River City Mar/Apr 2012 by Advertising Concepts, Inc.

26 20

[CONTENTS]

EVENTS

6 9

Calendar of Events Dominion Riverrrock Returns

GLITZ

Shopping for Your Home

CITY SPACES

Vistas on the James

SPORTS

12 13

Check out our newly designed events calendar!

MORE FLAVOR

25 26 28 31

See What’s New On the Rox In Search of Steaks Raising the Bar Granddaddies of Local Restaurants

Virginia Native, T.C. Stevens, Returns as a Raider For the Love of the Game

WHAT’S COOK IN

The Man Who Talked Too Much

DESTINATIONS

BACKSTAGE

More Than Cherry Blossoms in Washington

Backstage With Natalya Piette

FLAVOR

BUSINESS WATCH

16 17

River City Eats Scoop du Jour

36 36

Local Barre Offers a Unique Way to Stay in Shape A Nu Bath for You

march/april 2012

19 www.richmondnavigator.com

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER William J. Davis, Jr. VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Cheryl T. Davis HOME & GARDEN EDITOR Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID CREATIVE DIRECTOR 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 Steve Cook, Missy Epps Watts, Tammie Wersinger, Stephen Martin 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

ALL ARTICLES AND CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE OPINIONS OR THOUGHTS OF RIVER CITY RICHMOND, ADVERTISING CONCEPTS,INC OR THE PUBLISHER ABOUT THE COVER Natalya Rose Piette has wanted to dance professionally since she was seven years old. And now, all of the hard work has paid off for the former Williamsburg resident. Her story begins on page 34. Cover photo courtesy of Mark Mills Photography.

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march/april 2012

[ CALENDAR OF E V E N TS ]

Monument Avenue 10K March 31. Broad & Harrison Streets. With over 40,000 participants, the race, one of the biggest in the country, is guaranteed to offer entertainment – whether it’s by costumed runners, Spirit Groups, Party Stops,

live music or that guy or gal out

Zac Brown Band

front dashing for the cash.

March 25. Richmond Coliseum.

Throw in a race for kiddies and a rockin’ post-race

The Grammy-Award winning Zac Brown

party, and you’ve got

Band is bringing its dynamic Southern Rock act to Richmond. Their laid back sound

yourself one of the best social events of the

is sure to draw a crowd after receiving

year. Or join the Massey

five 2011 nominations from the Country

Challenge to raise money

Music Association plus a nomination for a GRAMMY® Awards. Find tickets at

for cancer research!

ticketmaster.com before they are sold out!

sportsbackers.com

MA RCH uuu

APRIL uuu

Daniel Tosh April 12. Landmark Theater.

Annual X Chili Cook Off

As if Daniel Tosh didn’t have a large

April 14. Richmond International Raceway.

enough following from his hilarious

If you think your chili is the best, here’s your

stand-up comedy routines, the

chance to prove it! The cooks of the best

fourth season of his hit show Tosh.O

chili in four categories will be awarded

is currently airing on Tuesday nights.

cash prizes. If you can’t stand the heat of

Daniel’s fans will be thrilled to see

the competition, just come out from 11am-

him in person in Tosh Tour Twenty

8pm to taste some of the greatest chili in Richmond. Register online at 1021thex.com.

Twelve. Find tickets at etix.com. Copyright Taylor Crothers.

Dancing at Lughnasa. April 12-15. Alice Jepson Theatre. modlin.richmond.edu Winner of the 1992 Tony® Award for Best Play, this extraordinary play tells the story of five unmarried sisters eking out their lives in a small village in Ireland in l936. From the plays seemingly small events - the return of the sisters’ brother from Africa, the first meeting between a father and child, and, of course, the radio’s interruptions - spring the cracks that destroy the foundation of the family forever.

march/april 2012

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[ CALENDAR OF E V E N T S ] Courtesy Harrelson Photography and Richmond International Raceway

Blue Man Group

GOING ON IN RICHMOND...

April 27-29. Landmark Theater. Three bald and blue characters will take audiences through a journey that is funny, intelligent and

Courtesy of American Anthropological Association and Science Museum of Minnesota

visually stunning. All the action is set to tribal rhythms performed live.

NASCAR Weekend

This tour features added content,

April 26-28.

as well as the a physical design

Richmond Raceway Complex.

set around a proscenium-sized

The races return to Richmond as a

LED curtain and high-resolution

three-day event! On Thursday, after

screen for a new visual experience.

the K & N Pro Series East, hometown

Broadwayinrichmond.com

q RACE: Are We So Different?

favorite Denny Hamlin teams up with RIR to host the fifth annual Denny

THROUGH APRIL 29 Celebrate the diversity of the human race at the Science Museum of Virginia as you examine scientific, historical, and cultural aspects of the human family. A collection of video, photography, printed word and interactive technology resources showcase how we experience the concept of Race in everyday American life. Don’t miss Family Cultural Saturdays. One World Celebration on April 28 will be a celebration with singing, dancing, arts, crafts and fun from around the world! Get more details at smv.org.

Hamlin Short Track Showdown. The action continues with the NASCAR Nationwide Series on Friday and the NASCAR Spring Cup Series on Saturday. For for more details, visit richmondracewaycomplex.com

MA Y u u u

Richmond Raiders Indoor Football Richmond Coliseum. All the action of professional football is packed into the temperate

q Making History: 20th Century African American Art

environment of the Coliseum. Kickoff is at 7pm for the 2012 season. See the Raiders against the Knoxville Nighthawks (March 24), the Alabama Hammers (April 14),

28th Annual Herbs Galore And More

the Louisiana Swashbucklers (May

April 28. Maymont Park.

5), the Columbus Lions (May 19),

There’s no better way to gear up for spring

and the Albany Panthers (June 16).

planting than Herbs Galore on the Carriage House Lawn! More than 50 plant and craft vendors will be selling herbs, annuals, perennials, heirloom plants, vegetables, trees, food and more. A variety of gardening topics will be covered with a “Meet the Expert” speakers series, included with the three dollar admission. www.maymont.org

MARCH 31-JUNE 10 The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and VCU’s Museum Studies graduate the collection of Courtesy VMFA. From Gottwald. program join forces Margaret and John to display more than 50 works by renowned and lesser known African American artists that were associated with pioneering the Barnett Aden Gallery in Washington D.C. See works like”In Harriet Tubman I helped hundreds to freedom” by Elizabeth Catlett from The Negro Woman series. vmfa.state.va.us. n

uuu VISIT RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM FOR MORE LOCAL EVENTS

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march/april 2012

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[ EVE NTS ]

CELEBRATING OUR RIVER AND ATHLETES AT

Dominion Riverrock

Dominion Riverrock returns on May 18-20 for the fourth year of celebrating one of Richmond’s best features...the river. Here’s a glimpse of what you athletes (or even your furry friend) can start training for this year. Or if you’re better as a spectator, come down to Brown’s Island just to watch the action. This event is perfect for the family with free concerts (Friday: The Travelin’ McCourys featuring Keller Williams. Saturday: Galactic.), food vendors and more. For the budding or expert photographers and videographers, register online to compete for cash prizes. Find all the info you need at www.dominionriverrock.com.

Trail Run I Mud Run I Ultimate Air Dogs I Dirt Crit Freestyle Bikes I Mountain Biking I Bouldering I NEW! Slackline Kayak Boatercross I Kayak Freestyle Stand-Up Paddleboard Cross I Stand-Up Paddleboard Enduro

Photo Credits: Background Greg Garner. Top to bottom, left to right: Kyle Swartz, David Parrish, Philip Childress, Mitchell Ward,Philip Childress, Karl Hawk, Scott Quarforth.

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march/april 2012

[ G L I TZ ]

FOR YOUR

HOM E

Kohler NumiTM Comfort Height® Toilet

Antigua Dining Table

Featuring a hands-free opening and closing toilet

Reminiscent of the waters surrounding the island of Antigua, this

seat, advanced bidet with integrated dryer, and intuitive touch screen remote, the Numi toilet

beautifully hand-crafted dining table will be the focus of your dining

combines unmatched design and technology.

room, maybe even your whole home. This one-of-a-kind piece is made in France from steamed beech and a fused glass top.

