NOV/DEC 2011 River City Richmond Magazine

contents NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

A PUBLICATION OF

ALL ARTICLES AND CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE

OPINIONS OR THOUGHTS OF RIVER CITY RICHMOND, ADVERTISING CONCEPTS,INC

OR THE PUBLISHER

RiveR City RiChmond is published bi-monthly by Advertising Concepts, Inc.

6301 Harbourside Drive, Midlothian VA 23112 (804) 639-9994 • www.richmondnavigator.com

Email us at: [email protected]. Letters to the editor are welcome. All rights reserved.

Any reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission

from the publisher is prohibited.

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHERWilliam J. Davis, Jr.

VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHERCheryl T. Davis

HOME & GARDEN EDITORVicki O’Neal, ASID, CID

CREATIVE DIRECTORSAlaina Rauth

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTSJared Davis, Ann Small,

Jennifer Thaxton, Steve Cook

DISTRIBUTION MANAGERBarry Cook

OFFICE ADMINISTRATORFallon Mercer

PHOTOGRAPHYTim Hill

Robert Thomas

CONTRIBUTORSErin Pittman

Bruce MooreKellie Murphy

Annie TobeySteve Cook

ABOUT THE COVERSome have asked if our cover image was photographed in the 1800s. Actually, the picture was

taken in late October, 2011, at New York Deli, located at 2920 West Cary Street. Photo by Tim Hill.

SPECIAL THANKS to the folks at Bygones Vintage Clothing, who were so helpful in providing vintage

clothing for this image. This one-of-a-kind shop, located between the New York Deli and the Byrd

Theater is truly one of Carytown’s most fascinating retailers.

Check them out online: bygonesvintage.com.

6 2011 Annual Shopper’s Guide

8 River City Roller Girls Not Your School Skate Party

10 A Winter Wonderland Awaits in Michigan

10 Ginter Place An Exciting Lifestyle in the Heart of Ginter Park

FLAVOR13 River City Eats

15 Scoop Du Jour

19 Bartender’s Best Olivia Smith of Havana 59

20 Raising the Bar

24 In Search of Fish Entrees

25 A New Craft Brewery in Richmond, for Richmond

25 What’s Cook In? LOL

26 Gluten-Free Restaurants Adapt to the Trend

27 Calendar of Events

28 Backstage with iwrestledabearonce

29 City Spaces Rocketts Landing

8 24 20

6

4 www.richmondnavigator.comnovember/december 2011

1. Fascinator Hats. Elegantly shake your feathers with a fabulous fascinator hat from MacLaren Jewelers. Hats are available in black, fuchsia, teal or white, adorned in black roses or delicate black feathers with teal, white or purple accents. MacLaren Jewelers 4101 Dominion Blvd.747-1575 • MacLarenJewelers.com MacLaren Jewelers presents an elegant, unique atmosphere with its welcoming courtyard, jewel-toned tile foyer, William Morris design hand-stenciled walls and cases from the 1890’s. Sculpture and art adorn the interior showrooms making this a true destination for seekers of beautiful objects!

2. Gabriel & Co. and Isharya Jewelry.

These pieces feature a variety of diamonds,

charms and gemstones set in 14kt and 18kt

white or yellow gold.William Jeffrey’s Ltd • 9986 Brook Roadwilliamjeffreys.com • 264-2600 A locally owned, full-service jewelry store featuring unique jewelry and custom cre-ations for the past 20 years.

3. Tribal Zebra Purse by Michael Kors. This trendy accessory is still new with tags, but available at Indigo for a fraction of its original cost! Animal prints are a hot com-modity this season, and this purse will prove you are right in style!Indigo • indigoavenueclothes.com411 N. Ridge Road • 288-01603324-A W. Cary Street • 354-0914Indigo Avenue Clothes is an upscale con-signment shop that specializes in women’s clothing, purses, shoes and jewelry. In addi-tion to their great daily discounts, they offer monthly online coupons!

4. Captain Rodney’s Boucan glaze, paint-

ing, jewelry pouch, necklace, accessories

case with needle holder and various threads.The Stitching Studio and Gift Boutique5615 Patterson Avenue • 269-0355www.thestitichingstudiova.com We are a full-service needlepoint shop, of-fering canvas, unique threads, classes, and trunk shows. Our gift boutique offers local women the opportunity to share their own creative works with our customers - jewelry, purses, paintings, and much more.

5. Parlour Pellet Stove. This beauty can heat up to 2,000 square feet with economi-cal wood pellets. Stop by the Hearth and Home to see the Parlour and other great pellet stoves today!Hearth and Home Shoppe • 730-38008154 Mechanicsville Tnpk. hearthandhome-shoppe.comThe Hearth and Home Shoppe carries all types of gas, wood and pellet stoves, fireplaces, inserts and gas logs to get your home toasty this winter. With the largest showroom in the Richmond area, it is worth the drive.

6. Music Lessons. Flute teacher, Marla, teaches ages eight and up.Key Signatures • 5705 Grove Avenue282-1813 • keysignatures.comWhether you are a seasoned musician or would like to learn a new instrument, Key Signatures is the shop for equipment, re-pairs and lessons. Master the guitar, piano, bass guitar, violin, drums, songwriting, your own vocals and more!

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4 5


1

Are you nervous about losing your home heat during

the next power outage? If so, consider installing a gas

fireplace insert into your existing masonry fireplace.

A gas fireplace insert is the perfect combination of

style and heat. Designed to fit into an existing wood-burn-

ing fireplace, gas inserts are essentially a metal firebox

with decorative logs that simulate a real wood fire. In-

serts vent through the chimney carrying exhaust out and

bringing fresh air in. Most gas inserts come equipped

with blowers, remotes and even decorative lighting.

One of the best features of a gas insert is the radiant

heat transferred from its glass front. This feature enables

the gas insert to heat even without its blower. When a

power outage strikes, warm heat will radiate from the

insert keeping you and your family toasty warm – no gen-

erator required!

Even for homeowners with no existing gas service,

gas inserts can be an option when fueled by a liquid pro-

pane tank.

Homeowners can choose traditional log sets or con-

temporary glass burners along with many decorative op-

tions. The Hearth and Home Shoppe has a wide variety of

gas inserts, as well as gas logs to provide you with back-

up heat and radiant warmth.

For most of us, lacing up a pair of roller skates brings back to

mind a leisurely evening going round and round a rink to pop

music, but not for the River City Rollergirls. Stepping onto a rink

launches them into a full contact, highly competitive sport.

Roller Derby has been around since the 1930s with the

founding of the WFTDA (Women’s Flat Track Derby Association),

the Rollergirls’ certifying league, coming to be in 2004. WFTDA

joins leagues in a sisterhood of healthy competition and sanctions

many of the bouts, roller derby games.

For those unfamiliar with this action-packed sport, here are

the basics: Each team enters the rink with five ladies. The jam-

mer wears a star on her helmet, the pivot wears a stripe and the

other three plain-helmeted ladies are referred to as blockers. All

players except the jammer from each team start out in a pack.

The pivot sets the pace for game play. Once the blockers and

pivot have reached a certain point, the jammers take off. Their

mission is to pass as many members of the opposing team as pos-

sible. Sounds easy right? Not quite so when you remember the

By Erin Pittman. Photos by Tim Hill.

full contact element of this sport! Each blocker does her best to

prevent the jammer from passing by using her body and skating

skills. The lead jammer, the one who passes through the initial

pack first, can call the round to claim their points any time after

the second pass. Play continues through two 30 minute periods.

The River City Rollergirls are passionate about their sport. “I

enjoy playing because it is so physical,” says team member Katie

Gantt. “I played different sports as I grew up, but this is the most

physical one. It’s really fun to get to hit other people,” she laughs.

Katie also noted that the camaraderie among the team is superb.

Former team member Jessica Williams concurs, “Roller derby

makes me feel like I really belong somewhere. I love my team,

and I love feeling so strong and capable. The camaraderie I’ve

found within my derby family is amazing. I feel at home when I

am on the track, going fast and working hard with the most awe-

some girls I have ever known.”

