PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER William J. Davis, Jr. VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Cheryl T. Davis HOME & GARDEN EDITOR Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID
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contents
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N OV E M B E R / D E C E MBER 2011 6
2011 Annual Shopper’s Guide
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River City Roller Girls Not Your School Skate Party
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A Winter Wonderland Awaits in Michigan
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Ginter Place An Exciting Lifestyle in the Heart of Ginter Park
FLAVOR
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River City Eats
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Scoop Du Jour
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Bartender’s Best Olivia Smith of Havana 59
20 Raising the Bar 24
In Search of Fish Entrees
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A New Craft Brewery in Richmond, for Richmond
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What’s Cook In? LOL
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Gluten-Free Restaurants Adapt to the Trend
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Calendar of Events
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Backstage with iwrestledabearonce
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City Spaces Rocketts Landing
CREATIVE DIRECTORS Alaina Rauth ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Jared Davis, Ann Small, Jennifer Thaxton, Steve Cook DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Barry Cook OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Fallon Mercer PHOTOGRAPHY Tim Hill Robert Thomas CONTRIBUTORS Erin Pittman Bruce Moore Kellie Murphy Annie Tobey Steve Cook
River City Richmond is published bi-monthly by Advertising Concepts, Inc. 6301 Harbourside Drive, Midlothian VA 23112 (804) 639-9994 • www.richmondnavigator.com Email us at: info@advertisingconceptsinc.com. Letters to the editor are welcome. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.
A PUBLICATION OF
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ABOUT THE COVER Some have asked if our cover image was photographed in the 1800s. Actually, the picture was taken in late October, 2011, at New York Deli, located at 2920 West Cary Street. Photo by Tim Hill. SPECIAL THANKS to the folks at Bygones Vintage Clothing, who were so helpful in providing vintage clothing for this image. This one-of-a-kind shop, located between the New York Deli and the Byrd Theater is truly one of Carytown’s most fascinating retailers. Check them out online: bygonesvintage.com.
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ALL ARTICLES AND CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE OPINIONS OR THOUGHTS OF RIVER CITY RICHMOND, ADVERTISING CONCEPTS,INC OR THE PUBLISHER
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1. Fascinator Hats. Elegantly shake your feathers with a fabulous fascinator hat from MacLaren Jewelers. Hats are available in black, fuchsia, teal or white, adorned in black roses or delicate black feathers with teal, white or purple accents.
3. Tribal Zebra Purse by Michael Kors. This trendy accessory is still new with tags, but available at Indigo for a fraction of its original cost! Animal prints are a hot commodity this season, and this purse will prove you are right in style!
MacLaren Jewelers 4101 Dominion Blvd. 747-1575 • MacLarenJewelers.com MacLaren Jewelers presents an elegant, unique atmosphere with its welcoming courtyard, jewel-toned tile foyer, William Morris design hand-stenciled walls and cases from the 1890’s. Sculpture and art adorn the interior showrooms making this a true destination for seekers of beautiful objects!
Indigo • indigoavenueclothes.com 411 N. Ridge Road • 288-0160 3324-A W. Cary Street • 354-0914 Indigo Avenue Clothes is an upscale consignment shop that specializes in women’s clothing, purses, shoes and jewelry. In addition to their great daily discounts, they offer monthly online coupons!
2. Gabriel & Co. and Isharya Jewelry.
case with needle holder and various threads.
These pieces feature a variety of diamonds, charms and gemstones set in 14kt and 18kt white or yellow gold. William Jeffrey’s Ltd • 9986 Brook Road williamjeffreys.com • 264-2600 A locally owned, full-service jewelry store featuring unique jewelry and custom creations for the past 20 years.
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5. Parlour Pellet Stove. This beauty can heat up to 2,000 square feet with economical wood pellets. Stop by the Hearth and Home to see the Parlour and other great pellet stoves today! Hearth and Home Shoppe • 730-3800 8154 Mechanicsville Tnpk. hearthandhomeshoppe.com The Hearth and Home Shoppe carries all types of gas, wood and pellet stoves, fireplaces, inserts and gas logs to get your home toasty this winter. With the largest showroom in the Richmond area, it is worth the drive.
4. Captain Rodney’s Boucan glaze, painting, jewelry pouch, necklace, accessories The Stitching Studio and Gift Boutique 5615 Patterson Avenue • 269-0355 www.thestitichingstudiova.com We are a full-service needlepoint shop, offering canvas, unique threads, classes, and trunk shows. Our gift boutique offers local women the opportunity to share their own creative works with our customers - jewelry, purses, paintings, and much more.
6. Music Lessons. Flute teacher, Marla, teaches ages eight and up. Key Signatures • 5705 Grove Avenue 282-1813 • keysignatures.com Whether you are a seasoned musician or would like to learn a new instrument, Key Signatures is the shop for equipment, repairs and lessons. Master the guitar, piano, bass guitar, violin, drums, songwriting, your own vocals and more!
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Are you nervous about losing your home heat during the next power outage? If so, consider installing a gas fireplace insert into your existing masonry fireplace. A gas fireplace insert is the perfect combination of style and heat. Designed to fit into an existing wood-burning fireplace, gas inserts are essentially a metal firebox with decorative logs that simulate a real wood fire. Inserts vent through the chimney carrying exhaust out and bringing fresh air in. Most gas inserts come equipped with blowers, remotes and even decorative lighting. One of the best features of a gas insert is the radiant heat transferred from its glass front. This feature enables the gas insert to heat even without its blower. When a power outage strikes, warm heat will radiate from the insert keeping you and your family toasty warm – no generator required! Even for homeowners with no existing gas service, gas inserts can be an option when fueled by a liquid propane tank. Homeowners can choose traditional log sets or contemporary glass burners along with many decorative options. The Hearth and Home Shoppe has a wide variety of gas inserts, as well as gas logs to provide you with backup heat and radiant warmth.
By Erin Pittman. Photos by Tim Hill. For most of us, lacing up a pair of roller skates brings back to
full contact element of this sport! Each blocker does her best to
mind a leisurely evening going round and round a rink to pop
prevent the jammer from passing by using her body and skating
music, but not for the River City Rollergirls. Stepping onto a rink
skills. The lead jammer, the one who passes through the initial
launches them into a full contact, highly competitive sport.
pack first, can call the round to claim their points any time after
Roller Derby has been around since the 1930s with the
the second pass. Play continues through two 30 minute periods.
founding of the WFTDA (Women’s Flat Track Derby Association),
The River City Rollergirls are passionate about their sport. “I
the Rollergirls’ certifying league, coming to be in 2004. WFTDA
enjoy playing because it is so physical,” says team member Katie
joins leagues in a sisterhood of healthy competition and sanctions
Gantt. “I played different sports as I grew up, but this is the most
many of the bouts, roller derby games.
physical one. It’s really fun to get to hit other people,” she laughs.
For those unfamiliar with this action-packed sport, here are
Katie also noted that the camaraderie among the team is superb.
the basics: Each team enters the rink with five ladies. The jam-
Former team member Jessica Williams concurs, “Roller derby
mer wears a star on her helmet, the pivot wears a stripe and the
makes me feel like I really belong somewhere. I love my team,
other three plain-helmeted ladies are referred to as blockers. All
and I love feeling so strong and capable. The camaraderie I’ve
players except the jammer from each team start out in a pack.
found within my derby family is amazing. I feel at home when I
The pivot sets the pace for game play. Once the blockers and
am on the track, going fast and working hard with the most awe-
pivot have reached a certain point, the jammers take off. Their
some girls I have ever known.”
mission is to pass as many members of the opposing team as pos-
River City Rollergirls is open to women age 18 and older, but
sible. Sounds easy right? Not quite so when you remember the
becoming a team member does not happen overnight and is no (Continued on page 12)
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A Winter Wonderland Awaits By Steve Cook. Background photo by Thomas J. Dolaski, IV U.P. Overland (upoverland.com). Snowmobile photo courtesy International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association.
