The Trendspotter: April 2021
Welcome to the latest offering from The Richmond Experience, The Trendspotter!
This new content series will feature monthly roundups of the newest and hottest spots around RVA that you need to know about, from restaurant openings to seasonal attractions to pop-up experiences and beyond.
Without further ado, here are the six businesses you do NOT want to miss out on this month…
— by Alicia Valenski
Image Source: @cobraburger
Cobra Burger
What it is: A smash-style burger pop-up concept turned brick-and-mortar in the former Dutch & Co. space in Church Hill.
Why we love it: Aside from the mouthwatering selection of burgers (and fries — do not sleep on the fries), this pal-owned biz serves up extremely chill vibes and punny snake-inspired names for all of their menu items.
Where to find it: 400 N 27th St (Church Hill)
Image Source: @sonoramexican
Sonora Cantina & Rooftop
What it is: A rooftop cantina offering Mexican fare inspired by the rich, vibrant colors and flavors of the Sonoran Desert, located in Northwestern Mexico.
Why we love it: The menu boasts eclectic eats and creative cocktails including SO many tacos (including birria chicken, carne asada, veggie, pork belly, shrimp, and fish), craft margaritas in all sorts of fun flavors (like honeydew, blueberry-lychee, blood orange, and passion fruit), and more.
Where to find it: 11 W Broad St (Arts District)
Image Source: @tbtelgallo
TBT El Gallo
What it is: An elevated, chef-inspired take on classic Mexican street food in a casual takeout setting.
Why we love it: Specialty tacos (yes, includding birria!), burritos, tortas, and papas fritas await — but the "Hangover Cure" burrito made with chorizo, fried eggs, seasoned potatoes, pico de gallo, chihuahua cheese, cotija cheese, and poblano crema has gotta be the GOAT.
Where to find it: 2118 W Cary St (The Fan)
Image Source: @secondbottlewine
Second Bottle Wine & Snack Shop
What it is: Exactly what it sounds like! A thoughtfully curated wine and snack shop in the historic Church Hill neighborhood.
Why we love it: The knowledgeable staff here can help you find the perfect bottle of wine to please your palate and recommend the ideal snacks to pair with it. Whether you’re a novice who isn’t sure where to begin your wine journey or you’re a veteran vino-drinker, it doesn’t matter — you’ll definitely learn a thing or two here (and if you’re like me, the thing you learn might be that tinned fish is a surprisingly delicious treat).
Where to find it: 324 N 27th St (Church Hill)
Image Source: @oro.rva
Oro
What it is: A handmade pasta pop-up concept operating out of Hatch Kitchen.
Why we love it: I’m not trying to be dramatic when I say that you have not LIVED until you have tried Oro’s freshmade pasta. Their selection rotates based on what’s in season, but when I tried the wild mushroom tonarelli (made with parmesan brodo, piave, fresh thyme, and black peppercorn), I came to terms with the fact that I’d never be able to go back to boxed pasta again.
Where to find it: 2601 Maury St, Bldg 2 (Manchester)
Image Source: @senorganicfarmersmarket
Sen Organic Farmers Market
What it is: A new market brought to you by the folks from Sen Organic Small Plate offering organic produce, pre-made foods, and housemade items — many of which are gluten-free and vegan.
Why we love it: We could leisurely stroll through this market, kombucha in hand, for DAYS. Its natural aesthetic and abundant options make for a very Richmond local experience.
Where to find it: 2820 W Cary St (Carytown)
Sharing new trends each month!
Check back the first week of each month for a new edition of The Trendspotter to find out which businesses you need to know about (and check out!) in RVA.
Here’s what else is new…
