RVA NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE: Lakeside
I adore Richmond. The people, the food, and the experiences here have taken hold of me, and I, too, never left after college.
Lakeside (sometimes referred to as Northside) is a quirky neighborhood that any Richmonder has frequented at least a few times (ahem, Lewis Ginter!). Its charming atmosphere attracts locals and out-of-towners to visit the gardens and eat here. And if you’re anything like me, you can’t stay away from consignment shops and antique stores — they don’t quite make things like they used to.
While Lakeside is home to lots of restaurants, the neighborhood could use a coffee shop (and a little birdie told me one is in the works, so stay tuned for more on that later).
But there’s still a lot to love about the Richmond neighborhood. Read on to learn just what to see, do, and eat when visiting.
– by Alie Mcardle, Contributing Writer
What to See
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Lewis Ginter has to be my favorite garden in Richmond to visit. With so many species of plants to learn about, I can spend hours here. Bring the whole family to explore and marvel at their 50 acres of lush trees, plants, and flower beds.
Lewis Ginter also offers classes and programs designed for little ones and adults! Join in on garden yoga or an art class. There’s something here for everyone.
Take a stroll through the garden during the holidays. The magic of Lewis Ginter shines just a bit brighter when decorated with holiday cheer.
Location: 1800 Lakeside Ave
Hours: Found here
Lakeside Farmers’ Market
The Lakeside Farmers’ Market is a local delight. You can find crisp, fresh produce grown by farmers right here, along with homemade crafts and jellies. It's located in the Lakeside Towne Center, making parking quick and easy. Pop in for a quick browse and pick up produce essentials.
Location: 6106 Lakeside Ave
Hours: Found here
Bryan Park
If you enjoy a nice stroll, Bryan Park is a great place to calm the mind. Take the kids to the playground for imaginative playtime, or try your hand at disk golf at the course. Bryan Park also features paved and unpaved trails to wander around — see if you can spot any “RVA rocks” along the way.
To experience Richmond’s largest year-round market, come to Bryan Park on Saturdays from 9 am to 12 pm. You’ll find produce, trinkets, handmade crafts, artisanal soaps, homemade goods, and more.
Location: 4308 Hermitage Road
Hours: Found here
What to Do
Lakeside Tavern
Who doesn’t enjoy singing loudly (and badly) with a group of friends and strangers? Karaoke is one of those activities that people just love. Getting together and singing along to the lyrics at Lakeside Tavern, you know, while slamming PBR, is quite a Richmond thing to do — and you can count on throwing it down Tuesday through Friday here.
Location: 5406 Lakeside Ave
Hours: Found here (karaoke on Tuesday through Friday, starting at 7:30 pm)
JuJuBee’s
Located in the Lakeside Towne Center, JuJuBee’s is a GEM. Imagine my surprise (and delight) when I stumbled upon a shelf of vintage Star Trek memorabilia and knick-knacks. Cue a long discussion with the staff (who are stellar, by the way) about the different series and spin-offs.
There’s so much to see here: antique furniture, clothing, records, and art. Give yourself some time to take it all in and find new treasures to take home.
Location: 6116a Lakeside Ave
Hours: Found here
Twig
Twig is a woman-owned boutique shop located around the corner from JuJuBee’s. Their tagline, “gifts with character,” is an understatement. This is a must-stop-shop if you’re looking for something unique to wear, gift, or showcase at home.
Location: 6112b Lakeside Ave
Hours: Found here
Collector’s Heaven
Card collectors love Collector’s Heaven, and the reason is a no-brainer. The owner is knowledgeable and obviously loves what he does. Stop in to peruse and perhaps play some cards while you’re there. On Fridays, they host Magic, The Gathering. On Saturdays, they host Pokemon. And on Sundays, they host Yu-Gi-Oh!
Location: 6112 Lakeside Ave
Hours: Found here
Lakeside Park Club
Lakeside Park Club is an inclusive private golf club. The golf course is world-class, and several amenities make membership worth it (including their Junior Olympic pool). Membership is diversified and inclusive to golf lovers, tennis lovers, and folks from all walks of life.
Have kids? They offer programs tailored just for them, encouraging independence and confidence.