The Numi toilet brings you a striking look and

La Difference • www.ladiff.com • 125 S. 14th Street • 648-6210

exceptional water efficiency for a new standard in the bathroom. Ferguson Find a showroom or

Solis Suspension Lamp

store near you online.

This lamp’s unique shade

www.ferguson.com

design creates a sense of weightlessness while providing beautiful light for your space. Choose from white or black.

Leather Chair A fine leather chair is a timeless fit for any room. Choose from hundreds of styles and leathers.

La Difference www.ladiff.com 125 S. 14th Street 648-6210

Leo Burke Furniture www.leoburke.com 3108 W. Cary Street 358-5773

Moen ioDIGITAL Shower System Easy-to-use intuitive controls deliver precise flow and consistent water temperature with electronic precision. Let your shower remember your preferred settings (up to four profiles) and let you know when it’s ready. With the optional remote control, your shower can be waiting for you before you get out of bed. Ferguson • www.ferguson.com Find a showroom or store near you online.

march/april 2012

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[ CITY S PA C E S ]

Vistas on the James

Elegance and Convenience in One By Missy Epps Watts

pectacular views of Richmond, the

James River, and Kanawha Canal await homeowners at the luxurious

and maintenance-free Vistas on the James, an 18-story high-rise located in Shockoe Slip at the Canal Turning Basin.

Condos range in size from 729 square

feet to 2, 595 square feet. One to three bedrooms are available along with 24-hour security and an off-street parking garage. Located close to a variety of restaurants and

entertainment with nearby water access,

the building is also just minutes away from Downtown Richmond.

Residents have at their convenience a

tastefully decorated and comfortable club room that includes a pool table, poker table,

kitchen, LCD television, and Wi-Fi access. For the exercise conscious, a gym, located

looking for a change of pace. “I knew a lot of revitalization was going on in the

to help you stay in shape.

Hill also enjoys the wide range of nature, which he can view from his 12th floor

on-site, offers a variety of fitness equipment “I can see the whole width of the James

River facing west,” said resident and Trea-

area and I liked the fact that you could walk to restaurants and entertainment.” unit, including nests of blue herons and egrets.

“Vistas on the James is like a mini-United Nations,” added Hill. “We have

surer of the Condo Owner’s Association

homeowners representing many different parts of the world living in the build-

moved from Henrico when the condos were

munity here.” n

Herb Hill. Hill, who along with his wife

first built, was tired of the suburban life and

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ing, plus a mixture of city and state officials. We really do have a sense of comFor more information on Vistas on the James call 225-0754.

march/april 2012

[ S P O RT S ]

Keeping His Foot in the South Virginia Native, T. C. Stevens, Returns Home to Play for the Raiders By Stephen Martin. Photo by Robert Thomas. T.C. Stevens hails from Halifax County, Virginia, down near the North Carolina border, but he will soon be spending a lot more time in River City, having arrived here in a roundabout way from the great state of Texas. Stevens has called several locations home during the past few years. He has a special talent that’s taken him far and wide. You see, he can kick a football as few others can, and has just been signed by the Richmond Raiders professional indoor football team. Only a few years ago, while at Hampden-Sydney College, Stevens was named to the All Old Dominion Athletic Conference Team. After finishing with a degree in physics, he went to Texas and tried out for the Rio Grande Valley Dorados of the Arena Football League 2 and made the team. But in October 2011, Stevens headed to Richmond and tried out for the Raiders. Head Coach James Fuller of the Richmond Raiders said,“Stevens came to our tryouts and impressed us with the accuracy of his field goals. He nailed practically every one.” That’s not an easy feat, given that indoor football uprights are only about half as wide as those on outdoor fields. Here’s what T. C. has to say in an interview about his new gig. Not many players from Hampden-Sydney go on to play professional football. What led you to try?

I’m sure most of my Hampden-Sydney teammates would play pro ball if they had the chance. There’s a long tradition of excellence and competitiveness. For example, the team went 28 and 13 during my four years. We won the ODAC my junior year, and we went to the NCAA playoffs just as the team did this past fall. Aside from being a Virginia native, what brought you to Richmond?

Well, the Raiders, of course. But my sister and her husband and children recently moved to Richmond from Knoxville. I’m looking forward to spending time with them. How did you hear about the Richmond Raiders?

I learned about the Raiders a couple of years ago from a friend who was on the dance and cheer squad––one of the Lady Raiders. Actually, I wanted to try out last year, but missed the deadline. Is kicking for an indoor team different than what you experienced in college?

Yes, it is. A big difference is you have to allow for the ceiling. Practically every arena is different. In some, your kicks have to be almost a line drive to keep from hitting it. On the plus side, there isn’t any wind to deal with, but on the other hand, the uprights are only ten feet apart [compared to outdoor football’s 18’ 6”]. Thinking ahead to the season beginning in March, which team are you most looking forward to playing against?

I’d have to say the Alabama Hammers. My former coach at the Rio Grande Dorados, Marty Hammond, is now the head coach there. It will be interesting to be on the other side of the ball, and an extra incentive for me to perform well. n

Find the Raider’s schedule online at richmondraidersprofootball.com. 12

march/april 2012

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[ S P O RT S ]

FOR THE

L VE S

OF THE

By Steve Cook. Photos by Robert Thomas.

pringtime, and a young man’s

Laaser is the director of broadcasting and

it’s not just the young or just the

consummate professional and a fan of the

thoughts turn to baseball. And,

men. Richmond’s home team, the Flying Squirrels, beginning their third year, have proven that if you promote it right, you

can draw throngs of young and old into

the local ballpark, even if said park is get-

a similar respect for the game, more than

game, is passionate about his craft. “It’s

league cities. The reason? “I think it’s be-

not an easy job,”Opperman says. “Broadcasting is hard. The good ones (baseball broadcasters) make it sound easy.”

Interestingly, while the two have be-

come close friends, they are a study in

experience, is the broadcast component.

losophy that it’s okay for the broadcaster

Even the most avid fans are unable to be

at every game, especially road games, so the ability of the broadcaster to make the

game come to life, and to entertain the lis-

the game),” he says.

Opperman, on the other hand, says,

crack jokes.” He takes his role seriously. stant pursuit to master an art form.”

When you tune into Squirrels games

listening to two broadcasters who work the listener. While the front office will

continue to dazzle and delight with pro-

motions that seem to get better each year,

for Jon Laaser and Anthony Opperman,

once the first pitch is thrown, it’s all about the game.

“Despite all the advances in technol-

ogy,” Laaser says, “a baseball game on the

tion.” They also share a deep respect for

nity for just a while, to go back in time.

man says, “We make a good combina-

perman, who hails from LaGrange, Texas,

the game of baseball.

games.

memories,” Opperman adds.

Despite the contrasting styles, Opper-

of Jon Laaser and Anthony Opperman.

are entering their 10th year calling ball-

“Everybody has their special baseball

hard to make the game come to life for

There’s also a place for humor (in calling

It’s a passion for me,” he says. “It’s a con-

Both Laaser, a native of Chicago, and Op-

town,” he says.

to “be emotionally invested in the game.

that’s at the top of its game, the same canand passionate broadcast team, made up

cause of the great baseball history in this

(on WRNL, 910 AM) this season, you’ll be

“My style is factual. I’m not going to

not be said of the Squirrels’ professional

you’d find among fans in most minor

contrasts. Laaser subscribes to the phi-

tener, is key.

While we may not have a ballpark

Laaser says that Richmond fans have

Opperman, the director of media. Each a

ting just a little long in the tooth.

An integral part of the entire Squirrels

GAME

radio is still a magical time, an opportu-

And I’m glad to be a part of that.” n

Opperman (left) and Laaser (right) are ready to broadcast.

And, as is customary in this busi-

ness, both have bounced around from one small-town market to another.

2008, the two happened to meet when

they were broadcasting for two teams in the Carolina League, Opperman with the Potomac Nationals and Laaser with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Although

their schedules did not bring them into frequent contact, a friendship developed

and they would consult with one another over impending career moves.

By fall of 2009, the two were united as

members of the Flying Squirrels’ front of-

fice. In addition to their broadcast duties,

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march/april 2012

[ D E S T I NAT I O N S ]

More Than Cherry Blossoms in

WA S H I N GTO N By Tammie Wersinger. Photo by Buddy Secor.

othing signals spring in the nation’s capital more beautifully than the outbreak of colorful cherry blossoms along the Tidal Basin. More than one million visitors from the around the world are expected to converge on Washington March 20 through April 27 to enjoy the warmer weather and the blooming trees during the National Cherry Blossom

Festival.

“We try to get into the city at least once every year during the Cherry Blossom Festival because it’s such a magical and awe-inspiring experience,” said Leslie McDaniel Lindsay of Alexandria, VA. “One of our favorite things to do is to rent paddle boats at the Tidal Basin. The view of the cherry blossoms is stunning and it’s a great way to get away from most of the crowds.” The 2012 event should be especially inviting for locals and visitors because it will celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Tokyo’s gift of the cherry trees. The milestone prompted organizers to bring in high profile participants, like world-renowned artist, Peter Max, who created the official artwork. It also was the catalyst for expanding the event from 16 days to five weeks, which will be jam packed with performances, prestigious arts and cultural presentations, key environmental initiatives, and “more community spirit than ever before,’’ said Danielle Piacente, the festival’s communications manager. “People have enjoyed the trees for a century, so this truly was a gift that keeps on giving,” Piacente said. “That’s why we elevated this year’s festival and have so many free events and performances for visitors to enjoy.” Free tickets for the star-studded opening ceremony on March 25 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center will be available at the festival’s web site. Other main events include: Family Days on March 24-25; the Blossom Kite Festival on March 31; the Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival on April 7; and the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade‚ followed by the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival on April 14. For more information and opening ceremony tickets, visit nationalcherryblossomfestival.org or call 877-442-5666.

march/april 2012

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[ D E ST I NAT I O N S ]

If you’re planning on making the two-hour trip up Interstate 95 to Washington, D.C., for the Cherry Blossom Festival, there is an array of other activities you can enjoy in and around the capital. National monuments have always been popular destinations, but there are many other places to see and things to do. How about renting bikes? A scenic bike path that can be accessed at Gravelly Point Park runs along the Potomac River, crosses into the city on the 14th Street Bridge and takes riders right to the Jefferson Memorial. From there, you can tour around many of the historic sites and monuments very easily on a bike. “This is one of our favorite things to do when out of town guests come to visit,” said Leslie McDaniel Lindsay of Alexandria. “We have a bunch of bikes in a cargo trailer, but there are also plenty of places to rent them.”

HERE ARE SOME OTHER EXCITING ADVENTURES YOU CAN EMBARK ON DURING YOUR VISIT. Walk through Georgetown, one of the oldest

Visit the Smithsonian National

Enjoy the Calvin Jones Big Band Jazz

neighborhoods in D.C., which served as a major

Zoological Park, a 163-acre park with about

Festival, with powerhouse ensembles from the

port and commercial center during Colonial

2,000 animals, representing 400 species. Hours: 10

University of the District of Columbia, Howard

Times and is now a vibrant community with

a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through March; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.,

University and the University of Maryland: 8 to

upscale shops, bars and restaurants along its

April through October. Admission is free.

9:30 p.m. April 30 at UDC.

cobblestone streets.

Details: nationalzoo.si.edu.

Purchase tickets at instantseats.com.

Details: georgetowndc.com. View The Environmental Film Festival, An

Explore the United States Botanical Garden, one of the oldest of its kind in North America,

Hike Great Falls Park, an 800-acre park that

Animated Retrospective, featuring the most

features spectacular views of the Potomac River

popular animated films from the past 20 years: 1

and has locations in Virginia and Maryland. Open

p.m. March 17, Grosvenor Auditorium at National

from 7 a.m. until dark every day, except Dec. 25.

Geographic, 1600 M St., NW, Washington D.C.

Admission: $3 per visitor or $5 per vehicle.

Tickets: $8.

Details: nps.gov/grfa.

Details: events.nationalgeographic.com.

Tour Mount Vernon, the 500-acre estate of

Attend the Moscow Festival Ballet’s Cinderella:

See millions of dollars at the Bureau of

George Washington, which recently added a new

4 p.m. April 14, George Mason University Center

Engraving and Printing. Learn about U.S. paper

with a mission to inform visitors about the importance of plants to the well-being of humankind and the earth’s fragile ecosystem. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with Bartholdi Park open from dawn to dusk. Details: usbg.gov.

museum and education center. Admission: $15,

for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. Tickets:

currency as dollar bills are printed before your

adults; $7, ages 6 to 11; $14, seniors; and free for

$27-$54, with half off for youths, accompanied by

eyes. Get free tickets early, as they are gone by

children, 5 and under.

an adult.

8:30 a.m. for the festival.

Details: mountvernon.org.

Details: 888-945-2468.

Details: www.moneyfactory.gov. n

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march/april 2012

River City

eats

African

Bamboo Café 1 S. Mulberry St. 353-1609. bamboo-cafe.us

Africanne on Main 200 E. Main St. 343-1233. chefmamusuafricanne.com

Bank 1005 E. Main St. 648-3070. bankandvault.com

Goree 1823 E. Main St. 269-5375. goreerestaurant.com

Belly Timber Tavern 1501 W. Main St. 592-5592. bellytimbertavern.com

American 1800 Bar & Grill 1800 E. Main St. 780-1800.

Blackfinn American Saloon 1001 Haxall Point. 643-1582. blackfinnrichmond.com

3rd Street Diner 218 E. Main St. 788-4750. 525 at The Berry Burk COMING SOON! 525 E. Grace St. 525rva.com Ace’s Diner 219 E. Clay St. 888-7572. acesdiner.net Arcadia 1700 E. Main St. 417-4005. arcadiarichmond.com Aurora 401 E. Grace St. 644-5380. aurorarichmond.com Baker’s Crust 3553 W. Cary St. 213-0800. bakerscrust.com

The Black Sheep 901 W. Marshall St. 648-1300. theblacksheetrva.com Caliente 2922 Park Ave. 340-2920. Capital Ale House 623 E. Main St. 780-ALES. capitalalehouse.com Carlyle’s Cafe 1201 W. Main St. 358-0127. Carytown Burgers & Fries 3500 ½ W. Cary St. 359-5225. carytownburgersandfries.com Chez Foushee 203 N. Foushee St. 648-3225. chezfoushee.com

ARCADIA Fine dining comes to the Bottom. Arcadia features fresh, locallysourced produce, seafood, poultry, lamb, and Braveheart Black Angus Beef. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. 1700 E. Main Street. 417-4005. www.arcadiarichmond.com

march/april 2012

THE HALLIGAN BAR & GRILL

Come pay tribute to firefighters everywhere at The Halligan. Smoky meats are the star of the menu. Down a Chutes-N-Ladders drop shot as lights flash and sirens blare. 3 N. 17th Street. 447-7981. www.thehalliganbar.com

City Dogs 1309 W. Main St. 359-DOGS. Comfort 200 W. Broad St. 780-0004. comfortrestaurant.com C Street 3325 W. Cary St. 355-2200. cstreetva.com

Fish Bowl 101 S. 15th St. 562-1438. fishbowlrva.com F. W. Sullivan’s Bar & Grill 2401 W. Main St. 308-8576. fwsullivans.com Galaxy Diner 2924 W. Cary St. 213-0510.

Curbside 2525 Hanover Ave. 355-7008. curbsiderichmond.com

Gibson’s Grill 700 E. Broad St. 644-2637. gibsonsgrill.com

The Dairy Bar 1602 Roseneath Rd. 355-1937. dairybarrestaurant.com

The Halligan Bar & Grill 3 N. 17th St. 447-7981. thehalliganbar.com

deLux 2229 W. Main St. 353-2424. deluxrichmond.com

Home Team Grill 1630 W. Main St. 254-7360. hometeamgrill.com

Dots Back Inn 4030 MacArthur Ave. 266-3167. dotsbackrichmond.com

Honey Whyte’s 2116 E. Main St. 643-6022.

The Empress 2043 W. Broad St. 592-4000. theempressrva.com Ettamae’s Café 522 N. 2nd St. 888-8058. ettamaescafe.com

Kitchen 64 3336 N. Boulevard. 358-0064. kitchen64.com Legend Brewing Company 321 W. 7th St. 232-3446. legendbrewing.com.

www.richmondnavigator.com

By Steve Cook Sometimes you have to just make a de-

cision to open a new restaurant and Don’t Look Back. That’s the name of a new Mex-

ican-themed restaurant slated to open in Mid-March on Cary Street (2929 W. Cary

Street), across from New York Deli. The

restaurant gets its name from a 1966 documentary about Bob Dylan. But here’s the

big news. Nate Gutierrez, of Nate’s Taco Truck fame, will be the chef.

Camden’s Dogtown Market (201 W.

7th Street. 745-6488. www.cdmrva.com)

has recently opened in the space formerly

occupied by Ejay Rin. Owner, Andy Howell, describes the place as a gourmet convenience market, as well as a full service made-from-scratch restaurant.

Although it’s been open for about

seven months, I’ve just discovered what

I feel sure will become a local favorite.

I’m talking about The Magpie (269-0023.

www.themagpierva.com), somewhat hid-

den away at 1301 W. Leigh Street. Owners, Owen Lane and his fiancée, Tiffany Gellner, have created a truly unique gastropub.

The Magpie only seats about 32, in an intimate and warm atmosphere, which Lane describes as Neo-Victorian.

“We’re game-heavy,” he says, referring

to a menu that has obviously been inspired

by his Colorado roots. “You’ll find wild boar, rabbit, antelope, duck, and quail.”

The bar focuses on craft beers, and an excellent (and somewhat extensive) wine list. n

Be part of Scoop! Send new restaurant openings, menus, chefs and more to alaina@richmondnavigator.com.

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march/april 2012

[ R I V E R C I T Y E ATS ] LuLu’s 21 N. 17th St. 343-9771. lu-lusrichmond.com The Marshall Street Café & Jazz Bistro 23 W. Marshall St. 269-3537. marshallstreetcafe.com Martini Kitchen & Bubble Bar 1911 W. Main St. 254-4904. martinikitchenrichmondva.com McCormack’s Whiskey Grill 204 N. Robinson St. 648-1003. Mezzanine 3433 W. Cary St. 353-2186. mezzaninerva.com Millie’s Diner 2603 E. Main St. 643-5512. milliesdiner.com OMG Café & Lounge 412 N. 25th St. 269-0531. omgcafelounge.webs.com Paradise Diner 2845 Hathaway Rd. 320-1611. Pasture 416 E. Grace St. 780-0416. pastureva.com Patrick Henry’s Pub & Grille 2300 E. Broad St. 644-4242. thephpub.com Poe’s Pub 2706 E. Main St. 648-2120. Poespub.com Popkin Tavern 123 W. Broad St. 343-1909. sparetimechicago.com

The Republic 2053 W. Broad St. 592-2148. therepublicrva.com River City Diner 7 N. 17th Street. 644-9418. rivercitydiner.com The Roosevelt 623 N. 25th St. 658-1935. rooseveltrva.com Rowland Fine Dining 2132 W. Main St. 257-9885. rowlandfinedining.com

march/april 2012

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[ R I V E R C I T Y E AT S ] Roxy Café 1104 W. Main St. 342-7699. roxycaferva.com

Tiki Bob’s Cantina 110 N. 18th St. 644-9091. tikirichmond.com

Salad Kings 830 E. Main St. 649-0788. saladkings.com

TJ’s Restaurant and Lounge 101 W. Franklin St. 788-8000. jeffersonhotel.com

Star-Lite 2600 W. Main St. 254-2667. starlitediningandlounge.com

The Tobacco Company 1201 E. Cary St. 782-9555. thetobaccocompany.com

Station 2 2016 E. Main St. 249-4702. station2richmond.com

Weezie’s Kitchen 3123 W. Cary St. 726-1270. weezieskitchen.com

Strawberry Street Cafe 421 Strawberry St. 353-6860. strawberrystreetcafe.com

Xtra’s Café 3322B W. Cary St. 355-0446. xtrascafe.com

Stronghill Dining Company 1200 N. Boulevard. 359-0202. stronghillrestaurant.com

Zeus Gallery Café 201 N. Belmont Ave. 359-3219.

T-Miller’s Sports Bar & Grill 500 East Broad Street. 648-2255. tmillerssportsbar.com Tastebuds American Bistro 4019 MacArthur Ave. 261-6544. tastebudsamericanbistro.com

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Asian Akida 814 N. Robinson St. 359-8036. Carytown Sushi 2923 W. Cary St. 355-0058.

Photos by Hunter Henkel.

BABYCAKES No trip to Carytown could be complete without satisfying your sweet tooth! Babycakes is the perfect spot with creations like “The Key”–vanilla cake with key lime cream cheese frosting. 3324-B W. Cary St. 354-9866. babycakesva.com

Fan House 2526 Floyd Ave. 612-8888. thefanhouse.net Kobe Japanese Steak & Sushi 19 S. 13th St. 643-8080. kobesteakandsushi.com The Lucky Buddha 1421 E. Cary St. 648-5100. theluckybuddha.com Moshi Moshi 3321 W. Cary St. 359-1151. moshimoshirva.com

Peking Chinese Restaurant 1302 E. Cary St. 649-8888. pekingrestaurants.com Sticky Rice 2232 W. Main Street. 358-7870. www.stickyricefan.com Sumo San 1725 E. Main St. 643-6500. sumosanrva.com

march/april 2012

[ R I V E R C I T Y E ATS ]

HAVANA 59 As the weather warms up for spring, come take enjoy a refreshing mojito and fresh Cuban fare on the roof-top patio. Or stop by on Thursdays for salsa lessons at 8pm and a DJ after 9pm. 16 N. 17th St. 780-2822. www.havana59.net

Bakeries & Coffee

Caribbean

Babycakes Cupcake Bakery 3324B W. Cary St. 354-9866. babycakesva.com

Fire and Ice Café 1110 E. Main St. 225-0005. fire-and-ice-cafe.com

Capital Coffee & Desserts 2928 W. Cary St. 204-1755.

Island Bistro 400 N. 2nd St. 643-1319.

Cartwheels & Coffee 2820 W. Cary St. 355-5437. cartwheelsandcoffee.com

Cuban

Carytown Cupcakes 2820 W. Cary St. 355-2253. carytown-cupcakes.com Jean Jacques Bakery & Café 3138 W. Cary St. 355-0666. carytownbakery.com Montana Gold Bread Co. 3543 W. Cary St. 359-7700. montanagoldbread.com Williams Bakery 3544 W. Cary St. 612-6130. thewilliamsbakery.com

Barbecue Alamo BBQ 2202 Jefferson Ave. 592-3138. alamobbqva.com Buzz & Ned’s 1119 N. Boulevard. 355-6055. buzandneds.com

Havana 59 16 N. 17th St. 780-2822. havana59.net Kenn-Tico Cuban Bar & Grill 204 E. Grace St. 225-9216. kennticocubanbargrill.com Kuba Kuba 1601 Park Ave. 355-8817. kubakuba.info

Deli Chioccas Downstairs Deli & Bar 425 N. Belmont Ave. 355-3228. Coppola’s Deli 2900 W. Cary St. 359-6969. coppolasdeli.com New York Deli 2920 W. Cary St. 358-3354. ny-d.com Padow’s Ham & Deli 1601 Willow Lawn Dr. 358-4267. padows.com

Extra Billy’s 5205 W. Broad St. 282-3949. extrabillys.com

Perly’s Restaurant & Deli 111 E. Grace St. 649-2779.

Brazilian

Ethiopian

Ipanema 917 W. Grace St. 213-0190. ipanemaveg.com

Addis Ethiopian Restaurant 9 N 17th Street. 308-3649. addisrichmond.com

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[ R I V E R C I T Y E AT S ] Nile Ethiopian Restaurant 309 N. Laurel St. 225-5544. nilerichmond.com

European Bistro 27 27 W. Broad St. 780-0086. bistrotwentyseven.com CafĂŠ Rustica 414 E. Main St. 225-8811. caferusticava.com Lemaire at Jefferson 101 W. Franklin St. 788-8000. lemairerestaurant.com Olio 2001 1/2 W. Main St. 355-5182. oliorichmond.com Penny Lane Pub 421 E. Franklin St. 780-1682. pennylanepub.com Secco Wine Bar 2933 W. Cary St. 353-0670. seccowinebar.com Tarrantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cafe One W. Broad St. 225-0035. tarrantscafe.org

Farm Fresh Selba 2416 W. Cary St. 358-2229. selbarichmond.com Urban Farmhouse Market & Cafe 1217 E. Cary St. 325-3988. theurbanfarmhouse.net

French Amour Wine Bistro 3129 W. Cary St. 353-4020. amourwinebistro.com Bistro Bobette 1209 E. Cary St. 225-9116. bistrobobette.com Can Can Brasserie 3120 W. Cary St. 358-7274. cancanbrasserie.com

Greek Bacchus 2 N. Meadow St. 355-9919. bacchusonmain.com

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march/april 2012

[ R I V E R C I T Y E ATS ] EUROPA Stop by Europa on the way home from work for great specials. From 5-6pm on Monday to Friday, find half off tapas. Or take a date night on Tuesday and get a three course dinner and bottle of wine for only $50! 1409 E. Cary St. 643-0911. europarichmond.com Basilis Greek Restaurant 3107 W. Cary St. 257-7277.

Indian Kebab and Biryani 2452 Old Brick Road. 658.3174. kebabandbiryani.com

Irish Rosie Connolly’s Pub 1548 E. Main St. 343-1063. rosieconnollys.com Sine 1327 E. Cary St. 649-7767. sineirishpub.com

International 3 Monkeys Bar & Grill 2525 W. Main St. 204-2525. 3monkeysfan.com Avalon 2619 W. Main St. 353-9709. avalonrestaurant.com Sample One N. Morris St. 248-9157. samplerichmond.com

Italian Amici’s 3343 W. Cary St. 353-4700. amiciristorante.net Arianna’s Grill 700 N. Sheppard St. 353-6002. ariannasgrill.com Avenue 805 805 N. Davis Ave. 353-2505. avenue805.net Coppola’s 2900 W. Cary St. 359-6969. coppolasdeli.com

Europa 1409 E. Cary St. 643-0911. europarichmond.com Joe’s Inn 205 N. Shields Ave. 355-2282. joesinn.com/Fan La Grotta 1218 E. Cary St. 644-2466. lagrottaristorante.com Mamma Zu’s 501 South Pine St. 788-4205. Mary Angela’s 3345 W. Cary St. 353-2333. maryangelaspizzeria.com

La Bamba 19 N. 18th St. 225-8883. Little Mexico 1328 W. Cary St. 525-4216. littlemexicova.com

Julep’s New Southern Cuisine 1719 E. Franklin St. 377-3968. juleps.net Laissez Faire Café 500 Dinwiddie Ave. 392-2360.

Nacho Mama’s 3449 W. Cary St. 358-6262. nachomamasva.com

M Bistro 4821 Old Main St. 652-2300. mbistro-rocketts.com

New American

Six Burner 1627 W. Main St. 353-4060. sixburner.net

Balliceaux 203 N. Lombardy St. 355-3008. balliceauxrva.com

Pizzeria

The Belvidere 506 W. Broad St. 344-0644. thebelvidere.com

Blow Toad 2907 W. Cary St. 355-8623. blowtoad.com

Bonvenu 2915 W. Cary St. 342-1003. bonvenu.com

Bottom’s Up 1700 Dock Street. 644-4400. bottomsuppizza.com

Café Gutenberg 1700 E. Main St. 497-5000. cafegutenberg.com

The Pizza Place 1731 E. Main St. 343-1300. richmondpizzaplace.com

Citizen 909 E. Main St. 780-9038.

Sensi 2222 E. Cary St. 648-3463. sensirestaurant.com

Mediterranean The Cellar Door 1600 Monument Ave. 716-0346. cellardoorva.com Cous Cous 900 W. Franklin St. 358-0868. couscous900.com Emilio’s Restaurant 1847 W. Broad St. 359-1224. emiliosrichmond.com

Mexican Baja Bean Co. 1520 W. Main St. 257-5445. bajabean.com Bandito’s Burrito Lounge 2905 Patterson Ave. 354-9999. banditosburritolounge.com Cha Cha’s Cantina 1419 E. Cary St. 726-6296. chachascantina.com

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[ R I V E R C I T Y E AT S ] Sette 7 N. 23rd St. 788-7077. settepizza.com

Pescados 626 China St. 644-3474. pescadoschinastreet.com

Seafood

Sam Miller’s 1210 E. Cary St. 644-5465. sammillers.com

Acacia 2601 W. Cary St. 562-0138. acaciarestaurant.com The Boathouse 4708 E. Old Main St. 622-2628. boathouserichmond.com

The Water Grill 3411 W. Cary St. 353-3411. thewatergrill.com

Steakhouse

Conch Republic 11 Orleans Street. 226-6242. conchrepublicrocketts.com

Buckhead’s 8510 Patterson Ave. 750-2000. buckheads.com

Croaker Spot 1020 Hull St. 269-0464. croakersspot.com

Hondos 4024-C Cox Rd. 968-4323. hondosprime.com

Edo’s Squid 411 N. Harrison St. 864-5488.

Morton’s 111 Virginia St. 648-1662. mortons.com

The Hard Shell 1411 E. Cary St. 643-2333. thehardshell.com Old Original Bookbinder’s 2306 E. Cary St. 643-6900. bookbindersrichmond.com

www.ric hmondnavigator.com

Kobe 19 S. 13th St. 643-8080. kobesteakandsushi.com

BEAUREGARD’S THAI ROOM Richmond’s first and truly authentic Thai restaurant, featuring excellent cuisine in an historic city mansion. In season, enjoy out of doors dining in the beautiful courtyard, replete with gas street lamps. 103 E. Cary Street. 644-2328. www.thairoom.com

Thai

Mom’s Siam 2811 W. Cary St. 359-7606. momsiam.com

Alex’s Thai Cuisine 13 N. 17th St. 343-3934. Beauregard’s Thai Room 103 E. Cary St. 644-2328. thairoom.com

Thai Dinner Too 3028 W. Cary St. 353-9514. tdtoo.webs.com

Elephant Thai 1100 W. Cary St. 353-0106.

Thai Top Ten 911 1/2 W. Grace St. 254-8195. Thaitoptenrestaurant.com

Ginger Thai Taste 3145 W. Cary St. 254-7373. gingerthaitaste.net

Vegetarian Fresca 22 S. Addison St. 359-8638. frescaonaddison.com n

march/april 2012

www.richmondnavigator.com

[ F L AV O R ]

See What’s New ON THE ROX

A TASTE

By Steve Cook. Photos by Robert Thomas.

of the Menu STARTERS Greens with radishes and local cheese in a herb vinaigrette. Frites fried in duck fat are tossed with herbs and coarse sea salt, and served with aioli and fancy sauce on the side. Mussels with pork belly, baby red mustard greens and pickled garlic.

ENTREES The Rox Brunch Burger made with two parts beef, one part breakfast sausage, a fried egg and bacon. Chef Mike Pendergrast of On the Rox.

an a creative restaurateur who has en-

borhood restaurant that offers great food at rea-

joyed years of successfully playing to a

sonable prices.” It appears he’s scored on both

largely college crowd, find similar success

points.

with a classy, new restaurant that’s designed with a more mature clientele in mind?