O
ver the years, I have been ridiculed and harangued. Many of my friends have wrung their hands, shrugged, and eventually given up in trying to help me accept my
condition.
What is my disorder? It’s a deep love for snow. While there is
An Exciting Lifestyle In The Heart Of Ginter Park By Steve Cook
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t was back in the late 1800s that wealthy, Richmond industrialist, Lewis Ginter came up with the idea to build an upscale, suburban, residential community for the “gentlemen who worked
downtown.” It is alleged that he didn’t want these gentlemen to have to go to work in the morning or return home in the evening with the sun in their faces. The sun hasn’t changed its course much since then, and Ginter Park is still a great place to live. In addition, Ginter Park not getting older, it’s getting better…with the introduction of Ginter Place. Ted Ukrop, one of the developers of this community of modern, upscale condos, right in the heart of Ginter Park, says, “Ginter Place offers a fantastic lifestyle.” The name Ukrop has stood for quality, customer care, and community involvement for decades. So, I was interested in learning just what he had going with this new development. Ukrop describes the condos as, “sumptuous and spacious,” and that they are. But they are so much more. “Every home possesses quality craftsmanship, with crown molding, heavy doors with glass knobs and balconies (at least one in each condo),” says Ukrop. Other amenities include gas stoves and fireplaces, granite counter tops and Jacuzzi tubs with separate showers. Each unit provides two parking spaces, one of which is covered, as well as what Ukrop describes as, “larger than normal storage space.” The complex also offers a club room with card tables, a pool table and a flat screen TV. And, if these amenities are not enough to promote a friendly, neighborly atmosphere, Ginter Place also regularly hosts art and community events. There is even a furnished suite for those out-of-town guests. After the sale of the local supermarket chain, Ukrop cofounded a website for family caregivers called Lift Caregiving (www.liftcaregiving.com). However, Ginter Place is not just for Richmond’s active adult community. “There is a wide range of ages at Ginter Place from the 30s to the 80s,” says Ukrop. Since its inception more than a century ago, Ginter Park has offered stately homes, tree-lined streets and an off-the-beaten-path feel. And yet, the location couldn’t be more convenient. “Ginter Place,” Ukrop says, “is close to interstates, to neighborhood restaurants and to the burgeoning Boulevard.” With its classically modern architecture, its warm, intimate feel and its park-like setting, Ginter Place, says Ted Ukrop, “has a friendly, eclectic feel that resembles its Northside neighborhood.” To learn more, visit www.GinterPlace.com. n
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so much to love about Central Virginia, one thing I don’t like are the winters, or lack thereof. Thankfully, I’m not the only person who suffers from this “disorder.” True, there are many, including certain local meteorologists, who celebrate our having “dodged a bullet” when a forecast snow storm turns to rain as it reaches Richmond. But I’ve come to discover that there are legions of us snow lovers right here in the Metro area. And for such ones, I have some very good news. I’ve discovered a true winter wonderland. It’s an area rich in natural beauty, year round. But as winter approaches, this enchanting place becomes truly alive, transforming itself into a land of snowy pleasures, which includes a host of “silent sports venues.” Where is this delightful land? It’s Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. If thoughts of Michigan are, to you, more of assembly lines than shorelines, then you really need to visit. Now, I’ll admit, traveling to the UP (as it’s called by the locals, who dub themselves Yoopers) is more than a day trip or even a weekend getaway. But airfare from Richmond to Marquette, Michigan, located right in the heart of the Upper Peninsula, is reasonably priced. About twenty minutes from the airport lies this clean, quaint, little college town, nestled alongside Lake Superior, perhaps the greatest of the Great Lakes. Begin your winter wonderland adventure with a tour of Marquette. You’ll discover it to be virtually brimming with history, charm, and plenty of great shopping and dining . While I was anxious to discover all that the UP had to offer, I was most excited to try my hand at snowmobiling, and, let me tell you, it was even more thrilling than I had anticipated. The state of Michigan is the snowmobile capital of the United States, with over 3,000 miles of trails. And, no spot in the state offers any greater opportunity to enjoy this exhilarating, and yet, at the same time, relaxing, activity than does the UP. For the winter sports enthusiast, snowmobiling is only the tip of the iceberg. During my four-day visit, I had the opportunity to sample ice fishing, tubing, and show shoeing. But wait! There’s more, including skiing (both downhill and cross-country), and ice climbing. There’s even a luge open to the public. To continue reading about my winter adventures in Michigan’s UP, go to richmondnavigator.com For links to snowmobiling sites, and for virtually all things Michigan, visit the state’s official website, michigan.org. n www.richmondnavigator.com
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(Continued from River City Roller Girls on page 8) piece of cake. Prospective rollergirls must complete what is known as “The Fresh Meat Cycle” before being considered for the team. This involves attending multiple practices a week where players learn to fall properly, how to hit correctly, as well as the basic mechanics of skating and receiving personal assistance from their Fresh Meat Coach. After three months, a minimum skills assessment must be passed in order to make the team. Roller Derby is a sport to be experienced. According to Rollergirl Rachel Thomas, “It is by far the biggest rush I have ever had. There’s nothing more fun than women on skates kicking each other’s butts.” Intrigued by this one of a kind sport and the ladies that love it so? Catch their upcoming annual bout, Seasons Beatings, Saturday December 3rd from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. n
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Seared Hawaiian Barramundi is finished with a ginger butter and pickled jicama slaw, served with frijoles criollos and chargrilled endive. Find it at Pescados on Midlothian Tnpk. or China Street Photo by Tim Hill. Find more ISO Dishes at richmondnavigator.com.
SAM MILLER’s Famous for their crab cakes and Chesapeake Bay oysters, Sam Miller’s offers a bounty of seafood dishes, along with USDA Prime beef, creative pasta dishes and salads to suit any taste. 1210 East Cary Street. 644-5465 www.sammillers.com
CONCH REPUBLIC
Padow’s In addition to the usual deli favorite, Padow’s has all you need for the holidays such as hams, smoked turkeys, gift baskets and more! Ship a ham to a friend anywhere in the U.S. Or have Padow’s cater your next event with their boxed lunches or party platters. 9854 W. Broad Street. 965-6262. 1601 Willow Lawn Dr. 358-4267.
Buckhead’s
Change your attitude without changing your latitude! Get feel of the islands with Key West inspired cuisine on the breezy patio overlooking the James River and downtown cityscape. Relax at their jazz brunch on Sunday from 10:30am-2pm. 11 Orleans Street. 226-6242. www.conchrepublicrocketts.com
“Extra-aged” steaks, fresh seafood and an award-winning wine list have made this Richmond’s premier destination dining location for 15 years. Try the steak tenderloin medallions with Vermouth Demi-Glace topped with Jumbo Lump Crabmeat and finished with Béarnaise Sauce. www.buckheads.com. 8510 Patterson Avenue. 750.2000.
BOTTOMS UP
LEGEND BREWING CO.
Bite into gourmet pizza with 12-hour crust, homemade sauces and huge selection of fresh toppings. Enjoy fantastic outdoor seating with views of the trains in historic Shockoe Bottom, or take advantage of take-out and delivery. 1700 Dock Street. 644-4400. www.bottomsuppizza.com
Central Virginia’s oldest and largest microbrewery offers a view of Downtown Richmond to be taken in while drinking a cold beer. Fall menu items include Blackened Rockfish Tacos, a Gyro Sandwich and Queso Poblano Ragoons. www.buckheads.com. 8510 Patterson Avenue. 750.2000.
