RVA NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE: Scott's Addition
Scott’s Addition started out as a concrete wasteland once upon a time, but over the last few years, the neighborhood has been carefully and quickly revitalized. Now, this area is home to luxury apartments and condos, grocery stores, breweries, restaurants, and more.
And what’s particularly great about Scott’s Addition is just how different one of its spots can be from the next. Whether you’re seeking entertainment, drinks, or a casual plate, you can find just what you’re looking for here.
Read on for the best of what to eat, drink, see, and do in Scott’s Addition and its surrounding areas.
— by Alie McArdle, Contributing Writer (and the brains behind Ink & Influence. Follow her biz @_inkandinfluence!)
PS: Did we miss a must-try spot? This guide includes some of the classics and our favorites, but if there’s something you think we should add, let us know here!
What to See
The Broadberry
There’s no shortage of nightlife in RVA, but when you’re particularly drawn to the liveliness and excitement that comes from seeing bands up close and personal, The Broadberry is where it’s at. Scott’s Addition’s gem of a live music venue hosts many favorites, plus up-and-coming performers, on its stage. They also have a full bar, food, and an expansive outdoor patio space to accommodate show-goers.
Location: 2729 W Broad St
Showtimes: Found here
What to Do
Bingo Beer Co
You can’t go wrong by joining a group of friends to enjoy all that this (recently renovated) barcade has to offer. Live out your nostalgia at Bingo Beer Co and play some of the classics like Skee-Ball, Pac-Man, and air hockey.
Location: 2900 W Broad St
Hours: Found here
The Park
The Park pretty much has it all: duckpin bowling, mini golf, karaoke, live DJs and music, and a food court! And they have the lengthiest bar in Virginia at 60 feet long.
Location: 2601 Durham
Hours: Found here
River City Roll
River City Roll is “not your mama’s bowling alley.” The lanes are vibrant and their seating is comfortable with a dedicated server there to ensure you’re having a great experience (and never going thirsty!). They offer a great happy hour, brick-oven pizzas, a handful of tasty appetizers, and live music on select dates.
Location: 939 Myers St
Hours: Found here
PlantHouse
If you’re a plant lover, you have to visit PlantHouse for an unbe-leaf-able experience. It’s not only a plant shop but an immersive experience offering DIY terrariums, workshops, and more! You can even enjoy an adult beverage while perusing plants or getting creative in the workshop!
Location: 3356 W Moore St
Hours: Found here
Sun & Selene
Elevate your jewelry game with handmade pieces from Sun & Selene. Here, they make shopping for accessories fun. Stop by if you’re looking to treat yourself, pick up a birthday gift, or buy an engagement ring.
Location: 3408 W Leigh St
Hours: Found here
Top Golf
Top Golf is the perfect place to blow off steam by hitting golf balls or simply just hanging with friends. They have a mini golf course as well as their comfortable bay seating for their main golf course. Challenge your friends to one of several games you can play during your stay, and order a beer from their extensive draft list while you’re at it.
Location: 2308 Westwood Ave
Hours: Found here
Vogue Flower Market
This family florist has been a River City staple for more than 35 years. They offer “the widest selection of fresh cut flowers in the region” and have a DIY Flowers option if you’re feeling particularly inspired when you walk in.
Location: 1114 N Arthur Ashe Blvd
Hours: Found here
Where to Eat
Boulevard Burger & Brew
Boulevard Burger & Brew is here to bring you old-school vibes and plates at reasonable prices. Pop in and grab a boozy peanut butter and jelly milkshake with your meal, or try one of their many beers on tap.
Location: 1300 N Arthur Ashe Blvd
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Brenner Pass
Spirits, craft cocktails, beers, reds, whites — Brenner Pass caters to every palate, with an air of sophistication you only get from a restaurant of this status. This upscale, yet inviting, spot is home to delectable eats as well, making it a perfect stop when you’re ready to impress a date or business partner.
Location: 3200 Rockbridge St #100
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Don’t Look Back
Who doesn’t love tacos and tequila? Don’t Look Back is the best taco place (in my opinion!), and the ambiance of the place can’t be beat either. Its large indoor space can accommodate a lot of activity — especially when you’re seeking late-night eats; they even have billiard tables, so feel free to come in, eat, relax, and stay a while.
Location: 3306 W Broad St
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Eazzy Burger
When you’re in need of a tasty, juicy burger, Eazzy Burger goes all out. Their burgers feature 1/3-lb Roseada Farm dry-aged black angus blend of brisket, chuck, and short-rib, served on a buttery toasted La Bella Vita Bakery brioche bun. Choose one of their signature burgers, like the Chile Relleno Burger which is dressed up with American cheese, a griddled poblano pepper stuffed with queso oaxaca, shoestring onions, salsa verde, and crema.
