Being blessed with a hint of good weather this past Sunday, my winter hibernation habits were throttled by an urge to explore all Richmond has to offer…at least, for my tastebuds. One of my favorite pastimes is eating all the wonderful food Richmond chefs have to offer. There are so many quaint restaurants with just as many unique visions and approachs to food that I thought I’d share with you some of my stand-by favorites. You know, start with the staples and taste on from there! Believe me, I’ll keep you updated on my new finds.
Mamma Zu's
Hands down, one of my favorite places to enjoy life and wine with friends and loved ones. Its unassuming atmosphere and no frills service from knowledgable hardworking servers and chefs make it an easy going place to enjoy some of the freshest ingredients and indulgent Italian food in this town. A simple, classic arugula salad comprised of only premium Parmesan Reggiano and freshly grated black pepper is a no brainer. Follow it with just as simple but hard to master Rockfish, expertly cooked to tender flaky deliciousness, or heavier more indulgent treats like Duck, Osso Bucco and Branzino. The candlelit bohemian atmosphere always puts stars in my eyes and a satisfied smile on my face.
501 South Pine Street, Richmond, VA 23220
(804) 788-4205
Alamo
In keeping with the laid back, home-cooked theme for now, Alamo barbecue is as fun as a backyard cook out! Their outdoor dining area is insulated and heated with kerosene lamps for the colder days. They smoke all of their meat on site and offer a very diverse menu for a typically narrow culinary style. You can count on the classics like pulled pork and chicken, brisket and sausage to be mouthwatering. However, they also smoke fish and have a portobella BBQ option as well. Some of my favorites are their Tex Mex items like tacos and burritos and I always have to get one of their killer sides. Don’t forget the cherry limeade, please!
2202 Jefferson Avenue, Richmond, VA 23223
(804) 592-3138
Rappahannock Restaurant
A relatively new find (for me!) is this more upscale establishment by the Rappahannock Oyster Co. Boasting fresh Virginia oysters, they serve three different kinds. Olde Salts from Chincoteague Bay, Stingray oysters from Ware Neck and Rappahannock oysters from Topping, VA. Did I mention that you can get these at $1 a piece during happy hour? What an amazing, affordable luxury! I was blown away by the rich wooden atmosphere and amazingly friendly and professional service. Their specialty cocktails and extensive wine and beer list add to its charm as a destination for a fancy date night, beers with the guys, or drinks with the ladies.
320 East Grace Street, Richmond, VA 23219
(804) 545-0565
Mekong
Talk about Richmond staples. This place has imbedded its name, beer and food in the mind of most Richmonders that I know. A great place to hang out with great food, an insane amount of beer on tap and weekly happenings like live bands has everyone wanting more. Now they can have it, The Answer brew pub located behind Mekong and the recently acquired The Commercial Taphouse has reopened with a facelift! You can enjoy classic vietnamese dishes at Mekong (I love their Pho) as well as their incredibly tasty wings. Mekong has embraced local breweries and inspired the dynamic beer-loving owner to open his own. Mekong has certainly become part of Richmond culture and a vehicle for its growth.
| 6004 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 288-8929 |
Perly's
Another story of a reinvisioned classic. Perly’s, formerly a greasy spoon southern comfort breakfast diner reopened its doors late summer last year as a New York style Jewish delicatessen restaurant. There’s no meat counter or slicer or ticket taker, but you can order your sandwich exactly how you’d like it. While it’s one of the best sandwiches I’ve had in a long time, their breakfast options are something to drool over as well! In keeping with one of the old Perly’s traditions, they serve breakfast until 3pm daily. They offer other traditional breakfast staples like a Bagel with Fish, cheese blintzes and a delightfully flavorful Benny Leonard. This charming place has friendly service and a knowledgable staff to help guide you through a few unfamiliar menu items like kishke and gribiche. Make sure you try their garlic and dill french fries or matzoh ball soup, named a champion by the soup nazi himself!
This is just the beginning of my appetite for new tastes and experiences in this vibrant town of Richmond, VA! As this is only my second installment of events, activities and culture that make this such a great place to live, you can count on more to come.
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