Dining Dining ||NIGHTLIFE NIGHTLIFE || EVENTS EVENTS || TRAVEL TRAVEL || SPORTS SPORTS ||THE THEARTS ARTS
River City african Africanne on Main 200 E Main St. (804) 343-1233. www.chefmamusuafricanne.com Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.
american Belly Timber Tavern 1501 W. Main St. (804) 592-5592. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual. Capital Ale House 4024-A Cox Road. (804) 780-ALES. www.capitalalehouse.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Comfort 200 W. Broad Street. (804) 780-0004. www.comfortrestaurant.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Curbside 2525 Hanover Ave. (804) 355-7008. www.curbsiderichmond.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Davis & Main 2501 W. Main St. (804) 353-6641. www.davisandmain.com Dinner. Dine In. Upscale casual. deLux 2229 W. Main St. (804) 353-2424. www.deluxrichmond.com Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Galaxy Diner 2924 W. Cary St. (804) 213-0510. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual. Gibson’s Grill 700 E Broad St. (804) 644-2637 www.gibsonsgrill.com. Casual. Dine In & Take-out. Lunch & Dinner. The Halligan Bar & Grill 3 N. 17th St. (804) 447-7981. www.thehalliganbar.com Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Brunch, Lunch & Dinner.
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It Must Be Heaven 2505 E. Broad Street. 804-788-8158. Dine In, Take-out & Catering. Casual.
Julep’s New Southern Cuisine 1719 E. Franklin St. (804) 377-3968. www.juleps.net. Dinner. Dine In. Upscale. Reservations suggested. Legend Brewing Company 321 W. 7th St. (804) 232-3446. www.legendbrewing.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. LuLu’s 21 N. 17th St. (804) 343-9771. www.lu-lusrichmond.com Lunch, Brunch, & Dinner Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested. Mezzanine 3433 W. Cary St. (804) 353-2186. www.mezzanine3433.com Dine In. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested. Millie’s Diner 2603 E. Main St. (804) 643-5512. www.milliesdiner.com Lunch, Dinner & Weekend Brunch. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Popkin Tavern 123 W. Broad St. (804) 343-1909. www.sparetimechicago.com Dinner. Dine In. Casual. The Republic 2053 W. Broad St. (804) 592-2148. www.therepublicrva.com Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Upscale. River City Diner 7 N. 17th Street. (804) 644-9418. www.rivercitydiner.com Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Rowland Fine Dining 2132 W. Main St. (804) 257-9885. www.rowlandfinedining.com Dine In & Take-out. Upscale. Sunday Brunch & Dinner. Reservations strongly suggested.
Flavor
Sprout Market & Café 1 N. Morris St. (804) 592-5771. www.sproutrva.wordpress.com. Casual. Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In.
Kobe Japanese Steak & Sushi 19 S. 13th St. (804) 643-8080. www.kobesteakandsushi.com Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner.
Star-Lite 2600 W. Main St. (804) 254-2667. www.starlitediningandlounge.com Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual.
The Lucky Buddha 1421 E. Cary St. (804) 648-5100. www.theluckybuddha.com Dinner. Dine In. Casual.
Strawberry Street Cafe 421 Strawberry St. (804) 353-6860. www.strawberrystreetcafe.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out
Moshi Moshi 3321 W. Cary St. (804) 359-1151. www.moshimoshirva.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.
T-Miller’s Sports Bar & Grill 500 East Broad Street. (804) 648-2255. www.tmillerssportsbar.com. Casual. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In.
Peking Chinese Restaurant 1302 E. Cary St. (804) 649-8888. www.pekingrestaurants.com Lunch & Dinner. Casual. Dine In, Take-out & Delivery.
Tastebuds American Bistro 4019 MacArthur Ave. (804) 261-6544. www.tastebudsamericanbistro.com Dine In. Casual. Dinner. TJ’s Restaurant and Lounge at The Jefferson 101 W. Franklin St. (804) 788-8000. www.jeffersonhotel.com Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Upscale. Reservations strongly suggested.
Sticky Rice 2232 W. Main Street. (804) 358-7870. www.stickyricefan.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested. Sumo San 1725 E. Main St. (804) 643-6500. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual.
Tropical Smoothie Café 8207 West Broad Street. (804) 527-2060. www.tropicalsmoothie.com. Casual. Alamo BBQ Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-Out. 2202 Jefferson Ave. 592-3138. www.alamobbqva.com Weezie’s Kitchen Casual. Lunch & Dinner. 3123 W. Cary St. (804) 726-1270. Dine-In & Take Out. www.weezieskitchen.com Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Buzz & Ned’s Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. 1119 North Boulevard. (804) 355-6055. www.buzandneds.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual.
barbecue
asian Akida 814 N. Robinson St. (804) 359-8036. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Carytown Sushi 2923 W. Cary St. (804) 355-0058. Dine In & Take-out. Casual.
Double T’s BBQ 2907 W. Cary St. (804) 353-9861. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Extra Billy’s 5205 W. Broad St. (804) 282-3949. www.extrabillys.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.
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brazilian Ipanema 917 W. Grace St. (804) 213-0190. www.ipanemaveg.com Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual. Reservations Suggested.
cuban Havana 59 16 N. 17th St. (804) 780-2822. www.havana59.net. Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual. Reservations suggested. Kenn-Tico Cuban Bar & Grill 204 E. Grace Street. 804-225-9216. www.kennticocubanbargrill.com Lunch & Dinner. Casual. Catering available. Kuba Kuba 1601 Park Ave. (804) 355-8817. www.kubakuba.info. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Weekend Brunch.
deli Padow’s Ham & Deli 1601 Willow Lawn Dr. (804) 358-4267. www.padows.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Perly’s Restaurant & Deli 111 E. Grace St. (804) 649-2779. Breakfast & Lunch. Dine In & Take-out. Casual.
Southern Railway Deli 111 Virginia St. (804) 343-1700. www.southernrailwaydeli.com. Casual. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.
ethiopian Addis Ethiopian Restaurant 9 N 17th Street. 308-3649. www.addisrichmond.com Casual, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take Out. Nile Ethiopian Restaurant 309 N. Laurel St. (804) 225-5544. www.nilerichmond.com. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.
european
By Kellie Murphy There’s a chill in the air, so grab your coat and head to some of the area’s warmest and most inviting restaurants for new
Bistro 27 27 W. Broad St. (804) 780-0086. www.bistrotwentyseven.com. Dine In & Take-out. Upscale casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.
menus, new chefs and those upcoming
Café Rustica 414 E. Main St. (804) 225-8811. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.
occupied by Double T’s in Carytown. The
Lemaire at Jefferson 101 W. Franklin St. (804) 788-8000. www.lemairerestaurant.com Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Upscale. Reservations Strongly Suggested.
holiday events. Jimmy Sneed is bringing his newest venture, BlowToad, to the space formerly restaurant will feature pizza in a coal-fired oven as well as rotisserie-style prime rib. The back bar and exterior have been renovated, and added attractions will include patio dining and a walk-up pizza window. Look for an opening near the holidays. Byram’s Lobster House, located at 3215 W. Broad Street, recently opened under new owners, Jeff and Corina Kelso. Along with a renovated interior, they have brought in Chef Danny Klubowicz to create a menu featuring items such as gnocchi with red rock shrimp, Italian-style whole sea bass and homemade soups. Giuseppe Scafidi, is planning a new venture featuring Italian food with a Sicilian focus. The still unnamed restaurant will be in the museum district and located in the space formerly occupied by Cucina. Lamplighter has opened a second location, The Kickstand at Scott’s Addition, at 1717 Summit Avenue. Serving brewed coffee, sandwiches and pastries, the restaurant will be open from 7-12. Chez Foushee has debuted a new menu created by recently acquired chef, Josh Wood, formerly of Ellwood Thompson’s. n To submit new openings, menus, chefs and more, email them to alaina@richmondnavigator.com.
