The Trendspotter: February 2025
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.
There’s lots to love in Richmond this month.
ILYSM Books
What it is: Another (!!) independent book store opening in RVA
Why we love it: ILYSM Books will offer new and pre-loved books, plus used CDs, vinyls, and DVDs. Fittingly kicking things off on Valentine’s Day weekend, the spot will host its soft opening and granding opening, each featuring a host of other local vendors we love so much. The soft opening will have @fieldfloral @bigdaypolaroids, @saltandacidrva, and @djrudyhlopez in the house, and the grand opening will feature coffee by @piscoffeerva, a tattoo popup with @ditzinlove, tunes from @positive.ion.sound, and other goodies from @maven.theory, @emilyewicks @pelikanprintco, and @lassolalune_studio.
Where to find it: 119 W Brookland Park Blvd (Brookland Park)
Ripple Ray’s
What it is: A go-to watering hole for Richmond’s Deadhead community
Why we love it: The Grateful Dead-inspired neighborhood bar features a psychedelic backdrop, hosts live music, and has a jampacked menu of “edibles and drinkables,” like its all-day Hippie Hour and Casey Jones Twice-Baked (crispy potato skins loaded with mashed potatoes, cheese, bacon, scallions, and sour cream).
Where to find it: 3123 W Cary St (Carytown)
Ours
What it is: A space for co-working and so much more
Why we love it: In its own words, Ours offers “cozy corners for co-working, playful interactions, engaging conversations, offline moments of serenity, shared meals, and the chance to connect with kindred spirits.” Grab a day pass or sign up for a membership, and look to this new spot for a change of scenery from your typical work-and-life environments.
Where to find it: 2309 W Main St (The Fan)
The Black Olive Pizzeria
What it is: RVA’s first hip-hop and R&B infused pizzeria
Why we love it: Coming to us from the folks behind Marylous Soul Dining Experience, this pizzeria offers an atmosphere and menu that’s just as enticing. Pop over for things like pizza (ofc), Italian-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and a swanky backdrop to enjoy it all against.
Where to find it: 13 W Broad St (Downtown)
Torch Kitchen & Bar
What it is: Midlo’s newest dining destination
Why we love it: Torch Kitchen + Bar has its grand opening at the beginning of this month, and it looks like things’ll be lit from then on out. Enjoy American fusion eats — like the Grilled Buffalo Cauliflower Steak or Louisiana Gumbo — along with some craft cocktails, including the Flame-mingo or Torchini.
Where to find it: 2077 Walmart Way (Midlothian)
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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