The Trendspotter: August 2022
We’re back again with your monthly dose of must-know news, The Trendspotter! This content series features monthly roundups of the newest and hottest businesses (namely, restaurants and bars!) around RVA.
It’s hot out there, but we’ve got places to be. Grab your ice water to go, and check out these must-visit spots around town ASAP.
— by Kelsey Heintz, Managing Editor
Pies & Cakes
What it is: A new bakery in Carver that opened its doors just three(ish) weeks ago and still participated in Hot Tomato Summer, earning a Duke’s Mayonnaise superlative nom for Most Likely to Win the Great British Bake-Off.
Why we love it: The sweet spot features a menu of simple and classic treats; cakes, cupcakes, cookies, pies, and brownies are in regular rotation. But owner Chastity Hise mixes in some specialties, too, and the shop even hosts pizza pop-ups, highlighting their homemade sourdough pizza crust and travel-inspired toppings.
Where to find it: 701 W Clay St (Carver)
PR Run & Walk
What it is: A new (to the Richmond area) footwear-plus shop for runners and walkers alike.
Why we love it: The spot has nine locations in Northern Virginia, but the new RVA location is ~run~ by Midlo marathoner Keira D’Amato. Whether you’re a running guru or a new runner or walker, this shop is the spot for all your must-have footwear, apparel, and more.
Where to find it: 15712 WC Main St (Midlothian)
Skin. by Holy Chic
What it is: A modern spa, social club, and wellness space.
Why we love it: We’ve been excited for this one since we heard about it in April. The new space, which hosted its official launch party earlier this month, offers esthetic and body treatments inspired by wellness practices from all over the globe and features Lolo’s Bar, “an intimate cafe named in honor of the founder’s late father — where Skin. clientele can indulge in seasonal cafe drinks, snacks, smoothies, wine, and beer.”
Where to find it: 2300 West Main St (The Fan)
Whisk
What it is: A Downtown Richmond favorite that’s filling out another space a little down the road.
Why we love it: Billy Bryan took over Whisk’s orig location earlier this year, and now he’s got plans to expand the delish Shockoe Bottom-based bakery into the West End by the end of this summer. As Richmond BizSense tells us, “In addition to Whisk’s lineup of coffee and baked goods like croissants and cakes, the new cafe will feature an expanded sandwiches menu and more drink offerings and market items in addition to salads.” Make plans now to head to the new digs on Labor Day weekend.
Where to find it: 8308 Staples Mill Rd (West End)
Carytown Watermelon Festival
What it is: An always-great way to stay v hydrated in this end-of-summer heat.
Why we love it: On Sunday, August 14, Carytown Watermelon Festival is back for its 40th celebration, featuring 80 musicians, more than 100 vendors, and, of course, lots of watermelon.
Where to find it: Carytown (Where else?)
Forever Summer
What it is: The Veil Brewing Co.'s summer shindig, coming back to town (after a three-year break!) this Saturday, August 6, and benefiting ChildSavers.
Why we love it: Tickets include a tasting glass, a three-ounce taste of each participating beer, and a bottle of Starve — the Veil's blended, barrel-aged imperial stout made in some very special, hand-selected barrels from their stock of oak-aged beers.
Where to find it: 1301 Roseneath Rd (Scott’s Addition)
RVA Duck Race & Festival of Inclusion
What it is: A fan-favorite Brown’s Island event, now featuring a festival to boot.
Why we love it: What’s not to love about rubber ducks racing down the canal? The Autism Society of Central Virginia hosts this time around, and they’ve added the Festival of Inclusion — “Richmond's first sensory-friendly festival designed to include and accommodate individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.” Enjoy the race, music, family activity zones, local vendors, good eats, and more, all in support of a great org and its cause.
Where to find it: Brown’s Island
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.
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