The Trendspotter: January 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.
Let your New Year resolution be to visit as many new spots in Richmond as possible — starting with these.
Brave Captain
What it is: The latest concept from the folks behind Cobra Cabana and Hot for Pizza
Why we love it: We’re never not in the mood for delish seafood, and Brave Captain offers plenty of that. Cozy up at the nautical space and order something like the cheese biscuits, crab dip, clam chowder, or any of the other mouth-watering opts.
Where to find it: 729 W Cary St (VCU)
Restaurant Adarra
What it is: A (relocated) modern Basque-inspired spot for eats and drinks
Why we love it: When it’s an extensive wine list, Spanish cuisine, and warm hospitality you’re going for, Restaurant Adarra is the spot. Having once made its way onto Esquire’s list of the best new restaurants in America, Restaurant Adarra has always been a fan favorite, and now with its bigger space in Oregon Hill, more fans can snag a reservation for an incredible dining experience. If you don’t get a spot, try again: “[W]e will be expanding as we feel comfortable,” as they put it.
Where to find it: 501 S Pine St (Oregon Hill)
Whisk at Library of Virginia
What it is: The Richmond coffee-and-bakery classic bringing a menu to Library of Virginia
Why we love it: Who doesn’t love a cup of Jo to go along with a stroll around a historic landmark? Starting January 6, Whisk is offering a menu of handcrafted sandwiches, salads, and soups, plus a full-service coffee, espresso, and smoothie bar to folks stopping by to peruse the most comprehensive resource in the world for the study of Virginia history, culture, and government.
Where to find it: 800 E Broad St (Downtown)
Brazen
What it is: A concept that has roots on Texas Beach
Why we love it: The idea for this soon-to-open spot eventually came about after four friends met for a day hanging out at the James River. The 40-seat restaurant will offer lunch and dinner, including a menu of braised meats and veggies, along with vegan and gluten-free options. Think: chili wings, crispy salads, oven-roasted feta, and then some.
Where to find it: 2028 W Cary St (The Fan)
Parousia Coffee
What it is: Another spot to get your caffeine fix in RVA
Why we love it: We love when an RVA Big Market and South of the James Market fave sets up a brick-and-mortar, and that’s just the sitch for Parousia. Now serving out of its coffee shop in Scott’s Addition, you can snag your market favorites whenever you want.
Where to find it: 2900 W Clay St Ste B (Scott’s Addition)
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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