Strawberry Street Cafe, Richmond, Virginia

A famous cafe that was a question on Jeopardy!

by Amanda Nelson | July 29, 2010

Strawberry Street Cafe is a Richmond tradition. The cafe famously serves its salad bar choices in a large bathtub in the center of the restaurant, and is so well known for its brunch that it was featured as a question on the trivia show Jeopardy! Strawberry Street Cafe offers innovative but truly American fare for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and is very affordable. It's not just the best food for the price, though- it's some …

Bottoms Up Pizza, Richmond, Virginia

Richmond's Best Pizza

by Amanda Nelson | July 26, 2010

Bottoms Up Pizza is a Richmond tradition. It wins Best Pizza in Richmond through Richmond Magazine year after year. The crust takes a famous twelve hours to make, and the menu has the most diverse selection of pizza in the city. The restaurant is in the Historic Shockoe Bottom area of downtown Richmond, which makes it the perfect stop while exploring the sites of Richmond's history. The restaurant also has take out and …

Star-lite Dining and Lounge, Richmond, Virginia

A Bar in the Fan

by Amanda Nelson | July 25, 2010

Star-lite Dining and Lounge is one of many small restaurants and bars along Richmond's Main Street, but it stands out from the crowd. The enclosed patio is open year round, giving you one of the only outdoor dining experiences in the winter that doesn't freeze you out. The bar's staff is friendly and knowledgeable, which can be a nice respite from some of the bars in the Fan that employ tired college students.

One …

Children’s Museum of Richmond, Virginia

Richmond's most entertaining museum

by Amanda Nelson | July 19, 2010

The Children's Museum of Richmond is a non-profit museum that focuses on teaching children through play. Each exhibit in the museum is hands on, and covers one of the concepts of Virginia's Standards of Learning requirements. The museum's exhibits are designed specifically for children between the ages of three and eight. The Little Farm is for children under the age of three, and features a pretend farm, farmer's market, and pond. The Little Farm helps …

Ellwood’s Coffee, Richmond, Virginia

An independent coffee shop in Carytown

by Amanda Nelson | July 17, 2010

Ellwood's Coffee is an independent coffee shop and cafe, affiliated with the Ellwood Thompson's Local Market located across the parking lot. The Ellwood Thompson's company focuses on sustainable foods, supporting local farmers and artists, and environmental consciousness. Ellwood's Coffee is an extension of that vision, and is one of the best coffee places in the city.

Ellwood's Coffee serves fair trade coffee, and snacks made from ingredients from local merchants. The entrees …

The National, Richmond, Virginia

Richmond's Best Live Music Venue

by Amanda Nelson | July 13, 2010

Richmond, as the state's capitol, should see a plethora of live musical acts. Unfortunately, the city's proximity to Washington, D.C. means the most popular bands tend to skip Richmond. This does mean, however, that Richmond has a number of smaller, cozier venues that cater to bands with die-hard fanbases, instead of flash in the pan pop stars. The National is one of these venues. It's small enough to make the show feel intimate, but big …

Vinny’s Italian Grill, Richmond, Virginia

Pizza for the messy eaters!

by Amanda Nelson | July 08, 2010

Vinny's Italian Grill is buried in a strip mall in the Short Pump area of Richmond, so it's easy to miss. Since the Short Pump area is mostly franchises and box-mart kind of restaurants, it's easy to dismiss Vinny's even if you do find it. That would be a mistake. Vinny's serves some of the best pizza in the city, along with a variety of Italian dishes. But you won't go there for the pasta …

Lake Anna, Richmond, Virginia

Central Virginia's most popular lake getaway.

by Amanda Nelson | July 05, 2010

Richmond is situated on the James River, but is also within short driving distance of many scenic lakes and state parks. Lake Anna is the closest lake getaway, and offers a watery vacation spot for those who prefer their water to stay still. The land surrounding Lake Anna was actually the site of an early 19^th century gold mine until Dominion power bought the property in the 1970s. The lake became an official state park …

Vietnam 1 BBQ and Noodle House, Richmond, Virginia

A quick and yummy Vietnamese meal in a hard to find spot.

