The Trendspotter: December
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, bars, and then some!) around RVA.
It’s the mooooost wonderful time of the year! If you didn’t sing that sentence, you haven’t been listening to holiday music as much as we have — get on it! We’ve shared so many new spots and shops to check out this year, and as we enter the last month of 2023, we’re ready to go out with a bang. We’ve got a Christmas-themed bar, a groovin’ new space to listen to vinyl, and a couple other new-and-delish eateries on deck for you this month.
— by Alie McArdle, Contributing Writer (and the brains behind Ink & Influence. Follow her biz @_inkandinfluence!)
And Dim Sum
What it is: A modern Chinese cocktail house.
Why we love it: Taking over the old Max’s on Broad space is And Dim Sum, featuring a menu of “classic favorites and creative twists,” like traditional bao buns and jack-fruit BBQ buns. Be sure to wash down whatever you try with one of their signature cocktails — we recommend the Mala Majito with Plantation 3 Star, peppermint ginger tisane, lime, sichuan peppercorn, yuzu puree.
Where to find it: 305 Brook Rd (Jackson Ward)
Fanboy
What it is: An intimate cocktail bar and vinyl-listening room with a full kitchen.
Why we love it: Groovy music. Scratch kitchen. Artisanal cocktails and mocktails. What more could RVA want? Seriously. Fanboy is the ultimate “Richmond experience” to get the vibe of what this city is about — good music, good food, and a place to meet up with friends. Their dishes are plated to perfection, with careful consideration of every detail.
Where to find it: 2713 W Broad St (Museum District)
Juan More Taco
What it is: Just ~Juan~ more taco place in Richmond — and we’ll take it!
Why we love it: In need of that taco-and-margarita date with your best friend? Update your cal to accommodate Juan More Taco plans, pronto. This small, yet inviting, taco spot is the latest in a string of new Mexican eateries to hit the scene in Richmond. And why not? There are endless twists and takes on this beloved cuisine, and Juan More Taco does their part to add to the uniqueness. Stop and try their birria tacos or the tacodillas. You won’t regret it.
Where to find it: 304 N Robinson St (The Fan)
Wish Bone Food Shop
What it is: A cafe specializing in Latin and Italian-inspired cuisine for breakfast and lunch.
Why we love it: With mouthwatering dishes sure to curb your hunger and entice you to return over and over, Wish Bone Food Shop is Richmond’s newest cafe, highlighting a Latin and Italian fusion.
Their colorful interior is a welcoming delight when going out solo for a nice bite or taking the family for an outing. Try their Bulgogi Tofu Burger featuring tamari, gochugaru, ginger marinated grilled tofu, Duke’s mayo, and pickle slices on a brioche bun, or go for their Tomato Fig Sandwich with roasted tomatoes, marinated figs, brie, and pesto mayo on sourdough.
Where to find it: 2 N 6th St (Monroe Ward)
The Jasper: Miracle on Cary
What it is: A magical rendition of The Jasper, decked out in holiday cheer.
Why we love it: The holiday vibes are in full swing, and it’s time to bask in the glory of the season’s magic. Miracle on Cary is an annual tradition hosted by The Jasper to commemorate this time of year with holiday-themed drinks and decor. If you’re looking for an intimate and cozy place to grab a drink, this is where to take your date.
Where to find it: 3113 W Cary St (Carytown)
BTW: Stay in the spirit with the many, MANY other holiday-themed pop-up bars around town this season.
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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