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Flavor
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Olio 2001 1/2 W. Main St. (804) 355-5182. www.oliorichmond.com. Dine In, Take-out & Delivery. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Penny Lane Pub 421 E. Franklin St. (804) 780-1682. www.pennylanepub.com. Dine In. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested. Tarrant’s Cafe 1 W. Broad St. (804) 225-0035. www. tarrantscafe.org. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.
fondue The Melting Pot 9704 Gayton Rd. (804) 741-3120. www.meltingpot.com. Dinner. Dine In. Upscale. Reservations strongly suggested.
french Amour Wine Bistro 3129 W. Cary St. (804) 353-4020. www.amourwinebistro.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual. Can Can Brasserie 3120 W. Cary St. (804) 358-7274. www.cancanbrasserie.com. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested.
greek Bacchus 2 N. Meadow St. (804) 355-9919. www.bacchusonmain.com. Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested.
irish Rosie Connolly’s Pub 1548 E. Main St. (804) 343-1063. www.rosieconnollys.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual. Sine 1327 E. Cary St. (804) 649-7767. www.sineirishpub.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual.
italian A Movable Feast 1318 E. Cary St. (804) 644-3663. www.amovablefeastonline.com Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Avenue 805 805 N. Davis Ave. (804) 353-2505. www.avenue805.net Dine In & Take-out. Upscale. Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.
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Coppola’s 2900 W. Cary St. (804) 359-6969. www.coppolasdeli.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Joe’s Inn 205 N. Shields Ave. (804) 355-2282. www.joesinn.com/Fan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual. La Grotta 1218 E. Cary St. (804) 644-2466. www.lagrottaristorante.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Upscale. Reservations strongly suggested. Mamma Zu’s 501 South Pine St. (804) 788-4205. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual. Sensi 2222 E. Cary St. (804) 648-3463. www.sensirestaurant.com Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Upscale. Reservations suggested. Stuzzi 1 N. Belmont Ave. (804) 308-3296. www.stuzzirichmond.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual. Reservations Suggested
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jamaican Carena’s Jamaican Grille 7102 Midlothian Tnpk. (804) 422-5375. www.422jerk.com. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Jamaica House 1215 West Broad Street. 358-5793. www.jamaicahouseonline.com Casual, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take Out.
lunch Chez Foushee 203 N. Foushee St. (804) 648-3225. www.chezfoushee.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Upscale. Reservations suggested.
mediterranean Cous Cous 900 W. Franklin St. (804) 358-0868. www.couscous900.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested. Emilio’s Restaurant 1847 W. Broad St. (804) 359-1224. www.emiliosrichmond.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested.
Europa 1409 E. Cary St. (804) 643-0911. www.europarichmond.com. Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested.
moroccan Riad Authentic Moroccan Grill COMING SOON! 8902 W. Broad Street. Live entertainment nightly.
mexican Bandito’s Burrito Lounge 2905 Patterson Ave. (804) 354-9999. www.banditosburritolounge.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Cha Cha’s Cantina 1419 E. Cary St. (804) 726-6296 www.chachascantina.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.
Café Gutenberg 1700 E. Main St. (804) 497-5000. www.cafegutenberg.com. Dine-In & Take-out. Casual. Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.
Little Mexico 1328 W. Cary St. (804) 525-4216. www.littlemexicova.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested. Mariachis Authentic Mexican Grill 10456 Midlothian Turnpike. 272-5692. 13933 Hull Street Road. Casual, Lunch and Dinner. Dine-In & Take Out. Nacho Mama’s 3449 W. Cary St. (804) 358-6262. www.nachomamasva.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.
new american Balliceaux 203 N. Lombardy St. (804) 355-3008. www.balliceauxrva.com Dine In & Take-out. Upscale. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.
pizzeria Bottom’s Up 1700 Dock Street. (804) 644-4400. www.bottomsuppizza.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In, Take out, & Delivery. Casual. Reservations Suggested.
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seafood Acacia 2601 W. Cary St. (804) 562-0138. www.acaciarestaurant.com. Dine In & Take-out. Upscale. Dinner. Reservations suggested. Conch Republic 11 Orleans St 226-6242 www.conchrepublicrocketts.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take Out. Casual. Croaker Spot 119 E. Leigh Street. (804) 421-0560. www.croakersspot.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Edo’s Squid 411 N. Harrison St. (804) 864-5488. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-Out. Casual. Reservations suggested. The Hard Shell 1411 E. Cary St. (804) 643-2333. www.thehardshell.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Upscale. Reservations suggested. Old Original Bookbinder’s 2306 E. Cary St. (804) 643-6900. www.bookbindersrichmond.com Dinner. Dine In. Upscale. Reservations strongly suggested. Sam Miller’s 1210 E. Cary St. (804) 644-5465. www.sammillers.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Upscale casual. Reservations suggested.
steakhouse Buckhead’s 8510 Patterson Ave. (804) 750-2000. www.buckheads.com. Dinner. Dine In. Upscale casual. Reservations suggested. Hondos 4024-C Cox Road. 968-4323. www.hondosprime.com Lunch, Dinner & Sunday Brunch. Dine-In. Upscale. Reservations strongly suggested. Morton’s 111 Virginia St. (804) 648-1662. www.mortons.com. Dinner. Dine In. Casual. Reservations suggested. Kobe 19 S. 13th St. (804) 643-8080. www.kobesteakandsushi.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-Out. Casual. Reservations suggested.
thai Thai Dinner Too 3028 W. Cary St. (804) 353-9514. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-Out. Casual. Reservations suggested. Thai Top Ten 911 1/2 W. Grace St. (804) 254-8195. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In , Take-Out & Delivery.
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The Two (Attractive) Faces Of Olivia Smith Bartender for Havana 59 By Steve Cook. Photos by Tim Hill.
O
livia Smith stands behind the bar, busily preparing the ingredients for the mojitos, martinis, and other popular adult beverages that will be served up to a
thirsty, after-work, downtown crowd when the doors swing open in about an hour. As she prepares the bar, she’s also making decisions on a new wine being offered by a vendor. She pauses, in our interview, to give instructions to a recently-hired employee. As bar manager for one of the city’s most popular restaurants/bars, Olivia is the epitome of sophistication. The softspoken young woman seems to fit perfectly behind the bar in Havana 59, located on 17th Street in Shockoe Slip, across from the Farmers Market. But, there’s more to Olivia Smith than managing a very busy bar, as I soon learned from speaking with her.
RC: You came to Richmond from the
Signature Drink:
Outer Banks. What brought you here?
PASSION FRUIT COSMO
OS: My husband and I were ready to settle down, to put down roots. The
3-oz Smirnoff Passion Fruit Vodka
beach is not a good place to do that.
1-oz Fresh passion fruit puree
RC: So, do you live here in the Slip, or
1-oz Freshly-squeezed cranberry juice
nearby?
1 Lime wedge
OS: Actually we are restoring a 100-year-old farm house in Eastern
Combine Smirnoff Passion Fruit Flavored Vodka, puree, and cranberry juice in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Henrico. RC: How do you spend your time off?
