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November / December 2018
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CONTENTS NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2018
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10 West End’s Best
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November / December 2018
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THINGS TO DO
18 Calendar of Events
WEST END LIFE
20 Lustre by Adolf
22 Shoppers’ Guide 24 Holidays At Stony Point Fashion Park
HEALTH
30 Bon Secours Alzheimer’s Partnership 32 The Pediatric Dentist: Does Your Child Have One?
24 46
SENIORS
33 A Wrinkle In Time
FLAVOR
36 Chef’s Choice 40 Tastebudz 42 Happy Hour Guide 44 Dining + Entertainment 46 Local Perks 47 Beer Budz
TRAVEL
48 Toeing the Line in Bristol, VA
58
HOME 53 A Second Home: Is It For You? 58 Enjoying Your Backyard This Winter
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November / December 2018
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West End’s Best 13
From the Editor
Contributors Zach Brown
I will admit that I do, as many have often suggested, have a screw loose. I love winter. I love snow. I love bad weather in general. So, as we get into November, I start to fantasize about having one of those good old-fashioned winters. You know the kind we had when we were kids. Seemingly, all adults, from 21 to 100 recall that the winters were much rougher when they were kids. Go figure. I’m hoping for a snowy winter. However, with Richmond having been officially designated as the “Cold Rain Capital of America,” the chances for a good ol’ winter are pretty slim. In all likelihood, we will get some cold weather. Now is the time to start preparing your backyard to enjoy the season. We have an excellent piece by Kathleen Whitlow with some tips to help you enjoy your yard during the winter.
Zach first moved to Richmond to attend VCU, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Writing in 2010. Serving as a poster child for obsessive behavior, Zach has never been able to casually enjoy anything as subjects that interest him hit ‘all-consuming’ levels in a matter of days. The greatest example of this defect being his love of writing. When he wraps up his daily word quota, you’ll find him playing drums with his band, reading, or enjoying a craft beer from one of his many favorite local brewers.
While I love snow, I am well aware of the toll bad weather takes on many. Most weather-related miseries happen without a lot of warning. Being prepared for such emergencies is a key factor towards coping and surviving. Do you have your Go Bag ready to go? Read Maria Tucciarone’s timely article on the subject in this issue. One sure thing about most of us Richmonders, regardless of the weather, we are going to keep on dining out. I so enjoy discovering new restaurants and I love sharing those finds. I hope you’ll be happy with our new feature — Chef’s Choice, which will give you an opportunity to meet some of the region’s most successful restaurant families and see what they’re doing in the kitchen. As the temperatures plunge, I find myself drinking more coffee. If you’re craving caffeine, take a look at our “Local Perks” piece. We all need a good perk me up from time to time. Speaking of which, we appreciate you picking this issue up. And we hope you enjoy every page.
Steve Cook,
Steve@RichmondNavigator.com
Writer? Photographer? Both? One of Metro Richmond’s largest Lifestyle Magazine Publishers is seeking freelance writers and photographers for a wide variety of editorial assignments.
Send resume and work samples, or link to online portfolio, to Jobs@AdvertisingConceptsInc.com
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November / December 2018
Maria Tucciarone
Maria is a poet at heart and tends to think in iambic pentameter. She has written two books of sonnets: In Shakespeare’s Shadow and Broken Birds. Her books can be found in Richmond bookstores and online at any major retailer. She is currently working on her third volume of poetry. Maria loves the literary scene in Richmond. Her spoken word has been spotlighted at Café Zata and Firehouse Theater. She has been published nationally in Tea Time Magazine and locally in magazines and anthologies. When she’s not writing, Maria may be found with her nose in a book or hunting for treasures at antique shops. Her best friends are her husband, Tom, a musician, and her children, Holden and Felina.
Constance Whitney
After spending the majority of her formative years living overseas, when it came time to settle down Constance quickly chose Richmond as her home. The history, the people, the culture — the food! As dedicated word mercenary, Constance writes for the technical world during the day and uses her gift of prose after hours to document her never-ending quest to explore all life has to offer.
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PRESIDENT / PUBLISHER William J. Davis, Jr. VICE-PRESIDENT / PUBLISHER Cheryl T. Davis
Make Your Dog’s Holiday Reservation Now
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Steve Cook ASSISTANT EDITOR Ashley Jefferson COPY EDITOR Tammy Wersinger CREATIVE DIRECTOR Michael Lay GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ryan Hooley DIGITAL MANAGER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joey Wharton PHOTOGRAPHERS Steve Cook, Jimmy Davis, David Masucci, Josh Young ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY BigStockPhoto.com CONTRIBUTORS Zach Brown, Sara Hunt, Maria Tucciarone, Kathleen Whitlow, Constance Whitney EDITORIAL INTERNS Cosima Pellis, Lamar West DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jimmy Davis ADVERTISING West End’s Best Magazine is published bimonthly by Richmond Navigator Media 6301 Harbourside Drive, Suite 100 Midlothian, VA 23112 P: 804-639-9994 E: Info@RichmondNavigator.com ONLINE / SOCIAL RichmondNavigator.com Facebook.com/RichmondNavigator Twitter.com/RichmondNav 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
A Division of Advertising Concepts, Inc. ALL ARTICLES AND CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE OPINIONS OR THOUGHTS OF WEST END’S BEST MAGAZINE, ADVERTISING CONCEPTS, INC OR THE PUBLISHER.
ABOUT OUR COVER
In this issue of West End’s Best, we introduce Chef’s Choice, a new section highlighting some of the area’s most prominent chefs. On the cover is Greek Taverna’s Chicken Spanakopita, described by owner Toulah Suleymanin as a phylowrapped chicken breast, stuffed with a spinach and feta mix and served with a creamy lemon sauce. Dave Masucci photographed this delicious dish.
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Richmond Navigator Media is a division of Advertising Concepts, Inc.
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West End’s Best 17
Events Calendar by West End’s Best staff
See website for show times / $15 - $85 / Richmond Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh St., 804-780-4970 / RichmondColiseum.net
smoked, grilled, roasted, fried, and on the half shell. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. / $1 suggested entry donation / 17th and Franklin Streets / Enrichmmond.org
NOVEMBER 16 – 18
NOVEMBER 16 – 18
54th Annual Craft + Design Presented by Altria This museum-quality show has garnered a reputation for showcasing the finest in contemporary craft, including ceramics, precious metals, glass, wood and recycled materials.
Patrons’ Preview Party (Nov. 16: 6 – 9 p.m. ); General admission shopping (Nov. 17 & 18: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m). See website for tickets and additional times / Main Street Station Renovated shed, 1500 E. Main St. / VisArts.org
Don Giovanni Presented by the Virginia Opera Company, Don Giovanni is considered one of the top 10 operas in the world and blends comedy, melodrama and supernatural elements into Mozart’s popular opera. 8 p.m. (12/16), 2:30 p.m. (12/18) / $16.53 - $120 / Carpenter Theatre, 600 E. Grace St. / DominionEnergyCenter.com/Events
The Story
See website for show times / Free, ticket required / Alice Jepson Theatre, Modlin Center for the Arts, 50 Crenshaw Way, 804-289-8980 / Calendar.Richmond.edu
Carlene Carter The daughter of June Carter Cash and country star Carl Smith — and stepdaughter of Johnny Cash — Carlene Carter is the physical embodiment of the Carter Family in the 21st century.
NOVEMBER 16 – 18 In September of 1980, a talented, young, African-American reporter named Janet Cooke wrote “Jimmy’s World,” a Pulitzer Prize-winning article for The Washington Post. Cooke’s story told of an eight-year-old, third-generation heroin addict living on the dangerous streets of Washington, D.C. The problem: Jimmy didn’t exist. The Story examines morality as the lines between truth and ambition become dangerously distorted.
NOVEMBER 17
Doors open 6 p.m., Show 8 p.m. / $42.50 (advance), $47.50 (door) / Tin Pan, 8982 Quiocassin Road / TinPanRVA.com
NOVEMBER 16 – JANUARY 6
Sister Act
Based on the 1992 hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg, this musical follows the fallen showgirl, Deloris Van Cartier, as she unexpectedly finds sisterhood and redemption when forced to take refuge in a convent. See website for show times / $36+ / Virginia Repertory Theater, 114 W. Broad St. / va-rep.org
NOVEMBER 23
Diamond Heist The group has a blast doing this Neil Diamond Tribute Show. Doors open 6 p.m., Show 8 p.m. / $12 (advance), $15 (door) / Tin Pan, 8982 Quiocassin Road / TinPanRVA.com
NOVEMBER 17
Shockoe on the Half Shell
NOVEMBER 16 – 18
Disney on Ice Presents Worlds of Enchantment Rev up for non-stop fun with four of your favorite Disney stories.
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Meet in The Bottom to celebrate one of Virginia’s most iconic foods. Some of the area’s most popular restaurants and oyster shuckers will serve up every kind of oyster —
November / December 2018
NOVEMBER 24
Beatlegacy – The Ultimate Experience These talented musicians celebrate the music with a stunning visual and audio re-creation of all eras of Beatles music; from the pre-fame
days to Beatlemania, the psychedelic years, Abbey Road and beyond. Doors open 6 p.m., Show 8 p.m. / $30 (advance), $35 (door) / Tin Pan, 8982 Quiocassin Road / TinPanRVA.com
alleys of Richmond to enthusiastic, mesmerized bar hopping listeners. Eventually a wise and philanthropic bar owner invited them inside to reclaim his roving clientele, bestowed upon them the moniker “Slack Family” and hence a destiny was fulfilled. 6 p.m. / Free / The Camel, 1621 W. Broad St., 804-353-4901 / TheCamel.org
DECEMBER 21
Charlie Wilson Solo performance by the former lead vocalist of The Gap Band. 8 p.m. / $91 - $236 / Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel St. / AltriaTheater.com
DECEMBER 8
Tacky Light Run Richmond’s Sports Backers has taken one of the city’s favorite traditions one step further. This event kicks off with one big mass start.
DECEMBER 22
Bill Kirchen Named a “Titan of the Telecaster” by Guitar Player Magazine, Kirchen celebrates a musical tradition that embraces rock ‘n’ roll, blues and bluegrass, Texas western swing and California honkytonk.
NOVEMBER 28-29
Dark Star Orchestra: Two Nights Dark Star Orchestra, a Grateful Dead tribute band, serve up two evenings of the seminal jam band’s best loved works. 8 p.m. / $41+ / The National, 708 E. Broad St. / TheNationalVA.com
NOVEMBER 29 – DECEMBER 2
The Bizarre Bazaar
Since 1975, the Bizarre Bazaar has been providing customers with a unique and exciting marketplace.
