Best of Virginia Winners

Table of Contents

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Restaurants

Address:

Henrico

Phone Number:

804-288-7483

Link:

AngelasRVA.com

Address:

Henrico

Phone Number:

804-282-1509

Link:

Azzurros.com

Edo’s Squid’s authentic, homemade Italian dishes have developed legions of foodie fans. A less-than-grand entrance—up a creaky, old staircase—belies the profound culinary experience waiting inside. Food is consistently delicious, with squid served every which way, and delectable pasta dishes (like broccoli rabe and puttanesca) and flavorful mains like hanger steak and rockfish among customer favorites. But order anything—you can rarely go wrong.

Address:

411 N. Harrison St., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-864-5488

Link:

EdosSquidRVA.com

Address:

Henrico

Phone Number:

804-360-8686

Link:

Anokha.us

With a menu offering a modern approach to the classics, Lehja has developed a solid following. Washingtonian magazine claimed it to be the “best Indian restaurant outside of Washington D.C.’s Rasika in the Region,” and for Rasika fans, that’s quite an accolade. Popular dishes include a deconstructed butter chicken and duck Salli Boti. An extensive wine list won praise from Wine Spectator.

Address:

11800 W. Broad St., Suite 910, Richmond

Phone Number:

804-364-1111

Link:

Lehja.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-204-1800

Link:

LemonCuisineOfIndia.com

Address:

Gordonsville

Phone Number:

540-832-0227

Link:

BBQEx.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-355-6055

Link:

BuzAndNeds.com

ZZQ Texas Craft Barbecue began as a pop up and catering operation. As business grew, it officially opened as a restaurant in 2018. Boasting the only authentic Texas-style barbecue in the Commonwealth, ZZQ uses all-wood cooking methods to create its popular sliced brisket, specialty meat sandwiches, spicy sides, and more.

Address:

3201 W. Moore St., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-528-5648

Link:

ZZQRVA.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-888-9861

Link:

BelmontPizzeria.com

Bottoms Up is a staple of Richmond’s historic Shockoe Bottom district and has specialized in gourmet pizzas for more than 30 years. Surviving floods, hurricanes, and a pandemic, this family-owned business is here to stay, providing Richmond with quality, delicious pizzas, savory sauces, generous pasta portions, and even a selection of juicy burgers.

Address:

1700 Dock St., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-644-4400

Link:

BottomsUpPizza.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-353-2333

Link:

MaryAngelasPizza.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-204-2387

Link:

BevsHomemadeIceCream.com

Address:

Fredericksburg

Phone Number:

Link:

CarlsFrozenCustard.com

In 1984, Peter and John Edmonds opened Gelati Celesti in Richmond. Each batch of ice cream is handmade and the flavors are churned in small batches using special Italian equipment. Gelati Celesti now boasts seven locations in Richmond (and two in Virginia Beach). With 24 house flavors and 85 others rotating throughout the year, these ice cream experts also offer made-to-order ice cream pies and cakes for any occasion.

Address:

7 locations in the Richmond area

Phone Number:

804-346-0038

Link:

GelatiIceCream.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-855-0800

Link:

BlackHandCafes.com

David Blanchard founded Blanchard’s Coffee Roasting Co. in January 2005, and it wasn’t long before grocery store chains started selling his beans locally, transforming the company into a favorite wholesale coffee brand. With three cafe locations in Richmond—on West Broad Street, Morris Street in the Fan, and on Forest Hill Avenue on the Southside, Blanchard’s mission continues: Good work in the service of great coffee.

Address:

3 locations in Richmond

Phone Number:

804-687-9443

Link:

BlanchardsCoffee.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-231-2030

Link:

CrossroadsRVA.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-554-0258

Link:

BlueAtlasRVA.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-303-3577

Link:

CobraCabanaRVA.square.site

Once a simple food truck, Goatocado now has two restaurants and five trucks. A “conscious kitchen,” Goatocado is dedicated to sustainability and sourcing the freshest ingredients possible. The menu includes wraps, bowls, and ramen, with choices of bases and add-ons—like quinoa or mac and cheese, and organic tofu or garlic ginger mushrooms.