by Amanda Nelson | July 01, 2010

Vietnam 1 BBQ and Noodle House is a small Vietnamese restaurant in a hidden strip mall off Broad Street. It's a little hard to find since it's not visible from the main road, but it's worth the excursion. The place is full of locals, especially around lunch time during the week, so you know you've found a gem. It's the Vietnamese equivalent of a small diner, with quick service and good food. The staff manages …

VCU French Film Festival, Richmond, Virginia

The largest French Film Festival on the East Coast

by Amanda Nelson | June 28, 2010

Virginia Commonwealth University's annual French Film Festival is a cultural tradition in Richmond. The festival began in 1993, and was started by two professors of French culture in Richmond, hailing from both VCU and the University of Richmond. The festival promotes French language cinema and encourages the exchange of international ideas and creativity. The festival fills a niche that traditional American movie companies have yet to fulfill, and the festival draws in participants from up …

Anokha, Richmond, Virginia

Modern Indian Cuisine

by Amanda Nelson | June 27, 2010

Anokha is a new Indian restaurant in the Short Pump area of Richmond, across Broad Street from the open air mall. Anokha is a unique dining experience in Richmond, and stands out among the numerous Indian buffets scattered throughout the city. The restaurant combines upscale Western dining trends with traditional Indian cuisine. The hip atmosphere and décor is welcoming, and the fully stocked bar combined with the authentic food gaurantees an eclectic blend of customers, …

Legend’s Brewing Company, Richmond, VA

Central Virginia's oldest brewery.

by Amanda Nelson | June 20, 2010

Legend Brewing Company is the largest brewery in central Virginia, and is located in the heart of the downtown area. The brewery retails their microbrews to local restaurants and bars, and you can also stop by the brewery itself to make a purchase. Restaurants in Charlottesville, Williamsburg, and the Hampton Roads area also carry their beers. Visitors can choose from a variety of beers, including lager, pilsner, pale ale, and the very popular …

New York Deli, Richmond, Virginia

Genuine food down South

by Amanda Nelson | June 19, 2010

Richmond's New York Deli may seem out of place at first—we're nowhere near Manhattan—but the small cafe feel and amazing food makes this deli seem like the genuine article. The service and menu selection will make any Richmonder proud to take even the most discerning New Yorker to this restaurant, located in the heart of Carytown. The Deli is just a few doors from the Byrd Theatre, making it the perfect dinner spot …

Crossings Golf Club, Richmond, Virginia

Golfing on historic battlefields

by Amanda Nelson | June 14, 2010

The Crossings Golf Club is on the grounds of the luxurious Virginia Crossings Hotel and Conference Center in Richmond. The course was designed by Joe Lee. It is a traditional, championship 18 hole course set amidst the rolling hills and historical Civil War battlefields of central Virginia. The U.S. Publinks Championship has been held at the Crossings Golf Club. The course is designed to take advantage of the scenic area, and uses the forests and …

Belle Isle, Richmond, Virginia

A Local's Favorite Spot in the Middle of the James River

by Amanda Nelson | June 11, 2010

Belle Isle is a local Richmonder's paradise. It's just out of the way enough that tourists don't usually make the effort to find it, though they should. Belle Isle is a fifty acre island in the middle of the James River, just off the riverfront of downtown Richmond. It was the site of a Civil War prisoner of war camp, a colonial race track, metal quarries, and a variety of other historical sites …

Fourth of July at King’s Dominion, Richmond, Virginia

The Best Fireworks Display in the City

by Amanda Nelson | June 07, 2010

 The 4^th of July is one of the best times to be in Richmond. The whole city comes out for fireworks, county-sponsored picnics, and concerts. However, the best place to celebrate Independence Day in Richmond's vicinity is at the King's Dominion theme park.