Just line up with the group that best matches your projected pace. The run begins at 6 p.m. See website for full details on times and registration. SportsBackers.org
Doors open 6 p.m., Show 8 p.m. / $27.50 (advance), $32.50 (door) / Tin Pan, 8982 Quiocassin Road / TinPanRVA.com
DECEMBER 29
Harlem Globetrotters
DECEMBER 10
Celeste Barber Live at the Hipp Actor, comedian and social media superstar Celeste Barber is the self-proclaimed queen of everyday sophistication and low budget lifestyle aspirations.
A Globetrotters game is more than just basketball — it’s the ultimate in family entertainment. 1 p.m. & 6 p.m. / $16 - $115 / Richmond Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh St., 804-780-4970 / RichmondColiseum.net
7 p.m. / $25 - $45 / Hippodrome Theater, 508 N. 2nd St. / HippodromeRichmond.com
See website for hours / $9 (Children 2-12 - $1.50) / Richmond Raceway Complex, 600 E. Laburnum Ave. / TheBizarreBazaar.com
DECEMBER 2
The Celebration Market Kick off the holiday season at Independence Golf Club! A fun, festive shopping event showcasing the best of local businesses. Complimentary admission, door prizes, lots of free parking, food and drink available for purchase from Tavern 19. Family friendly. Women’s boutique clothing, jewelry, accessories, skincare, makeup, photography, female health services, art, gifts, and so much more. Join us for this one of a kind event! 1-4 p.m. / Independence Golf Club 600 Founder’s Bridge Boulevard, Midlothian / facebook.com/ TheCelebrationMarket
DECEMBER 7
Beers and Banjos With the Slack Family Band The Slack Family began life more than ten years ago performing in the streets and back
DECEMBER 30
A Hip Hop Nutcracker The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a contemporary work set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music — entertainment for the whole family.
DECEMBER 14 – 16
The Wizard of Oz You know the story — Dorothy, a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home — and it’s still entertaining new generations of audiences. See website for times / From $43.50 / Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel St. / AltriaTheater.com
DECEMBER 14 – 23
Richmond Ballet – The Nutcracker A beloved Richmond tradition.
See website for times / From $25 / Carpenter Theatre, 600 E. Grace St. / DominionEnergyCenter.com/ Events
7 p.m. / From $54 / Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel St. / AltriaTheater.com
JANUARY 5
Richmond Performing Arts Alliance Presents Legends on Grace: “Forever Ella” Celebrating “The First Lady of Song,” Desirée Roots brings to life Ella Fitzgerald’s most noted songs. 7 p.m. / $35 - $50 / Libby S. Gottwald Playhouse, 600 E. Grace St. / DominionEnergyCenter.com/Events
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West End’s Best 19
WEST END LIFE
Continuing the Legacy
Meet Robin Adolf Salzberg of Lustre by Steve Cook
Robin Adolf Salzberg and Daniel Wright, co-owners of Lustre by Adolf
T
here are some article assignments that I enjoy more than others. And I have to admit that I was very happy to learn that we were doing a story on Robin Adolf Salzberg, co-owner of Lustre, a beautiful jewelry store that opened in the Ridge Shopping Center (1539 N. Parham Road) this past May. The cause of my happiness was not that I’d be going to a jewelry store. To be honest, jewelry stores intimidate me. It was because I hadn’t seen Robin in a decade. Back in 2008, she was a model for several fashion shoots we did for this magazine. At the time, Robin was working with her mother (Susan Weiner Adolf) and uncle (Gary Weiner), who are the owners of Saxon Shoes. When I first met Robin, I was impressed not only with her poise and self-confidence but even more so with her unassuming and humble character. I had not seen her since she had participated in a photo shoot for the magazine in October 2008. Robin soon left both modeling and her job at Saxon’s to start a family. In 2005, she had married Daniel Salzberg. After the birth of their two daughters, Ava in 2009 and Julia in 2012, she
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returned gradually to the work force, taking a job with her father, Ronnie Adolf, in his jewelry store. Saxon Shoes and Adolf Jewelry are inarguably two of the region’s most successful and storied businesses. Fast forward to the summer of 2017, Robin and her father are having lunch at Westbury Pharmacy, another West End landmark business. Her father reveals that he is considering retirement. “Oh no, you can’t,” Robin remembers crying. She was also upset because, she says, her tears ruined her chicken salad sandwich. Over the next four months, Robin tossed around the idea of opening her own jewelry store after her father’s retirement. “It’s in my blood,” she says of business ownership… actually, on both sides of her family. Robin’s grandparents had created successful businesses in the Richmond area, which had been handed down to her parents. Saxon Shoes was started by her mother’s parents, Jack and Gloria Weiner, in 1953. And Adolf Jewelers was “born” back in the sixties when Ronnie’s mother, Jean Adolf, began selling costume jewelry inside Flair Apparel, a popular boutique, which was located in Willow Lawn.
After her father revealed his future plans, Robin says she began to weigh all of the factors in deciding what to do. “There were family considerations,” she says. It had long been a dream to have a store of her own. But jewelry was not her first choice. “I was interested in fashion design when I was younger,” she says. “I figured my mother was in shoes; my father was in jewelry. I would open a dress shop and we could have our own Macy’s.” However, after joining her father, it all became clear, she says. “Once I started working at Adolf, it clicked for me.” The need to finalize a decision was thrust upon her a little sooner than she had expected. In November 2017, her father announced that he would be retiring. In February of this year, Adolf Jewelers closed its doors for the last time. Robin had begun to make plans for Lustre (officially, Lustre by Adolf). She asked one of her father’s employees, Daniel Wright, if he would consider being her partner in the business. “Daniel had no hesitation on taking this crazy journey with me, as its also been his dream to be a business owner.” Robin adds, “I have a husband Daniel and a work husband Daniel.” Daniel (her business partner) had experience in the jewelry business, and had also worked in corporate America for both Apple and Disney. She and her new partner invited two of her father’s sales associates/jewelers to join them in the business. Both women, Georgia Stolte and Annette Bonda, have brought their expertise to Lustre. There is also a full-time jeweler who does the repairs in the store. In May 2018, Lustre opened its doors to the applause and relief of many of Adolf Jewelers’ longtime customers. “We have heard so many horror stories from people (former customers) who had to go elsewhere,” Robin says. She tells me, “Jewelry is a business where you can easily get taken advantage of. We, here, cannot fathom the way other stores treat their customers.” I confess to Robin that I have long been intimidated by jewelry stores. Perhaps it’s all that glitter. “Our motto is taking the intimidation and pressure out of buying jewelry,” she tells me. “The price tag is scary enough; the experience shouldn’t be,” she laughs, although she’s quick to reassure me that there’s something for virtually any budget in Lustre, “from $20 sterling silver to $85,000 yellow diamonds.” While I’m more of a $20 sterling sort of guy, it is comforting to hear Robin express her feelings on the subject. As I mentioned her downto-earth persona was always refreshing. “I want people to know that we have something in here for everyone.” she says. “A lot of people didn’t think they could walk into Adolf and afford to buy anything.
I never want someone to feel that way. That makes me feel funny when someone thinks we’re too hoity toity.” Now, that’s my sort of jeweler. Lustre truly is a place where a guy could actually feel comfortable shopping for something for that special someone. And regardless of just how special that someone is, you’re sure to find just what you seek. “Some people think we’re simply a boutique store,” The store may have a boutique feel, but look around, we are as fine a jewelry store as any.” Indeed, the beautiful, yet comfortable and somewhat casual, shop offers a wide variety of wedding rings, diamonds, bracelets, earrings and necklaces; even children’s jewelry. “We have about six designer brands, including new designers; some that Adolf never carried,” she says. You can also find an estate jewelry section in the store and special orders can frequently be in the store within a day. As we approach the year’s major shopping season, Lustre is gearing up with several trunk shows scheduled. “We offer gift certificates that never expire,” Robin says, “and regarding gift wrapping, “Our beautiful gift boxes are a presentation in themselves.” In addition to both jewelry and watch repair, Lustre also buys and sells gold, silver and diamonds. Their experienced jewelers can also create the perfect gift. “If you see something you like, we can re-create it for you,” she promises. Or, they can take existing stones and create an entirely new piece of jewelry just for you or that loved one. As our interview draws to a close, Robin reflects on the time spent working with her father. “I got to be with him every day. We are best friends, as I am with my mother.” She says she misses the regular association, but tells me that when her parents are not traveling or visiting her brother’s family (and new grandchild) in D.C. her father can frequently be found in Lustre. “Dad comes in wearing his flip flops and shorts,” she laughs. And he continues to provide her with some fatherly business advice. “We still have a lot to learn,” she says of her partner and herself. “What is the greatest strength you gained from working with your father?” I ask her. Robin pauses for a moment before replying. “To be kind and honest,” she says. “Anybody can learn a trade. I can always learn about diamonds. You can’t learn to be nice.” To learn more about Lustre, visit online at HaveLustre.com and on Facebook (Facebook.com/havelustre/) or phone 804-285-3671.
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West End’s Best 21
West End's Best
SHOPPERS’ GUIDE AS THE SEASON FOR SHOPPING BEGINS, THINK OUTSIDE THE BIG BOX STORES FOR FINDING UNIQUE ITEMS FOR YOURSELF, YOUR HOME AND YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS. CHECK OUT WHAT SOME OF OUR LOCAL RETAILERS ARE OFFERING IN THE RICHMOND AREA. Amelia Service Equipment
Cottage Lane
The Freckled Frog
Make your great outdoorsman’s job a little easier with a great gift from Amelia Service Equipment. Here, a wide variety of service equipment and other unique tools and supplies are readily available at competitive prices.
Cottage Lane offers casual, upbeat and fun special gifts you’ll be proud to give and receive. Many gifts are unique and cannot be found anywhere else!
If you’re searching for a gift for someone who loves to relax outdoors, visit The Freckled Frog. Their wide selection of outdoor furniture will make it easy to find the perfect gift.
Decorating Outlet
Indigo Home
Decorating Outlet offers incredible deals on lighting, rugs, accent furniture, and all kinds of home decor accessories.
Indigo Home is a year round gift and garden store, featuring the finest seasonal home décor and collectibles.
Erwin Franke World of Rugs
Layne’s Country Store
18085 Genito Rd., Amelia | 804-561-5885 AmeliaEquipmentService.com
Art on the Wire
13407 Midlothian Tnpk., Midlothian 804-379-0112
Decorate your home for this festive season with beautiful selections of artwork from Art on the Wire.
Artee Fabrics & Home
5478 W Broad St., Richmond 804-285-9591 | ArteeFabricsAndHome.com
Surprise your DIY loved one with a gift from Artee Fabrics & Home. Artee Fabrics offers thousands of custom home fabrics that can be used to make custom designed pieces as well as custom furniture, window fabrics, bedding and more.
