Richmond, Virginia is now a major dining destination, home to tons of creative restaurants boasting culinary creations from every region of the world. Whether you’re craving a panini or chicken parmesan, there’s a place for you.
Here’s a list of some of my favorites:
Pescado’s
Okay, so this technically isn’t in Richmond, but going to a strip mall in Midlothian isn’t all that bad when you’re eating the famous fish tacos at this Caribbean-inspired seafood restaurant. Don’t let the exterior fool you – the service is impeccable, the food is unbelievably fresh, and they make an incredible margarita.
What you’re getting:
Voodoo shrimp – Fresh shrimp inside a soft bread bowl with bananas, chorizo, and spicy habanero sauce, topped with a soft fried egg. Keep water handy.
Fish tacos – Fresh grilled mahi mahi inside soft tortillas, topped with pickled onions, greens, salsa, and guacamole. Award winning!
Guava lime scallops – Incredibly fresh, large scallops served atop a shellfish paella cake, topped with greens and served with peas & mushrooms and a guava-lime sauce. I dream about this dish.
Mosaic
This adorable restaurant on River Road is perfect for a girl’s lunch out before going shopping down the street in Carytown. The atmosphere is cozy and their Southern-influence menu is incredibly diverse, with everything from kale salads to gouda mac ‘n cheese.
What you’re getting:
MOSAIC Signature Penne Pasta – Penne pasta served in a creamy gouda cheese sauce, with sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, and BACON.
Shrimp and Grits – Nothing says you’re in the South like ordering Shrimp & Grits. Served with chicken andouille sausage, peppers, shrimp, scallions, cheddar & gouda sauce, these are some of the best grits around.
Fit MMC Salmon – Yes, it’s in the “lighter fare” portion of the menu – but this perfectly cooked salmon atop a bed of vegetables in a light lemon sauce is absolutely perfect for those hot summer nights.
The Daily Kitchen & Bar
We’re making our way downtown now with this health conscious and environmentally friendly restaurant. However, there’s something for everybody – their pizzas are absolutely fantastic. Grab a drink at the bar before sitting down – and order the Daily Bees Knees (gin, lemon, elderflower, honey).
What you’re getting:
Fig & Pig Pizza – Hot, cheesy white pizza topped with pulled pork, figs, and arugula. Although I’m sure you can’t get wrong with any of the pizzas here.
Portobello Mushroom Bowl – I’m not a vegetarian, but this is still one of the best thing I think I have ever eaten. A brown rice bowl with a huge grilled Portobello mushroom, kale, cilantro, and a mouthwatering spicy peanut sauce.
Harris Ranch Hangar Steak – Tender, juicy skirt steak served with a side of potatoes and carrots. Classic and simple, yet incredible.
Crispy Brussel Sprouts – Because you order brussel sprouts whenever they’re on a menu. You just do.
Can Can Brasserie
We’re staying in Carytown for a little now, because the weather is warm and where else can you sit outside for some of the best people watching? You may have to wait for a table, but Can Can has one of the greatest bars in the area. My family has been known to spend multiple sunny afternoons enjoying Bellinis and eating some oysters. But be sure to sit down and order off the menu – authentic French cuisine in a really fun, modern atmosphere.
What you’re getting:
Moules Frites – I was transported back to France when I ordered these. Fresh, sweet mussels served in a white wine sauce and served with piping hot “frites.”
Cheese Plate – Choose six and split among the table.
Escargot – Because snails dripping in butter are just so good.
Grilled Salmon – Bok choy, broccolini, onions, mushrooms and potatoes adorn this perfectly cooked salmon topped with a cucumber yogurt and horseradish sauce.
Burger Bach
This trendy gastropub has some of the best burgers in Richmond – and maybe even the United States. New Zealand inspired burgers are served with a side of salad, but that doesn’t mean you should refrain from ordering a side of their fresh cut fries (with over 14 dipping sauces to choose from!) A beer and a burger make for a great Saturday night.
What you’re getting:
Fresh Cut Fries – Definitely emphasis on the fresh. Go big or go home with the 3 different dipping sauces.
Each Coast Burger – Juicy New Zealand grass-fed beef, with a blueberry chipotle BBQ sauce, bacon, caramelized onions, and garlic aioli. You’ll need some napkins.
Kiwi Chick – Not feeling the red meat? Go for this grilled chicken sandwich with chipotle BBQ sauce, turkey bacon, cheddar, caramelized onions, and jalapeño remoulade.
Sticky Rice
You’ll find plenty of VCU students hanging out in this hipster restaurant known for its sushi and buckets of tater tots. Order a few things and share with the table to get a taste of everything – but don’t forget the tots!
What you’re getting:
Bucket of tots – Because, tots.
Spicy thai chicken noodles – My friend and I still talk about the first time we ordered this dish. Takes Pad Thai to a whole new level.
Any of the specialty rolls – With names like “Drawn ‘n Buttered”, you’ll be tempted to order the entire sushi menu. Stick to the specialty rolls rather than the boring sushi.