King's Dominion is about fifteen minutes north of Richmond in Doswell, off Interstate 95. It is home to some of the East Coast's most famous roller coasters, including the …

Avalon Restaurant and Bar, Richmond, Virginia

Dining in the Fan District

by Amanda Nelson | June 06, 2010

Avalon Restaurant and Bar is one of the many small, independent restaurants on Main Street in the Fan district of Richmond. It is a tapas-style place, where the portions are small but somehow still filling. Two people could easily fill up on four plates, though you will want to leave room for one of the homemade desserts. The beer list is impressive, and the wine list substantial enough for anyone to find something …

The Jefferson Hotel, Richmond, Virginia

A perfect Richmond wedding venue.

by Amanda Nelson | May 27, 2010

The Jefferson Hotel in downtown Richmond is one of the most popular wedding venues on the East Coast. Images of brides pausing on the marble Grand Staircase before walking down the aisle are now iconic. The Jefferson is Richmond's most luxurious hotels, and weddings there set a standard for elegance and beauty. The hotel is only twenty minutes from the airport, giving newlywed couples a quick getaway for their honeymoon. The ballrooms can accommodate up …

Mom Siam, Richmond, Virginia

Thai Food in Carytown

by Amanda Nelson | May 27, 2010

Mom Siam is an authentic Thai restaurant in the Carytown section of Richmond. Carytown is a small urban village of independent boutiques and restaurants, and Mom Siam is right at home there. The restaurant is at the bottom of Carytown near the Byrd Theatre, making it the perfect stop for a date night. Though the interior of the place is on the smaller side, there is an outdoor patio for dining on nice …

Short Pump Town Center, Richmond, Virginia

The West End's Outdoor Mall

by Amanda Nelson | May 24, 2010

Short Pump Town Center is one of Richmond's two open-air malls, and the only one north of the James River.

The Town Center is in the far West End of Richmond, right at the boundary of Goochland and Richmond. It's one of the city's fastest growing areas, and the mall is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the area.

It has an endless variety of vendors and restaurants, along with …

House of Vietnam, Richmond, Virginia

A local Richmond favorite

by Amanda Nelson | May 23, 2010

House of Vietnam is one of Richmond's best kept secrets. It is tucked away in a strip mall in the West End of the city, in between a dry cleaner and an ABC store. When you walk into this Vietnamese restaurant, you are surprised by its large size. You'll also be instantly greeted by the smiling owner, who never seems to leave, and will remember you if you ever come back.

The menu …

Maymont Park, Richmond, Virginia

A perfect Memorial Day picnic spot

by Amanda Nelson | May 17, 2010

Maymont park is a 100 acre estate in Richmond, complete with a petting zoo and a historic Victorian mansion. The Dooleys, one of Richmond's oldest families, built the mansion in the late 18^th century and left the house and property to the city.

It is now a public park with ornamental gardens, wildlife exhibits, and a nature center. The Japanese Garden is an especially beautiful section of the park. Guests can also tour the …

Super King Buffet, Richmond, Virginia

Richmond's most authentic Chinese food.

by Amanda Nelson | May 14, 2010

Don't let appearances fool you--like many great restaurants known only to locals, the Super King Buffet doesn't look like anything fancy. When you walk in, you're greeted by a very complicated-looking koi pond, complete with its own bridge, and rows and rows of steaming food. It's probably the biggest Chinese buffet in Richmond, and it's certainly the most authentic. That means some of the food you may not recognize, but try it anyway- the names …

Pocahontas State Park, Richmond, Virginia

Camping and water sports in Richmond

by Amanda Nelson | May 10, 2010

Pocahontas State Park is twenty miles from Richmond, and was the first state park established in the area. It is a frequented park for camping, day trips, and everyday outdoor fun. The Spillway Trail is a paved hiking trail that leads to the Beaver Lake dam, and is handicapped accessible. The campsites all have hookups for electricity and water.

Overnight guests can also pay a swimming fee and a boat launching fee for …

Hotel Sierra, Richmond, VA

Short Pump's extended-stay hotel

by Amanda Nelson | May 03, 2010

The Hotel Sierra is the West End's newest and most luxurious hotel. It's location behind Short Pump Mall guarantees visitors will always have something to do. It is within walking distance of many restaurants, including the Copper Grill and Tara Thai, along with an American Family gym. Hotel Sierra is five minutes from Interstate 64, and 15 minutes from downtown Richmond. The country charms of Goochland are just ten minutes west of the …

Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa, Richmond, VA

A luxury spa in Short Pump

by Amanda Nelson | May 03, 2010

The Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa is a sophisticated, modern getaway in the otherwise busy Short Pump area. The spa is located in Short Pump Mall, so visitors can shop the day away and end on a relaxing note. The Red Door offers everything you would expect from a high-end salon, including facials, massages, and medical skin care. There is also hair and makeup design for special occasions or every day. Visitors can …

West End Farmer’s Market, Richmond, VA

Henrico County's only farmer's market

by Amanda Nelson | April 26, 2010

One of the great things about Richmond is it is an ecclectic combination of the fast-paced downtown area and traditional rural culture. Here, you can have your organic produce from the farmer and eat it, too. The West End Farmer's Market is one of the newest farmers markets—and there are several—in the Richmond area. Visitors should stop by and check out the handmade items and seasonal produce to get an idea of how …

Buz and Ned’s Real BBQ, Richmond, VA

The Best BBQ on the East Coast

by Amanda Nelson | April 25, 2010

Buz and Ned's Real BBQ is the perfect barbecue spot: an unimposing joint with outdoor seating under a large tent, amazing music, and messy, messy meat. But don't let the lack of fanciness fool you—Richmond magazine declared Buz and Ned's the best BBQ in the city from 1996–2006, and the reputation continues. In 2007, the restaurant was featured on the Food Network's Throwdown With Bobby Flay, where they went head-to-head in a blind …

Hyatt Place, Glen Allen, VA

A hotel in Innsbrook

by Amanda Nelson | April 25, 2010

The Hyatt Place is in Innsbrook, one of Richmond's most concentrated business and areas. Innsbrook is home to the headquarters of several large corporations, and the Hyatt Place is a perfect place to stay for those business travelers. Visitors to the West End of Richmond will also find the location convenient, with easy access to I-64.

The hotel is only five minutes from the premier shopping area of Short Pump, and fifteen …

The Heath Calhoun 400, Richmond, VA

Richmond International Raceway's Next Event

by Amanda Nelson | April 19, 2010

The Heath Calhoun 400 is one of the several popular NASCAR races held at the Richmond International Raceway each year. NASCAR is a distinctly Southern sport, and the races draw crowds from all over the region into the heart of Richmond. The Heath Calhoun 400 is part of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, and will be May 1, 2010. Kyle Busch is the defending champion of this race, and the Saturday …

Deluca Gelato, Richmond, VA

RIchmond's Best Ice Cream

by Amanda Nelson | April 18, 2010

Deluca Gelato isn't just the best gelato in Richmond—it's the best ice cream/smoothie/cake shop, too. This gem of a dessert place is in an unassuming shopping center off Gaskins Road, so be sure you don't miss it. The inside is nothing fancy, just tables and rows of gelato from which you can chose. This adds to the charm and lets the gelato really stand out. The store opens at noon and closes around …

Can Can Brasserie, Richmond, VA

An Authentic French Bistro

by Amanda Nelson | April 12, 2010

Can Can Brasserie is Carytown's only French bistro, with an authentic atmosphere and amazing food. The restaurant is full of fresh flowers, waiters in crisp white aprons, and dark wood. The cathedral ceilings and white tablecloths add to the ambiance. Outdoor seating is available, which contributes to the bistro atmosphere, and in nice weather the staff rolls open the huge bay windows. The bar serves a variety of imported beers and fine wines, …

Carytown Burgers and Fries, Richmond, VA

Richmond's Best Burger

by Amanda Nelson | April 08, 2010

Carytown Burgers and Fries was voted Richmond magazine's best burger in town from 2000 to 2005, and it remains a downtown legend. The restaurant is tucked away in the quirky Carytown neighborhood, surrounded by eclectic tea shops and boutiques. This is one of those unexpected, dive-like places beloved by Richmond locals. There is no real dining room, just a few tables upstairs and several outdoor tables on the patio. In the winter, the …

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond, Virginia

Richmond's Largest Collection of Blooms

by Amanda Nelson | April 05, 2010

The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden has over 50 acres of cultivated landscapes, gardens, and greenhouses in a convenient north Richmond location. The facility is open year round, and there are special seasonal events and foliage throughout the growing season. In the winter, the garden becomes a light show. There is also a rose festival, a butterfly festival, and the Million Blooms festival. The Garden Cafe and the Robins Tea House are the two …

Capital Coffee and Desserts, Richmond, VA

An independent coffee shop in Carytown

by Amanda Nelson | April 04, 2010

Capital Coffee and Desserts is a quiet cafe in Carytown, just a few doors down from the Byrd Theatre. It's an oft-overlooked place in a neighborhood of gourmet restaurants, but if you go there you won't ever pass it up again. Their specialty, just like the name says, is coffee and desserts, but they also have fabulous soups and salads during lunchtime. The pastries are creative and delicious, and the coffee is always …

St. James’s Episcopal Church, Richmond, VA

A Historic Church in the Fan

by Amanda Nelson | March 31, 2010

St. James's Episcopal Church in Richmond is impossible to miss. The steeple is visible from very far away, and when you're driving down Monument Avenue it's the tallest building in your line of sight. The huge stone columns and beautiful stained glass windows make the church a must see for anyone visiting the Fan district of Richmond.

The church was built in 1912 as a relocation project for an existing church in …

Umi Sushi Bistro, Richmond, VA

An Independent Sushi Restaurant in the West End

by Amanda Nelson | March 28, 2010

Umi is one of Richmond's newest sushi places, located in the far West End across from Short Pump Mall. Umi is a rare independent restaurant in the sea of franchises in the Short Pump area, and it shows in the quality and attention to detail. The staff is knowledgeable about sushi and eager to make recommendations to sushi veterans and newbies alike. The atmosphere is dim and quiet, making a close- quartered restaurant …

Kings Dominion, Doswell, VA

Richmond's Theme Park

by Amanda Nelson | March 22, 2010

Kings Dominion is Richmond's closest theme park, located just twenty minutes to the north of the city. It is 400 acres of world record holding thrill rides. The park includes the world's longest floorless coaster, the Dominator. The Anaconda coaster also lives in Kings Dominion, and was the world's first looping coaster with an underground tunnel. The Drop Tower is the country's largest freefall ride., with a 305 foot tower and a72 mile …

Trak’s Greek and Italian Restaurant, Henrico, VA

Excellent food in ridiculous portions

by Amanda Nelson | March 21, 2010

Trak's Greek and Italian Restaurant is the place to go for authentic and tasty food in giant, unmanagable portions. The small restaurant is owned and operated by the Trak family, who are usually on-site to welcome you and make sure everything is to your liking. The menu is varied enough to make everyone happy, with meals from lasagna to souvlaki.

The most noticeable thing about Trak's is the atmosphere. It's a small …

Bizarre Bazaar Spring Market, Richmond, Virginia

Richmond's Largest Spring Celebration

by Amanda Nelson | March 15, 2010

The Bizarre Bazaar is Virginia's largest craft and gift extravaganza, and it's held every Christmas and Spring in Richmond. The Spring Market of the Bizarre Bazaar is also one of Richmond's most popular Spring-time celebrations. The Bizarre Bizaar features thousands of local and national vendors carrying home-made crafts, fine art, and gourmet food. This isn't a typical craft show with just dolls and quilts- there is truly something for everyone at …

Richmond Metro Zoo, Moseley, VA

Richmond's Biggest Wild Animal Experience

by Amanda Nelson | March 13, 2010

The Richmond Metro Zoo is the town's year-round wild animal experience. There are over 148 different animal species in the zoo, including giraffes, tigers, cheetahs, and orangutans. The Richmond Metro Zoo is one of the only zoos in the country that offer a giraffe feeding opportunity. Guests walk over the giraffe enclosure on a raised bridge, and can greet the animals at head-level to feed them straight from the hand.