River City Rollergirls is open to women age 18 and older, but

becoming a team member does not happen overnight and is no

(Continued on page 12)


9november/december 2011www.richmondnavigator.com

I t was back in the late 1800s that wealthy, Richmond industrial-

ist, Lewis Ginter came up with the idea to build an upscale, sub-

urban, residential community for the “gentlemen who worked

downtown.” It is alleged that he didn’t want these gentlemen to have

to go to work in the morning or return home in the evening with the

sun in their faces. The sun hasn’t changed its course much since

then, and Ginter Park is still a great place to live.

In addition, Ginter Park not getting older, it’s getting better…with

the introduction of Ginter Place. Ted Ukrop, one of the developers

of this community of modern, upscale condos, right in the heart of

Ginter Park, says, “Ginter Place offers a fantastic lifestyle.”

The name Ukrop has stood for quality, customer care, and com-

munity involvement for decades. So, I was interested in learning just

what he had going with this new development. Ukrop describes the

condos as, “sumptuous and spacious,” and that they are.

But they are so much more. “Every home possesses quality crafts-

manship, with crown molding, heavy doors with glass knobs and

balconies (at least one in each condo),” says Ukrop. Other amenities

include gas stoves and fireplaces, granite counter tops and Jacuzzi

tubs with separate showers. Each unit provides two parking spaces,

one of which is covered, as well as what Ukrop describes as, “larger

than normal storage space.”

The complex also offers a club room with card tables, a pool table

and a flat screen TV. And, if these amenities are not enough to pro-

mote a friendly, neighborly atmosphere, Ginter Place also regularly

hosts art and community events. There is even a furnished suite for

those out-of-town guests.

After the sale of the local supermarket chain, Ukrop cofounded

a website for family caregivers called Lift Caregiving (www.liftcare-

giving.com). However, Ginter Place is not just for Richmond’s active

adult community. “There is a wide range of ages at Ginter Place from

the 30s to the 80s,” says Ukrop.

Since its inception more than a century ago, Ginter Park has of-

fered stately homes, tree-lined streets and an off-the-beaten-path

feel. And yet, the location couldn’t be more convenient.

“Ginter Place,” Ukrop says, “is close to interstates, to neighbor-

hood restaurants and to the burgeoning Boulevard.”

With its classically modern architecture, its warm, intimate feel

and its park-like setting, Ginter Place, says Ted Ukrop, “has a friend-

ly, eclectic feel that resembles its Northside neighborhood.” To learn

more, visit www.GinterPlace.com. n

O ver the years, I have been ridiculed and harangued.

Many of my friends have wrung their hands, shrugged,

and eventually given up in trying to help me accept my

condition.

What is my disorder? It’s a deep love for snow. While there is

so much to love about Central Virginia, one thing I don’t like are the

winters, or lack thereof.

Thankfully, I’m not the only person who suffers from this “dis-

order.” True, there are many, including certain local meteorologists,

who celebrate our having “dodged a bullet” when a forecast snow

storm turns to rain as it reaches Richmond. But I’ve come to discover

that there are legions of us snow lovers right here in the Metro area.

And for such ones, I have some very good news. I’ve discovered

a true winter wonderland. It’s an area rich in natural beauty, year

round. But as winter approaches, this enchanting place becomes

truly alive, transforming itself into a land of snowy pleasures, which

includes a host of “silent sports venues.” Where is this delightful

land?

It’s Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. If thoughts of Michigan are, to

you, more of assembly lines than shorelines, then you really need

to visit. Now, I’ll admit, traveling to the UP (as it’s called by the lo-

cals, who dub themselves Yoopers)

is more than a day trip or even a

weekend getaway.

But airfare from Richmond to

Marquette, Michigan, located right

in the heart of the Upper Peninsula,

is reasonably priced. About twenty

minutes from the airport lies this

clean, quaint, little college town, nestled

alongside Lake Superior, perhaps the greatest of the Great Lakes.

Begin your winter wonderland adventure with a tour of Mar-

quette. You’ll discover it to be virtually brimming with history,

charm, and plenty of great shopping and dining .

While I was anxious to discover all that the UP had to offer, I

was most excited to try my hand at snowmobiling, and, let me tell

you, it was even more thrilling than I had anticipated. The state of

Michigan is the snowmobile capital of the United States, with over

3,000 miles of trails. And, no spot in the state offers any greater

opportunity to enjoy this exhilarating, and yet, at the same time,

relaxing, activity than does the UP.

For the winter sports enthusiast, snowmobiling is only the tip

of the iceberg. During my four-day visit, I had the opportunity to

sample ice fishing, tubing, and show shoeing. But wait! There’s

more, including skiing (both downhill and cross-country), and ice

climbing. There’s even a luge open to the public.

To continue reading about my winter adventures in Michigan’s

UP, go to richmondnavigator.com

For links to snowmobiling sites, and for virtually all things Michi-

gan, visit the state’s official website, michigan.org. n

A Winter Wonderland AwaitsBy Steve Cook. Background photo by Thomas J. Dolaski, IV U.P. Overland

(upoverland.com). Snowmobile photo courtesy International Snowmobile

Manufacturers Association.

An Exciting Lifestyle In The Heart Of Ginter Park

By Steve Cook



piece of cake. Prospective rollergirls must complete what is known as “The Fresh Meat

Cycle” before being considered for the team. This involves attending multiple practices

a week where players learn to fall properly, how to hit correctly, as well as the basic me-

chanics of skating and receiving personal assistance from their Fresh Meat Coach. After

three months, a minimum skills assessment must be passed in order to make the team.

Roller Derby is a sport to be experienced. According to Rollergirl Rachel Thomas, “It

is by far the biggest rush I have ever had. There’s nothing more fun than women on

skates kicking each other’s butts.”

Intrigued by this one of a kind sport and the ladies that love it so? Catch their up-

coming annual bout, Seasons Beatings, Saturday December 3rd from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. at

the Greater Richmond Convention Center. n

(Continued from River City Roller Girls on page 8)


DININg | NIgHTLIFE | EVENTS | TRAVEL | SPORTS | THE ARTSDININg | NIgHTLIFE | EVENTS | TRAVEL | SPORTS | THE ARTS

Seared Hawaiian Barramundi is finished with

a ginger butter and pickled jicama slaw, served with frijoles criollos and chargrilled endive. Find it at Pescados on Midlothian Tnpk. or

China Street Photo by Tim Hill. Find more ISO Dishes at richmondnavigator.com.

SAM MILLER’SFamous for their crab cakes and Chesapeake Bay oysters, Sam Miller’s offers a bounty of seafood dishes, along with USDA Prime beef, creative pasta dishes and salads to suit any taste.1210 East Cary Street. 644-5465 www.sammillers.com

CONCH REPUBLICChange your attitude without changing your latitude! Get feel of the islands with Key West inspired cuisine on the breezy patio overlooking the James River and downtown cityscape. Relax at their jazz brunch on Sunday from 10:30am-2pm.11 Orleans Street. 226-6242.www.conchrepublicrocketts.com

BUCkHEAD’S“Extra-aged” steaks, fresh seafood and an award-winning wine list have made this Richmond’s premier destination din-ing location for 15 years. Try the steak tenderloin medallions with Vermouth Demi-Glace topped with Jumbo Lump Crabmeat and finished with Béarnaise Sauce. www.buckheads.com. 8510 Patterson Avenue. 750.2000.

BOTTOMS UPBite into gourmet pizza with 12-hour crust, homemade sauces and huge selection of fresh toppings. Enjoy fantastic outdoor seating with views of the trains in historic Shockoe Bottom, or take advantage of take-out and delivery.1700 Dock Street. 644-4400.www.bottomsuppizza.com

LEGEND BREWING CO.Central Virginia’s oldest and largest microbrewery offers a view of Down-town Richmond to be taken in while drinking a cold beer. Fall menu items include Blackened Rockfish Tacos, a Gyro Sandwich and Queso Poblano Ragoons.www.buckheads.com. 8510 Patterson Avenue. 750.2000.