Shake, strain and serve in a martini glass.
OS: We spend a lot of time doing outdoor
Garnish with a lime.wedge.
stuff and playing with the baby (Olivia and her husband, Lincoln, have a 15-month-old son, Milo). RC: So, the downtown bar scene is not a big part of your after-hours entertainment? OS: No. I’m a pretty simple person. I’m not too metropolitan. Since the baby came, I don’t go out much. In fact, when a guest at the bar asks me where the hot spots are, I usually direct them to one of my co-workers.
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RC: Who is the most famous person
people. Everyone is different. Some come
you’ve ever served here?
in here for quiet time. Others want some-
OS: Morgan Freeman has been in. We
one to talk to.
also get a lot of local politicians. They’re
RC: What do you like best about
always interesting.
working at Havana’s?
RC: What is the most important qual-
OS: I like the flexibility and I like the
ity for a bartender?
people I meet.
OS: Good customer service. Anyone can
RC: And, it would appear, you’re very
make a drink or wipe the bar. You have
happy with your life.
to be able to handle people, and to read
OS: (Smiling) it’s pretty doggone perfect.
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Europa italian cafe & tapas bar
1409 E. Cary Street • 643-0911 • europarichmond.com HOURS: Sun-Wed 5-10pm. Thurs-Sat 5-11pm. Lounge Hours Fri-Sat til 2am. HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 5-7pm. $2.50 off select drafts and wells. $2 off sangria pitchers and wine by the glass. ENTERTAINMENT None. GRAB A BITE Full menu until close. QUENCH YOUR THIRST Europa Martini. Three Olives Pomegranate, Pomegranate Liquor, Cointeau and Champagne. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Europa has successfully introduced Richmond to tapas, or small plates. Some of their popular appetizer-sized items include seared tuna, crab stuffed shrimp, Spanish meat and cheeses and beef hanger kebobs. If you are feeling like a more hearty meal, try one of their traditional pastas or their signature paella. Be transported to Spain in no time with this delicious menu and a glass of sangria!
CONCH REPUBLIC
11 Orleans Street • 226-6242 • conchrepublicrocketts.com HOURS: Lunch 11:30am-2:30pm. Dinner 4pm-11pm. Jazz Brunch 10:30am-2pm.
The Metro Richmond area is teeming with great, independent restaurants, with the greatest concentration being in town. These non-chain eateries often showcase some of their individual style and character in their bars. From the dark wooden bars that virtually create the feel of having stepped back in time, to the ultra-sleek modern, and even futuristic, bars, there is definitely much from which to choose. Perhaps you already
HAPPY HOUR Daily 4-7pm. $2 off craft and import drafts. $1 off domestic drafts. $2 domestic bottles. $3 rail high balls. Nightly drink specials. ENTERTAINMENT Sun. jazz brunch. 10:30am-2pm. Live music Wed-Sat evenings. GRAB A BITE Lunch 11:30am-2:30pm. Dinner 4-11pm. QUENCH YOUR THIRST Key West Cosmo. Finlandia Tangerine Fusion Vodka with Triple Sec, cranberry juice and pineapple juice. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Change your attitude without changing latitude! Conch Republic is a casual Key West inspired, 6,000 square foot restaurant overlooking the James River in Rocketts Landing. Catch a sunset over the water and city skyline on the deck, which seats 100. The menu is rich with flavorful foods that Florida’s islanders have come to expect – from perfectly seasoned Conch Fritters and creamy, authentic Key Lime Pie to the Key Largo Snapper in mango butter and Islamorada Fish Tacos. Or try a dish inspired by the chef’s Southern roots, and wash it down with a coconut or peach mojito!
have your favorite spot…you know that place where everybody knows your name. If not (or if you seek something a bit different once in a while), we’re taking this opportunity to “raise the bar,” that is to make you more aware of the options, the special events, and the variety of fun evenings offered in some of the city’s truly great bars. We hope you’ll enjoy this new, regular feature of River City Magazine. And if you’d like to help us discover your favorite establishment, please contact us. Enjoy and, of course, drink responsibly.
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THE WATER GRILL
3411 W. Cary Street • 353-3411 • thewatergrill.com HOURS: Mon-Thurs 5-10pm. Fri-Sat 5-11pm. Sun 5-9pm. Brunch Sat-Sun 10:30am-3pm. Light fare 3-5pm. HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 4-6pm. Half off house wines, beer, high balls. ENTERTAINMENT None. GRAB A BITE Full menu until close. QUENCH YOUR THIRST The Parker. Eagle rare 10 year (a singlebarrel bourbon), orange peel, sugar, bitters and a splash of orange juice. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME In the heart of Carytown, The Water Grill features local and regional seafood, hand-cut steaks, chops and an extensive raw bar with oysters, crab legs, clams, mussels, shrimp and more. Seafood lovers will fall for their starters such as Virginia “Buffalo Fried” Oysters with cayenne vinaigrette, blue cheese dressing and pickled celery, or their Steamed Mussels with Lemongrass, ginger and coconut-curry broth. For land and sea lovers, try the Peppercorn Encrusted New York Strip Steak with whipped potatoes, broccolini, jumbo lump crab and citrus beurre blanc.
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THE HALLIGAN BAR & GRILL 3 N. 17th Street • 447-7981 thehalliganbar.com
HOURS: Sun-Thurs 11am-12am. Fri-Sat 11am-2am.
F. W. Sullivans Fan Bar & Grille 2401 W Main Street • 308-8576 • fwsullivans.com Hours: Mon-Thurs 4:30am-2am. Fri 11:30am-2am. Sat-Sun 10am-2am. Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 4-7. $4 house wine. $1 off draft beers. $4 house high balls. Entertainment: None. Food: Weekdays full menu offered until 1am. Weekends full menu until 11pm.
Current Restaurant 140 Virginia Street • 788-4287 currentrestaurantva.com Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-close. Sunday 11:30am-8pm. Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 5-9pm. $2 Miller Lite drafts and bottles of Bud Light. $3 bottled beers. $5 long islands. $3 rail drinks. Entertainment: Wed open-mic night. Thurs acoustic night. Fri-Sat live music. Sun jazz and reggae brunch. Food: Full menu until 9:45pm on weeknights. Until 1am on weekends.
ROSIE CONNolly’s pub & restaurant 1548 E. Main Street
343-1063 • rosieconnollys.com HOURS: Mon-Sat 4pm-2am.
HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 4-7pm. $3 well drinks. Specials on select drafts. $3.50 house wines. ENTERTAINMENT Irish Jam 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of every month. GRAB A BITE Full menu until 9pm Monday, 10pm on weeknights, 11pm on weekends. QUENCH YOUR THIRST Poor Man’s Black Velvet. Guinness and cider. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME For a true Irish Pub experience, there’s no better place than Rosie Connolly’s. Excellent selection of your favorite brews from across the pond, including Guinness, Harp, Tetley’s English Ale and Stella Artois. Also, find an impressive array of single malt scotches and Irish whiskeys. Get your fix for Fish N’ Chips. Or try their Steak and Mushroom Pie–braised beef, onions and mushrooms with a roasted garlic and red wine gravy, topped with a puff pastry and served with mashed potatoes.