Children won't …

Sine Irish Pub and Restaurant, Richmond, Virginia

Comfort Food From Across the Atlantic

by Amanda Nelson | March 08, 2010

Sine Irish Pub and Restaurant is in the heart of the Shockoe Slip in downtown Richmond. The name is pronounced shin-ay and means “this is it” in Gaelic- and it's an accurate claim. The building is a renovated warehouse designed after traditional Irish pubs, and the feel is authentic. Some elements of the décor were constructed in Ireland and transported to Richmond to complete the feel. The dark and worn wood floors and …

Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia

The authority on the historical Black experience in Virginia

by Amanda Nelson | March 02, 2010

The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia houses the most complete collection of documents and artifacts about the Black experience in Virginia. The museum has extensive exhibits and archives pertaining to black history in this state. African art and artifacts from various ethnic groups are also on display. The Black History Museum is in Historic Jackson Ward, the oldest black community in Richmond and the “birthplace of Black capitalism”.

The …

Edgar Allan Poe Museum, Richmond, Virginia

The World's Largest Collection of Poe Artifacts

by Amanda Nelson | March 01, 2010

Edgar Allan Poe is a famous Southern literary figure whose macabre tales and dark poetry opened the door for the detective and horror literary genres. He was also one of the first American authors do write short stories. Poe was born in Boston, and spent his childhood with the Allan family of Richmond, who took him in. Although his work took him up and down the East coast, Poe returned to Richmond just before he …

Little Mexico, Richmond, Virginia

A Cafe Style Mexican Restaurant on VCU's Campus

by Amanda Nelson | February 25, 2010

If you ever tire of Southern comfort food while visiting Richmond, make sure to stop by Little Mexico on Cary Street. This is not your typical Mexican restaurant, limited to tacos and bad margaritas. Little Mexico features innovative and delicious regional Mexican cuisine from Jalisco, Michoacán, Puebla and the Yucatán. The menu is varied, and the location in convenient to all the highways and byways of Richmond.

The restaurant is just outside of VCU …

Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia

An Overview of Virginia's Largest University

by Amanda Nelson | February 22, 2010

Virginia Commonwealth University is the state's largest college. The school enrolls over 32,000 students. There are two campuses: Monroe Park, located in the historic Fan district, and the MCV (Medical College of Virginia) campus in the heart of downtown Richmond. VCU is one of the top fine-arts schools in the country, and is also well known for its medical and engineering programs. The fashion design program is also very popular, and growing fast. 

Cous Cous, Richmond, VA

A Mediterranean and Morrocan Restaurant

by Amanda Nelson | February 18, 2010

Richmond has a diverse food scene that is not just limited to comfort food and fried chicken. One of the most interesting and inventive restaurants in the city is Cous Cous, a Moroccan- and Mediteranean-style restaurant and bar. The menu has something for every palate, including vegetarian and vegan diners.

Cous Cous is a small place in the center of the Virginia Commonwealth University campus. The light is dim, and comes from …

Travel Guide To Richmond, Virginia

Why You Should Visit Richmond

by Amanda Nelson | February 15, 2010

Because Richmond is a history lover’s paradise. As both the capital of the Confederate Army and a seat of the Civil Rights movement, Richmond boasts more historical sites than any other city in Virginia. There is a slave trail, battlegrounds, archaeological digs, and 18th century plantations houses to visit. There is also the Holocaust Museum, an interactive look into life in a concentration camp. The Jamestown settlement is only an hour away.

Historic St. John’s Episcopal Church, Richmond, VA

Experience living history from the American Revolution

by Amanda Nelson | February 10, 2010

St. John's Church is a National Historic Landmark. It was the site of Patrick Henry's famous “Give me liberty, or give me death” speech. On March 23, 1775, Henry delivered the speech before the Second Virginia Convention to convince them to pass resolutions which would organize Virginia's militia in preparation for war. Also present that day were George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. St. John's was the first church ever built in Richmond. The church's …

Mardi Gras 2010, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond VA

Richmond's VMFA celebrates Mardi Gras 2010 in style with a black tie gala

by Amanda Nelson | February 07, 2010

Mardi Gras is a traditional Catholic holiday which celebrates the last day of Carnival season and the beginning of Lent. Since members of the Catholic faith generally fast during Lent, Mardi Gras (or Fat Tuesday) became a day to let loose and practice a little bit of riotousness before settling down and being disciplined. Nowadays, Mardi Gras is a day of partying and gluttony which is associated mostly with New Orleans parades and colorful, plastic beads. …