PADOW’SIn addition to the usual deli favorite, Padow’s has all you need for the holidays such as hams, smoked turkeys, gift baskets and more! Ship a ham to a friend anywhere in the U.S. Or have Padow’s cater your next event with their boxed lunches or party platters.9854 W. Broad Street. 965-6262.1601 Willow Lawn Dr. 358-4267.

River City

eats africanAfricanne on Main200 E Main St. (804) 343-1233.www.chefmamusuafricanne.comDine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.

americanBelly Timber Tavern1501 W. Main St. (804) 592-5592.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual.

Capital Ale House4024-A Cox Road. (804) 780-ALES.www.capitalalehouse.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.

Comfort200 W. Broad Street. (804) 780-0004.www.comfortrestaurant.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.

Curbside2525 Hanover Ave. (804) 355-7008.www.curbsiderichmond.com. Casual.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out.

Davis & Main2501 W. Main St. (804) 353-6641.www.davisandmain.comDinner. Dine In. Upscale casual.

deLux2229 W. Main St. (804) 353-2424.www.deluxrichmond.comBreakfast, Lunch, & Dinner.Dine In & Take-out. Casual.

Galaxy Diner2924 W. Cary St. (804) 213-0510.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual.

Gibson’s Grill700 E Broad St. (804) 644-2637www.gibsonsgrill.com. Casual.Dine In & Take-out. Lunch & Dinner.

The Halligan Bar & Grill3 N. 17th St. (804) 447-7981.www.thehalliganbar.comDine In & Take-out. Casual. Brunch, Lunch & Dinner.

It Must Be Heaven 2505 E. Broad Street. 804-788-8158.Dine In, Take-out & Catering. Casual.

Julep’s New Southern Cuisine1719 E. Franklin St. (804) 377-3968.www.juleps.net. Dinner. Dine In. Upscale.Reservations suggested.

Legend Brewing Company321 W. 7th St. (804) 232-3446.www.legendbrewing.com. Casual.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.

LuLu’s21 N. 17th St. (804) 343-9771.www.lu-lusrichmond.comLunch, Brunch, & DinnerDine In & Take-out. Casual.Reservations suggested.

Mezzanine3433 W. Cary St. (804) 353-2186.www.mezzanine3433.comDine In. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.

Millie’s Diner2603 E. Main St. (804) 643-5512.www.milliesdiner.comLunch, Dinner & Weekend Brunch.Dine In & Take-out. Casual.

Popkin Tavern123 W. Broad St. (804) 343-1909.www.sparetimechicago.comDinner. Dine In. Casual.

The Republic2053 W. Broad St. (804) 592-2148.www.therepublicrva.comBrunch, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Upscale.

River City Diner7 N. 17th Street. (804) 644-9418.www.rivercitydiner.comBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual.

Rowland Fine Dining2132 W. Main St. (804) 257-9885.www.rowlandfinedining.comDine In & Take-out. Upscale.Sunday Brunch & Dinner.Reservations strongly suggested.

Sprout Market & Café 1 N. Morris St. (804) 592-5771.www.sproutrva.wordpress.com. Casual.Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In.

Star-Lite2600 W. Main St. (804) 254-2667.www.starlitediningandlounge.comBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual.

Strawberry Street Cafe421 Strawberry St. (804) 353-6860.www.strawberrystreetcafe.com. Casual.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out

T-Miller’s Sports Bar & Grill500 East Broad Street. (804) 648-2255.www.tmillerssportsbar.com. Casual.Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In.

Tastebuds American Bistro4019 MacArthur Ave. (804) 261-6544.www.tastebudsamericanbistro.comDine In. Casual. Dinner.

TJ’s Restaurant and Lounge at The Jefferson101 W. Franklin St. (804) 788-8000.www.jeffersonhotel.comBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In.Upscale. Reservations strongly suggested.

Tropical Smoothie Café8207 West Broad Street. (804) 527-2060.www.tropicalsmoothie.com. Casual.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-Out.

Weezie’s Kitchen3123 W. Cary St. (804) 726-1270.www.weezieskitchen.comDine In & Take-out. Casual. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

asianAkida814 N. Robinson St. (804) 359-8036.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Casual.

Carytown Sushi2923 W. Cary St. (804) 355-0058.Dine In & Take-out. Casual.

Kobe Japanese Steak & Sushi19 S. 13th St. (804) 643-8080.www.kobesteakandsushi.comDine In & Take-out. Casual.Lunch & Dinner.

The Lucky Buddha1421 E. Cary St. (804) 648-5100.www.theluckybuddha.comDinner. Dine In. Casual.

Moshi Moshi3321 W. Cary St. (804) 359-1151.www.moshimoshirva.com. Casual.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.

Peking Chinese Restaurant1302 E. Cary St. (804) 649-8888.www.pekingrestaurants.comLunch & Dinner. Casual.Dine In, Take-out & Delivery.

Sticky Rice2232 W. Main Street. (804) 358-7870.www.stickyricefan.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Casual. Reservations suggested.

Sumo San1725 E. Main St. (804) 643-6500.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Casual.

barbecueAlamo BBQ2202 Jefferson Ave. 592-3138.www.alamobbqva.comCasual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take Out.

Buzz & Ned’s1119 North Boulevard. (804) 355-6055.www.buzandneds.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual.

Double T’s BBQ 2907 W. Cary St. (804) 353-9861.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Casual.

Extra Billy’s 5205 W. Broad St. (804) 282-3949.www.extrabillys.com. Casual.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.

Flavor14 www.richmondnavigator.com

brazilianIpanema 917 W. Grace St. (804) 213-0190.www.ipanemaveg.comBrunch, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual. Reservations Suggested.

cubanHavana 5916 N. 17th St. (804) 780-2822.www.havana59.net. Dinner. Dine In & Take out.Casual. Reservations suggested.

Kenn-Tico Cuban Bar & Grill204 E. Grace Street. 804-225-9216.www.kennticocubanbargrill.comLunch & Dinner. Casual. Catering available.

Kuba Kuba1601 Park Ave. (804) 355-8817.www.kubakuba.info. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Weekend Brunch.

deliPadow’s Ham & Deli1601 Willow Lawn Dr. (804) 358-4267.www.padows.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual.

Perly’s Restaurant & Deli111 E. Grace St. (804) 649-2779. Breakfast & Lunch. Dine In & Take-out. Casual.

By Kellie Murphy

Southern Railway Deli111 Virginia St. (804) 343-1700.www.southernrailwaydeli.com. Casual.Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.

ethiopianAddis Ethiopian Restaurant9 N 17th Street. 308-3649.www.addisrichmond.comCasual, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take Out.

Nile Ethiopian Restaurant309 N. Laurel St. (804) 225-5544.www.nilerichmond.com. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.

europeanBistro 2727 W. Broad St. (804) 780-0086.www.bistrotwentyseven.com. Dine In & Take-out. Upscale casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.

Café Rustica414 E. Main St. (804) 225-8811. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.

Lemaire at Jefferson101 W. Franklin St. (804) 788-8000.www.lemairerestaurant.com Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Upscale. Reservations Strongly Suggested.

There’s a chill in the air, so grab your

coat and head to some of the area’s warm-

est and most inviting restaurants for new

menus, new chefs and those upcoming

holiday events.

Jimmy Sneed is bringing his newest

venture, BlowToad, to the space formerly

occupied by Double T’s in Carytown. The

restaurant will feature pizza in a coal-fired

oven as well as rotisserie-style prime rib.

The back bar and exterior have been reno-

vated, and added attractions will include

patio dining and a walk-up pizza window.

Look for an opening near the holidays.

Byram’s Lobster House, located at

3215 W. Broad Street, recently opened

under new owners, Jeff and Corina Kelso.