Address:

1823 W. Main St., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-464-8226

Link:

Goatocado.com

Blue Mountain Brewery opened in 2007 as the first rural-brewery model in Virginia. Blue Mountain exists solely to be a destination for carefully crafted beer in a beautiful place, complemented by excellent food and service. Popular brews include a noble-hop-laced Pre-Prohibition Lager, a cold-aged German Ale, an Orange Infused IPA, an aromatic DIPA, and a Pale Ale.

Address:

9519 Critzers Shop Rd., Afton

Phone Number:

540-456-8020

Link:

BlueMountainBrewery.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-784-4800

Link:

PorticoRichmond.com

Address:

4 locations in the Richmond area

Phone Number:

804-404-9194

Link:

BoathouseVa.com

You don’t need to leave the state to get authentically crafted, freshly baked New York bagels. Locally owned and operated since 1988, Bodo’s Bagels serves traditional bagels and cream cheese, along with affordable sandwiches and salads at three locations in Charlottesville, satisfying locals, visitors, and the college community alike.

Address:

3 locations in Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-293-5224

Link:

BodosBagels.com

Address:

Glen Allen

Phone Number:

804-747-1030

Link:

Boychiks.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-794-8798

Link:

BrickHouseDiner.com

Address:

3 locations in Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-293-5224

Link:

BodosBagels.com

A family-owned and operated company, Boychik’s Deli has been in business since 1990. While the restaurant boasts a large and diverse menu, including burgers and omelets, it’s most famous for its authentic New York-style sandwiches. Taking a bite of Boychik’s classic Reuben is guaranteed to transport right to the streets of New York City.

Address:

4024 Cox Rd., B, Glen Allen

Phone Number:

804-747-1030

Link:

Boychiks.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-644-4777

Link:

SecretSandwichSociety.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-928-2652

Link:

BokaTruck.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-399-7197

Link:

ChristophersRunawayGourmay.com

Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen is a family-owned and operated doughnut truck known for its unique sourdough donuts made fresh while you wait with original or chocolate-glaze. You can stay up to date with the changing schedule posted on Facebook each week.

Address:

Greater Richmond area

Phone Number:

540-395-5213

Link:

Facebook: @mrsyoderskitchen

Held to the highest standard of excellence, Buckhead’s Chop House has been a Richmond tradition since 1994, featuring succulent Braveheart Beef and fresh seafood. A passion for culinary perfection is evident in every bite. As an added bonus, Buckhead’s bar proudly highlights one of the largest selections of single malt scotches and bourbons in the area.

Address:

8510 Patterson Ave., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-750-2000

Link:

Buckheads.com

Address:

Glen Allen

Phone Number:

804-968-4323

Link:

HondosSteakHouse.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-782-9555

Link:

TheTobacoCompany.com

This New Zealand-inspired gastropub is known for its award-winning gourmet burgers and signature cocktails. Silver Fern Farms in New Zealand is the exclusive supplier of the restaurant’s pasture-raised, 100 percent grass-fed Black Angus beef, ensuring only the best quality, all-natural ingredients. A choice of 16 signature sauces can accompany Burger Bach’s sizzling fresh-cut fries.

Address:

Multiple locations

Phone Number:

804-359-1305

Link:

BurgerBach.com

Address:

Multiple locations

Phone Number:

866-345-4897

Link:

FiveGuys.com

Address:

Locations in Charlottesville, Richmond

Phone Number:

804-285-1758

Link:

JackBrownsJoint.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-358-7274

Link:

CanCanRVA.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-643-6900

Link:

BookBindersRichmond.com

Established in 1983, Stella’s honors rustic and modern Greek cuisine. The charming and romantic space is a tribute to Stella herself, who, for many years, crafted her famed Greek recipes for all who walked through her doors. You’ll have a hard time choosing what to order from the authentic and thoughtfully crafted menu.