While the food definitely comes front and center at On the Rox, the bar with its rich, dark woods,

That question was bound to have been on the

its signature cocktails, and its knowledgeable staff,

mind of said entrepreneur, Eric Brockdorff, owner

dominates the room. However tables, both on the

of Tiki Bob’s, as he was spending large amounts

entry level, as well on the balcony overlooking

of both time and money in turning a run-down

the lower level, provide plenty of dining space for

Shockoe Bottom building that had housed an al-

guests who are there to enjoy the delights that

ternative club into one of the city’s truly, cool, adult

come from the kitchen and from chef, Mike Pen-

restaurants and bars. And when I say “adult,” I’m

dergrast.

not using the term as a synonym for “gentleman’s

Pendergrast knows his way around a kitchen.

club,” which in itself, has little or nothing to do with

The dishes we sampled, including a fantastic, melt-

gentlemen.

in-your-mouth hangar steak, excelled in both pre-

The answer to our burning question is a re-

sentation and taste. He demonstrates a passion for

sounding, YES! Brockdorff’s newest venture, On

his craft as well as an enthusiasm, which makes

the Rox (119 N. 18th St. 303-9444. www.roxrva.

dining at On the Rox a truly enjoyable experience.

com), has proven to be an almost immediate hit,

Pendergrast has also assembled a relatively small

and the reasons are pretty obvious.

but carefully selected assortment of craft beers,

For starters, the man knows what Richmond’s post-college consumer wants. He’s not trying to

and he’s happy to offer suggestions for pairings of the beers and the food.

create a Tiki Bob, Senior. Instead, he’s created a very

Throw in the flat screen TVs, a great sound

sophisticated feel in what was until just recently

system featuring popular standards, country, and

the rundown home of the now-defunct Element

jazz, along with an accommodating, friendly wait

Lounge.

staff, and you have the makings for what could eas-

On the Rox is as classy as it is cool and casual. Brockdorff says the concept is to “provide a neighwww.ric hmondnavigator.com

ily become a true Shockoe Bottom neighborhood

Hangar Steak served with root vegetables and shallot butter. Gnocchi with duck confit, roasted oyster mushrooms and truffle.

Slow Roasted Pork Shoulder Panini with Rapini, chilies and aged provolone.

DESSERTS Waffles with roasted bananas and bacon-maple caramel. Chocolate Terrine with Cashew Brittle.

SIGNATURE COCKTAIL On the Rox Breeze. Captain Morgan Rum, Parrot Bay Coconut, orange juice, grapefruit juice, a splash of cranberry juice and grenadine with a squeeze of lime.

hotspot. On the Rox is definitely on the mark. n march/april 2012

[ I N S EARC H OF ]

M O U T H -WAT E R I N G ST EA KS Kobe Teriyaki Filet Mignon You won’t leave Kobe hungry after this succulent steak served with Japanese miso soup, house salad, grilled vegetables, and steamed rice. Kobe • 19 S. 13th Street • 643-8080

Photo by Tim Hill.

kobesteakandsushi.com

march/april 2012

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[ I N S EA R C H O F ]

1. Ancho-Rubbed Cowboy Cut Ribeye Eighteen ounces of bone-in beef with flavorful

marbling is rubbed in a secret blend of seasonings including ground, dried poblano peppers boasting a bold, sweet chili flavor. Chimichurri, a combination of cilantro, parsley, garlic, vinegar and olive oil, is the perfect finishing touch. The Old Original Bookbinder’s • bookbindersrichmond.com 2306 E. Cary Street • 643-6900

2. 20 oz. Cowboy Cut Ribeye This succulent, 30 day aged huge cut of steak is cooked with demi butter and served with sauteed baby carrots and haricot vert. Buckhead’s Chophouse • buckheads.com 8510 Patterson Avenue • 750-2000

accompanied by sauteed asparagus and potato pave. Arcadia • arcadiarichmond.com 1700 E. Main Street • 417-4005

Photo by Tim Hill.

3. Braveheart Beef Filet of Tenderloin A tender cut of steak is perfectly cooked and

Photo by Tim Hill.

Photo by Robert Thomas.

www.ric hmondnavigator.com

march/april 2012

A well-made cocktail is so much more than simply a drink. A distinctly American invention, the cocktail is a product of boldness, diversity, and ingenuity. It can be a journey to a distant land, a personalized creation, a piece of history, even a work of art. For time-tested classics and innovative new creations alike, a cocktail is both a crowd and an individual, at once, a sum of its parts and a unique composition. A well-versed bartender is the vehicle for these many things. He or she becomes a storyteller, using a glass like the bindings of a well-worn book, and the ephemeral contents of the former become, very briefly, their voice. Interested imbibers find that there is story in there, a tale told in dimly lit bars across the globe, by individuals that are both passionate about their craft, and generous with their knowledge. Before I get too geeky about craft cocktails, it’s important to note that there is so much more to being a great bartender than what goes in the shaker. Empathy, knowledge, diligence, organization, multi-tasking - for those that care about the profession, the path to excellence traverses the mastery of all these things, and more.

Off the Hookah

BOTTOMS UP

140 Virginia Street, Ste. 200 225-1918 • offthehookah.com Hours: Tues-Wed opens 11am. Thurs-Fri 11am-2am. Sat 5pm-2am. Happy Hour: Tues-Fri 5-8pm $2 domestic beers, $3 drafts, $3 wells. Entertainment: Live DJ on weekends. Food: Full menu until 10pm weekdays until 11pm on Fri-Sat. Late night menu after 11pm.

1700 Dock Street • 644-4400 • bottomsuppizza.com HOURS: Mon-Wed 11am-10pm. Thurs 11am-11pm. Fri-Sat 11am12am. Sun 11am-11pm.

HAPPY HOUR Need details. Day, time, deals. Sunday. GRAB A BITE Full menu of pizzas, pastas, salads, sandwiches and more.

Photo by Tim Hill

ENTERTAINMENT Live music every Thursday and

QUENCH YOUR THIRST Signature beverage. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME This Richmond favorite is known for its 12-hour crust and

Poe’s Pub 2706 E. Main Street • 648-2120 • poespub.com Hours: Tues-Fri 11am-2am, Weekends 12pm2am. Sunday brunch 10am-2pm. Happy Hour: Daily 4-7pm $1 off draft beers and well drinks, $2.50 domestic bottled beers. Entertainment: Regular live entertainment such as blues, rock, country, bluegrass and R & B. Food: Full menu served until 11. Bar menu until close.

huge selection of fresh toppings. A large menu of specialty pizzas give diners a choice of traditional red or Parmesan white sauce. Enjoy unique pies such as the Mexican with ground beef, jalapenos, onions, and cheddar topped with lettuce, salsa and sour cream. Get a taste of the State Fair pizza with Guldens brown mustard, sausage, caramelized onions and roasted red peppers. Or for seafood lovers, dig into a pie with fresh crabmeat, sweet onions and Old Bay.

BEAUREGARD’S THAI ROOM 103 E. Cary Street • 644-2328 • thairoom.com

HAPPY HOUR Friday 6-7:30pm free appetizers. GRAB A BITE Order from the kitchen up to 15 minutes before closing time. QUENCH YOUR THIRST Full bar offering your favorite

Photo by Robert Thomas

HOURS: Mon-Thur 11:30am-2:30pm and 4:30-10pm. Fri & Sat Open til 11pm.

cocktails and highballs. Plus a good selection of Thai and Laos beers in addition to other craft beers. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Richmond’s first and truly authentic Thai Restaurant, serving lunch and dinner. Enjoy excellent dining, along with your favorite beverage in the beautiful courtyard patio, featuring gas street lamps, flowers and a koi fountain. (Patio open April through October).

march/april 2012

www.richmondnavigator.com

So... why Raising the Bar? lovers deserve it. There are truly exceptional bartenders of all kinds in this town, ranging from the craft stylings of Sean Rapoza and Stephen Ogburn, to the well-kept bar manned by the best volume bartender I know, Otto Bartsch over at Bandito’s. You should know who they are, and what makes them special. We’ll highlight how they - and others - raise the bar on service, cocktails, and experience. It is my hope that this column can be a conduit for those stories and their storytellers,

CAN CAN BRASSERIE 3120 W. Cary St. • 358-7274 • cancanbrasserie.com HOURS: Mon-Thurs 7am-1pm. Fri & Sat 7am-2am. Sunday 9am-?

HAPPY HOUR Lunch (at the bar) Mon-Fri 11:30am-3pm for red, white, and rose wines or draft beers $5. 5-7pm (at the bar) $3.50 house hi-balls, $4 draft beers, and more. Sunday 5-8pm half price drafts. ENTERTAINMENT First Thursday of the month features a special showing of the Can Can Dancers.

Photo by Robert Thomas

It’s a simple answer. Richmond restaurant

GRAB A BITE Fruits de Mer of oysters, mussels, calamari, clams and lobster charcuterie or a plate of cheese and salami pair perfectly with a cocktail.

and while there can be no substitute for a great

QUENCH YOUR THIRST The Wimbledon (pictured) features Pimm’s No. 1 , Hendricks

cocktail made by a great bartender, hopefully

gin, muddled English cucumber, lemon and lime. Also, an extensive beer list and an all-

my words can hold you over between visits. Cheers, Bobby Kruger Not quite ready for last call? Swing by the Libation Nation website for more information on your local bar stars. This month we talk Negronis.

French wine list, including a range of wines by the glass. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME At Can Can, the bar is the stage, bringing guests together for an evening of fun, energy and excitement. Featuring a 50-foot zinc bar with a fresh oyster display and artisan breads, baked fresh daily. Can Can draws upon the classic notion of Parisian brasseries as an informal café, serving traditional French dishes morning, noon, and night.

(www.bobby-kruger.com)

THE TOBACCO COMPANY The Camel

HOURS: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm. Mon-Thurs 5:30-10:30 pm. Fri-Sat 5:30-9:30pm. Sun 5:30-9:30pm. Bar Sun-Sat 3pm-2am. Club Thurs-Sat 8pm-2am.

HAPPY HOUR Restaurant Mon-Fri 3-7pm: House wines, drafts, domestic bottles and rail drinks half off. Club Thurs-Sat 8-9pm: $1 rail drinks. ENTERTAINMENT Live entertainment every Thurs-Sun

Photo by Robert Thomas

1201 E. Cary Street • 782-9555 fthetabaccocompany.com

1621 W. Broad Street • 353-4901 thecamel.org Hours: Open Daily 5pm-2am. Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 5pm-7pm $2.50 wells, $3 draft beers, $5 martinis, $4 wines. Entertainment: Nightly entertainment Food: Full menu served until 2am.

with no cover charge. GRAB A BITE Bar menu served until 11pm Mon-Thurs and 12am Fri-Sat. Enjoy $2 burgers from 3-10pm on Sunday or three appetizers from the bar menu for only $20 from 5-7pm from Mon-Fri. QUENCH YOUR THIRST Enjoy a signature martini list with drinks like the TC Cosmo, Pomegranate Martini and Mojito-tini. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME The Tobacco Company Restaurant embodies the spirit of southern hospitality and charm. As guests enter their eyes are immediately swept to a breathtaking three story garden atrium. An exposed antique brass elevator carries guests from the first floor cocktail lounge to the two dining rooms above. Whether you are in search of an exquisite meal in an unforgettable atmosphere, a cocktail in front of the warm glow of a fireplace, martinis at the bar, live music or an exclusive club to dance the night away, The Tobacco Company Restaurant is the place to be.

www.ric hmondnavigator.com

march/april 2012

[ W H AT ’ S C O O K I N ]

The Man Who Talked Too Much

’ve always thought myself to be a pretty fun guy (no mushroom joke, please). I’m no party animal, but I enjoy getting together with friends and having a good time. Therefore, it’s with rather sad feelings that I’ve come to realize that those days are gone. I used to enjoy telling a joke or two, and generally everyone would laugh (uproariously). People could sit for hours and listen to my stories. But, these days, most folks just stare at me strangely, as if to say, “Does this old man ever shut up?” You’d be amazed at how entertaining I could be…back in the day. When I was a young man, I could bring down the house by lying on the floor and doing my impression of bacon frying. Things have changed. I guess the idea of a wheezing old guy twitching on the floor is just not that amusing. Or, could it be that asking your friends to lift you off the floor and lay you on the coffee table until the pain and dizziness subside, makes for a less-than-satisfying ending to a comedy routine? Whatever the case, people just don’t find me to be all that humorous anymore. Have you ever been cornered by someone who was terribly boring? And, you get to looking around to see if you can find someone to help rescue you? I used to do that a lot. Now, I see others doing it when they’re talking with me. I got to wondering if maybe I talk too much, so I bought a tape recorder to listen to just what I’m saying. I use it for interviews I do when I’m preparing to write a magazine article. When I play the interviews back, I find that I’m doing 90% of the talking. I’m sitting there trying to transcribe the interview, and I’m screaming, “Will you shut up and let the other guy speak.” For quite some time, my wife has been telling me that no one really wants to hear about that time when I was a child. I refused to let her opinion sway me. “People love to be regaled with stories from my boyhood,” I would insist. I’ve come to accept the fact that she is probably right. But when I get to telling a story, I just become so enthralled with my words that I can’t stop. Like now, for instance. I’ve used up all my space and still have a lot more to say. I tell you what. Invite me over and we can talk about this in greater detail. I’m reminded of the time when I was twelve. You’ve got to hear this. n

Check out Steve Cook’s Daily Ramblings at www.richmondnavigator.com/ steve-cooks-daily-ramblings

march/april 2012

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[ F E AT U R E ] Photo by Tim Hill.

Photo courtesy

Billâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Barbecue.

fway House.

Hal Photo courtesy

Photo by Robert

Thomas.

Photo by Robert Thomas.

Restaurants come and restaurants go. One recent survey, conducted by the NBC

Television Network, estimated that within three years from opening, about 60% of the

restaurants surveyed, either closed or changed hands. But, for any number of reasons, there are some restaurants that come and stay. Some do change hands. Others remain

in the same families for decades. We went in search of the West Endâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most long-lived

restaurants, both in an effort to learn a little history as well as to discover just what it is that has earned a very few places the designation:

Granddaddies

O F LOCAL RESTAURANTS By Steve Cook. Photos by Robert Thomas.

www.ric hmondnavigator.com

march/april 2012

[ F E AT U R E ]

O'Toole's

If any spot in town qualifies as a neighborhood pub, it’s O’Toole’s(4800

Forest Hill Avenue. 233-1781. www.otoolesrestaurant.com), just south of the river. And, even though I only lived in that neighborhood for about a year, back in the seventies, I still drop in, from time to time for the camaraderie and also to tend to what ales me, if you get my draft.

Since 1966 patrons have been gathering at this very Irish establishment.

Today, John O’Toole, son of original owner, Jim O’Toole, is on hand, to welcome guests to a spot where just about everybody does know your name… really!

“Through the years, O’Toole’s has become more of a restaurant than a

bar,” says O’Toole. But it’s still considered to be one of the city’s best Irish

pubs. Indeed, while the menu offers both Irish and non-Irish dishes, the atmosphere is very Irish from the shamrock on the mirror behind the bar,

to the sign, reading “Ceade Mile Failte” (literally, A hundred thousand

Photo by Robert Thomas.

John O'Toole, son of the

welcomes) over the door.

original owner of O'Toole's .

It’s that warm welcome that has kept customers coming back for decades. That, says, O’Toole, himself, “and the fact that we

serve a quality product at an affordable price.”

Perly’s Delicatessen

Whenever I’m driving anywhere near Perly’s Delicatessen (111 E. Grace Street. 649-2779), visions of those fantastic country

ham biscuits begin to dance in my head. Breakfast or lunch at Perly’s has become somewhat of a tradition for many.

It’s a tradition that has continued for over 50 years, now. The biscuits have a lot to do with that, as do the delicious deli sand-

wiches, and, oh yeah, the coffee, too. But it’s more than the food that keeps ‘em coming.

“It’s a comfortable place,” says current owner, Gray Wyatt, who, in 1984, bought the restaurant, which gets its name from

original owner, Harry Perlstein.

When asked what he’s done, since taking over the restaurant, almost 30 years ago, that has kept Perly’s one of downtown’s

most popular dining spots, Wyatt modestly says it’s due to his tendency to procrastinate. “I didn’t do anything to mess it up. But,” he adds, “some things just don’t need fixing.”

He also credits the restaurant’s success to the loyalty of both his

many regular customers, as well as his employees. “Some of our

Photo by Robert Thomas.

regulars come in every week,” he says, “some every day.”

Then there are some who, while not regulars, have discovered

Perly’s during their time spent in the city. Hal Holbrook virtually

became a regular during his stay in the city while filming the up-

coming motion picture, Lincoln. And fellow actor, Paul Giamatti, when asked what he enjoyed about his stay in Richmond (during the filming of the mini-series based on the life of John Adams), answered, “The biscuits at Perly’s.”

I guess great minds think alike. In fact, now that I’m thinking

about those biscuits, I’m going to have to stop in at Perly’s very soon. Care to join me?

march/april 2012

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[ F E AT U R E ] Photo by Tim Hill.

Bill’s Barbecue

Do you remember when there used to be a toll booth, right at the Belvidere exit on the

Richmond-Petersburg Turnpike? Well, way before then, way before there was an I-95, there was a little barbecue joint at virtually that same spot. That was the original location

of Bill’s Barbecue in Richmond (www.billsbarbecue.net), which opened in 1931. A year be-

fore that, founder, William Stephen Richardson, had opened a barbecue stand in Norfolk. Funny thing is, William was never called Bill. He used his middle name. And, it

wasn’t even Mr. Richardson who named his little barbecue stand, Bill’s Barbecue. That name was, for unknown reasons, chosen by an out-of-work sign painter, who, in 1930, offered to paint a sign in exchange for some barbecue. The name stuck, as did the little pig he painted.

In case you’re wondering, the Bill’s on Myers Street, near the Boulevard, opened in 1942

and their Libbie and Broad store, the one I most often frequent, opened in 1947. Today, there are six additional locations around town.

So, why has Bill’s succeeded through lo, these many years? “Because of the grace of God and the loyalty of Richmonders,” says

Rhoda Elliott, who currently runs the operation begun by her father. “And, she adds, “It’s also due to the fact that we don’t change. We haven’t changed our recipe. We haven’t changed the quality of our product.”

In a world that’s constantly changing, often more than we would like, it’s nice to have a place like Bill’s Barbecue, where some

things remain the same.

The Granddaddy of Them All…New York Deli

“New York Deli opened across the street (from its current location) in 1929,” Demetrios Tsiptsis tells me. Tsiptsis, who owns the

deli, along with partner Hamooda Shami, continues, “In 1934 it moved here (2920-18 W. Cary). In those early days, from the midthirties to the mid-fifties, the Deli occupied only the westernmost of the two buildings (the 2920 building).”

One of the deli’s biggest claims to fame came in the early forties. By then, an Austrian couple, Mr. and Mrs. Brandeis, owned the

place. University of Richmond students, who were enrolled in the school’s Navy College Training Program, would gather at the deli during school breaks. “While just playing around,” Tsiptsis says, “they created a sandwich, which consisted of pastrami, knockwurst, and Swiss cheese. Every time one of the students would order the sandwich, Mrs. Brandeis would yell back to the kitchen, in her thick Austrian accent, ‘Another sandwich for the sailors.’

“Eventually,” Tsiptsis continues, “she would just yell back, ‘Another Sailor sandwich.’” Thus was born…well, you can figure it out.

In 2006, Tsiptsis and Shami bought the deli and began to make some changes. They replaced the old dairy cases with a sleek, dark-

wood bar, and began keeping the establishment open in the evenings to serve Carytown’s late-night crowd.

“Some were resistant to the changes,” Tsiptsis says, “but if we had not made them, I’m convinced the restaurant would not still be

around.”

Some things change. Some things don’t. This has always been a neighborhood gathering place,” Tsiptsis says. “Guests have pro-

posed here. We’ve had marriages here. We even had a baby born

right here, in the Deli. Our customers are not defined by age, or gen-

Photo by Tim Hill.

der, or anything else. Anyone can feel comfortable dining at New York Deli. It’s been that way since 1929 and I think that by being willing to change with the times, we have, at least, another 100 years or so.” n

Read about more Richmond Restaurant Traditions at richmondnavigator.com New York Deli’s Sailor Sand wich

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[ B A C K S TA G E ]

ALMOST LIKE IN THE MOVIES

Photo courtesy of Kenneth McDowell

THE TRUE STORY OF

NATALYA ROSE PIETTE By Steve Cook

march/april 2012

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rom the back seat of

the

luxurious

raven-haired

She complies and learns that there is still

I wanted to be an entertainer,” Natalya says.

one more audition to go…this time, in New

As our story moves rapidly forward, Na-

York, in front of composer/musician Paul

young

talya enters high school and is invited to

O’Neill, the founder of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

black limousine, the beautiful,

concert in Virginia Beach. “I knew, then, that

woman dials her cell phone.

attend the School for the Performing Arts

“Mom,” she says excitedly, “ I got the

in Norfolk. “That was the real turning point,”

“After the audition,” Natalya recalls, “we

job.” After a brief conversation with her

she says. “If it had not been for that school, I

talked for about an hour. It seemed like he

proud and exuberant mother, she settles

would never be where I am today.”

was offering me the job, but I wasn’t sure. I didn’t want to get too excited. It can break

back in her leather seat. As she stares out of

Following High School, she moves to

the window of her chauffeur-driven vehi-

New York City to attend Marymount Man-

cle, she glances up at the driver. “I wonder

hattan College. While such a move might be

Finally, the offer was made. O’Neill then

how many lives he has seen changed…

daunting to most teenagers, that was not

walked his new dancer to his car, requesting

completely,” she wonders to herself. The

the case with Natalya. She had been to the

that the driver take her home.

New York City skyline becomes a montage,

city on several occasions to audition for vari-

a mixture of memories of her earlier, less

ous productions.

successful auditions in this magnificent

In June of the following year, as her first

city, coupled with dreams of all that lies

year of college comes to a close, Natalya

ahead.“This is like in the movies,” she whis-

heads home for the summer. Two days af-

your heart.”

“I felt like I had been holding my breath for two hours,” she says. “Finally, I could breathe.” This is where we came in. Unfortunately, it’s time to leave our story. There is still so much more

pers to herself. Many a motion picture has

to tell about this young wom-

featured something akin to the

an…much more than just her

scene described above. And

appearance, her grace, the ease

yet, for Natalya Rose Piette, this

with which she moves about on

is no fairy tale. Yes, it is a dream,

the stage. If time permitted, we

but, a dream come true. As Natalya rides

ter arriving back in Hampton Roads, she

could tell of her hard work as a teen, juggling

towards the home of a friend, in Queens,

receives a phone call inviting her to return

school with dance practice and rehearsals,

where she had been staying, she reflects

to Manhattan to audition for a spot in the

and yet despite the work load, graduating

on the events that had brought her to this

renowned Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

with honors. We would definitely want to tell

moment in time.

Within 24 hours, Natalya has learned

of her work with various charitable organizations. Yes, so much more.

The story begins about 18 years ago,

the dance routine, and is on the China Bus

when Monica, a young, single Williams-

heading for Manhattan, where she auditions

As the credits roll, we can hear Natalya

burg-area mother, raising her daughter

for the group’s choreographer. She returns

Rose Piette speak of her deepest desires, “I

alone, decides to enroll the three-year-old

home and waits for a call…a call that, it ap-

want to use my career to make a difference,”

in ballet school. The years pass quickly.

pears, will never come.

she says.“I have been very blessed. I want my

The mother and daughter move into the Hampton Roads area.

Despite the silence, Natalya is not discouraged. Displaying a maturity rarely seen

Natalya continues to take dance les-

in someone so young, she says,“You can’t be-

sons, mainly because it’s what her mother

come emotionally attached to these things,

wants. She doesn’t feel pressured to do so.

or it can destroy you. I audition for a living.”

In fact, she enjoys dancing. It’s something

story to send a message to others. “Don’t be afraid to be yourself.” Yes, it’s almost like in the movies…only so much better. n

As summer draws to a close and Natalya

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra will be ap-

prepares to return to New York for her sec-

pearing at the Hampton Coliseum on Sat-

A turning point comes while Natalya

ond year of college, she finally hears some-

urday, April 28th. For more details and to

is still very young. It was October 21, 1998.

thing. The choreographer for TSO wants

purchase tickets, go to www.trans-siberian.

She remembers it well. Monica has taken

her to submit a video. She also wants her to

com. Learn more about Natalya at www.na-

her 7-year-old daughter to a Janet Jackson

come to Maryland to audition once again.

talyarose.com.

to do.

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march/april 2012

[ B U S I N E S S WATC H ]

Local Barre Offers Unique Way to Keep Your Body in Shape By Missy Epps Watts. Photo by Tim Hill.

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