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HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 4-7. $1 off highballs. $1.50 PBRs. $1 off drafts. ENTERTAINMENT None. GRAB A BITE Full menu 11am-11pm. Bar menu 11pm-2am. QUENCH YOUR THIRST Chutes and Ladders. Shooter with flavored vodka, flavored rum, sour mix and grenadine dropped into an energy drink. Complete with lights and sirens until you finish. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Halligan Bar & Grill is a virtual museum and tribute to past and present firefighters of all jurisdictions. The Halligan Bar and Grill has an eye-catching bar showcasing a full-sized real fire engine, with beer taps on the pump panel, behind the bar. They specialize in smoked meats such as Carolina-style pulled pork, Texas beef brisket, Memphis-style pulled chicken and baby back ribs. This is the first restaurant in Virginia with table taps. Take the Flatliner Challenge to finish a sandwich with three pounds of hickory-smoked meats (plus a pound of seasoned fries and homemade pickles) in 25 minutes (by yourself!), and your meal’s on the house.
LEGEND BREWING CO. 321 W. 7th St • 232-3446 legendbrewing.com
HOURS: Mon-Thurs 11:30am-11pm. Fri-Sat 11:30am-12:45am. Sun 12:30pm-10pm. HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 4-7. Sat-Sun 1-4pm. $5 margaritas. $3 lager. $4 ale. ENTERTAINMENT Wed ladies night. Sunday family day. Fri-Sat local musicians and bands. Sundays at 6:30pm live music with rotating bands featuring the area’s best bluegrass and Americana musicians. GRAB A BITE Full dinner menu offered until close. QUENCH YOUR THIRST Brown Ale. Legends full bodied version of a British brown ale. A rich, malt forward brew with a beautiful mahogany tone. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Legends is proud to be one of the few craft breweries in this region producing both lagers and ales, which require different yeasts and maturation conditions. All Legend beers are unpasteurized and made from only two-row and specialty barley malt, hops, water and yeast. Their Brown Ale was awarded Grand Champion by the United States Beer Tasting Championship. Enjoy the full menu (steak, seafood, burgers and sandwiches) with your favorite beer inside the 150-seat pub or on the large deck overlooking the James River and the Richmond skyline. Stop by at 1pm on Saturday for a brewery tour!
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Three Monkeys Bar & Grill 2525 W Main Street • 204-2525 3monkeysfan.com Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-2am. Sat-Sun brunch 9:30am-2:30pm. Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 4-7pm. $2 domestic bottled beers. Wed $2 Coronas. Entertainment: None. Food: Full menu offered until 1am.
Cha Cha’s Cantina 1419 East Cary Street • 726-6296 chachascantina.com Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-2am. Sun 12pm-2am. Happy Hour: Every day 4-9pm. $2 domestic beers and Corona Light. $3 margaritas and well drinks. Tues-Thurs 8-9pm $1 rail drinks. Wed 9pm-2am buy a $5 mug and get $2 refills of Miller Lite or Coors Light all night. Entertainment: Tuesday live DJ and karaoke. Food: Full menu until 9pm on Mondays. Other nights until 10pm.
Lucky Buddha 1421 East Cary Street • 648-5100 theluckybuddha.com Hours: Tues-Sat 5pm-2am. Happy Hour: Wed-Sat 5-9pm. $4 select martinis, mojitos, Asian sangria, specialty drinks. $3 Asian beer. $5 sake bomb. Entertainment: None. Food: Full menu served until 9:30.
HAVANA 59
16 N. 17th Street • 780-2822 havana59.net HOURS: Mon-Sat. 4:30pm-2am. HAPPY HOUR Mon-Thurs 4:30-6:30pm. Fri 4:30-7pm. $4 mojitos. $1 off domestic and import beers and rail drinks. ENTERTAINMENT Thurs salsa. Sat live music. GRAB A BITE Kitchen open til 9pm Monday, til 10pm on Mon-Thurs and til 11pm on Fri and Sat. QUENCH YOUR THIRST The “Original” Mojito. Castillo Rum, fresh mint, fresh lime juice and soda water. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Step into Havana 59 and travel back to the 50’s when Havana was considered “The Paris of the Caribbean.” The string lights, crumbling plaster walls and aroma of cigars take you back in time to the delights of a bygone era in Cuba. Combined the great food and drinks to make this the “Cocktail Capital of the World.” At least that’s what the sign above the bar says. Empanadas, paella, black bean soup and Ropa Vieja go perfect with a hand-muddled mojito.
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delux
2229 W. Main Street • 353-2424 deluxrichmond.com HOURS: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2am. Sat-Sun 10am-2am. HAPPY HOUR Daily 4-7pm. Half off wines by the glass and wells. $2 off Miller Lite bottles. $5 featured cocktails. Sun night half off wells. Mon night $2 domestic bottles. ENTERTAINMENT None. GRAB A BITE Late night menu until 1am. QUENCH YOUR THIRST Koala Bomb. Stoli blueberry vodka, Cruzan mango rum, orange juice, cranberry juice, ginger ale, and Red Bull. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Located in the historic Fan district of Richmond, deLux Diner and Lounge offers upscale diner food in a warm and modern atmosphere. Choose from three different dining areas. Downstairs has comfortable half circle booths and seating for large parties. Upstairs is very cozy with sofa chairs. And the sun room also has its own bar, sky lights and large garage doors that can open to let in the gorgeous weather. Nosh on kicked up comfort food like lobster macaroni and cheese, homemade grilled meatloaf, baked spaghetti, sweet potato fries and a variety of specialty burgers.
NEW YORK DELI
2920 Cary Street • 358-3354 ny-d.com HOURS: Daily 9am-2am. HAPPY HOUR 3-7pm daily. $2 rail drinks. $1 off draft beer. $2 off wine by the glass. ENTERTAINMENT Mon mug night. Tuesday trivia night. Thurs karaoke. Fri and Sat live DJs. GRAB A BITE Full menu until 11pm on weeknights. Bar menu til midnight on weekends. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Carytown’s most venerable restaurant and deli becomes one of its hottest night spots when the sun goes down. Find PBRs for 50 cents at this cool Carytown nightspot on Sundays through Thursdays from 9-10pm. Looking to grab a bite on Christmas? Search no further, as New York Deli is open 365 days a year. Try their Sailor sandwich (they claim to be its birthplace) with hot pastrami, grilled knockwurst, melted Swiss and hot mustard on rye bread. The vintage bar perfectly complements the Deli, which has been in the same location since 1934. n
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IN SEARCH OF
Fish Entrees Photos by Tim Hill.
Conch Key Grouper Fresh grouper filet topped with blue crab and baked with a
Baked Salmon Caprese The classic Italian flavors of caprese are featured
jalapeno-mango sauce served with Bahamian plantains.
with this baked salmon with tomatoes, basil and fresh mozzarella, served with crispy fingering potatoes and a lemon lime aoili.
Conch Republic 11 Orleans Street • 226-6242 www.conchrepublicrocketts.com
Sockeye Salmon Filet Sockeye salmon filet is served over a shiitake asparagus risotto.
Baker’s Crust Short Pump Town Center 377-9060 • bakerscrust.com
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Sam Miller’s 1210 E. Cary Street 644-5465 • sammillers.com
Seared Rockfish Seared rockfish with shiitake and roasted tomato pan sauce and served with Buckhead’s potato cake and sauteed asparagus.
Buckhead’s 8510 Patterson Avenue 750-2000 • buckheads.com
www.richmondnavigator.com
A New Craft Brewery
What’s Cook In?
LOL
for Richmond
T
One our our readers’ favorites columns returns with the ramblings of Steve Cook!
By Annie Tobey. Photos by Patrick Hannan.
end Brewing Company), and had room for more. And they also
I
saw Richmonders’ appreciation for local history, arts, adven-
only those special moments when someone, say myself, for example,
ture, and, more importantly, for fine beer.
made a really funny comment, then I could understand it.
he Hardywood Park Craft Brewery founders expressly chose Richmond for their new venture. They saw that our city has only one brewery (the well-known Leg-
know this will make some of you, even my closest friends, angry, but I have to say it. I hate LOL.
