Richmond is full of enjoyable locations that visitors go to on a regular basis, but there are several hotspots that are frequented by locals.
The culture of Richmond is quite diverse, so many different hangout scenes have popped up over the years. From bohemian coffee shops to sophisticated art galleries, Richmond has something for everyone.
For the Drinkers
If you love craft beer or simply enjoy complementing good company with a cold drink, then Richmond’s many bars and breweries may be good options for you to choose from. If you’re into a classy and refined experience from a place to drink, you should consider visiting The Bar at Lemaire. Located in the elegant Jefferson Hotel, many Richmonders go to the Lemaire restaurant wearing some of the nicest outfits for an enjoying evening. For a more casual scene, Heritage is a great bar that specializes in beer and craft cocktails. Heritage does not have a dress code, but it still maintains the quality that you would expect at top restaurants. Along with great drinks, Heritage offers a menu of meats, cheeses, and various other items. The menu changes frequently depending on the availability of local ingredients and the preferences of head chef Joe Sparatta. This is one of the hottest places to enjoy night live in RVA. Toast New American Gastropub and Saison are also popular locations for Richmonders in search of a refreshing cocktail.
Other great drinking establishments in Richmond:
- Hardywood Brewery
- Lulu’s
- Mekong
For the Artists
Since Richmond has gained a reputation for its art, it should come as no surprise that there are several locations throughout the area that are ideal for artists and art lovers. One of the most popular locations to enjoy art is the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Founded in 1934, this large museum has collections of many different art styles and also receives touring exhibits on a regular basis. After appreciating amazing artwork, many Richmonders enjoy a tasty meal or some cocktails at Amuse, a restaurant located within the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Along with this obvious hotspot, there are also many small art galleries scattered throughout Richmond on Main St and Broad St.
Other places to enjoy art:
- Ada Gallery
- Quirk Gallery
- Eric Schindler Gallery
- Glave Kocen Gallery
For the Coffee Lovers
Popular among Millenials, writers, and freelancers, Richmond’s coffee shops are numerous and very unique. One of the largest and most frequently visited local coffee joints in the city is Lamplighter Roasting Company. Lamplighter offers a selection of coffee and espresso that is enjoyed by most of the people who stop by. If you’re looking for a mild coffee with a smooth aftertaste, Lamplighter is the place for you. While Lamplighter does not have many options to choose from in terms of pastries, they do offer lunch food. While many Richmonders go to Lamplighter for coffee and food throughout the day, the establishment rarely sees any of Richmond’s tourists. This is a great place to visit if you’re looking to work in a cafe or socialize with friends. If you’re ever near Patterson or Broad in Richmond, you should also consider sitting down for a cup of espresso at Black Hand Coffee or Lift Coffee Shop. Both of these establishments are popular among Richmond locals and serve excellent hot beverages ranging from creamy lattes to flavorful cappuccinos.
Other coffee establishments to enjoy:
- Crossroads Coffee and Ice Cream
- Shockoe Espresso and Roastery
- Cafe Caturra
For People with a Sweet Tooth
If you love ice cream or confections, then you must visit some of the shops in Richmond that specialize in sweet desserts. For ice cream, Bev’s Homemade Ice Cream should be at the top of your list. As its name suggests, Bev’s offers a wide selection of homemade ice cream, including flavors like chocolate, vanilla, pumpkin. Bev’s offers various specialty flavors depending on the time of year. While Bev’s regular options are raved about many fans of the establishment, the Girl Scout cookie flavors are favorites. If ice cream isn’t your dessert of choice, then you should check out Sugar Shack. This Richmond-based doughnut shop does not have a menu. Instead, they specialize in creative doughnuts such as maple bacon and peanut butter-chocolate. Sugar Shack aims to surprise its fans with new and creative flavors on a regular basis.
Other places for sweet food:
- Sweet 95
- Gelati Celesti
- James River Candy Co
- Gearharts Fine Chocolates
The list could go on and on, but it is clear that Richmond is the place to go for relaxation and leisure. From great coffee shops and restaurants to unique bars and galleries, Richmond offers plenty of hotspots for locals to enjoy.
A home in the Richmond area will provide you with access to these areas and more. To begin your home search in Richmond, reach out to Everett Properties. We’ll use our local expertise to match you with a neighborhood that is fits the needs of you and your family.