Best Dining Spots in Richmond, Virginia

Diverse group of friends eating outdoors
  • Written on June 09, 2022 By Stanley Martin Homes

Known for its rich, well-preserved historical legacy, Richmond, Virginia, is a destination that entices tourists and new residents alike. With a less-than-six-hour drive from New York and only two hours from Washington, D.C., it’s no surprise that Richmond is bursting with various dining options to please a plethora of tastes. The Southern charm of the town is weaved into the local dining scene that is continually growing in popularity. From elegant restaurants to cozy local spots, here are five dining choices to add to your ‘must-try’ Richmond restaurant list.

  1. Helen’s: Boasting the title of ‘the second oldest restaurant in Richmond,’ Helen’s was established in 1935. The building dates back to 1912, when it originally opened as a pharmacy in the heart of town, serving as a social epicenter. Today, the popular spot is dripping with historical charm and is known for serving brunch and contemporary southern food in a cozy atmosphere. Adding a little more flair, Helen’s has a name for mixing up creative cocktails and is the perfect date night destination.
  2. The Daily:With two locations in Richmond, The Daily is welcoming to families with an extensive kids menu and options for everyone. Guests enjoy health-conscious meals that are crafted with organic, locally-sourced ingredients. There are even vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and paleo options. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner; The Daily is a great place to order a plate of Crispy Brussels Sprouts!
  3. The Mill on MacArthur: his gem is the spot for locally sourced Southern comfort food. The Mill on MacArthur has a casual, family-friendly environment with popular dishes like BBQ Tofu and Country Fried Chicken. Also, it’s an excellent option for those hurrying with their Box Lunches and weekly specials of beer and wines to-go. Nestled in the historic Bellevue district, we recommend giving this restaurant a visit.
  4. Bombolini Pasta:Calling all pasta lovers! If you’re looking for a wide selection of pasta flavors, shapes and sizes, then Bombolini Pasta is for you. The casual atmosphere, lower price points and family-friendly vibe are just icing on the cake, or should we say sauce on the pasta? This family-owned business launched in 2008 and features unique pasta dishes like Smoked Salmon Pasta, and did we mention that the pasta shapes are endless? View them all on their website!
  5. Alewife:Enjoy a fancy affair at the award-winning Alewife in Richmond. Famous for its Mid-Atlantic seafood and cocktails, it’s a lovely location for an intimate dinner with loved ones. Also, outdoor seating is available for a fresh ambiance. With an impressive menu that changes weekly, it’s no wonder Alewife has been featured in top publications like Southern Living and Esquire Magazine.

We hope you’ll add a few of these restaurant ideas to your itinerary as you plan a visit or move to the beautiful city of Richmond, Virginia. Whether you crave a quiet, upscale dining experience or are searching for a fun spot to please the entire family, you can’t go wrong with these suggestions. At Stanley Martin Homes, we purposefully build modern homes in some of the most desirable locations. We hope your family will take advantage of all the dining, sightseeing and amenities your new town has to offer.