The Trendspotter: October 2021
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, event series, and more around RVA.
Without further ado, here are the top 5, can’t-miss, just-opened spots you need to check out in Richmond this October.
— by Alicia Valenski
The Continental Manchester
What it is: The second location for The Continental (the original being in Westhampton) and the sister restaurant to Stella’s Grocery from Richmond restauranteur Johnny Giavos, officially celebrating its grand opening on October 5.
Why we love it: The same reason we love The Continental Westhampton — it’s got that classic go-to neighborhood spot feel with a menu featuring reimagined American fare featuring fan-favorite items like Dirty Fries, The Footlong Hotdog, Penne Continental, and more.
Where to find it: 609 Hull St (Manchester)
Ruff Canine Club
What it is: Richmond’s first dog park/bar/social club, opening at the end of October in Scott’s Addition.
Why we love it: An opportunity to get your pups’ energy out while you socialize with other dog owners over a drink or two? We’re there. Find the FAQs here.
Where to find it: 1924 Ellen Rd (Scott’s Addition)
Color Wheel Coffee
What it is: An outdoor coffee shop operating out of a brightly colored and caffeine-filled camper in West Broad Village.
Why we love it: We’ve been huge fans of Color Wheel’s coffee beans since we began buying from them at the farmers market, so it’s even more exciting to be able to head to a dedicated location to order from their menu of coffee, espresso drinks, teas, toasts, and more to enjoy in the sunshine.
We recommend pairing "The Orchard" (Sub Rosa bread, peanut butter, apples, honey, and cinnamon) with a Pumpkin Cold Foam Cold Brew for a fall treat!
Where to find it: 2400 Old Brick Rd (Glen Allen)
Unplugged Games Cafe
What it is: Richmond’s first board game cafe, featuring a library of 600 games along with food and drink.
Why we love it: First and foremost, we LOVE games. But beyond that, the thoughtful intention that went into curating this community gathering space is inspiring! The menu specifically offers easy to hold, minimal mess fare like wraps, sandwiches, snacks, and desserts so you won’t get your game pieces dirty — and they offer soda, coffee, tea, wine, and beer to help pass the time as you play.
Where to find it: 1300 Sycamore Square (Midlothian)
Black Lodge
What it is: You might be thinking, Wait, didn’t Black Lodge open in the spring? and you’re not wrong — but they closed shop in June with the following note:
“We are making moves… and turning our space into the dive bar of your dreams! Over the next few months, [we] will be transforming our side and back rooms into a full bar and lounge where you can hang out and grab beers, snacks, coffee, or a draft cocktail with your buds! We’ll have TVs and natural wines, so you can watch the game in style.” (Instagram)
Why we love it: Now that their official reopening has arrived, we’re thrilled to check out the redesigned space and the new-and-improved, dive bar-inspired menu. Not to mention, everything that owner Brittanny Anderson gets her hands on tends to turn out spectacular!
Where to find it: 3200 Rockbridge St #101 (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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