Along with a renovated interior, they have

brought in Chef Danny Klubowicz to cre-

ate a menu featuring items such as gnocchi

with red rock shrimp, Italian-style whole

sea bass and homemade soups.

Giuseppe Scafidi, is planning a new

venture featuring Italian food with a Sicil-

ian focus. The still unnamed restaurant will

be in the museum district and located in

the space formerly occupied by Cucina.

Lamplighter has opened a second loca-

tion, The Kickstand at Scott’s Addition,

at 1717 Summit Avenue. Serving brewed

coffee, sandwiches and pastries, the res-

taurant will be open from 7-12.

Chez Foushee has debuted a new

menu created by recently acquired chef,

Josh Wood, formerly of Ellwood Thomp-

son’s. nTo submit new openings, menus,

chefs and more, email them to [email protected].

15www.richmondnavigator.com Flavor

Olio2001 1/2 W. Main St. (804) 355-5182.www.oliorichmond.com. Dine In, Take-out & Delivery. Casual. Lunch & Dinner.

Penny Lane Pub421 E. Franklin St. (804) 780-1682.www.pennylanepub.com. Dine In. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.

Tarrant’s Cafe1 W. Broad St. (804) 225-0035.www. tarrantscafe.org. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.

fondueThe Melting Pot9704 Gayton Rd. (804) 741-3120.www.meltingpot.com. Dinner. Dine In. Upscale.Reservations strongly suggested.

frenchAmour Wine Bistro3129 W. Cary St. (804) 353-4020.www.amourwinebistro.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual.

Can Can Brasserie3120 W. Cary St. (804) 358-7274.www.cancanbrasserie.com. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested.

greekBacchus2 N. Meadow St. (804) 355-9919.www.bacchusonmain.com. Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Reservations suggested.

irishRosie Connolly’s Pub1548 E. Main St. (804) 343-1063.www.rosieconnollys.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual.

Sine1327 E. Cary St. (804) 649-7767.www.sineirishpub.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual.

italianA Movable Feast1318 E. Cary St. (804) 644-3663.www.amovablefeastonline.comDine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner.

Avenue 805805 N. Davis Ave. (804) 353-2505.www.avenue805.netDine In & Take-out. Upscale.Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner.Reservations suggested.


Coppola’s2900 W. Cary St. (804) 359-6969.www.coppolasdeli.com. Casual.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.

Joe’s Inn205 N. Shields Ave. (804) 355-2282.www.joesinn.com/FanBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out. Casual.

La Grotta1218 E. Cary St. (804) 644-2466.www.lagrottaristorante.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Upscale. Reservations strongly suggested.

Mamma Zu’s501 South Pine St. (804) 788-4205.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Casual.

Sensi2222 E. Cary St. (804) 648-3463.www.sensirestaurant.comDinner. Dine In & Take-out.Upscale. Reservations suggested.

Stuzzi1 N. Belmont Ave. (804) 308-3296.www.stuzzirichmond.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take out.Casual. Reservations Suggested

jamaicanCarena’s Jamaican Grille7102 Midlothian Tnpk. (804) 422-5375.www.422jerk.com. Dine In & Take-out. Casual. Lunch & Dinner.

Jamaica House 1215 West Broad Street. 358-5793.www.jamaicahouseonline.comCasual, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take Out.

lunchChez Foushee203 N. Foushee St. (804) 648-3225.www.chezfoushee.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Upscale. Reservations suggested.

mediterraneanCous Cous900 W. Franklin St. (804) 358-0868.www.couscous900.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Casual. Reservations suggested.

Emilio’s Restaurant1847 W. Broad St. (804) 359-1224.www.emiliosrichmond.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Casual. Reservations suggested.

Europa1409 E. Cary St. (804) 643-0911.www.europarichmond.com. Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Casual. Reservations suggested.

mexicanBandito’s Burrito Lounge2905 Patterson Ave. (804) 354-9999.www.banditosburritolounge.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Casual.

Cha Cha’s Cantina1419 E. Cary St. (804) 726-6296www.chachascantina.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.

Little Mexico1328 W. Cary St. (804) 525-4216.www.littlemexicova.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.Casual. Reservations suggested.

Mariachis Authentic Mexican Grill10456 Midlothian Turnpike. 272-5692.13933 Hull Street Road.Casual, Lunch and Dinner. Dine-In & Take Out.

Nacho Mama’s3449 W. Cary St. (804) 358-6262.www.nachomamasva.com. Casual. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out.

moroccan Riad Authentic Moroccan GrillCOMING SOON! 8902 W. Broad Street.Live entertainment nightly.

new americanBalliceaux203 N. Lombardy St. (804) 355-3008.www.balliceauxrva.com Dine In & Take-out. Upscale. Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested.

Café Gutenberg1700 E. Main St. (804) 497-5000.www.cafegutenberg.com. Dine-In & Take-out. Casual. Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner.Reservations suggested.

pizzeriaBottom’s Up1700 Dock Street. (804) 644-4400.www.bottomsuppizza.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In, Take out, & Delivery.Casual. Reservations Suggested.


seafoodAcacia 2601 W. Cary St. (804) 562-0138.www.acaciarestaurant.com. Dine In & Take-out. Upscale. Dinner. Reservations suggested.

Conch Republic11 Orleans St226-6242www.conchrepublicrocketts.comLunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take Out. Casual.

Croaker Spot119 E. Leigh Street. (804) 421-0560.www.croakersspot.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Casual.

Edo’s Squid411 N. Harrison St. (804) 864-5488.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-Out.Casual. Reservations suggested.

The Hard Shell1411 E. Cary St. (804) 643-2333.www.thehardshell.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine In. Upscale. Reservations suggested.

Old Original Bookbinder’s2306 E. Cary St. (804) 643-6900.www.bookbindersrichmond.comDinner. Dine In. Upscale. Reservations strongly suggested.

Sam Miller’s1210 E. Cary St. (804) 644-5465.www.sammillers.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-out. Upscale casual. Reservations suggested.

steakhouseBuckhead’s8510 Patterson Ave. (804) 750-2000.www.buckheads.com. Dinner. Dine In. Upscale casual. Reservations suggested. Hondos4024-C Cox Road. 968-4323.www.hondosprime.comLunch, Dinner & Sunday Brunch. Dine-In.Upscale. Reservations strongly suggested.

Morton’s111 Virginia St. (804) 648-1662.www.mortons.com. Dinner. Dine In. Casual. Reservations suggested.

Kobe19 S. 13th St. (804) 643-8080.www.kobesteakandsushi.comLunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-Out.Casual. Reservations suggested.

thaiThai Dinner Too3028 W. Cary St. (804) 353-9514.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In & Take-Out. Casual. Reservations suggested.

Thai Top Ten911 1/2 W. Grace St. (804) 254-8195. Casual.Lunch & Dinner. Dine In , Take-Out & Delivery. n


RC: You came to Richmond from the

Outer Banks. What brought you here?

OS: My husband and I were ready to

settle down, to put down roots. The

beach is not a good place to do that.

RC: So, do you live here in the Slip, or

nearby?

OS: Actually we are restoring a

100-year-old farm house in Eastern

Henrico.

RC: How do you spend your time off?

OS: We spend a lot of time doing outdoor

stuff and playing with the baby (Ol-

ivia and her husband, Lincoln, have a

15-month-old son, Milo).

RC: So, the downtown bar scene is

not a big part of your after-hours en-

tertainment?

OS: No. I’m a pretty simple person. I’m

not too metropolitan. Since the baby

came, I don’t go out much. In fact, when

a guest at the bar asks me where the hot

spots are, I usually direct them to one of

my co-workers.

Signature Drink: PASSION FRUIT COSMO3-oz Smirnoff Passion Fruit Vodka

1-oz Fresh passion fruit puree

1-oz Freshly-squeezed cranberry juice

1 Lime wedge

Combine Smirnoff Passion Fruit Flavored Vodka, puree, and cranberry juice in a cocktail shaker with ice.

Shake, strain and serve in a martini glass.

Garnish with a lime.wedge.

The Two (Attractive) Faces Of Olivia SmithBARTENDER FOR HAVAnA 59

Ol ivia Smith stands behind the bar, busily preparing

the ingredients for the mojitos, martinis, and other

popular adult beverages that will be served up to a

thirsty, after-work, downtown crowd when the doors swing

open in about an hour. As she prepares the bar, she’s also

making decisions on a new wine being offered by a vendor. She

pauses, in our interview, to give instructions to a recently-hired

employee.

As bar manager for one of the city’s most popular restau-

rants/bars, Olivia is the epitome of sophistication. The soft-

spoken young woman seems to fit perfectly behind the bar in

Havana 59, located on 17th Street in Shockoe Slip, across from

the Farmers Market.

But, there’s more to Olivia Smith than managing a very busy

bar, as I soon learned from speaking with her.

RC: Who is the most famous person

you’ve ever served here?

OS: Morgan Freeman has been in. We

also get a lot of local politicians. They’re

always interesting.

RC: What is the most important qual-

ity for a bartender?

OS: Good customer service. Anyone can

make a drink or wipe the bar. You have

to be able to handle people, and to read

people. Everyone is different. Some come

in here for quiet time. Others want some-

one to talk to.

RC: What do you like best about

working at Havana’s?

OS: I like the flexibility and I like the

people I meet.

RC: And, it would appear, you’re very

happy with your life.

OS: (Smiling) it’s pretty doggone perfect.

By Steve Cook. Photos by Tim Hill.



The Metro Richmond area is teeming with great, independent restaurants, with the greatest con-centration being in town. These non-chain eateries often showcase some of their individual style and character in their bars. From the dark wooden bars that virtually create the feel of having stepped back in time, to the ultra-sleek modern, and even futuristic, bars, there is definitely much from which to choose. Perhaps you already have your favorite spot…you know that place where everybody knows your name. If not (or if you seek something a bit different once in a while), we’re taking this opportunity to “raise the bar,” that is to make you more aware of the options, the special events, and the variety of fun evenings offered in some of the city’s truly great bars. We hope you’ll enjoy this new, regular feature of River City Magazine. And if you’d like to help us discover your favorite establishment, please contact us. Enjoy and, of course, drink respon-sibly.

CONCH REPUBLIC11 Orleans Street • 226-6242 • conchrepublicrocketts.com HOURS: Lunch 11:30am-2:30pm. Dinner 4pm-11pm.Jazz Brunch 10:30am-2pm.

HAPPY HOUR Daily 4-7pm. $2 off craft and import drafts. $1 off

domestic drafts. $2 domestic bottles. $3 rail high balls. Nightly

drink specials.

ENTERTAINMENT Sun. jazz brunch. 10:30am-2pm. Live music

Wed-Sat evenings.

GRAB A BITE Lunch 11:30am-2:30pm. Dinner 4-11pm.

QUENCH YOUR THIRST Key West Cosmo. Finlandia Tangerine Fusion Vodka with Triple Sec,

cranberry juice and pineapple juice.

THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Change your attitude without changing latitude! Conch Republic

is a casual Key West inspired, 6,000 square foot restaurant overlooking the James River in

Rocketts Landing. Catch a sunset over the water and city skyline on the deck, which seats

100. The menu is rich with flavorful foods that Florida’s islanders have come to expect – from

perfectly seasoned Conch Fritters and creamy, authentic Key Lime Pie to the Key Largo Snap-

per in mango butter and Islamorada Fish Tacos. Or try a dish inspired by the chef’s Southern

roots, and wash it down with a coconut or peach mojito!

THE WATER GRILL3411 W. Cary Street • 353-3411 • thewatergrill.com HOURS: Mon-Thurs 5-10pm. Fri-Sat 5-11pm. Sun 5-9pm.Brunch Sat-Sun 10:30am-3pm. Light fare 3-5pm.

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 4-6pm. Half off house wines, beer, high

balls.

ENTERTAINMENT None.

GRAB A BITE Full menu until close.

QUENCH YOUR THIRST The Parker. Eagle rare 10 year (a single-

barrel bourbon), orange peel, sugar, bitters and a splash of orange

juice.

THEIR CLAIM TO FAME In the heart of Carytown, The Water Grill features local and regional

seafood, hand-cut steaks, chops and an extensive raw bar with oysters, crab legs, clams,

mussels, shrimp and more. Seafood lovers will fall for their starters such as Virginia “Buffalo

Fried” Oysters with cayenne vinaigrette, blue cheese dressing and pickled celery, or their

Steamed Mussels with Lemongrass, ginger and coconut-curry broth. For land and sea lovers,

try the Peppercorn Encrusted New York Strip Steak with whipped potatoes, broccolini, jumbo

lump crab and citrus beurre blanc.

EUROPA ITALIAN CAFE & TAPAS BAR1409 E. Cary Street • 643-0911 • europarichmond.comHOURS: Sun-Wed 5-10pm. Thurs-Sat 5-11pm. Lounge Hours Fri-Sat til 2am.

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 5-7pm. $2.50 off select drafts and wells. $2

off sangria pitchers and wine by the glass.

ENTERTAINMENT None.

GRAB A BITE Full menu until close.

QUENCH YOUR THIRST Europa Martini. Three Olives Pomegran-

ate, Pomegranate Liquor, Cointeau and Champagne.

THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Europa has successfully introduced Richmond to tapas, or small

plates. Some of their popular appetizer-sized items include seared tuna, crab stuffed shrimp,

Spanish meat and cheeses and beef hanger kebobs. If you are feeling like a more hearty meal,

try one of their traditional pastas or their signature paella. Be transported to Spain in no time

with this delicious menu and a glass of sangria!


F. W. Sullivans Fan Bar & Grille2401 W Main Street • 308-8576 • fwsullivans.com

Hours: Mon-Thurs 4:30am-2am. Fri 11:30am-2am.

Sat-Sun 10am-2am.

Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 4-7. $4 house wine. $1 off

draft beers. $4 house high balls.

Entertainment: None.

Food: Weekdays full menu offered until 1am. Weekends

full menu until 11pm.

Current Restaurant140 Virginia Street • 788-4287

currentrestaurantva.com

Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-close. Sunday 11:30am-8pm.

Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 5-9pm. $2 Miller Lite drafts and

bottles of Bud Light. $3 bottled beers. $5 long islands.

$3 rail drinks.

Entertainment: Wed open-mic night. Thurs acoustic

night. Fri-Sat live music. Sun jazz and reggae brunch.

Food: Full menu until 9:45pm on weeknights. Until 1am

on weekends.

ROSIE CONNOLLY’S PUB & RESTAURANT 1548 E. Main Street 343-1063 • rosieconnollys.comHOURS: Mon-Sat 4pm-2am.

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 4-7pm. $3 well

drinks. Specials on select drafts. $3.50 house

wines.

ENTERTAINMENT Irish Jam 2nd and 4th

Wednesdays of every month.

GRAB A BITE Full menu until 9pm Monday,

10pm on weeknights, 11pm on weekends.

QUENCH YOUR THIRST Poor Man’s Black Velvet. Guinness and cider.

THEIR CLAIM TO FAME For a true Irish Pub experience, there’s no

better place than Rosie Connolly’s. Excellent selection of your favorite

brews from across the pond, including Guinness, Harp, Tetley’s Eng-

lish Ale and Stella Artois. Also, find an impressive array of single malt

scotches and Irish whiskeys. Get your fix for Fish N’ Chips. Or try their

Steak and Mushroom Pie–braised beef, onions and mushrooms with a

roasted garlic and red wine gravy, topped with a puff pastry and served

with mashed potatoes.

THE HALLIGAN BAR & GRILL3 N. 17th Street • 447-7981 thehalliganbar.com HOURS: Sun-Thurs 11am-12am. Fri-Sat 11am-2am.