Location: 1700 Lakeside Ave
Hours: Found here
Where to Eat
SB’s Love Shack
SB’s Love Shack boasts a welcoming interior with an eclectic vibe. There’s no shortage of conversation pieces to gush over while enjoying your meal or a cup of Joe from their espresso machine. Offering all-day breakfast and sandwiches, there’s something on the menu that will undoubtedly make your taste buds happy.
If you’re in a hurry, they offer a quick and easy to-go breakfast, the Funky Li’l Shack. It includes a biscuit sandwich with folded egg, cheese, and meat; a side of fruit; and a coffee or water for $6 (including tax!).
Vegan options are available.
Location: 6935 Lakeside Ave
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Roy’s Big Burger
Roy’s Big Burger joint is a relic from simpler times. Stopping by packs a punch of nostalgia you can only understand if you experience it firsthand. Lakeside locals love the walk-up window where you can order burgers, fries, corn-dogs, and shakes. Enjoy the classic American cuisine at the nearby picnic tables.
Fun fact: The ‘90s kid's show Doug features a burger joint called “Honkers Burgers,” which is loosely based on Roy’s Big Burger.
Location: 5200 Lakeside Ave
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Hobnob
I absolutely adore Hobnob. It’s a quaint restaurant snuggled inside Lakeside. They have a variety of offerings available, including more than a handful of vegetarian dishes that can be made vegan. Craving seafood? Choose the Green Curry Mussels to start you off and follow up with the Shrimp and Grits. Looking for a vegetarian Reuben dupe? Their Smoky Beet Reuben sandwich is meat-free and full of flavor.
Location: 6010 Hermitage Rd
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Virginia Barbeque
As we move into the colder seasons, there’s nothing quite like a plate of comfort food. Virginia Barbeque is known for its authentic Southern-style barbeque, cheesy mac, hushpuppies, and great service. Don’t raise your eyebrows at their old-fashioned website — it’s part of the charm. There’s a reason locals and out-of-towners leave glowing reviews — the tasty food and welcoming atmosphere.
Location: 6920 Lakeside Ave
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Arianna’s Italian Grill Lakeside
Every neighborhood needs a pizza shop, and Arianna’s Italian Grill is a Lakeside staple. Their menu hosts a variety of signature pies, rolls, pastas, and more. Make sure to save room for dessert. Between the cheesecakes, tiramisu, and cannoli, you’re not going to want to miss it. Pop in with the family or order delivery to enjoy at home.
Location: 5107 Lakeside Ave
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Lakeside Tavern
Lakeside Tavern is locally loved and for good reason. With the affordable drinks, delicious Korean and American eats, and attentive service, a night out here equates to good fun. Don’t be intimidated by the regulars either — this is a welcoming environment.
Location: 5406 Lakeside Ave
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Where to Drink
Final Gravity Brewing Company
Richmond is known for its brewery scene, and Final Gravity lives up to the hype. Final Gravity is your go-to for drinking a beer in a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by friends. Bring out your competitive side and play a round of darts or hit the arcade games. Enjoy taking your pup places? Bring Fido to their dog-friendly patio.
Final Gravity offers small snacks, so if you’re hungry, feel free to bring in food from home or another restaurant.
Location: 6118 Lakeside Ave
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Once Upon a Vine
Once Upon a Vine isn’t a place to sit down and have a quick drink — but it is the place to go to grab a bottle of your favorite Merlot to pair with your pasta dinner. Or grab a flirty bottle of Moscato to enjoy during a park picnic. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, so no matter your taste and needs, you’ll walk out with the perfect selection.
Location: 4009 MacArthur Ave
Hours: Found here
Another Round Bar and Grill
Another Round Bar and Grill features happy hour, live music, pool tables, and friendly service. It’s one of those neighborhood hole-in-the-wall bars that always brings a good time and stories to tell later. Enjoy bar food and drinks surrounded by great company.
Location: 7515 Brook Rd
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Bryan Park Bar and Grill
Live music? Check. Karaoke? Check. Drinks? Check. Bryan Park Bar and Grill is your classic neighborhood dive bar. Here you’ll experience good food, great service, and weekend shenanigans. Play a round of pool with some friends or try your hand at chance games in the back.
Location: 5516 Lakeside Ave
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Looking for more places to explore?