What does it mean? I know it
stands for “Laugh Out Loud,” or “Laughing Out Loud.” But really, is that how it’s used? Now, if LOL were saved for
The new brewery, located in Richmond’s Northside, wel-
But most of the time, if I’m texting someone, I’m not being overly
comes the community with tours and tastings. Visitors can
funny. For instance, the other day, I asked someone (via Facebook) if
taste the brews, including rotating samples from the pilot sys-
they were having a good day.
tem, and fill reusable growlers. To ensure that their impact
They texted back, “Not really. LOL.”
on the community will be entirely positive, Hardywood facili-
Really? “Not really,” makes you laugh out loud? And, if you are
ties will be sustainable being wind powered. Even their spent
laughing out loud is it because I asked you about your day, or because
grain will be used locally for composting and as supplemental
you answered. Was that so hilarious that you had to LOL?
livestock feed.
The scary thing is that the computer, rather than making us more
Determined to contribute to the “support local” movement,
literate (because we all communicate in writing more than ever be-
initial distribution will focus on independent restaurants and
fore) is doing just the opposite. Plus, it’s also taking away our ability
retailers. “After all,” McKay explains, “it’s the small indepen-
to understand even the most basic elements of conversation.
dents that have helped spread the excitement for craft beer, so we want to be sure to give back to them.” Hardywood’s most unique idea for engaging the community is the “RVA IPA.” The India Pale Ale style depends upon hop
Think about it. If you were sitting in a room, speaking with someone, and they asked you about your day, would you start laughing out loud? My feeling is you’d probably just answer the question. So, why do differently when texting?
plants—the fresher the better. To make this RVA community
Actually, it gets even worse. To many texters, LOL isn’t enough.
beer, Hardywood will give away rhizomes of hops to home
For some of my friends (soon to be former friends) when I ask about
hop growers and then use the harvest for the finished brew.
their day, they don’t just LOL, they ROFL.
Hardywood’s goal is to create quality beers that are unique,
I have to wonder when I see that response. Are they really, actu-
representing less common styles, and to avoid competing with
ally, rolling on the floor laughing? I’ve had some good belly laughs
popular craft beers. Hardywood Singel, their flagship beer, is
in my day. I’m old enough to remember Henny Youngman and Bob
a Belgian abbey-style blonde ale, dry with a whiff of tropical
Hope, but never in all my life, have I rolled on the floor laughing.
fruit. It has a complexity that can appeal to beer geeks, yet it’s also very drinkable—mild, without overpowering flavors. Their seasonal pumpkin beer uses farmhouse ale as the base. The pumpkins are grown locally and the spices are
True, in a long distance, written conversation, it’s a bit more difficult to express your emotions, but words still work well. If you think someone said something funny, you might try writing back, “That’s pretty funny.” Do you see how well real words work?
unique: allspice joins traditional spices, while fresh Ceylon
If some future civilization were to visit a museum showcasing
cinnamon sticks and chopped ginger replace ground spices.
earthlings of the 2nd millennium, they would be puzzled. “These
The result is earthy and aromatic.
people must have laughed a lot,” they will probably text to a friend
So far, it seems that Hardywood’s local focus is working. “We’ve been overwhelmed by the reception,” says McKay. As more local beer drinkers try their beers, that reception will certainly improve. n Hardywood Park Craft Brewery • 2408 Ownby Lane 804-420-2420 • www.Hardywood.com
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on another planet. “Yes, it was their sense of humor that led to their demise,” their friend might speculate. To which, our much more intelligent descendant would text back, using his abilities to type with his powerful mind, nestled in his large head, “ROFLMBO.” n
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Restaurants Adapt to the Trend By Fallon Mercer
ee
Gl
n-Fr e t u
Whether you have celiac disease, want an energy boost, wish to alleviate intestinal
issues or want to help treat a wide array of health issues – there are a host of reasons people have chosen to go gluten-free. Whatever the reason may be, it cannot be denied that the gluten-free way of life is a trend that is growing rapidly. Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, barley, rye and some oats. Going glutenfree used to mean eliminating foods that are widely enjoyed including pastries, pastas, ice cream and stuffing. However, now there is no need to feel like you will miss out on your favorite foods! Restaurants have begun to offer a plethora of gluten-free dishes in order to appeal to the masses. The following list includes many popular restaurants that have gluten-free menus and just a glimpse of some of the delicious entrees they have to offer. One of 14 Specialty pizzas from an extensive menu of glutenfree salads and pizzas at Extreme Pizza. This one features chicken marinated in sweet BBQ sauce, red onions, fresh cilantro, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Extreme Pizza 11653 West Broad Street • 360-3123 www.extremepizza.com Try the Ragin Rooster: One of 13 gluten-free pizzas, this one features chicken marinated in sweet BBQ sauce, red onions, fresh cilantro, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Bottoms Up Pizza 1700 Dock Street • 644-4400 www.bottomsuppizza.com Try the Bottoms Up Loaded: Pizza topped with italian sausage, fresh ground beef, ham, pepperoni, sliced onions, green peppers, mushrooms and black olives, makes a great pick out of 17 gluten free options.
Thai Diner Too 3028 W Cary Street • 353-9514 www.tdtoo.webs.com Try the Bang-Bang Karee Curry: A special thai yellow curry with chunky pineapple, potatoes and coconut milk with a choice of meat, seafood, tofu or no meat is sure to satisfy your hunger.
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The Belvidere at Broad 506 West Broad Street • 344-0644 www.thebelvidere.com Try the Tequila Grilled Shrimp: Shrimp marinated with a citrus caper buerre blanc sauce and served with mashed potatoes and vegetable of the day. The Empress 2043 West Broad Street • 592-4000 www.theempressrva.com Try the Spicy Stir Fry: Made with ginger soy sauce, chili sauteed vegetables and rice vermicelli, you can add chicken, duck confit, steak or seared rare tuna. LuLu’s 21 N 17th Street • 343-9771 www.lulusrichmond.com Try the Pan Roasted Virginia Rockfish: Rockfish with kale, bacon, sweet potato and apple-rosemary puree. Selba 2416 W. Cary Street • 358-2229 www.selbarichmond.com Try the Barbecue Braised Brisket: Buffalo Creek beef brisket, tamarind glaze and fresh corn salad.
Urban Farmhouse 1217 East Cary Street • 325-3988 www.thurbanfarmhouse.net Try the This and That Plate: Homemade flipper friendly tuna salad with homemade pumpkin hummus atop mixed greens with crunchy all natural glutenfree chips and carrots. Stuzzi 1 North Belmont • 308-3294 www.stuzzirichmond.com Try the Carnivori Pizze: Any of Stuzzi’s pizzas can be made gluten-free including the San Marzano with tomato sauce, house made mozzarella, sausage, sopressata salami and cotto ham. n
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Calendar of Events N ovember - J an u ar y
By Alaina Rauth
My Fair Lady November 25 – January 8 Celebrate the Empire’s 100th anniversary with the fun, tuneful and elegant My Fair Lady, which happens to take place in the same year the Empire Theatre opened...1911. The story follows Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, as she is transformed by professor Henry Higgins, a phoneticist, into a proper lady. Higgins and his friend Colonel Pickering make great progress with the girl, but how will things turn out when they begin treating Eliza more like an experiment than a human being? Tickets available online at www.BarksdaleRichmond.org.