Sycamore Square Shopping Center 1353 Sycamore Sq., Midlothian 804-379-5263 | CottageLaneGifts.com
9912 Midlothian Tnpk., Richmond 804-320-3695
9944 Midlothian Tnpk., North Chesterfield 804-323-5540
Erwin Franke World of Rugs is the MidAtlantic’s foremost authority on handmade Oriental rugs.
13211 Midlothian Tnpk., Midlothian 804-379-1200 | FreckledFrogVA.com
1101 Crowder Dr., Midlothian | 804-794-6972 IndigoHGH.com
11670 Lakeridge Pkwy., Ashland 804-840-6201 | LaynesCountryStore.com
With over 150 different candies and treats, Layne’s Country Store is the best place to go for last minute stocking stuffers.
Legacy Amish Furniture
Sleepy Fox Distillery
Legacy Amish Furniture offers custom, American made and handcrafted Amish furniture and home décor.
Spoil your loved one with some delicious moonshine from Sleepy Fox distillery! With a multitude of unique flavors, you’re sure to find something that they will love.
7500 Jackson Arch Dr. Suite G, Mechanicsville | 804-442-2007 LegacyAmishFurniture.com
Pla-Mor Pools
7225 Bell Creek Rd., Suite 238, Mechanicsville | 804-746-5555 PlaMorPools.com
When it comes to your backyard investment, Pla-Mor Pools is committed to providing quality products, reliable pool service and excellent customer service.
Saxon Shoes
11800 W Broad St., Henrico | 804-285-3473 SaxonShoes.com
With over 200 well-known brand names for men, women and children, you’re sure to find exactly the shoe you’re looking for at Saxon.
Shades of Light
11670 Lakeridge Pkwy., Ashland 804-525-0628 Facebook.com/SleepyFoxDistillery
Sterling Boutique
2622 Buford Rd., Richmond | 804-320-2737
If you’re searching for a unique piece of jewelry for that special someone in your life, visit Sterling Boutique. They’ll be sure to have what your looking for.
Strange’s Florist
12111 West Broad St., Richmond 804-360-2800 | Stranges.com
Strange’s Florist is a family owned and operated florist, greenhouse, garden center and nursery. It’s Richmond’s largest and most popular florist offering the best quality products and services at reasonable prices.
4924 West Broad St. (across from Willow Lawn), Richmond | 804-288-6515 ShadesOfLight.com
Tiny Tim’s Toy’s & Trains
Shades of Light offers an extensive collection of unique lighting, rugs, lampshades, furniture and accessories.
Tiny Tim’s Toy’s & Trains is a family owned business that offers model trains, cars, learning toys, science kits, crafts, gags, and family games for kids ages 0-99.
104 S. Railroad Ave., Ashland 804-368-0063 | TrainAndToyStore.com
Tweed
4035 Lauderdale Dr., Richmond 804-249-3900 | TweedAtHome.com
For your loved one that’s always setting the trend, Tweet offers a unique selection of gifts, home accents, and women’s accessories.
West End Antiques
2004 Staples Mill Rd., Richmond 804-359-1600 | WestEndAntiqueMall.com
For the person that has everything, West End Antiques offer our customers an ever changing inventory of antiques and collectables including: furniture, fine art, mirrors, lighting, pottery, porcelain, silver, carpets, textiles and much more in a diversity of periods and styles.
’Tis The Season At Stony Point Fashion Park by Ashley Jefferson is the season for holiday cheer! And Stony Point Fashion Park has transformed into a Winter Wonderland filled with tons of festivities that will allow you to skate through this season with ease. Starting November 10, you and your family can kick off the holiday season with Santa and the Holiday Princess. Enjoy music by KOS Band and a performance from the James River Ice Theatre as Santa and the Holiday Princess light the 42-foot animated holiday tree. If you miss the tree lighting, there is no need to worry. Until New Years Day, the Holiday Tree Light Show will operate daily at the top and bottom of each hour, beginning at 10 a.m. and continuing until 11 p.m. November also marks the return of Stony Point On Ice! Grab your whole family and hit the ice to spin and twirl on this scenic skating rink. Take advantage of special ice rink events like Two-for-Tuesdays, which grants you two tickets for the price
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Carolers, ice skaters and Christmas trees set a holiday tone at Stony Point Fashion Park. You’ll also find Santa, carriage rides and a multitude of shops and restaurants to satisfy every shopping list and appetite.
November / December 2018
of one and H&M Night which offers a free ticket when you make a purchase of $25 or more at H&M. If you’re not interested in skating, why not take a seat and watch the James River Ice Theatre for a magical holiday performance! Every Saturday at 5:30 p.m., the theatre will perform spectacular shows like Stony Point Fashion on Ice. Watch as the skaters showcase the latest fashions right on the rink. It will be unlike any other fashion show you’ve ever seen before! Shopping will also be an easy, stressfree experience. Several new shops and bakeries are opening up in November that offer unique gifts no one else will have. Visit See’s Candies for that perfect chocolate covered Secret Santa gift or Tipsy Cupcakes for a tasty sweet treat with a buzz. If you’re searching for the perfect dress for your little princess, Nana Belle is the place to go. And when it comes to the lovely lady in your life, Down the Garden Path offers beautiful gifts for home, garden and life.
Be Bold.
Grooming, training, and daycare! One-on-One Grooming Appointments
Be Different. Be Iconic.
We treat each dog as if they were our own Call today to make an appointment for YOUR best friend!
Stand Out From Among the Crowd! The Premier Place for Your Fashion Needs.
Grooming prices based on breed.
All dog breeds are accepted.
Ideal apparel for any wardrobe. Hand Selected, Limited Run Appa and Accessories! Apparel Worldwide Shipping.
(804) 477-8036 | SittingPretty-rva.com 9200 Stony Point Parkway, 155A, Richmond
804.477.8028 | sales@iconic7.com | iconic7.com Stony Point Fashion Park Mall, Richmond, VA
Specializing in Custom Designed Jewelry Just for You
FULL SERVICE SALON
At Hacked Hair we offer a stylish and luxurious experience focusing on services that help you maintain the health, beauty and integrity of your hair and nails. Monday- Closed • Tue - Thur 10:00am - 9:00 pm Friday - Sat 10:00am - 6:00pm Sun 12:00pm - 6:00 pm
Bring in Your Ideas and We Can Make Them a Reality
Hacked Hair Salon 9200 Stony Point Pkwy, Suit 197 804-391-6294
9200 Stony Point Parkway, Suite 132, Richmond 804-591-0844 | Diamond-concepts.net
Stony Point Fashion Park
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West End’s Best 25
An Enchanted Haven for Seekers of Beauty, Wisdom & Spiritual Inspiration
Gifts for Body, Mind & Spirit Stony Point Fashion Park Alchemistsbooksandgifts.com • 804 320-9200 26 West End’s Best
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November / December 2018
Once your shopping is complete, sit back on any one of the cabanastyle seating areas to relax and enjoy the sounds of the strolling carolers. Dressed in Dickens outfits, the carolers will sing all of your favorite holiday songs as they stroll throughout the Fashion Park. And don’t forget to take a picture with Santa! Located in Space #189 across from Yankee Candle, Santa will be waiting to capture that special moment with you and your child. Bring your pet along as well. They may also grab a picture with Santa! For an extra treat, reserve a romantic carriage ride for you and a loved one. The complimentary horse-drawn carriage will ride throughout the center, beginning at the Saks Fifth Avenue and Brooks Brothers entrance. Once your ride is complete, enjoy a nice dinner at any one of several excellent restaurants. Latitude is a delicious seafood restaurant offering some of the freshest raw shellfish in the area. Or, for a more festive treat, visit La Hacienda for delicious Cali-Mex cuisine. Stony Point Fashion Park has everything planned to make your holiday events and shopping excursions an experience that you and the whole family will love.
NINO’S Italian Delight
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FOOD IN STONY POINT FASHION PARK
PIZZA BY THE SLICE
YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING STOP FOR A GREAT SLICE OF PIZZA NINO'S ITALIAN DELIGHT WILL SATISFY YOUR HUNGER FOR GREAT ITALIAN MEALS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SERVING YOU DELICIOUS PIZZA, PASTA, CALZONE, STROMBOLI, SUBS, SALADS AND MOUTHWATERING ITALIAN DESSERTS.
9200 STONY POINT PKWY, RICHMOND, VA 23235 • (804) 793-8849 NINOSITALIANDELIGHT.COM
Making Places Beautiful Everyday
SPACE PLANNING & LAYOUT FURNITURE COLOR PALETTE LIGHTING | FLOORING CUSTOM FABRICATION HOME DECOR
JOSEPH’S DESIGNS | INTERIORS I N T E R I O R D E S I G N C O M PA N Y Holiday Special - All custom orders over $500 are 20% off.
———————————————————
Phone: (804) 616-4500 | josephsdesignsonline.com
This Holiday Season Down the Garden Path is Popping Up at Stony Point Fashion Park For a limited time only, from November 1st to December 31st, Come Shop a holiday, holida home, & garden boutique 12212 Capwell Dr • Midlothian, Va 23113 www.downthegardenpathltd.com • 804-744-5955
Stony Point Fashion Park | 9200 Stony Point Parkway, Suite #142, Richmond
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West End’s Best 27
Hundreds of pieces in stock
Richmond’s Exclusive Dealer
Courtly Check Hor d’Oeuvre Tray 18”Long; $165
Courtly Check Lg Serving Platter 22”Long; $285
Courtly Check Fluted Heart Plate
6.5” Long; $110 __________________
Courtly Check Cheese Knife 8.5” Long; $48 8.5
Courtly Check Cheese Knife Set/3
6.25” Long; $98 __________________
Courtly Check Canape Knife Set/2 6.5” Long; $65 6.5
Silver Lining Topiary
25”High; $395
Silver & Gold Tree 22”High; $175 Each
Precious Metals Sleigh 20”Long; $250
Winter White Stag
10”long; $75 Each
Precious Metals Holiday Ribbon 3”Wide; $38
Courtly Check Cheese Course
12” Dia; $265 Retail
Instagram Giveaway
Follow Us on Instagram Because on Dec. 22nd One of Our Lucky Followers will Receive This Cheese Course FREE!
Biggs Ltd
Receive the Queen Bee Tassel
Stony Point Fasion Park
with a $299 or More Purchase
804-364-6006 (Next to Vineyard Vines)
biggsltd.com
10.5” Long $120 Retail
FREE
HEALTH
Bon Secours Launches Partnership with Local Alzheimer’s Association by Sara Hunt
I
t’s not unusual to joke about having a “senior moment” when you can’t remember someone’s name or where you put the car keys. But for the 5.7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, memory loss is no laughing matter. Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that impacts the functions of memory, speech and thought. Here are some recent statistics from the national Alzheimer’s Association: • Alzheimer’s disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S. • Between 2000 and 2015, deaths from Alzheimer’s have increased 123 percent. • One in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. • Every 65 seconds, someone in the U.S. develops the disease. • By 2050, the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s is projected to rise to nearly 14 million. When a patient is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, family members are suddenly faced with many decisions in order to ensure that their loved one has the best possible quality of life.