Location: 3204 W Leigh St
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Fat Dragon Chinese Kitchen and Bar
Fat Dragon Chinese Kitchen and Bar is a modern, lively bar and restaurant serving traditional Chinese with a twist. It’s the perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or late-night munching with 20+ beers on tap. Check out their happy hour specials throughout the week, too, for deals on rails, cold ones, and apps.
Location: 1200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Fighting Fish
This spot’s Instagram page has been the cause of many sudden sushi cravings over here. Its atmosphere is fun, and the fish is fresh and offered in generous servings. We’re big fans of the Pepperito sushi burrito — your choice of tuna, salmon, or yellowtail with spicy kani, masago, avocado, pickled red onion and jalapeño, garlic lime, and sesame seeds. (Here comes that craving again.)
Location: 912 N Arthur Ashe Blvd
Hours: Found here
Gelati Celesti
Satisfy your craving for something sweet with Gelati Celesti. Their small-batch ice cream is just what you need for an afternoon pick-me-up or a “just because” treat. You’ll find unique flavors here, like Almond Amaretto and Rum Raisin, along with a handful of non-dairy options.
Location: 1400 N Arthur Ashe Blvd
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Lillian Oyster Hall
This one’s a new kid on the ~rock(s)~. The atmosphere features a grand wraparound bar and standing tables near the windows; the extensive wine list pairs perfectly with the oysters (confirms our in-house wine expert, Paige, obvs); and an order of Towers (eight oysters, eight shrimp, four clams, two shooters, two skewers, crudite and pickles, and tuna tartare) is what we recommend — at least for starters.
Location: 3001 W Leigh St
Menu: Found in-restaurant only
Hours: Found here
Lost Letter
Take your tastebuds on a culinary journey through northern Italy with Lost Letter, from the folks who — once upon a time — brought us Longoven (miss u!). Featuring a few carefully crafted seafood and meat dishes, this restaurant is perfect for date night or dressing up with a few close friends. While a reservation isn’t a must, it’s recommended!
Location: 2939 W Clay St
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Lucky AF
Sushi is the perfect food, in my opinion! You can eat and eat without feeling overly full, and your chef can get endlessly creative with the rolls. Lucky AF is home to sushi rolls, appetizers, bento boxes, bowls, and more. And they have a pretty sweet signature cocktail list as well as outdoor seating.
Location: 3103 W Leigh St
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
LUNCH.SUPPER!
This spot has quite the reputation for delicious food with attentive service. Lunch.Supper! offers a well rounded menu, starting with tasty apps you won’t want to miss. From Pork Rind Nachos and Imperial Crab Dip, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Boneless Short-Ribs, their starter menu doesn’t leave much to be desired. Be sure to add on one of their entrees and desserts for the full experience.
Location: 1215 Summit Ave
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Moore Street Cafe
Breakfast all day, affordable prices, plenty of mimosas options to choose from — Moore Street Cafe is your go-to diner in Scott’s Addition. Between the big portions and a myriad of choices, this should be added to your brunch list, pronto.
Location: 2904 W Moore St
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Pinky’s
Known for their gluten-free and vegan-friendly menu, Pinky’s is an inviting restaurant that leaves you satisfied. The atmosphere is elegant without being pretentious, and their menu consists of various mains, sandwiches, and tapas designed for sharing with friends. I highly recommend the Zucchini Fritti (calabrian chile, pepperoncini, lemon-dill aioli, aleppo pepper, chives) and the Veggie Muffaletta Panino (fresh basil, grilled zucchini, dill havarti, fennel, roasted red peppers, red onion, pickled radish, lemon dill vinaigrette, shredded romaine, roasted garlic aioli, panini pressed).
Location: 3015 Norfolk St
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Stella’s Grocery
Stella’s has a reputation for delicious grab-and-go food. When you’re in a hurry or looking for some laid-back fare for lunch, Stella’s is the way to go. Their menu features healthy options, like their Harvest Kale Salad or Nonna’s Chopped Salad. Or, if you’re looking for something more filling, try their Butternut Squash Panini — it’s amaaaaazing!
Location: 3351 W Moore St
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Tazza
Tazza is a welcoming atmosphere perfect for meeting a group of friends or bringing the fam from out of town. Or feel free to sit at the bar solo and chat up your bar neighbors, or grab a high-top and explore the menu with a date. No matter the occasion, you’re going to have a good time. I recommend trying the Kale & Chilies Salad for a crunchy, spicy, healthy dinner.
Location: 1500 Roseneath Rd
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
ZZQ
When you’re craving authentic Texas BBQ in Richmond, you’re going to want to hit ZZQ. The spot was actually named one of the best barbecue joints in America by Thrillest — so you know you’re getting the good stuff. ZZQ has your typical smoked meats, like chicken, brisket, and pork with your favorite sides, like jalapeno mac and cheese, buttermilk potato salad, and more.