2011 Craft + Design Show. November 19-20. Science Museum of Virginia. www.smv.org Civil War Show. November 19-20. Richmond Raceway Complex. richmondracewaycomplex.com Scream Tour: NXG. November 20. Richmond CenterStage. richmodncenterstage.com. Starring Mindless Behavior and Diggy Special Guest The New Boyz. Featuring Jacob Latimore and Hamilton Park and introducing The OMG Girlz.
Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas November 25-January 8. Hanover Tavern. barksdalerichmond.org Inspired by the warm-hearted comedy of Appalachian folk tales, and filled with traditional carols played and sung live by the talented cast, this holiday heart-warmer brings to life the Christmas culture of southwest Virginia.
GardenFest of Lights 2011. November 25-January 9. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. lewisginter.org
ers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific to the Landmark Theater this December. Based on the 2008 Tony Award® winning
Trans-Siberian Orchestra Winter Tour 2011. November 30. Richmond Coliseum. trans-siberian.com
Lincoln Center Theater production, the musical is set on a tropical island during
Jingle Bell Wine Trail. December 3-4. Hovawinetrail.com
World War II. The sweeping romances
Heart of Virginia’s four wineries–Cooper, Grayhaven, James River Cellars and Lake Anna–join to bring you munchies, crafts and more at each winery.
feature two couples who have their hapand their own prejudices. Go to www.
First Fridays
broadwayinrichmond.com to purchase
December 2 & January 6 First Fridays series features an eclectic mix of multicultural performing arts to add another degree of culture to your visit to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Take advantage of extended evening hours to stroll the galleries, shop and dine at the restaurant. On December 2nd, Corey Harris, an internationally renowned blues, Delta blues and reggae guitarist will perform in the Atrium. Return on January 6th for a night of poetry. Acclaimed Virginia poets Anne Clare Hodge, John Hoppenthaler, Deborah Ager and Bernadette Geyer will each present a 25-minute reading from their original works. For more ways to add some culture into your evening out, go to www.vmfa.state.va.us.
To submit an event for our calendar, email events@advertisingconceptsinc.com.
www.richmondnavigator.com
November 17: Curren$y/Method Man. November 25: Carbon Leaf. November 29: Mac Miller. December 2: Zeds Dead. December 3: Michael Ian Black. December 8: The Devil Wears Prada. December 9: Delbert McClinton. December 29: Keller Williams Kid’s Show. December 29: Keller Williams & The Pimps of Joytime.
Bill O’Reilly and Dennis Miller team up to take on Richmond.
Broadway in Richmond brings Rodg-
singing the catchy tunes for weeks!
The National Shows. For more, go to thenationalva.com
Bolder & Fresher Tour 2011. November 25. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.com
December 16-17
tickets to the show that will have you
A Year With Frog and Toad follows two good friends, the cheerful and popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad, through four fun-filled seasons.
Virginia Opera: Hansel and Gretel. November 25-27. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.com
South Pacific
piness threatened by the realities of war
A Year with Frog and Toad. November 4-23. Willow Lawn Theatre. theatreivrichmond.org
Richmond Symphony: Genworth Financial Symphony Pops Let It Snow! December 3-4. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.com Amy Grant and Vince Gill: The 12 Days of Christmas December 9. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.com Sale of the Century. December 9-11. Richmond Raceway Complex. saleofthecentury.com The show is the ultimate unique event invented and practiced by S&S productions for years. Millions of dollars of inventory is priced to sell.
Intergalactic Bead Show. December 10-11. Richmond Raceway Complex. beadshows.com Greenberg Train and Toy Show. December 17-18. Richmond Raceway Complex. greenbergshows.com West End Comedy Downtown. January 13. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.com In the style of What’s My Line or Who’s Line is it Anyway?, talented performers will stretch the realm of improv comedy for adult audiences throughout the season! Mature audiences.
Flavor
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Backstage with By Bruce Moore
iwrestledabearonce
I recently had the opportunity to speak with Steven Bradley of the avant-garde metal band Iwrestledabearonce. Since 2007 the band has been touring incessantly bringing their unique brand of music to the masses around the globe. Their newest CD, Ruining It For Everybody, was released earlier this year, and the band is once again on the road. Be sure to catch them when they roll into town on November 17th at The Canal Club. Here is what Bradley had to say. How is the tour going so far?
gether. We are all...writing on our laptops
“It is awesome; it is a lot of fun. It is not
all the time.”
quite the same as The Warped Tour, but it is fun…real good times.” Now that your new CD, Ruining It For
You mentioned you like this album
“It seems that anyone who has ever
better, was there a different writing pro-
liked anything we did previously is dig-
cess that made it better?
ging this record and so are other people
Everybody, is complete, how do you feel
“This is the album we wanted to make
who didn’t like our previous work. All
about it, and are you satisfied with the
last time. We just had the time now. I think
that really matters is that people that like
outcome?
the album definitely sounds better and
our band are still stoked on it. We write
makes more sense.”
the music for us, not to cater to people. It
“Yeah it is much better than the last one. We actually like this one; we hated the last one.” Did you really? “Well, yeah we were rushed, and we wrote it in like ten days. A lot of parts were on there that we really didn’t want to be on there.” What is the writing process like for you guys? “We all kind of write on tour and then come together afterwards and put it all to-
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How is the new material being received?
Flavor
When you write do you think about the live performance at all? “No, it is really weird playing stuff live as opposed to the studio. It is totally different, especially the way we write.” Is it difficult translating the songs into a live setting?
sounds rude, because at the same time we want to make sure people don’t hate us. But we don’t want to change our sound to appease anyone.” You guys have toured quite a bit. Is there anywhere you have not played that you would like to get to?
“It is not difficult, no, it sometimes just
“Australia, which is hopefully in the
feels weird. Parts that seem heavy on the
cards for 2012. We still have not been to
CD do not turn out that way live and vice
Mexico or South Africa.” n
versa.”
Listen at iwrestledabearonce.com.
www.richmondnavigator.com
C I T Y S PAC E S
Photos by JFordPhotography.com
ROCKETTS LANDING
Living on Downtown’s Riverfront Rocketts Landing has long been an important cornerstone of Richmond history, evolv-
restaurants, this community has proven
ing from a bustling 1730’s riverfront town to a vibrant 21st century urban community. This
to be a great place for me to live, work
unique landmark now features an array of living choices with architectural styles from
and stay fit.”
historic lofts to industrial contemporary. Rocketts Landing condo and townhome floor plans
If you are interested in becoming a
range from 893 square feet to 4,415 square feet and come in a variety of pricing options
Rocketts Landing resident, right now is
from $179,900 to over $1 million.
the perfect time. Rocketts is currently
These exceptional homes are intermixed with restaurants, the city’s only marina, a
holding a closeout sale on the historic
riverfront pool and a private fitness center. All this, and Rocketts is only 3 minutes from
Cedar Works condos. These one-of-a-
downtown Richmond.
kind homes are characterized by ex-
Looking for dinner options? Rocketts Landing is home to three of Richmond’s best res-
posed brick and wooden beams, located
taurants. Enjoy the incredible views of the Richmond skyline while lounging on the outside
in the only historically renovated build-
patios at either the chic Boathouse or the Key West-themed Conch Republic Rocketts. If you
ing at Rocketts Landing.
are looking for something a little cozier, you can always try the exquisite food at M Bistro & Wine Bar. Regardless of which restaurant you choose, they are all just a few steps away. Leslie Haas Clanton, a Rocketts resident, had this to say about the unparalleled community, “Rocketts Landing has character, class and convenience! Whether it’s the diversity of the buildings, friendliness of the residents or unique access to the river and variety of
www.ric hmondnavigator.com
For more information, you can visit the Sales Center, call 222-5011 or go to rockettsvillage.com.
november/december 2011
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