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The Bon Secours Neurology Clinic is dedicated to providing every Alzheimer’s patient with the personalized treatment and care that they deserve. To help achieve that mission, an exciting initiative has launched that will better support families who are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. Starting this fall, the Bon Secours Neurology Clinic will be partnering with the Greater Richmond Alzheimer’s Association to provide dementia counseling at the clinic’s location at Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital for those with dementia and their families or caregivers. A social worker from the Greater Richmond Alzheimer’s Association will be onsite in the Neurology Clinic at St. Mary’s to help with education about the disease and locating community resources that the family members can access on behalf of their loved one. “Initially, this social worker will be at the St. Mary’s location one day per week, but we plan to expand the service if it is well received,” said Cheryl Wood, a nurse practitioner in the neurology clinic. “Since the number of older adults is rising each year, the demand for this service will increase in the future.” She added that Bon Secours physicians,
November / December 2018
Cheryl Wood, nurse practitioner in the Bon Secours Neurology Clinic.
psychologists and nurse practitioners will continue to evaluate the cause of memory complaints and help make a dementia diagnosis when appropriate. “We have found that Alzheimer’s and dementia patients and their families need an enhanced layer of support and consultation along the journey after receiving this difficult diagnosis,” concluded Wood. “Our new partnership with the Greater Richmond Alzheimer’s Association will help families better navigate the pathways to explore available resources in the community.” For more information about the Bon Secours Neurology Clinic, contact 804-8938656 or visit bonsecours.com/Richmond.
HEALTH SPONSORED CONTENT
The Pediatric
Dentist: Does Your Child Have One? by Jeff Laughlin, DDS MPH
“They are just baby teeth!” This common statement is often heard by the pediatric dentist at a child’s first dental visit. This simple belief implies that because those baby teeth will fall out, there is little care that needs to be devoted to them. Yet it is well documented that a child with poor oral health is unable to eat and thrive, sleep uninterrupted, concentrate in school or socialize without embarrassment. The mouth is considered a “mirror” to the rest of the body. In other words, a healthy mouth free of tooth decay, pain and swelling positively “reflects” a child’s overall health. However, 4.5 million U.S. toddlers and preschoolers (over 25%) still experience tooth decay, which is five times more common than childhood asthma. It is important that your child visit a pediatric dentist as early as age 1. A dentist who specializes in children understands that kids are not just small adults. Each child is unique and requires an agespecific plan for prevention and treatment that may involve more advanced behavior management techniques, such as oral sedation or general anesthesia. Your child deserves a positive experience in a kid-friendly dental environment that is comfortable and fun, allowing their trust with the pediatric dentist to be strengthened over time. It is no longer accepted that baby teeth are unimportant or that a child does not need to be seen by a dentist until age 3. An infant with no cavities can quickly progress to a toddler with decayed teeth, causing dental pain and disability—a scenario that can be prevented.
Establishing a “dental home” with a pediatric dentist is essential to a healthy mouth and teeth, which can have a tremendous long-term effect on your child’s general health and well-being. Dr. Laughlin is a Pediatric Dentist with Virginia Family Dentistry and boardcertified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He completed his dental degree at Columbia University’s School of Dental Medicine and received his pediatric dentistry specialty training at the Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Dr. Laughlin enjoys working with children and their parents to make dental visits fun and pain-free. When not practicing, Dr. Laughlin enjoys traveling, soccer, and spending time with his wife, Anna, and their 3 wild children, Charlie, Garnes, and Helena. Virginia Family Dentistry is a group practice of more than 50 doctors specializing in Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Dental Implants, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics, Cosmetic and General Dentistry. With 14 convenient locations in the Richmond Metro Area, we can assist you in creating your youthful smile. For a location near you, visit VAdentist.com.
Our four West End locations: Short Pump (804) 364-7010; West End Orthodontic & Pediatric Specialty Center (804) 351-5432; Patterson/Parham (804) 364-7090; Staples Mill (804) 672-4900 — VAdentist.com
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SENIORS ADVENTURES IN AGING
a
A WRINKLE IN TIME by Constance Whitney
nd then it happened. Like a lightning bolt on a sunny day… Bang!Nowarning(atleastnonethatItookseriously),noeasing into the topic. It just hit. I aged. I have always taken great pride in my Irish heritage skin. Even into her 80s, mom’s skin was crystal clear with hardly a crease to be seen. I am, for the record, decades from my 80s. I moisturize almost daily. I avoid the sun at night and on rainy days. I have been known to occasionally use sunscreen and, like clockwork, I get a facial at least once a decade. But no worries, my DNA was going to protect me from someday looking like an old alligator. Right? Wrong! Clearly, depending on a genetic lottery to keep me looking like Heidi Klum was not in my cards. After a fantastic beach week this past summer, I gazed in the mirror and was floored. I have wrinkles! And dry skin. And a couple of brown spots that have decided to just take up residency right in the middle of my face. How could my complete neglect of basic skin care regiments have led to this? Crinkles on the sides of my eyes. Creases on my forehead. Cheeks that, rather than glowing healthily, were now rough enough to sand down an old oak chest. Gulping down my pride and acknowledging that I may have not been correct in my self-diagnosed immunity to the effects of aging (and the power of DNA), I sought help. “Please give me back the face of my 20s,” I said. The doctor laughed. Apparently, there is no product or procedure on the planet that can reverse 30 years of aging. “Price is no limit,” I said. “Medical and cosmetic technology is limited,” he said. I was obviously not the first Baby Boomer to come running to him in facial crisis mode.
He did, though, give me advice on what to do going forward that may reduce the progression of the craters on my face and prevent new crevices from forming. Step one: Exfoliate. Gently, and often. Step two: Never ever go out of the house without sunscreen. As he colorfully put it, “Go out of the house naked before you go out without sunscreen.” The visual is a great reminder. Step three: Stay out of the sun. That doesn’t mean I have to give up the beach. Or the mountains. Or anywhere else in the great outdoors. It means I need to get smarter. Wear a rash guard at the beach. Keep a hat on. And use sunscreen. Step four: Moisturize. He was quick to point out that the megaexpensive moisturizers are not necessarily better than the more reasonably priced ones. The key is to use them — at least every morning and every evening. “And,” he was beginning to sound like a broken record, “use a moisturizer with sunscreen in it!” Step five: Wash your face every night — without soap. I am a dedicated fan of Ivory soap. I have been since I was a kid at summer camp and saw it float. Despite its ability to remain buoyant, it is not the best product with which to wash my aging face. Noted. And that was it. After thousands of years of research by women since the Stone Age in the pursuit of the magic formula to prevent aging, it all comes down to just plain ol’ common sense. So, I have learned. In retrospect, relying on my DNA to keep me ageless was somewhat like relying on the Mega-Millions to fund my retirement. It might work. But moisturizer, sunscreen and a healthy 401k have better odds.
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West End’s Best 33
‘tis
the
season for
HOLIDAY CATERING!
NOTHING SAYS HAPPY HOLIDAYS LIKE AN IRON HORSE GIFT CARD
NEW MODERN SOUTHERN Southern Ham Biscuits
Live Music Fri-Sun | Sunday Brunch 10-2:30 | Sunday Supper Family Style 5-8:30 IronHorseRestaurant.com | 804-752-6410 | 100 S. Railroad Ave., Ashland
SEAFOOD
Apple Pecan Bread Pudding
Pick-up, delivery, or full-service Catering is available for your private party or corporate event!
BakersCrust.com Short Pump Town Center 11800 W. Broad Street 804-377-9060 Carytown 3553 W. Cary Street 804-213-0800 34 West End’s Best
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RESTAURANT
& RAWBAR
FINEST SEAFOOD ON THE EAST COAST
JOIN US FOR SUNDAY BRUNCH! MIDLOTHIAN
893-4093 AWFULARTHURS.COM 1300 Sycamore Square
November / December 2018
NOW OPEN
HENRICO
740-1054
10498 Ridgefield Pkwy
Gleneagles Shopping Center
Bringing You the Best of Local Food Dining & Drinks, Recipes & News
Chef’s Choice................ 34
Photo: Dave Masucci
tastebudz............................38
GREEK TAVERNA CHICKEN SPANAKOPITA This delicious dish features a spinach and feta mix stuffed in a chicken breast, wrapped in phylo, and served with a creamy lemon-accented sauce over an Armenian-style rice pilaf.
LOCAL PERKS...........................42
BeerBudz.............................45 HAPPY HOUR GUIDE................... 47 DINING + ENTERTAINMENT.............48
CHEF’s CHOICE TheGreekTaverna 1903 Staples Mill Rd., Richmond | 804-477-6216 TheGreekTavernaRVA.com
T
by Steve Cook
oulah Suleymanian was born into the restaurant business. From the mid-1970s to the early 90s, her family operated a popular Greek restaurant in the same location as the Greek Taverna, which she and her husband Gagek run today. “When she was in middle school her parents sold their restaurant. “I cried,” she says. “I told my mother that my plans were to one day fix the place up and make it really nice.” Though her parents had sold the business, they continued to own the building. In 2016, they decided to once gain operate their own restaurant, which has now been converted into that “really nice place,” Toulah had yearned for years ago. Toulah says the restaurant offers “authentic Greek comfort food. We don’t do too many crazy things, but stick to the traditional,” she says. “When I eat Greek food, I like to feel like I’m eating what my grandmother or my mom would make. I feel close to home.” For our visit, the couple prepared chicken spanakopita. “It’s my mom’s recipe. She created it,” Toulah says, describing the dish as a spinach and feta mix stuffed in a chicken breast, wrapped in phylo, and served with a creamy lemon-accented sauce. The accompanying rice pilaf is Gagek’s mother’s recipe — a nod to his Armenian heritage. Gagek says that while the menu offers recipes from Toulah’s family, he has a hand in creating many of the specials as well as both the pizza dough and sauce. When asked about having the opportunity to work side by side with his wife on a daily basis, Gagek says, “It’s fun. We’re here together, instead of both working separate jobs where we don’t get to see each other. The best part is that we get to spend all day together. We’ve done it the other way. This is definitely better.” Toulah says that her childhood dreams were for the restaurant to have a second level with a big banquet space. “Maybe one day,” she adds, “all TOP: Gagek and Toulah Suleymanian of The Greek Taverna. ABOVE: Chicken Spanakopita, a deliour dreams will come true.” cious dish featuring a spinach and feta mix stuffed in a chicken breast, wrapped in phylo, and served with a creamy lemon-accented sauce over an Armenian-style rice pilaf.
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PRIVATE DINING
2003
client appreciation events company social events corporate events holiday parties
Celebrations with a Southern Flair Our private back dining room may be reserved for up to 50 or the entire restaurant for up to 200 guests. 420 East Grace Street, Richmond, VA Monday - Saturday 4:30pm-Close • Sunday Brunch 10am-3pm
Book on Yelp or Call 804.377.3968 for reservations | Juleps.net
EAT GREEK THIS FALL! AUTHENTIC GREEK COMFORT FOODS ❖ MEZZES ❖ PIZZA FRESH SEAFOOD ❖ PASTA ❖ DESSERT ❖ CATERING 1903 Staples Mill Rd Richmond, VA 23230
804.477.6216
thegreektavernarva.com
HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY - THURSDAY 11AM - 9:30PM FRIDAY 11AM - 9:30PM ❖ SATURDAY 11:30AM - 9:30PM ❖ SUNDAY CLOSED
For nearly 25 years, Poe’s Pub has been a friendly neighborhood hangout for the folks in Church Hill, Shockoe Bottom and Beyond.
Isn’t it time you made Poe’s Pub your neighborhood hangout? 2706 E. Main Street (at the foot of beautiful Libby Hill Park)
648-2120 • Like Us On Facebook
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CHEF’s CHOICE Lola’sFarmhouseBistro 1840 Manakin Rd., Manakin-Sabot | 804-784-2000 LolasFarmhouseBistro.com by Steve Cook
W
“
e met in Red Bank, New Jersey at Danny’s Steak House, I was a bartender and Tommy was the chef,” Ronnie Hussey recalls. She continues: “Tommy has 25 years experience as a chef. He has catered for as many as 1,000 people at a time. “ Tommy, she says has performed his culinary magic for such celebrities as Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, even Cheech and Chong. “That was before we moved to Virginia and opened our own restaurant, Lola’s Farmhouse Bistro,” she adds, “named, not after me, but our yellowheaded Amazon parrot, Lola. While the restaurant may be named after a parrot, the food and the ambience are definitely not for the birds. From the delicious cuisine and attentive, friendly service to the charm of dining in a beautifully restored farmhouse, Lola’s offers an unparalleled dining experience. “Being family-owned, we are able to provide special attention and great service to all our guests,” Ronnie says. The historic farmhouse, built in 1865, offers two fireplaces, an outdoor fire pit, and a quaint, cozy bar with its own fireplace. For our visit, Tommy prepared the very popular rack of lamb. The lamb is cooked to perfection and served with buttermilk mashed potatoes as well as zucchini and peppers.
TOP: Ronnie and Tommy Hussey of Lola’s Farmhouse Bistro. ABOVE: Lola’s popular Rack of Lamb, served
with buttermilk mashed potatoes, zucchini and peppers.
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1/2 PRICE HAPPY HOUR
1/2 PRICE APPETIZERS & GREAT DRINK SPECIALS MON - FRI 2:30 - 6:30 12201 WEST BROAD STREET / HENRICO, VA 23233 / 804.360.3800 2934 WEST CARY STREET / RICHMOND, VA 23221 / 804.342.8990 WWW.THEDAILYKITCHENANDBAR.COM
tastebudz with Steve Cook
I want to welcome one of our newest TasteBudz, Ashley Jefferson. Ashley has recently joined our staff as assistant editor at West End’s Best Magazine. As a relative newcomer to the area, she’s taken the time to do a little exploring. I look forward to getting her take on the all the many fine dining spots throughout the West End. In fact, let’s start this edition of TasteBudz with this report from Ashley.
We had the hot seafood dip. There must be a lot of delicious crabmeat in that because that was the taste that stood out. It was excellent. The Baked Brie en Croute’ was also outstanding. It’s triple creamed brie wrapped in puff pastry and topped with roasted nuts, honey and balsamic reduction. Okay, I admit, I stole that off the menu, but you were pretty impressed with my gourmet-like verbiage, weren’t you? You’ll be equally impressed with Kari’s talents.
IN YOUR HEART, YOU KNOW IT’S MOM: Who around here is old enough to remember Barry Goldwater’s campaign slogan from his 1964 presidential bid? “In your heart, you know he’s right.” Well, I got to thinking about that as I enjoyed some delicious appetizers the other day over at Ya Ya’s Cookbook in Downtown Short Pump shopping center. Mom’s Siam Authentic Thai, located on Cary St. near downtown Richmond, has long been one of my very favorite restaurants. But did you know that Ya Ya’s Cookbook is really a West End version of Mom’s Siam? While the emphasis may be more on Thai street food, the cuisine, the tastes and flavors truly reflect the genius of the woman who, with her two sons, has built somewhat of a local restaurant empire. Ya Ya’s has a cool West End vibe, but basically, you could call it Mom’s Siam West. They have a great bar, too, with excellent and creative cocktails.
WINE NOTES: I was over at the Wine Loft (4035 Whittall Way, in West Broad Village) on a recent Thursday evening to listen to the amazing Kari Smith, who appears there every Thursday. The Wine Loft is the perfect spot to listen to Kari perform as you enjoy some delightful wines. And, as for the food, no one does elegant small plates any better than the folks at the Wine Loft.
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THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE TRACKS: I ran into one of my favorite Taste Buds the other night out at The Iron Horse Restaurant in Ashland (100 S. Railroad Ave.). Rusty Stone isn’t just a taste bud, but he’s an amazing chef. While there are a number of excellent West End eateries, I so enjoy heading out to Ashland and the Iron Horse and dining by the railroad tracks. We took some out-of-town friends there for dinner recently and they Photo:were Jimmyblown Davis away by Ashland’s beauty, the friendly, charming atmosphere of the restaurant and by the quality of the food. Rusty stopped by the table. I appreciated that. It made me look like I knew someone famous. And while he’s a very modest, soft-spoken guy, Rusty has done an amazing job as both general manager and executive chef at the Iron Horse. He was telling me that the building was a department store over a century ago. It really is a quaint little out-of-town getaway. My friends also enjoyed watching the trains go by as we enjoyed our meal. I guess that’s what they mean by chew chew train.
We had the 13-ounce New York strip. It was so succulent and perfectly prepared. I think the bread there may be about the best I’ve had anywhere. The roasted red pepper soup was also excellent. Did you know the Iron Horse also offers live entertainment most weekends as well as on many Wednesday nights. There’s never a cover charge. The first Thursday of every month also features a strolling art festival in Ashland and the Iron Horse gets in on the act with free music throughout the dinner hour and beyond. If you seek a truly back-to-abygone-era type of night out, I’d heartily recommend the Iron Horse and the Ashland downtown district.
COMINGS AND GOINGS: While I generally stay away from announcements about restaurants that are planned for the West End (after all, I want to know where to eat now, not six months from now), there’s so much going on in the West End restaurant scene, that I feel like I have to share a bit. Some of this is just rumor, mind you. Some are hard cold facts: Rumor – What famous local producer of prepared foods is looking, perhaps in the West End, for a retail outlet in which to offer their alwayspopular dishes and desserts? That’s all I know for now. But I’m guessing you can at least figure out who I’m talking about? Fact: First Watch plans Short Pump location. I’ve long enjoyed First Watch, a Floridabased chain that specializes in healthy kale tonics, power bowls and fresh salads, along with a host of other mainly breakfast foods and gourmet sandwiches. The breakfast/ lunch only restaurant debuted in the Richmond area in Midlothian at 1403 Huguenot Road. Now, they’re heading to Short Pump. Shortly after Bertucci’s Italian Restaurant, located across Broad Street from the Short Pump Town Center, closed its doors (bankruptcy reared its ugly head), came the announcement that First Watch would be moving in. Unlike most of the First Watch locations, which open from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily, the Short Pump store will serve alcohol. That could add a whole new meaning to a Kale Tonic.
Going, Going Gone: Less than six months after it opened its doors at 5700 Brook Road, Big Apple Grocery has closed ‘em (their doors, that is).
Nothing But the Truth: If Goochland Courthouse is too far for you to enjoy the authentic tastes at Bella Sicilia Italian (2913 River Road, West), then you might be happy to learn that co-owner Sal Gambino, a native of Sicily, has just opened his La Vera Pizza RVA at 214 Hull St. I’ve always loved visiting Bella Sicilia Italian. The aromas and the tastes are amazing. I haven’t check out La Vera, but I’m sure Sal will be impressing the folks down in Manchester with those delicious pizzas. And if you venture out to Goochland, take time to enjoy a pizza, the Italian entrees or a fantastic homemade dessert, including the tiramisu.
Well, I’ve certainly worked up an appetite. Let me see what I can find to eat around here. If you have any good dining suggestions, I’d love to hear from you. Same goes if you want to share your restaurant news. Our email is TasteBudz@RichmondNavigator.com. Drop us a line. Okay?
Read Tastebudz Online each week at RichmondNavigator. com. If you have any restaurant news or recommendations, email us at TasteBudz@RichmondNavigator.com. RichmondNavigator.com
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Happy Hour Guide Ya Ya’s Cookbook
Baker’s Crust Artisan Kitchen
11674 W. Broad St. (Downtown Short Pump shopping center), Short Pump; 804-360-8302; YaYasCookbookHenrico.com
11800 W. Broad St. (Short Pump Town Center), Short Pump; 804-377-9060 3533 W. Cary St.; 804-213-0800; BakersCrust.com
If you love Mom’s Siam in Carytown, you’re going to love Ya Ya’s — same owner, same recipes, plus sushi and a really cool bar.
Breakfast, sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas and creative entrees.
MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 4 TO 7 P.M.
DAILY, 3 TO 6 P.M.
Draft Beer – $1 off
Beer, on tap – $5
Fries, fresh cut – $5
Wine, by the glass – $1 off
Wine, on tap (excludes rotating taps) – $5
Tuna Slider – $6
Rail drinks – $4 Old Fashioned – $5
Craft cocktails – $7
House slider (New Zealand beef) – $6
Caprese Bruschetta – $5
Pizza, classic cheese – $7
Chicken taco – $4
Tavern chips – $5
Fried calamari – $6
Latitude Seafood Company 9200 Stony Point Pkwy. (Stony Point Fashion Park); 804-729-8441; LatitudeSeafoodCo.com Fresh seafood, 69 wines and 49 beers! What more could one hope for? How about a second location – now open in Stony Point Fashion Park, just south of the Willey Bridge. MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY, 3 TO 6:30 P.M.; SATURDAY, NOON TO 4 P.M.; SUNDAY, 1 TO 8 P.M. Beer (bottle, draft and growlers) – ½ off All wines – ½ off
Awful Arthur’s Seafood Company 10498 Ridgefield Pkwy., Short Pump; 804- 740-1054 1300 Sycamore Square, Midlothian; 804-893-4093 AwfulArthurs.com Shrimp, oysters, crab dip and tuna. What more could a seafood lover ask for? Oh, that’s right. How about $3 beers? Yup! Awful Arthur’s has that, too! MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY UNTIL 6PM
Well liquors – ½ off Appetizers – $6 (raw or steamed oysters, calamari, Hellfire Shrimp, chicken lettuce wraps, salmon dip) Daily specials include $3 tacos on Tuesdays and crab leg specials on Thursday.
Well Drinks – $6 Draft beer – $3 Wine – $3 Shrimp (½ lb ) – $6 6 steamed oysters/ clams – $6 Crab Dip – $6 Ahi Tuna – $6 6” Quesadilla (chicken / sirloin / shrimp) – $6 BBQ Nachos – $6 Sweet Srircha Shrimp – $6
If you are a restaurant or beverage manager, please send your Happy Hour specials to Steve@RichmondNavigator.com. Our Happy Hour Guide is provided as a service to our readers. This is not an advertisement, nor is any compensation involved. All happy hour listings are subject to change. Please drink responsibly.
For a more extensive guide visit RichmondNavigator.com/flavor/happy-hour-guide 42 End's BestBest 42West West End’s
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EASTCOASTRVA.COM IN CARYTOWN 804-353-3411
WESTCOASTRVA.COM IN SHORT PUMP 804-360-1090
FLAVOR
DINING + ENTERTAINMENT Photos: The Tin Pan
The Tin Pan 8982 Quioccasin Road 804-447-8189 TinPanRVA.com
The Tin Pan is a familyfriendly, smoke-free restaurant and listening room located in the West End of Richmond near Regency Square Mall. All ages are welcome. The venue features “any music you’d feel comfortable having dinner with” performed by national and local acts. That might mean folk, bluegrass, jazz, a string quartet or up-and-coming singer-songwriters touring alongside stars. The Tin Pan offers a full dinner menu, specialty cocktails, wine and beer and charges a $20 corkage fee. A food or beverage minimum of $13 applies to all tickets. HOURS: Regular box office hours are 12PM-5PM, Monday through Saturday. Buy tickets in person or over the phone.
CinéBistro
Photos: CinéBistro
Stony Point Fashion Park 9200 Stony Point Parkway 804-864-0460 CineBistro.com/Stony
CinéBistro is a dinner-anda-movie theatre venue with reserved seating. Their American bistro style menu includes fine wines, cocktails and traditional movie snacks like popcorn, Raisinets and Twizzlers. Not hungry? Ordering food or beverages while attending a movie is entirely up to you. Tickets for new releases opening on the upcoming Friday and running through the following Thursday are posted for sale online and at the Concierge Desk by midday Tuesday. Except for special Family Series movie engagements, no one under 21 will be admitted and proper identification is required. HOURS: Doors open 30 minutes before first show time of the day. In-Theatre Dining: You must arrive 30 minutes before show time for in-theatre service.
Lipbone Redding at The Tin Pan.
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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
Photos: Iron Horse Restaurant
Iron Horse Restaurant
100 S. Railroad Ave., Ashland; 804-752-6410; IronHorseRestaurant.com
Enjoy an exciting menu of New Modern Southern cuisine in one of Ashland’s most historic settings. Iron Horse presents live music most weekends. An extensive roster of talented local and Richmond-area musicians perform original acoustic and electric material. And chances are that on most Wednesday evenings there’ll be something happening on the Iron Horse stage, perhaps a local musician, a poetry slam or an open mic night. On the first Thursday of every month the town of Ashland holds a strolling festival with Iron Horse getting in on the act and opening their stage to a variety of performers. There’s never a cover charge. Check their social media outlets to keep up with their schedule. HOURS: Lunch: Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.; Saturday noon – 2:30 p.m. Dinner: Monday – Saturday 5:30 – 10 Sunday Brunch: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Photos: FunnyBone
FunnyBone Comedy Club Restaurant Short Pump Town Center 11800 West Broad Street 804-521-8900 Richmond.FunnyBone.com
Featuring nationally recognized, up-and-coming and local talent, and a full dinner menu, Richmond’s FunnyBone is a nonsmoking venue for 21 and over. A valid photo ID is required to enter. Seating is first come, first seated and four people are seated per table. There are no minimums but dinner and drinks are not included in the ticket price. Seating is cut off 30 minutes after the show begins, as late arrivals may disrupt the perfor- Bert Kreischer at the FunnyBone. mances. Show times are subject to change. Seating generally starts one hour prior to show time for the first show of the evening. Seating begins a half hour before show time for the second show of the evening. HOURS: Wednesday through Sunday night for comedy shows. Show times are subject to change but generally: Wednesday - 7:30 p.m. Thursday - 7:30 p.m. Friday - 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. Saturday - 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Sunday - 7:00 p.m.
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FLAVOR
Allegro Coffee
Bravo Rocco Italian Café
11173 W Broad Street | (804) 364-4050 | AllegroCoffee.com
9200 Stony Point Parkway, Suite 180 | (804) 767-1485 BravoRoccoItaIianCafe.com
Located inside of Whole Foods is a coffee shop unlike any other. Not your typical grocery store kiosk, Allegro Coffee serves up something more than a beverage. They offer sustainability in a cup. According to Allegro, coffee is more than just roasting beans. It’s the craft and the community. And they pursue this value by selecting farms committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices that are rooted and invested in their communities. Allegro also takes pride in paying their farming partners a fair price that exceeds their cost of production so they can reinvest in their farms and hire and retain the best workers and grow a strong business. Plus, they also donate money to enable the communities to continue thriving, and remain healthy, educated and prosperous. Such dedication to the community brings so much more value to your morning cup-of-joe.
Caffespresso 1127 Gaskins Road | (804) 350-4504 | CaffespressoVA.com Step into Caffesspresso and for a moment, you may feel that you’ve taken a trip. Modern tables and chairs have been traded for comfortable sofas, oversized seats and bistro sets. Hardback books cover an entire wall from floor to ceiling, emphasizing the cafe’s successful “take-one-leave-one” book policy. The sun shines through huge windows, suffusing light all throughout the wine bottles that surround the room. Such ambiance implies that a grab-and-go meal just won’t due, here. Each customer must sit and stay for a while. And of course, the coffee is delicious. Coffee, cappuccino, lattes and more are served Italian style in ceramic cups. Authentic Italian panini’s made with focaccia are freshly prepared along with house made salads and other tasty delights. And the free water allows you to cleanse your palate whenever you are ready for a new flavor. Caffespresso isn’t just a café. It’s a destination.
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Whether you’re looking to relax with a beverage of your choice or grab and go, at Bravo Rocco Italian Café, you’ll be met with friendly faces that will make you feel like part of the family. Located in the newly designed Stony Point Fashion Center, Bravo Rocco is the perfect place to find respite from a hectic shopping day. Their delicious coffee is made with milk from Trickling Springs Creamery, who’s grass-fed, heritage breed cows, produce clean milk without synthetic hormones. The benefits of grassfed milk includes a higher protein content, which offers wonderful richness when added to your coffee beverage. Plus, it may give you the added boost you need to continue on with your shopping day!
Capital One Café 11872 W. Broad Street | (804) 655-4541 | CapitalOne.com/Local When it comes to banking, Capital One is always thinking outside the box. Blazing a trail, this big bank is swapping its overgrown persona for a more local appeal with the Capital One Café. This fully functional café serves up fresh Peete’s Coffee to Capital One customers and non-customers, alike. Free wifi allows visitors to work and surf the net without hassle. And a small kids area allows children to relax and play as needed. And of course, there’s banking. Friendly financial ambassadors and money coaches are scattered throughout the café to answer any financial questions you may have. Classes and talks are also regularly scheduled for those who want to add to their financial literacy. Want to open an account? You can do that and more at the Capital One Café right after you grab a latte and a scone. One fun fact: Capital One was founded in 1988 by two friends, right here in Richmond, VA. And in the café, card holders receive 50% off food and beverage purchases!
r e e B udz B by Ashley Jefferson
The Holidays are near, which means seasonal beer is here! Take a look below for a short list of local breweries and their seasonal brews. Kindred Spirit Brewing 12830 West Creek Parkway | 804-708-0309 This Goochland County brewery will be releasing their Holiday Imperial stout during November. And if you call ahead, they’ll even schedule a tour of the brewery just for you! Stay and enjoy their delightful brews in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Stone Brewing Co. 4300 Williamsburg Avenue | 804-489-5902 Headquartered in Escondido, California, but with a brewery right here in the city’s East End, Stone Brewing is known nationally for their high-quality beers. This winter, they’re releasing the Stone Xoceveza, their “insanely delicious take on Mexican hot chocolate brewed with cocoa, coffee, pasilla peppers, vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg.” It’s a party in a glass.
Legend Brewing Company 321 West Seventh Street | 804-232-3446. Legend Brewing Company is releasing their seasonal, winter amber October 25. Enjoy yours in their popular south-of-the-James pub or at the Stony Point Beer Festival on November 17.
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery 11800 West Broad Street | 804-237-1684 When it comes to seasonal beers, Rock Bottom has a plethora of op-
tions to select from. In October, the brewery released their Twisted Champagne Brute IPA and the pumpkin flavored Hobgoblin ale. November will mark the release of the Black Hole Sun IPA and the Wicked Elf Belgian Ale.
Steam Bell Beer Works 1717 Oak Lake Boulevard, Midlothian | 804-728-1876 Located in Chesterfield County, Steam Bell Beer Works is offering their take on holiday brews. This month will brings some extremely flavorful stouts, including a coconut tiramisu, double chocolate, and sweet potato with cinnamon and vanilla. A Cranberry Beer and a Washington Spice Beer will also be up for grabs.
Ardent Craft Ales 3200 W. Leigh Street | 804-359-1605 Ardent Craft Ales knows beer. And this fall, they’ve released their Fall American Sour Blend, a copper colored, medium-bodied blend of sour blonde ale and Brett IPA. The Fall American Sour is a balanced beer with light acidity and a funky characteristic from the Brettanomyces yeasts.
Strangeways Brewing 2277 Dabney Road | 804-303-4336 Although the name is a nod to the rock group The Smith’s album Strangeways Here We Come, it also offers a bit of a hint as to what’s going on in this unique brewery. Word has it that Strangeways Tirami’zu may be back by the time you read this (early November target date). The taste of this luscious porter benefits from months of rum barrel aging with cocoa nibs, vanilla beans, and coffee from local roaster Black Hand. A seasonal release may also be coming in December.