Location: 3201 W Moore St
Menu: Found here
Hours: Found here
Where to Drink
Afterglow
Afterglow is a coffee co-op — employee-owned and -operated. They offer your morning cup of Joe with a warm welcome. You’ll find pastries and snacks on Afterglow’s menu to accompany your beverage, and while you can pop in for a Dirty Chai and a scone during your commute, you might be surprised this coffee shop switches up “after dark.” In the evenings, Afterglow serves beer and wine, taking you from your 9 to 5 right to happy hour.
Location: 1719 Summit Ave
Hours: Found here
Ardent Craft Ales
This spot is a taproom, beer garden, and production brewery in Scott’s Addition with a deceptively large patio — outside the deck, you’re greeted at the main entrance. There’s also a large mulched area with tables and umbrellas. They serve a menu featuring toasts, salads, and sandwiches, but outside food is also permitted Ardent has a great happy hour Monday through Wednesday, 3 to 6 pm — 50% off all draft beer! It’s also noteworthy that they are the only brewery in Scott’s Addition that opens at noon during the week.
Location: 3204 W Leigh St
Hours: Found here
Black Lodge
Located in Brenner Pass, this speakeasy of sorts is a cozy spot to get tasty, unfussy food and booze. Pop by for caviar and shots, dogs, and more eats, and wash it all down with something like the Frozen Piña Colada — “the best damn one you’ve had.”
Location: 3200 Rockbridge St #101
Hours: Found here
Brambly Park
Sophisticated, yet casual, Brambly Park is two acres of lush green space right in Scott’s Addition. They have loads of wine, nonalcoholic beverages, and a food menu to accompany your drink(s) of choice. Brambly is the perfect place to settle into after a long week or during those especially nice days. Make sure to pop by or make a reservation if you want to check out their live music scene, too.
Location: 1708 Belleville St
Hours: Found here
Grit Coffee
Fuel your grind with Grit Coffee — Scott’s Addition’s coffee house built on honoring the hustle. This shop has just what you need when you’re in a mid-day slump and need that pick-me-up. And with the rise of WFH opps, they’ve got space when you just need to get out of the apartment and get some work done.
Location: 1621 Roseneath Rd
Hours: Found here
Hofheimer Bldg
Between this spot’s loft and lounge, rooftop, and Harry’s, you really can’t miss when you visit. Personally, we love to head up to the rooftop to take in the sweeping views of the Diamond, the Science Museum of Virginia, and more, while we listen to live music and sip our bev(s) of choice.
Location: 2818 W Broad St
Hours: Found here
Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop
Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop is yet another beloved brewery in the heart of the neighborhood. What sets this one apart is their two-story space with patio and rooftop deck, making it an excellent spot when the weather is ~giving~. There’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the company of friends, get together for a team meeting, or hang solo.
Location: 3406 W Leigh St
Hours: Found here
Strangeways
Strangeways offers over 30 beers on tap to meet any preference. They’ve got IPAs, lagers, stouts, porters, sours, wilds, and even non-alcoholic beers. If you’re a fan of live music, Strangeways also frequently books live talent, leaving you with the chance to jam out while you sip with friends.
Location: 3110 W Leigh St
Hours: Found here
Three Notch’d Brewing
When you think of Richmond breweries, you probably think of The Veil. Known for their cleverly crafted brews and friendly persona, this Richmond staple isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. They offer a full suite of different craft beer flavor profiles and an open space concept that leaves you feelin’ easy and breezy as you catch a buzz.
Location: 2930 W Broad St
Hours: Found here
Väsen Brewing Company
This is one of the best breweries in Scott’s Addition that has funky flavors and good vibes. Väsen truly crafts an experience around their craft beer and ensures everyone is included. Väsen’s taproom also always has *something* going on. Whether it’s a game night, movie screening, or hosting fitness clubs, Väsen attracts many people due to the friendly atmosphere and diverse set of activities offered. We love their spacious taproom, outdoorsy aesthetic, and employing some of the nicest folks! And while Väsen’s taproom doesn’t have a kitchen, they work with several food trucks in the area to provide yummy food that caters to all.
Location: 3331 W Moore St
Hours: Found here
The Veil Brewing Co
When you think of Richmond breweries, you probably think of The Veil. Known for their cleverly crafted brews and friendly persona, this Richmond staple isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. They offer a full suite of different craft beer flavor profiles and an open space concept that leaves you feelin’ easy and breezy as you catch a buzz.
Location: 1509B Belleville St
Hours: Found here
Looking for more places to explore?:
