5 Iconic Richmond Dishes to Try ASAP
BY LIA BECK
Richmond is full of beloved restaurants, and there are new ones making their mark every day. But, when it comes to Richmond dishes that are truly iconic, there’s got to be some history there. Some real connection to the city. Some memory of that overwhelming fried chicken smell from grocery shopping trips when you were a kid. (Real ones know what I mean.) Whether it’s a cozy spot that’s been serving up comfort for decades or a sandwich that was invented in RVA over 80 years ago, some Richmond foods stand the test of time.
The Sailor Sandwich at New York Deli
While it has undergone some updates in recent years — goodbye, classic deli cases; hello, rooftop bar — some things have remained the same at New York Deli, which first opened in 1929. For instance, the menu still includes the sailor sandwich, which was invented at the restaurant in 1943. The hearty sandwich features pastrami, Swiss cheese, grilled knockwurst, and spicy mustard between slices of toasted rye.
Location: 2920 W Cary St (Carytown)
Hours: Found here
Fried Chicken at Ukrop’s Market Hall
The fact that this particular iconic dish is now available at Ukrop’s Market Hall rather than the many Ukrop’s grocery stores that used to be scattered throughout the city is something long-time Richmonders won’t ever get over. But, thankfully, that means Ukrop’s hot foods can still be enjoyed somewhere. The fried chicken is the way to go. A two-piece meal also includes one of the former chain’s famous White House Rolls and a side of your choosing.
Location: 7250 Patterson Ave (Tuckahoe)
Hours: Found here
A Box Lunch at Sally Bell’s Kitchen
Sally Bell’s Kitchen has been a Richmond staple for literally a hundred years — it opened in 1924 as Sarah Lee’s Kitchen. It’s best known for its box lunches, which include your choice of a sandwich, side, and cupcake, along with a deviled egg and a cheese wafer. You can make things even more Virginia-y by going with Smithfield ham for your sandwich.
Location: 2337 W Broad St (The Fan)
Hours: Found here
Spaghetti à la Joe at Joe’s Inn
How’s a really, really big serving of spaghetti with a bunch of cheese baked on top sound? Joe’s Inn (70-plus years running!) has a massive menu, but the spaghetti topped with provolone cheese and either meat or marinara sauce is The Fan restaurant’s most famous dish. You can also mix things up and go with the Spaghetti à la Greek, which is same, but with the addition of Romano cheese and chunks of feta.
Location: 205 N Shields Ave (The Fan)
Hours: Found here
Eggleston’s Fried Fish Boat at Croaker’s Spot
There’s a lot to choose from at the seafood and soul food restaurant Croaker’s Spot, but if you want to get a taste of their secret sauce and their history, there’s Eggleston’s Fried Fish Boat. The dish is named after the family that started the restaurant, who has longstanding ties to Jackson Ward where the business was originally located. You’ll get the option of two, three, or four pieces of fried fish served with peppers and onions sautéed in the restaurant’s secret sauce, red potatoes, and cornbread.
Location: 1020 Hull St (Manchester)
Hours: Found here
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lia is an entertainment and lifestyle writer born and raised in Richmond, VA. Like many Richmonders, she left and came back.
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