Love the brew? Leave us your tasting notes for these beers, or any others you just have to share, on our facebook page: RichmondNavigator. RichmondNavigator.com
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TRAVEL
TOEING THE LINE
IN BRISTOL by Steve Cook
B
ristol is such an amazing “small town” that it takes two states to contain it. First a disclaimer for those of you who like to get technical. Bristol, Virginia isn’t a town at all. It’s an independent city. However, with a population of less than 18,000, it qualifies as a small town in my book (or my magazine). As the twin city with Bristol, Tennessee, the entire region makes for an exciting vacation destination. What is there to do in Bristol? Well, does the roar of the crowd and the tantalizing aroma of gasoline send a chill up your spine? Bristol Motor
Sportsway stands imposingly on the Tennessee side of town. If you’re a fan of country music (and who isn’t?), you will absolutely love the opportunity a visit to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum gives you to tunefully travel back in time. Outdoor adventures? Indoor dining? Shopping? It’s all waiting for you in Bristol. Come along. I’ll show you some of the sites.
“It’s Bristol Baby” On August 28, 2004, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. having taken the checkered flag at Bristol Motor Speedway, climbed out of his car and declared,
“This has to be one of the biggest wins of my career.” When asked to explain, Junior simply stated, “It’s Bristol baby!” That line has become the speedway’s official slogan. There truly is something special about BMS. With over 150,000 seats, you have to see the speedway, the fourth largest sports venue in America, especially from the infield looking up at the grandstands, to fully appreciate what a massive facility this is. “We jokingly call ourselves a football stadium on steroids,” says Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager of the facility. “That’s really what it is,” he adds. He could have added “literally” to that. Back in September 2016, the “Battle at Bristol” featured the Virginia Tech Hokies being shellacked (24-45) by the Volunteers from the University of Tennessee at the race track. The 156,990 fans in the crowd, shattered the previous college-football attendance record of 115,109, set in 2013 when the University of Michigan hosted Notre Dame. Although the artificial turf has been removed, the speedway infield still sports the outline of a football field on the concrete surface. With the quarter-mile Bristol International Dragway just across the parking lot, it’s no wonder folks around here call this complex “Thunder Valley.” Even if you’re not in town for a race, you can take a tour of the place, which includes a few laps around the quarter-mile oval in a van. Tours, which originate from the Speedway World Gift Shop, are available daily except during major Speedway and Dragway events. And the price tag to take a behind-the-scenes look is quite reasonable - $5 for adults, $4 for seniors (55+) and $3 for children and military.
“Guitars, Cadillacs and Hillbilly Music” It was the summer of 1927. Babe Ruth was on his way to hitting a record-breaking 60 home runs for the New York Yankees. Down in Bristol, Ralph Peer of the Victor Talking Machine Company (later RCA Victor) was making records of his own. Between July 25 and August 5 of that year, Peer conducted recording sessions using the new Western Electric electronic microphone during which 19 performers (or groups of performers) recorded 76 songs. Among those on hand were Jimmie Rodgers, now known as the “Father of Country Music,” and the “First Family of Country Music,” the Carter family, including Maybelle Carter. The famous “Bristol Sessions” launched the careers of those legendary performer and also helped to initiate the broad commercialization of country music. Much of the music that we listen
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to today, regardless of how far afield your tastes may take you, has been shaped by the music that was recorded in Bristol in 1927. Johnny Cash once called these sessions, “the single most important event in the history of country music.” A visit to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum will take you back to those events of more than 90 years ago. Permanent and special exhibits will have you not only humming the Carter Family’s Single Girl, Married Girl, but you can step into a recording booth and create your own rendition of that and other tunes from the Bristol Sessions. Although they don’t often call it hillbilly music these days, there’s still plenty of traditional Southern music being played in venues around town. And the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion at the museum (September 20 – 22, 2019) brings an eclectic group of musicians together to showcase the far-reaching branches of the original music captured so many decades ago.
“You Put One Foot In…” Okay, it may be kind of hokey, but it’s also pretty cool to put one foot on the left side and one foot on the right of the yellow lines that run through the middle of Bristol’s State Street. Why? Because
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BRISTOL DIRECTORY Bristol Tourism Info: DiscoverBristol.org Attractions featured in article Birthplace of Country Music Museum: 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA; BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org Bristol Motor Speedway: 151 Speedway Blvd., Bristol, TN; BristolMotorSpeedway.com South Holston River Fly Shop: 608 Emmett Road, Bristol, TN; SouthHolstonRiverFlyShop.com Steele Creek Park: 4 Little Lane, Bristol, TN; BristolTN.org you’re standing in both Virginia and Tennessee at the same time. Just a word of caution, to avoid that rundown feeling make sure there’s no traffic when you try this. Regardless of which side of the street you’re on, you’ll discover a wide variety cool little businesses from art galleries and antique stores to ice cream and coffee shops.
The Great Outdoors Fly-fishing and kayaking are among the adventures to be enjoyed on the Holston River, which flows some 136 miles from Kingsport to Knoxville. From fishing equipment, tackle, rods and reels to clothing specially made for the rivers, the South Holston River Fly Shop is an excellent source for virtually anything an angler would need. Although not operational during the winter, Adventure Mendota offers unguided kayak river trips from its base camp on Swinging Bridge Road on the North Fork of the Holston. If you prefer your adventures dry, numerous city parks offer opportunities for hiking, biking and camping. Steele Creek Park offers 2,200+ acre with playgrounds, picnic areas, amphitheater, nature center, paddleboats, train ride, walking trails and a golf course. Inside the Steele Creek Nature Center you’ll find live animals and educational displays showcasing the natural world inside the park.
A Dining Destination There are a variety of excellent restaurants not only in Bristol, but in the entire Tennessee tri-cities area (Bristol, Kingsport and Johnson City) One of my favorites is J. Frank’s (412 6th St. Bristol, TN). When he was 19, Jason Vanover put in an application to work at the Troutville Dining Room, a fine dining establishment in Bristol. He didn’t get the job. Fast forward nearly three decades and Vanover comes back, buys the building (a restored 1850s Victorian house), renames the restaurant J. Frank’s in honor of his grandfather and, viola! Today J. Frank’s is a big hit with locals and visitors, alike. Vanover, who is also the chef, is a friendly, personable sort of guy with a quick and pleasant smile. His skills in the kitchen have turned this spot into one of the city’s most popular eateries, known for its steaks and seafood. (See directory for more dining suggestions)
The Bottom Line When you stop and think about it, Bristol truly provide the amenities you’d expect to find in a city. But the nice thing is, no matter which side of the line you may be standing on, you’re going to feel that small-town welcome. The folks I met actually took the time to smile and say “hello” as they passed by on the sidewalk. It would be easy to settle down in Bristol. And I’ve only skimmed the surface. The accompanying directory will provide you with a few suggestions on dining, lodging and other attractions in the area.
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Other Area Attractions Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium: A 3,550-acre nature park and planetarium – 853 Bays Mountain Road, Kingsport, TN; BaysMountain.com Hands On! Discovery Center at Gray Fossil Site: Pliocene-epoch assemblage of fossils; plus family-friendly science museum – 1212 Suncrest Dr., Gray, TN; VisitHandsOn.org Wautaga Kayak: Guided whitewater rafting trips – 1409 Broad Street, Elizabethton, TN; WautagaKayak.com
Dining: (distance from Bristol is shown in parentheses) Brumley’s Inn: Restaurant serving seasonal fare with a creative flair; located in an 1884 inn – 111 N. Main St., Greenville, TN; GeneralMorganInn.com (55 miles) J. Frank’s: See article above – 412 N. 6th St., Bristol, TN; Facebook.com/ JFranksRestaurant Phil’s Dream Pit: Classic BBQ dishes and sides in an old-school setting with homey accents – 534 Eastern Star Road, Kingsport, TN; PhilsDreamPit.com (25 miles) Southern Craft BBQ: Lofty, urban eatery serving smoked beef brisket, bourbon smoked salmon, burgers and cocktails – 601 Spring St., Johnson City, TN; SouthernCraftBBQ.com (25 miles)
Lodging (distance from Bristol is shown in parentheses) Bristol Hotel: After a massive renovation of a 1925 architectural landmark, this recently opened boutique hotel features a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the Appalachian Mountains, street-front dining with family style regional fare, and a historic arcade for unforgettable social gatherings and special events – 510 Birthplace of Country Music Way, Bristol, VA; BristolHotelVA.com Historic Eureka Inn: This historic inn sits in the heart of Tennessee’s oldest town, Jonesborough. Offering beautiful accommodations and delicious breakfasts – 127 W. Main St., Jonesborough; EurekaJonesborough.com (27 miles) Meadow View Conference Resort & Convention Center: This beautiful facility offers spacious, modern rooms; golf course; indoor pool and more – 1901 Meadowview Pkwy., Kingsport, TN (27 miles)
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HOME
The Joys of Second Home Ownership
Is It For You? Photo courtesy: IsaBell K. Horsley Real Estate
by Zach Brown
S
ince the 1940s, owning a seasonal home has been a common dream shared by many Americans and, according to the Historical Census of
Housing, just over 3% of American homeowners have a vacation retreat to call their own. There are several destinations in and near Virginia that offer tremendous appeal to those who seek the benefits of owning a second home.
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HOME
Photo courtesy: IsaBell K. Horsley Real Estate
Northern Neck One of the most accessible second home destinations to Richmond area residents is the Northern Neck. “The Northern Neck is ideal for getting to your vacation house for a day or a weekend,” says Katie Horsley Dew, a third-generation broker with IsaBell K. Horsley Real Estate, one of the Northern Neck’s and Middle Peninsula’s leading residential real estate firms. “The market is really good right now,” she adds. “You can still find
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a good deal here.” Housing options run from high-end mansions to waterfront cottages. If you’re wondering where the best places are to look for homes in the Northern Neck, Dew says it all depends on the lifestyle you prefer. “Deltaville for boating and sailing. Mathews is a sweet little waterfront town with great beaches. It’s good for fishing, crabbing and growing oysters. More quaint getaways include Kilmarnock and Irvington.”
Virginia Beach Virginia Beach is the state’s most popular Oceanside destination. It’s perfect for those who like their water wilder and beaches wider. For many, it’s a lifestyle that consists of mornings on the beach, surfside meals at Waterman’s Grille or Salacia Prime and a night along the main strip. However, during the spring and summer months, the population influx demands an expensive admission for its visitors, which makes the entire region a perfect area for an investment property. Companies like Air BNB and VRBO make it easy for owners to rent their homes when they’re not enjoying it themselves. One of the most popular spots in Virginia Beach for those who enjoy oceanfront condo living is in Sandbridge, which offers all the amenities of the beach but without the hubbub of the strip. Sandbridge is located in the city of Virginia Beach, but it’s also at the northernmost tip of the Outer Banks and offers that unique OBX feel without having to leave the state.
overhead due to our season being longer than most.” She adds that the Outer Banks has long been an attractive area to retirees “We see a lot of people approaching retirement, purchase a property a few years beforehand for the extra income before moving in full time,” she says. With fall fishing and summer trips to the beach, this vacation destination to the south might be the perfect spot for your second home. Hopping from the ocean to the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge is Virginia’s premier skiing destination, Wintergreen Resort. This popular destination has grown beyond its snowy reputation to offer a luxurious year-round mountain-living experience. For beer and wine enthusiasts, the area is only a short distance away from several of Virginia’s top wineries and breweries. Closer still is golf, tennis and a number of highly rated restaurants right on site.
Blue Ridge Mountains
North Carolina Of course, North Carolina and its Outer Banks is also a great place to consider purchasing a second home. During the early 1700s, the Outer Banks was a frequent stop for pirates like “Calico” Jack Rackham and Edward “Blackbeard” Teach. While the pirate spirit lives on in restaurants and novelty drinks, areas like Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head have come to represent a “you should never be too far from a beach” philosophy. Whether it is a house on stilts with ocean views or a cottage in the quaint town of Manteo, Kelly Dean, a realtor with Buy the Beach Realty, says the housing market offers unique qualities. “The Outer Banks is one of the few places you can actually have an ocean front pool,” Dean says, “not to mention beachfront houses with fences that allow privacy all along the ocean front.” For those looking for an investment property, Dean adds that the region is unique in its offerings. “We’re one of the few areas you can purchase a year-round, cash-flow investment that will cover expenses and
If the Blue Ridge Mountains, with its spectacular views, sounds like a place for you to settle but you’re still in need of a shoreline, then head about 100 miles southwest to Smith Mountain Lake in Bedford and Franklin Counties. Nicknamed the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains,” the lake covers 40 miles and over 20,000 acres. Initially, it was created for electricity generation, however, now it is a popular boating and fishing locale. Richmonder Jim Morgan and his family have owned a house on the lake for the better part of 20 years, and, especially this time of year, they continue to be drawn back to their home away from home. “In the fall and winter, it’s the quiet that is most appealing,” Morgan reveals. “The buzz of boats and jet skis are gone and you can enjoy some peaceful time on the dock with a book and a warm beverage.” Through second home ownership, Morgan’s house is a year-round retreat, not just a one-week-a-year getaway. “Just knowing that there is someplace away that you can escape to at a moment’s notice is certainly a top benefit,’’ he says. IF you find yourself becoming enticed by all the beauty that awaits along the river, by the sea or up in the hills, we’d advise you to consult a financial adviser before making the second-home plunge. However, if the old adage “Home is where your story begins” is true, then maybe that second home is where your story starts to get really exciting.
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HOME
ENJOYING YOUR BACKYARD
THIS WINTER
by Kathleen Whitlow
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G
one are the long days of summer and being able to relax outside into the night. With the cold months beginning, we would all love to continue using our outdoor living spaces, comfortably, for leisurely evenings, early morning coffee and weekend gatherings. This is possible by making a few small — or large — tweaks to the space. Outdoor living spaces range from backyards, pavilions and patios to gazebos, decks, pergolas and screened-in porches. Just because the warm months seem to be a distant memory doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy good times outside through the fall and winter. Here are some ideas on how to prolong the use of these beloved parts of your home.
tios, decks or screened-in porches you can extend their use. Heat sources should be located near seating areas to ensure you and guests are comfortable in the space. Heat source options include outdoor space heaters, an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit for the backyard. You could even go as far as installing heated floors on a patio or heated seats for guests to enjoy.
Indoor Comforts - Outdoors When entertaining in your outdoor space during the cold months, you want to be sure that you and your guests are as comfortable as possible. Put out some blankets and throw pillows to make your seating area is warm and inviting. Your guests will feel more inclined to continue enjoying their time at your home if they can be warm and cozy. Adding curtains to screened-in porches can also be another indoor comfort that helps warm up the space. Dark colored curtains can help pull in the sunlight and warm the space, as well as act as a safeguard against cold air. An accent rug can also do wonders for making the space that much warmer.
Lighting is Key Turn up the Heat Enjoying your backyard or outdoor living space in the winter can sometimes be as simple as turning up the heat. If you add heated areas to pa-
Adding the right lighting can help to set the mood for a winter wonderland vibe during an outdoor gathering. One popular way to do this is by stringing sets of lights along different areas of your patio, gazebo or deck. You can also use accent lights to draw attention
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Weather-Resistant Furniture to the outdoor space’s ambiance. Accent lights can be lamps or lanterns, which also double as a source of heat. Other outdoor lighting options could include pendant lighting, track lighting, wall fixtures and of course, candles.
If you are going to continue to use furniture and outdoor seating during more inclement months, you must ensure that you have the right type of furniture … and take the right precautions to protect it. Furniture materials that are the most resilient include certain types of wood, including pine and teak, synthetic wicker and metal. Protecting your furniture with covers, protectants and by taking pillows and cushions inside can help prolong the life of your furniture and decor. Also remember that anything water resistant is a good option for your winter weather outdoor furniture.
Renovations
Photo courtesy: Caldera Spas
Get Steamy Another option to help you enjoy your outdoor living space in the winter is to install a hot tub. What better way to seemingly prolong summer and to stay warm at the same time? When it begins to get cold, hot tubs can be especially enjoyable for a relaxing, warm evening in your backyard or an after-dinner soak with friends on your back deck or patio. Your hot tub should have a good cover to keep out any inclement weather. It may also be a good idea to invest in a towel warmer to keep beside the hot tub with warm towels for guests as they exit the warm water into the cold air.
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If you really want to invest even more in your outdoor space (so that you can really get the best use out of it in the cooler months), it may be useful to make a few renovations. One idea is to completely enclose your patio or screened-in porch. You can install a glass wall around the perimeter of the space to provide a view of the outdoors without the chilly temperature. Another idea could be to build a roof or cover over your outdoor space. A patio cover would shield this space from snow or rain and give you the ability to enjoy being outdoors without getting wet. This renovation could also be useful in the warmer months to block any incoming sunlight and help keep you cool, if you add a ceiling fan. Lastly, as the kitchen is the main gathering place in most homes, consider adding an outdoor kitchen on your patio or deck. The kitchen could be close to the other heated areas of your outdoor space to ensure that the cook is warm. You could include things like a grill, an outdoor refrigerator and a bar to make warm libations for your guests. The outdoor kitchen ensures that all of your guests enjoy the full spectrum of your outdoor space and the warmth you have successfully created.
HOME essential in any emergency. A Go Bag is a backpack or dufflebag that includes everything you may need in an evacuation emergency. Items may include a pair of sturdy shoes, a change of clothes, a lightweight rain jacket, flashlight, radio, batteries and even a cell phone. It may also include a first-aid kit with signal whistle, a dust mask, waterproof tape, matches and travel size toiletries. When heeding the local authorities warning to evacuate, make sure you have your Go Bag ready to go. Its contents will keep you comfortable in the hours and days following a disaster. A separate Go Bag for each family member is needed. Once packed, keep all your Go Bags near an exit door so you can grab and go! After a disaster, take a deep breath and evaluate the situation. Try to keep to your daily routine as much as you can. Assess the damage, but don’t dwell on it — loss of material goods may be heartbreaking, but survival depends on clean water, food, clothing and shelter. While disasters can be emotionally jarring, comfort can be found by cherishing life every day and focusing on what really matters!
GO BAG! Ready, Set,
Here’s a list of supplies you may want to keep in your go bag: • Sturdy shoes • A change of clothes including lightweight rain jacket • Flashlight, radio (battery or wind up) extra batteries
by Maria Tucciarone
• First-aid kit with signal whistle
“A prudent man foresees the difficulties ahead and prepares for them...” – Proverbs 22:3
A
s more natural disasters fill the headlines, they can serve as a wake-up call to remind us that unforeseen tragedies can occur at any time. From coast to coast, nowhere on the map is immune to the threat of disasters. Wildfires and earthquakes inflict the Western United States, and droughts are common in the Midwest and Southwest. Tornadoes wreak havoc in the Central Plains, with about 500 tornadoes reported each year. The Atlantic and Gulf Coast states are fraught with devastating hurricanes. Blizzards pound the Northern states. Mountainous regions — from the Appalachians to the Rockies to the Pacific Coast — are laden with landslides. Enough gloom and doom! It’s been said that disasters aren’t planned, but you can plan for disasters. There are several practical steps you can take to prepare for the unexpected, and the time to prepare is not during a disaster, but before. According to a FEMA survey, about 60 percent of Americans do not have an emergency strategy implemented. So, what can you do now? First, start by researching the natural disasters that are common in your area. Floods and hurricanes require different precautionary measures than tornados and wild fires. Next,
• Eating utensils, pocket tool set, can opener
make your home as safe as possible. Twice a year, when you switch your clocks, check electrical outlets and cords for damage, test smoke alarms and change the batteries. In case of power loss, consider purchasing a generator. Create a home escape plan and rehearse it with your family. Designate a safe meeting place for your family to gather if you are separated — a school, a library or a place of worship are good choices. Also, locate your nearest emergency shelter. You’ll want to know where to go in the event that your home is no longer safe. Earthquakes usually occur without warning. At the first sign of a tremor, get to an inside wall, between a heavy doorjamb or under a sturdy table. Be prepared for aftershocks. They can be just as scary as the initial tremor. The National Weather service lists hurricane season from May 15th to Nov. 30, so stay tuned to local news to plan your best course of action. Secure your property as time allows. Cover windows with plywood boards. Move outdoor furniture, planters, trashcans and other items to a garage. Then proceed to the lowest interior room in your house, ideally a closet or bathroom, away from windows. No matter what the disaster, a “Go Bag” is
• Dust masks, waterproof tape and matches • Plastic sheet for shelter and rope • Travel size toiletries, towel and toilet tissue/baby wipes/hand sanitizers • Waterproof container with medications/ copy of prescriptions • Eyeglasses/contacts and solution • Emergency contact list and a local map • Credit card/cash in small bills/roll of quarters for vending machines (fanny pack*) • Extra set of car/house keys (fanny pack*) • Car phone chargers • Copies of important documents: driver’s license, medical directives, medical cards, birth certificates. These documents should be kept on your person in a waterproof bag in a fanny pack* in case of theft. In a separate bag, it is recommended to keep several gallons of water and 3 days of nonperishable, ready-to-eat food per person. (Don’t forget to bring food for pets along with their pet carriers, if possible). Most of the items listed above can be found at sporting goods stores, camping stores and pharmacies.
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Holiday Decor • Gifts • Collectibles Hundreds of Trains to Select From!
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