grandfather, Zephaniah Jefferson Hatch (or Captain ZJ) with the 2016 Muscat Ottonel and Viognier stainless-steel-aged wine, Adeline, being named after Zephaniah’s beloved wife. Their 2016 Steamship White, which blends Cab Franc with the wine to add complexity, is named after Zephaniah’s steamship company — the Monticello Steamship Company, which had the fastest ships in the San Francisco bay. As former dairy farmers turned grape growers, farming is in the family’s blood. They were inspired to plant their first Cabernet Franc grapes 16 years ago, following a visit to Europe. The rest is history, with the winery recently being named as one of the top 25 wineries in the United States by Travel and Leisure. Bonnie explained how they try to make personal contact with each guest who visits Zephaniah to make them feel at home. “We have phenomenal guests,” she said. “And we all share and come together over our love of wine.” For a unique, sit-down tasting experience that’ll make you feel like part of the family, Zephaniah Farm Winery is a road trip must! 19381 Dunlop Mill Road, Leesburg, VA 20175 703-431-1994 | zephwine.com Photos: VisitFarmville.com
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Willowcroft Farm Vineyards
Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, Loudoun’s oldest operational winery, was the final stop on our wine tour. With more than 35 years of winemaking experience, Willowcroft also boasts breathtaking panoramic views of Loudoun Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Willowcroft Farms’ 12½ acre vineyard atop the Catoctin Ridge dates back to the 1800s when the mountain slopes were recognized for their fruit-growing potential and planted as orchards. Today, the fruit trees have been replaced with a dozen different grape varieties — grown in five different locations along the ridge — that produce their award-winning wines. Willowcroft Farm Vineyards’ tasting room and loft area are also the perfect locations to host your next private event. Visit the rustic beauty of the winery — housed in the old, red 1870s barn — to experience the birthplace of D.C.’s Wine Country, take in the amazing views and enjoy some exceptional wines! 38906 Mt. Gilead Road Leesburg, VA 20175 703-777-8161 | willowcroftwine.com
Photos this page: Willowcroft Farm Vineyards
While it may have been impossible to visit and taste our way through more than 40 wineries in a single day, I’m now on a mission to check out the rest of the vineyards in beautiful Loudoun County and plan to work my way through them one cluster at a time! Who’s up for a road trip?
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TRAVEL
A Tale of Two Towns Boones Mill . Rocky Mount, VA by Steve Cook
“It was the best of times. It was the worst of times.” It was the best because I was heading home…to my hometown of Boones Mill, located in Franklin County in southwestern Virginia. It really wasn’t the worst of times. I’ve just always thought that would make a good way to start a story. However, being a glass-half-empty sort of guy, I was already beginning to fret about the fact that I only had about three days to enjoy my visit.
W
hile I only lived in Boones Mill from about ages 5 As I entered the Boones Mill corporate limits, my reflexive into 10, I’ve always considered the small town stinct was to hit the brakes. For years, this tiny town was infaof about 250 folks to be my hometown. mously known as a speed trap. Of course, I had to slow down, Back in those days, there wasn’t much to the town. Beanyway. I was approaching my first stop, Franklin County Dissides a general store and a barber shop/snack bar, there was tilleries (25156 Virgil H. Goode Hwy., FranklinCountyDistilleries. the “shopping center,” which consisted of the post office, Wood’s com). While a legal distillery is a newcomer in town, who knows Pharmacy and Mable’s Glamour Nook. Right next door was my fahow much of the less than legal stuff has been produced through the ther’s office. He was the town doctor. To do any real shopping or take in years in Franklin County, the unofficial “Moonshine Capital of the World”? an occasional picture show, we had to drive Katarina Utermark, the tasting room into Rocky Mount — the county seat, located manager at FCD tells me that the distillery about 11 miles south on Route 220. Rocky has been producing corn and rye whiskey Mount is the second in this tale of two towns. (good ol’ moonshine) for about three years. Times have changed. Franklin County Their tasting room did not open, however, has grown, thanks in no small part to the until this year, shortly after a referendum popularity of Smith Mountain Lake, which was passed, allowing liquor by the drink in sits in both Franklin and Bedford counties. Boones Mill. We did have liquor by the swig I had been invited to come re-discover the when I was a boy, not that I ever had any, of county by David Rotenizer, director of tourcourse. The distillery offers tasters a variety ism. Although not a native, David may be All of Franklin County Distilleries’ Heritage Spirits are small of options of both straight pours and minibatch distilled and proofed at 100 for richer, deeper flavors. Franklin County’s biggest cheerleader. He cocktails. I especially enjoyed their El Fuego and I spent three days traversing the area and taking pictures of virtually del Maize (The Fire of the Corn), made with jalapeno, habanero, cilantro, every flower, hill, mountain and valley in the county. lime juice, house-made syrup and corn whiskey. 52 West End's Best
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Caleb Williamson, owner and brewer at Hammer and Forge Brewing Company in Boones Mill tries to offer something for everyone among the 16 taps in his tasting room.
After lunch at Holly Jo’s Creekthe place Hephaestus, the god of side Grill, I was very anxious to metalworking,” Williamson tells head over to the Hammer & Forge me. “But I decided that was hard Brewing Company at 70 Main enough to say even if you hadn’t Street. The brewery is located in been drinking.” He says he tries what once was Wood’s Pharmato offer something for everyone cy. I used to hang out at the soda among the 16 taps in the brewery. fountain there. Today, lots of folks We made one more stop in from near and far are hanging out Boones Mill before heading to and enjoying owner/brewer CaRocky Mount — the old railroad leb Williamson’s variety of craft depot. Mike Smith, a member of beers. Williamson, a native of the town council and a lifelong Alaska, is one of the most interresident joined us at the brewery esting people you’d want to meet. and took us on a tour of the depot, When I was growing up, Boones which was built by Norfolk SouthMill was filled with a cast of colern Railway in the mid-1890s. orful characters. Williamson fits Thanks to concerted efforts by right in. Much of his life has been members of the community, spent working in the oil fields. In enough money was raised to save Locals and travelers passing through enjoy the cozy, friendly atmosphere and fact, when he first moved to the the depot from the wrecking ball. the home cooking at Holly Jo’s Creekside Grill in Boones Mill. area four years ago, he and his It has been moved to a new spot family were living in Roanoke and he was commuting to work in Russia. just across the tracks from its original location. About two years ago, he decided to pursue a long-time passion for home “We want to keep the depot strictly original, just like it was the day it brewing and opened Hammer and Forge, which is named as a nod to closed (in the 60s),” Smith says. “That means no modern lights, no heat, those who work with their hands in any industry. “I was going to name no air conditioning…no bathrooms.” He tells me the plan is to turn the September / October 2018
West End's Best 53
Built in the 1890s, the Boones Mill Railroad Depot was saved from demolition by community leaders. It is being restored and plans are to make it the centerpiece for a local gathering spot.
depot and nearby farmers’ marCreeks Distillery in Henry, a small community about 12 ket into a community center. miles southeast of Rocky Mount. Prillaman is as good an “My hope is that we can have it ol’ country boy as you’re ever gonna meet round these like back in the day when folks parts. And when he takes you out to his distillery and tastcould come and play music, ing room and shows you how he does his magic with a and the residents could just sit little corn, you get the feeling that he didn’t learn to make and listen.” moonshine by reading books on the subject. Prillaman Before I knew it, the day was began distilling legal liquor in 2015. My moonshine expedone, and we were off to Rocky rience began with a van full of guests at the Inn. We were Mount. My accommodations were at whisked out of town and down to Prillaman’s distillery. In the Early Inn at the Grove. Although it’s right in the heart the tasting room, we enjoyed a catered dinner, and then of town (50 Floyd Ave.; EarlyInn.com), this beautiful 1854 we got down to our real reason for being there…tasting a Greek Revival boutique hotel is virtually hidden in the little moonshine. pines on its 10-acre site. If you A visit to Twin Creeks Distillery seek an idyllic getaway, any one offers the opportunity to see an of the six spacious bedrooms, honest-to-goodness still and disoffering all the modern amenicover exactly how moonshine is ties, would be perfect. It also made. The story told out at Twin makes for an ideal wedding Creeks Distillery is the Prillavenue, and they offer a variety man’s family’s story. It’s no Walt of packages to please any bride. Disney simulation. These are the If you want a little adventure real folks making real corn liquor with your getaway, the folks at and playing genuine mountain the Inn offer a variety of regumusic just like they’ve been doing larly scheduled events, such for generations — sharing both of as their Murder Mystery weekthese passions with their friends. ends. During my visit, the Inn If you’ve already done the murwas sponsoring a moonshine der and moonshine, you might experience with Chris Prilla- The spacious, luxurious rooms in the Early Inn at the Grove make for ideal acwant to book a night or two at man. He’s the owner of Twin commodations for your weekend getaway to Franklin County. the Early Inn for the music. The 54 West End's Best
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Other Things To Do ATTRACTIONS
The Blue Ridge Farm Museum (20 Museum Dr., Ferrum): Immerse your senses in 1800 rural Blue Ridge life at the Blue Ridge Institute & Museum’s Blue Ridge Farm Museum, a re-created Virginia-German farmstead. Join costumed interpreters in a host of household and farm chores, including preparing meals over the open hearth, driving oxen, blacksmithing, and tending heirloom gardens and historic breeds of animals. Take time to visit the galleries across the street in the BRI&M. One of the current exhibit’s, Crooked Road Royalty and Crooked Road Musical Styles, showcases Franklin County’s diverse musical heritage.
Philpott Lake (FranklinCountyVA.org/Philpott-Lake): You know all about Smith Mountain Lake. But I bet most of you have never even heard of this much more isolated spot. The 3,000-acre lake features more than 100 miles of shoreline, surrounded by 20,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness, a marina and tournament fishing dock, nine boat launches, eight campgrounds, six beaches, birding and wildlife trails, and more. Top: Chris Prillaman of Twin Creeks Distillery in Henry, shares his family’s generations-old secrets of moonshining with his guests at his “Night of Making Likker” event. Bottom: Franklin County Distilleries in Boones Mill offers guests an opportunity to taste a variety of corn and rye liquors straight up or as part of a mini moonshine cocktail.
Harvester Performance Center (450 Franklin St.) sits right next door. You may be as blown away as was I the first time I laid eyes on this cool music venue. My first reaction was, however, could you really get name talent to perform in little ol’ Rocky Mount. Well, coming up in just the next couple of months are the likes of Lorrie Morgan (9/21), Karla Bonoff (9/22), Blue Oyster Cult (9/29), BJ Thomas (10/11), Lyle Lovett (10/14) and the Glen Miller Orchestra (10/16). Check their star-studded calendar at Harvester-Music.com. There is just too little room to tell my tale of two towns thoroughly. Besides, there are so many delights just waiting for you to discover them, why should I spoil all the fun. However, I am including a little directory, which highlights some of the other spots I visited that I don’t want you to miss. When you go, tell ‘em Steve sent you. That won’t even get you a free cup of coffee, but I’d be much obliged.
DINING Buddy’s BBQ Restaurant (948 Tanyard Road, Rocky Mount; BuddysBBQVA.com): North Carolina style bbq with a Franklin County “moonshine twist.” That twist is in their sauces and this truly is some of the best bbq you’ll ever sink your teeth into. Ippy’s Restaurant (1760 N. Main St., Rocky Mount; IppysRestaurant. com): For almost 100 years, the same family has been delighting diners in the region with delicious food and great service. The ground work was laid when Uncle Tom and his wife, Mama Jo, opened Uncle Tom’s BBQ and Gun Shop in Roanoke in 1919.
See the online version of this article at RichmondNavigator.com where you’ll find a more comprehensive directory of attractions, shops, restaurants and events.
September / October 2018
West End's Best 55
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HOME
Here We Grow Again Richmond’s West End Continues Expansion into Goochland by Zach Brown
G
oochland County continues its upward growth and outward expansion, as two new residential communities have made plans to add hundreds of homes in the area. Mosaic at West Creek, developed by HHHunt Communities, will settle near Tuckahoe Creek Parkway. A second community – a joint effort between Eagle Construction of Virginia, Readers Branch Partners LLC and Hockett Road Partners LLC – will take root close to State Route 288. Once completed, the combined developments are expected to add more than 800 new homes to the area, as the businesses and attractions of Short Pump continue their westward expansion. Nestled between Hockett Road and State Route 288, the Readers Branch community project will sit on three parcels and over 150 acres just south of Broad Street Road. The community will feature 308 detached single-family homes, along with trails and parks scattered throughout. Scott Gaeser, the principal broker for Eagle Construction of Virginia, has previously made comparisons between the new community and Eagle’s Parkside Village, where homes range from 2,000 to nearly 3,000 square feet. Though it is too early to give exact sizing or pricing for what will likely be two- and three-bedroom offerings (with an equivalent number of bathrooms), Eagle has estimated the cost from $350,000 to $400,000. The Readers Branch project found its feet in April of this year with the purchase of the Hockett Road parcel. Currently, Eagle Construction representatives are moving the community plans through regulation channels and will go before the Goochland Planning Commission in October. As of August, Eagle Construction representatives were unavailable for comment on a full timeline for the project. However, with successful compliance under the planning commission’s ruling, construction could begin as early as 2019. Just east of the Readers Branch community, between Broad Branch 58 West End's Best
Mosaic at West Creek Home Concepts
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Market research indicates there is a significant demand for communities serving the [age] 55-plus buyer Kim Kacani
Drive and Tuckahoe Creek Parkway, the Mosaic at West End community will encompass the nearby Capital One campus. The project was originally proposed in 2017 and received its green light in March of this year. With construction to begin in the first quarter of 2019, the community will serve as the county’s largest residential neighborhood, with 520 homes sitting on over 200 acres. Unlike the Readers Branch project, however, the Mosiac at West
End community will be age-restricted for 55-plus residents. Kim Kacani, president of HHHunt Communities, says that the location and age restriction are a result of demand. “Market research indicates there is a significant demand for communities serving the [age] 55-plus buyer,” she says. “The West Creek location is ideally suited for such a community with its proximity to Short Pump and Centerville.” Both of these areas continue to serve as beacons growth through central Virginia as they attract developers and invite commerce. The community will also feature residential amenities such as a pool, fitness center and a clubhouse for homeowners. This comes on the back of HHHunt’s vision to “provide a world-class destination for those 55 years or [older] who seek the comfort and convenience of low-maintenance homes,” as Kacani emphasis. Community plans call for 341 single-family homes, ranging in price from $350,000 to $500,000. Additionally, there will also be 179 townhomes, with prices from $280,000 to $350,000. Phase one of the project, which will include 49 completed homes of the projected 520, will be available in 2020.
The area west of Short Pump shows no sign of slowing down with the recent addition of Wegman’s supermarket and the surrounding shopping center. Add to that the Readers Branch and the Mosaic at West Creek Communities, Goochland County will allow for continued economic growth and business expansion in the already booming area. “This community will be our first in Goochland,” Kacani says. “And we look forward to being an engaged community partner.”
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West End's Best 61
HOME
Smart Technology Comes To Your Bathroom by Vanessa Noel
S
mart Home technology gives us the luxury of convenience. Devices like Alexa and Google Home can turn on our lights, control our thermostat and even order up
household items with a simple voice command. But neither Alexa or Google Home seem
Photo courtesy: BidetKing.com
to compete with the new “Smart� technologies that have entered into our bathrooms.
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Photo courtesy: iHouse
Introducing Smart Faucet. Developed by tech company, iHouse, the Smart Faucet stores user temperature preference via facial recognition technology. It also connects to the internet to display emails, calendars and weather reports. Though the faucet is technologically beautiful, iHouse kept aesthetic beauty in mind as well. An LED light in the water spout shines behind the water, changing colors as the water temperature increases or decreases. Japanese Company, Toto, has designed a line of toilets that are simply amazing. Known as The Washlet, this commode is designed to service most of your basic needs when nature calls. Key features include: the soft closing, automatic, open/close lid; a heated seat; and a pre-mist to coat the surface of the bowl for an easier and more efficient rinse during flushing. Additionally, The Washlet serves as a bidet with a selfcleaning wand that, upon ejection and retraction, cleans those treasured, in-
timate, front and back parts with a light water spray. Once the area is clean, the light spray turns into a warm stream of deodorized air, which aids in drying your wet parts. While enjoying some throne time, you can watch a bit of television. Glass-Tek, a company based in Aurora, Colorado, has designed a television that also functions as a mirror. While in standby mode, the unit appears to be a standard mirror. However, once turned on, this “mirror, mirror on the wall,” becomes one of the fairest HD quality television. The mirror can
also connect to wifi, allowing its user to check the news, weather forecast, and review emails. There’s an idiom that says, “go big, or go home.” Since we’re looking at commodes and television, let’s push the ticket a bit further. The ultimate device in Smart Bathroom technology may belong, once again, to Japanese company, Toto. The tech giant has produced a zero gravity flotation bathtub that is said to stimulate the brain. The tub uses “hydro hands” to massage the body, while air jets actually blow your feet upward simulating the sensation of floating in water. This motion is applied while the body is in a reclining posture; the buttocks rests low, and bent legs are high. The idea is to mimic the position of an astronaut who’s sleeping in zero gravity. There’s also an adjustable, ergonomic pillow that releases warm water over the top to the body. All of this is finished off by LED lighting along the base that administers chromotherapy, better known as color therapy. A Smart Bathroom is an absolute treasure for those who would really benefit by having the spa life right at home. With relaxation and holistic care at the forefront of our considerations these days, why not make it that much easier by utilizing technological advancements for personal comforts.
Photo courtesy: TotoUSA.com
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