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 4-7. $1 off highballs.

$1.50 PBRs. $1 off drafts.

ENTERTAINMENT None.

GRAB A BITE Full menu 11am-11pm. Bar

menu 11pm-2am.

QUENCH YOUR THIRST Chutes and Ladders. Shooter with flavored

vodka, flavored rum, sour mix and grenadine dropped into an energy

drink. Complete with lights and sirens until you finish.

THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Halligan Bar & Grill is a virtual museum and

tribute to past and present firefighters of all jurisdictions. The Halligan

Bar and Grill has an eye-catching bar showcasing a full-sized real fire

engine, with beer taps on the pump panel, behind the bar. They spe-

cialize in smoked meats such as Carolina-style pulled pork, Texas beef

brisket, Memphis-style pulled chicken and baby back ribs. This is the

first restaurant in Virginia with table taps. Take the Flatliner Challenge

to finish a sandwich with three pounds of hickory-smoked meats (plus

a pound of seasoned fries and homemade pickles) in 25 minutes (by

yourself!), and your meal’s on the house.

LEGEND BREWING CO.321 W. 7th St • 232-3446 legendbrewing.com HOURS: Mon-Thurs 11:30am-11pm. Fri-Sat 11:30am-12:45am. Sun 12:30pm-10pm.

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 4-7. Sat-Sun 1-4pm.

$5 margaritas. $3 lager. $4 ale.

ENTERTAINMENT Wed ladies night. Sunday

family day. Fri-Sat local musicians and bands.

Sundays at 6:30pm live music with rotating

bands featuring the area’s best bluegrass and Americana musicians.

GRAB A BITE Full dinner menu offered until close.

QUENCH YOUR THIRST Brown Ale. Legends full bodied version of a

British brown ale. A rich, malt forward brew with a beautiful mahogany

tone.

THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Legends is proud to be one of the few craft

breweries in this region producing both lagers and ales, which require

different yeasts and maturation conditions. All Legend beers are unpas-

teurized and made from only two-row and specialty barley malt, hops,

water and yeast. Their Brown Ale was awarded Grand Champion by the

United States Beer Tasting Championship. Enjoy the full menu (steak,

seafood, burgers and sandwiches) with your favorite beer inside the

150-seat pub or on the large deck overlooking the James River and the

Richmond skyline. Stop by at 1pm on Saturday for a brewery tour!


HAVANA 5916 N. 17th Street • 780-2822havana59.netHOURS: Mon-Sat. 4:30pm-2am.

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Thurs 4:30-6:30pm.

Fri 4:30-7pm. $4 mojitos. $1 off domestic

and import beers and rail drinks.

ENTERTAINMENT Thurs salsa.

Sat live music.

GRAB A BITE Kitchen open til 9pm Monday,

til 10pm on Mon-Thurs and til 11pm on Fri and Sat.

QUENCH YOUR THIRST The “Original” Mojito. Castillo Rum, fresh mint,

fresh lime juice and soda water.

THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Step into Havana 59 and travel back to the

50’s when Havana was considered “The Paris of the Caribbean.” The

string lights, crumbling plaster walls and aroma of cigars take you back

in time to the delights of a bygone era in Cuba. Combined the great food

and drinks to make this the “Cocktail Capital of the World.” At least that’s

what the sign above the bar says. Empanadas, paella, black bean soup

and Ropa Vieja go perfect with a hand-muddled mojito.

NEW YORK DELI2920 Cary Street • 358-3354 ny-d.comHOURS: Daily 9am-2am.

HAPPY HOUR 3-7pm daily. $2 rail drinks.

$1 off draft beer. $2 off wine by the glass.

ENTERTAINMENT Mon mug night. Tuesday

trivia night. Thurs karaoke. Fri and Sat live

DJs.

GRAB A BITE Full menu until 11pm on

weeknights. Bar menu til midnight on weekends.

THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Carytown’s most venerable restaurant and deli

becomes one of its hottest night spots when the sun goes down. Find

PBRs for 50 cents at this cool Carytown nightspot on Sundays through

Thursdays from 9-10pm. Looking to grab a bite on Christmas? Search

no further, as New York Deli is open 365 days a year. Try their Sailor

sandwich (they claim to be its birthplace) with hot pastrami, grilled

knockwurst, melted Swiss and hot mustard on rye bread. The vintage

bar perfectly complements the Deli, which has been in the same location

since 1934. n

DELUx2229 W. Main Street • 353-2424deluxrichmond.comHOURS: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2am. Sat-Sun 10am-2am.

HAPPY HOUR Daily 4-7pm. Half off wines

by the glass and wells. $2 off Miller Lite

bottles. $5 featured cocktails. Sun night half

off wells. Mon night $2 domestic bottles.

ENTERTAINMENT None.

GRAB A BITE Late night menu until 1am.

QUENCH YOUR THIRST Koala Bomb. Stoli blueberry vodka, Cruzan

mango rum, orange juice, cranberry juice, ginger ale, and Red Bull.

THEIR CLAIM TO FAME Located in the historic Fan district of Richmond,

deLux Diner and Lounge offers upscale diner food in a warm and modern

atmosphere. Choose from three different dining areas. Downstairs has

comfortable half circle booths and seating for large parties. Upstairs

is very cozy with sofa chairs. And the sun room also has its own bar,

sky lights and large garage doors that can open to let in the gorgeous

weather. Nosh on kicked up comfort food like lobster macaroni and

cheese, homemade grilled meatloaf, baked spaghetti, sweet potato fries

and a variety of specialty burgers.

Three Monkeys Bar & Grill2525 W Main Street • 204-2525

3monkeysfan.com

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-2am.

Sat-Sun brunch 9:30am-2:30pm.

Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 4-7pm.

$2 domestic bottled beers. Wed $2 Coronas.


Food: Full menu offered until 1am.

Cha Cha’s Cantina1419 East Cary Street • 726-6296

chachascantina.com

Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-2am. Sun 12pm-2am.

Happy Hour: Every day 4-9pm. $2 domestic beers and

Corona Light. $3 margaritas and well drinks.

Tues-Thurs 8-9pm $1 rail drinks. Wed 9pm-2am buy

a $5 mug and get $2 refills of Miller Lite or Coors Light

all night.

Entertainment: Tuesday live DJ and karaoke.

Food: Full menu until 9pm on Mondays. Other nights

until 10pm.

Lucky Buddha1421 East Cary Street • 648-5100

theluckybuddha.com

Hours: Tues-Sat 5pm-2am.

Happy Hour: Wed-Sat 5-9pm. $4 select martinis,

mojitos, Asian sangria, specialty drinks. $3 Asian beer.

$5 sake bomb.


Food: Full menu served until 9:30.


Fish EntrEEsIN SEARCH OF

Photos by Tim Hill.

Baker’s CrustShort Pump Town Center377-9060 • bakerscrust.com

Buckhead’s 8510 Patterson Avenue750-2000 • buckheads.com

Sockeye Salmon Filet Sockeye salmon filet is served over a shiitake asparagus risotto.

Seared Rockfish Seared rockfish with shiitake and roasted tomato pan sauce and served with Buckhead’s potato cake and sauteed asparagus.

Conch key Grouper Fresh grouper filet topped with blue crab and baked with a jalapeno-mango sauce served with Bahamian plantains.

Conch Republic11 Orleans Street • 226-6242www.conchrepublicrocketts.com

Baked Salmon Caprese The classic Italian flavors of caprese are featured with this baked salmon with tomatoes, basil and fresh mozzarella, served with crispy fingering potatoes and a lemon lime aoili.

Sam Miller’s1210 E. Cary Street 644-5465 • sammillers.com


T he Hardywood Park Craft Brewery founders expressly

chose Richmond for their new venture. They saw that

our city has only one brewery (the well-known Leg-

end Brewing Company), and had room for more. And they also

saw Richmonders’ appreciation for local history, arts, adven-

ture, and, more importantly, for fine beer.

The new brewery, located in Richmond’s Northside, wel-

comes the community with tours and tastings. Visitors can

taste the brews, including rotating samples from the pilot sys-

tem, and fill reusable growlers. To ensure that their impact

on the community will be entirely positive, Hardywood facili-

ties will be sustainable being wind powered. Even their spent

grain will be used locally for composting and as supplemental

livestock feed.

Determined to contribute to the “support local” movement,

initial distribution will focus on independent restaurants and

retailers. “After all,” McKay explains, “it’s the small indepen-

dents that have helped spread the excitement for craft beer, so

we want to be sure to give back to them.”

Hardywood’s most unique idea for engaging the communi-

ty is the “RVA IPA.” The India Pale Ale style depends upon hop

plants—the fresher the better. To make this RVA community

beer, Hardywood will give away rhizomes of hops to home

hop growers and then use the harvest for the finished brew.

Hardywood’s goal is to create quality beers that are unique,

representing less common styles, and to avoid competing with

popular craft beers. Hardywood Singel, their flagship beer, is

a Belgian abbey-style blonde ale, dry with a whiff of tropical

fruit. It has a complexity that can appeal to beer geeks, yet it’s

also very drinkable—mild, without overpowering flavors.

Their seasonal pumpkin beer uses farmhouse ale as the

base. The pumpkins are grown locally and the spices are

unique: allspice joins traditional spices, while fresh Ceylon

cinnamon sticks and chopped ginger replace ground spices.

The result is earthy and aromatic.

So far, it seems that Hardywood’s local focus is working.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the reception,” says McKay. As

more local beer drinkers try their beers, that reception will cer-

tainly improve. n

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery • 2408 Ownby Lane 804-420-2420 • www.Hardywood.com

A New Craft Brewery

for RichmondBy Annie Tobey.

Photos by Patrick Hannan.

I know this will make some of you, even my closest friends, angry,

but I have to say it. I hate LOL. What does it mean? I know it

stands for “Laugh Out Loud,” or “Laughing Out Loud.”

But really, is that how it’s used? Now, if LOL were saved for

only those special moments when someone, say myself, for example,

made a really funny comment, then I could understand it.

But most of the time, if I’m texting someone, I’m not being overly

funny. For instance, the other day, I asked someone (via Facebook) if

they were having a good day.

They texted back, “Not really. LOL.”

Really? “Not really,” makes you laugh out loud? And, if you are

laughing out loud is it because I asked you about your day, or because

you answered. Was that so hilarious that you had to LOL?

The scary thing is that the computer, rather than making us more

literate (because we all communicate in writing more than ever be-

fore) is doing just the opposite. Plus, it’s also taking away our ability

to understand even the most basic elements of conversation.

Think about it. If you were sitting in a room, speaking with some-

one, and they asked you about your day, would you start laughing

out loud? My feeling is you’d probably just answer the question. So,

why do differently when texting?

Actually, it gets even worse. To many texters, LOL isn’t enough.

For some of my friends (soon to be former friends) when I ask about

their day, they don’t just LOL, they ROFL.

I have to wonder when I see that response. Are they really, actu-

ally, rolling on the floor laughing? I’ve had some good belly laughs

in my day. I’m old enough to remember Henny Youngman and Bob

Hope, but never in all my life, have I rolled on the floor laughing.

True, in a long distance, written conversation, it’s a bit more dif-

ficult to express your emotions, but words still work well. If you think

someone said something funny, you might try writing back, “That’s

pretty funny.” Do you see how well real words work?

If some future civilization were to visit a museum showcasing

earthlings of the 2nd millennium, they would be puzzled. “These

people must have laughed a lot,” they will probably text to a friend

on another planet.

“Yes, it was their sense of humor that led to their demise,” their

friend might speculate.

To which, our much more intelligent descendant would text back,

using his abilities to type with his powerful mind, nestled in his large

head, “ROFLMBO.” n

What’s Cook In?

LOLOne our our readers’ favorites columns returns with the ramblings of Steve Cook!


ExtREmE PizzA11653 West Broad Street • 360-3123www.extremepizza.comtry the Ragin Rooster: One of 13 gluten-free pizzas, this one features chicken marinated in sweet BBQ sauce, red onions, fresh cilantro, ched-dar and mozzarella cheeses.

BOttOmS UP PizzA1700 Dock Street • 644-4400www.bottomsuppizza.comtry the Bottoms Up Loaded: Pizza topped with italian sausage, fresh ground beef, ham, pepperoni, sliced onions, green peppers, mushrooms and black olives, makes a great pick out of 17 gluten free options.

tHAi DinER tOO3028 W Cary Street • 353-9514www.tdtoo.webs.comtry the Bang-Bang Karee Curry: A special thai yellow curry with chunky pineapple, potatoes and coconut milk with a choice of meat, seafood, tofu or no meat is sure to satisfy your hunger.

tHE BELViDERE At BROAD506 West Broad Street • 344-0644www.thebelvidere.comtry the tequila Grilled Shrimp: Shrimp marinated with a citrus caper buerre blanc sauce and served with mashed potatoes and vegetable of the day.

tHE EmPRESS2043 West Broad Street • 592-4000www.theempressrva.comtry the Spicy Stir Fry: Made with ginger soy sauce, chili sauteed vegetables and rice vermicelli, you can add chicken, duck confit, steak or seared rare tuna.

LULU’S21 N 17th Street • 343-9771www.lulusrichmond.comtry the Pan Roasted Virginia Rockfish: Rockfish with kale, bacon, sweet po-tato and apple-rosemary puree.

SELBA2416 W. Cary Street • 358-2229www.selbarichmond.comtry the Barbecue Braised Brisket: Buffalo Creek beef brisket, tamarind glaze and fresh corn salad.

URBAn FARmHOUSE1217 East Cary Street • 325-3988www.thurbanfarmhouse.nettry the this and that Plate: Homemade flipper friendly tuna salad with home-made pumpkin hummus atop mixed greens with crunchy all natural gluten-free chips and carrots.

StUzzi 1 North Belmont • 308-3294www.stuzzirichmond.comtry the Carnivori Pizze: Any of Stuzzi’s pizzas can be made gluten-free including the San Marzano with to-mato sauce, house made mozzarella, sausage, sopressata salami and cotto ham. n

Gluten-Free

Restaurants Adapt to the Trend

Whether you have celiac disease, want an energy boost, wish to alleviate intestinal

issues or want to help treat a wide array of health issues – there are a host of reasons

people have chosen to go gluten-free. Whatever the reason may be, it cannot be de-

nied that the gluten-free way of life is a trend that is growing rapidly.

Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, barley, rye and some oats. Going gluten-

free used to mean eliminating foods that are widely enjoyed including pastries, pastas,

ice cream and stuffing. However, now there is no need to feel like you will miss out on

your favorite foods! Restaurants have begun to offer a plethora of gluten-free dishes in

order to appeal to the masses. The following list includes many popular restaurants that

have gluten-free menus and just a glimpse of some of the delicious entrees they have to offer.

By Fallon Mercer

One of 14 Specialty pizzas from an extensive menu of gluten-free salads and pizzas at Extreme Pizza. This one features chicken marinated in sweet BBQ sauce, red onions, fresh

cilantro, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.


To submit an event for our calendar, email [email protected].

A Year with Frog and Toad. November 4-23. Willow Lawn Theatre. theatreivrichmond.orgA Year With Frog and Toad follows two good friends, the cheerful and popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad, through four fun-filled seasons.

The National Shows. For more, go to thenationalva.comNovember 17: Curren$y/Method Man. November 25: Carbon Leaf.November 29: Mac Miller. December 2: Zeds Dead.December 3: Michael Ian Black. December 8: The Devil Wears Prada.December 9: Delbert McClinton. December 29: Keller Williams Kid’s Show.December 29: Keller Williams & The Pimps of Joytime.

2011 Craft + Design Show. November 19-20. Science Museum of Virginia. www.smv.org

Civil War Show. November 19-20. Richmond Raceway Complex. richmondracewaycomplex.com

Scream Tour: NXG. November 20. Richmond CenterStage. richmodncenterstage.com. Starring Mindless Behavior and Diggy Special Guest The New Boyz. Featuring Jacob Latimore and Hamilton Park and introducing The OMG Girlz.

Blue Ridge Mountain ChristmasNovember 25-January 8. Hanover Tavern. barksdalerichmond.orgInspired by the warm-hearted comedy of Appalachian folk tales, and filled with traditional carols played and sung live by the talented cast, this holiday heart-warmer brings to life the Christmas culture of southwest Virginia.

Virginia Opera: Hansel and Gretel. November 25-27. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.com

Bolder & Fresher Tour 2011. November 25. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.comBill O’Reilly and Dennis Miller team up to take on Richmond.

GardenFest of Lights 2011. November 25-January 9. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. lewisginter.org

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Winter Tour 2011.November 30. Richmond Coliseum. trans-siberian.com

Jingle Bell Wine Trail. December 3-4. Hovawinetrail.comHeart of Virginia’s four wineries–Cooper, Grayhaven, James River Cellars and Lake Anna–join to bring you munchies, crafts and more at each winery.

Richmond Symphony: Genworth Financial Symphony Pops Let It Snow! December 3-4. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.com

Amy Grant and Vince Gill: The 12 Days of ChristmasDecember 9. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.com

Sale of the Century. December 9-11. Richmond Raceway Complex. saleofthecentury.comThe show is the ultimate unique event invented and practiced by S&S productions for years. Millions of dollars of inventory is priced to sell.

Intergalactic Bead Show. December 10-11. Richmond Raceway Complex. beadshows.com

Greenberg Train and Toy Show. December 17-18. Richmond Raceway Complex. greenbergshows.com

West End Comedy Downtown. January 13. Richmond CenterStage. richmondcenterstage.comIn the style of What’s My Line or Who’s Line is it Anyway?, talented performers will stretch the realm of improv comedy for adult audiences throughout the season! Mature audiences.

By Alaina Rauth

CALENDAR OF EVENTSN OV E M B E R - J A N u A R y

my Fair LadyNOVEMBER 25 – JANuARy 8

Celebrate the Empire’s 100th anniversary

with the fun, tuneful and elegant My Fair Lady,

which happens to take place in the same year the

Empire Theatre opened...1911. The story follows

Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, as she is

transformed by professor Henry Higgins, a pho-

neticist, into a proper lady. Higgins and his friend

Colonel Pickering make great progress with the

girl, but how will things turn out when they

begin treating Eliza more like an experiment

than a human being? Tickets available online at

www.BarksdaleRichmond.org.

First FridaysDECEMBER 2 & JANuARy 6

First Fridays series features an eclectic mix of

multicultural performing arts to add another de-

gree of culture to your visit to the Virginia Museum

of Fine Arts. Take advantage of extended evening

hours to stroll the galleries, shop and dine at the

restaurant. On December 2nd, Corey Harris, an

internationally renowned blues, Delta blues and

reggae guitarist will perform in the Atrium. Return

on January 6th for a night of poetry. Acclaimed

Virginia poets Anne Clare Hodge, John Hoppen-

thaler, Deborah Ager and Bernadette Geyer will

each present a 25-minute reading from their origi-

nal works. For more ways to add some culture into

your evening out, go to www.vmfa.state.va.us.

South Pacific DECEMBER 16-17

Broadway in Richmond brings Rodg-

ers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific to the

Landmark Theater this December. Based

on the 2008 Tony Award® winning

Lincoln Center Theater production, the

musical is set on a tropical island during

World War II. The sweeping romances

feature two couples who have their hap-

piness threatened by the realities of war

and their own prejudices. Go to www.

broadwayinrichmond.com to purchase

tickets to the show that will have you

singing the catchy tunes for weeks!


I recently had the opportunity to speak with Steven Bradley of the avant-garde metal band Iwrestledabearonce. Since 2007 the

band has been touring incessantly bringing their unique brand of music to the masses around the globe. Their newest CD, Ruining It

For Everybody, was released earlier this year, and the band is once again on the road. Be sure to catch them when they roll into town

on November 17th at The Canal Club. Here is what Bradley had to say.

iwrestledabearonce

How is the tour going so far?

“It is awesome; it is a lot of fun. It is not

quite the same as The Warped Tour, but it

is fun…real good times.”

Now that your new CD, Ruining It For

Everybody, is complete, how do you feel

about it, and are you satisfied with the

outcome?

“Yeah it is much better than the last

one. We actually like this one; we hated

the last one.”

Did you really?

“Well, yeah we were rushed, and we

wrote it in like ten days. A lot of parts

were on there that we really didn’t want

to be on there.”

What is the writing process like for

you guys?

“We all kind of write on tour and then

come together afterwards and put it all to-

gether. We are all...writing on our laptops

all the time.”

You mentioned you like this album

better, was there a different writing pro-

cess that made it better?

“This is the album we wanted to make

last time. We just had the time now. I think

the album definitely sounds better and

makes more sense.”

When you write do you think about

the live performance at all?

“No, it is really weird playing stuff live

as opposed to the studio. It is totally differ-

ent, especially the way we write.”

Is it difficult translating the songs

into a live setting?

“It is not difficult, no, it sometimes just

feels weird. Parts that seem heavy on the

CD do not turn out that way live and vice

versa.”

How is the new material being re-

ceived?

“It seems that anyone who has ever

liked anything we did previously is dig-

ging this record and so are other people

who didn’t like our previous work. All

that really matters is that people that like

our band are still stoked on it. We write

the music for us, not to cater to people. It

sounds rude, because at the same time we

want to make sure people don’t hate us.

But we don’t want to change our sound to

appease anyone.”

You guys have toured quite a bit. Is

there anywhere you have not played that

you would like to get to?

“Australia, which is hopefully in the

cards for 2012. We still have not been to

Mexico or South Africa.” n

Listen at iwrestledabearonce.com.

BACkSTAGE WITHBy Bruce Moore


C ITY SPACES

Rocketts Landing has long been an important cornerstone of Richmond history, evolv-

ing from a bustling 1730’s riverfront town to a vibrant 21st century urban community. This

unique landmark now features an array of living choices with architectural styles from

historic lofts to industrial contemporary. Rocketts Landing condo and townhome floor plans

range from 893 square feet to 4,415 square feet and come in a variety of pricing options

from $179,900 to over $1 million.

These exceptional homes are intermixed with restaurants, the city’s only marina, a

riverfront pool and a private fitness center. All this, and Rocketts is only 3 minutes from

downtown Richmond.

Looking for dinner options? Rocketts Landing is home to three of Richmond’s best res-

taurants. Enjoy the incredible views of the Richmond skyline while lounging on the outside

patios at either the chic Boathouse or the Key West-themed Conch Republic Rocketts. If you

are looking for something a little cozier, you can always try the exquisite food at M Bistro

& Wine Bar. Regardless of which restaurant you choose, they are all just a few steps away.

Leslie Haas Clanton, a Rocketts resident, had this to say about the unparalleled com-

munity, “Rocketts Landing has character, class and convenience! Whether it’s the diversity

of the buildings, friendliness of the residents or unique access to the river and variety of

restaurants, this community has proven

to be a great place for me to live, work

and stay fit.”

If you are interested in becoming a

Rocketts Landing resident, right now is

the perfect time. Rocketts is currently

holding a closeout sale on the historic

Cedar Works condos. These one-of-a-

kind homes are characterized by ex-

posed brick and wooden beams, located

in the only historically renovated build-

ing at Rocketts Landing.

For more information, you can visit the Sales Center, call 222-5011

or go to rockettsvillage.com.

ROCKETTS LANDINGLiving on Downtown’s Riverfront

Photos by JFordPhotography.com


Documents

NOV/DEC 2011 River City Richmond Magazine