Address:

1012 Lafayette St., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-358-2011

Link:

StellasRichmond.com

Address:

3 locations in Richmond

Phone Number:

804-775-2628

Link:

CasaDelBarcoVa.com

Address:

4 locations in the Richmond area

Phone Number:

804-673-1090

Link:

ElCaporalRVA.com

Mexico Restaurant opened in 1990 and has since expanded to seven locations throughout the Richmond area. Serving fresh Mexican food of the highest quality in a casual atmosphere, Mexico is perfect for a family dinner, birthday party, or casual night out. They pride themselves not only for their food and service, but also their involvement with the community.

Address:

6 locations in the Richmond area

Phone Number:

804-559-8126

Link:

Mexico-Restaurant.com

Croakers Spot, with roots in the Harlem Renaissance, was reimagined in Richmond as the “soul of seafood.” Tasty menu items like Oysters Rockefeller, crab stuffed salmon, and seafood by the count along with its down-home vibe have secured its place in the city’s impressive food scene. As the original Mr. Croaker was known to say: “Let me tell you…ain’t nuthin’ like good food, good people, at a good spot!”

Address:

Locations in Petersburg, Richmond

Phone Number:

804-269-0464

Link:

CroakersSpot.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-353-3411

Link:

EastCoastRVA.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-864-5488

Link:

EdosSquidRVA.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-354-9888

Link:

FatDragonRVA.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-288-8801

Link:

OsakaSushiVa.com

An award-winning chef, Peter Chang is considered one of the greatest in Chinese cuisine today. Chang takes authentic Szechuan cooking to a whole new level at his restaurants, offering a broad menu that showcases his mastery of peppers and spices, and has garnered a massive following of loyal customers.

Address:

Multiple locations

Phone Number:

804-728-1820

Link:

PeterChangRestaurant.com

FOOD SHOPPING

Address:

Ashland

Phone Number:

804-798-9219

Link:

AshlandVa.gov

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-970-3371

Link:

Charlottesville.gov

This open-air, producer-only market is the ideal spot for farmers and artisans to sell locally grown and handmade items. Open year-round, rain or shine, South of the James has an impressively extensive vendor list—from soaps to sausage, donuts to dog treats, and fruits to flowers. Its home is in Forest Hill Park on Richmond’s Southside. Sunday hours are from 10:00-1:00.

Address:

Forest Hill Park, Richmond

Phone Number:

804-814-2373

Link:

GrowRVA.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-422-8519

Link:

BelmontButchery.com

Ellwood Thompson’s is Richmond’s premier natural foods market. This small (but much bigger than it used to be), local, organic market focuses on minimally processed, responsibly sourced, and sustainable foods. Its admirable core values and pledge for transparency and social responsibility make it a corporate standout. With hot foods to go, a coffee and juice bar, and an in-house bakery. Ellwood Thompson is a consistent Best of Virginia winner.

Address:

4 N. Thompson St., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-359-7525

Link:

EllwoodThompsons.com

Address:

3 locations in Richmond

Phone Number:

804-358-0020

Link:

StellasGrocery.com

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-326-5978

Link:

CocoaAndSpice.com

After seeing fine chocolatiers on a trip to Europe, For the Love of Chocolate’s original owner wanted to bring that same luxurious experience to Richmond. This business is a haven for chocolate lovers, with gourmet and international items, Virginia-made options, rare retro candies, kosher and vegan treats, and much more.

Address:

3136 W. Cary St., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-359-5645

Link:

ForTheLoveOfChocolateRVA.com

Address:

Locations in Charlottesville, Richmond

Phone Number:

800-625-0595

Link:

GearhartsChocolates.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-285-2253

Link:

PearlsBakeShoppe.com

Famous for its substantial slices of cake, Shyndigz has a deliciously sweet selection of goodies. Cobblers, oatmeal cream pies, and crème brûlée are also on the menu, along with vegan desserts like banana brulée. A savory selection of small plates and charcuterie is a recent menu addition. Be sure to follow along on their social media for updates on daily specials.

Address:

1903 W. Cary St., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-938-3449

Link:

Shyndigz.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-788-7672

Link:

SubRosaBakery.com

DRINK

Bang! is an Asian-inspired tapas restaurant, which also includes a large and creative cocktail menu. “Key Lime Tini” is a vodka martini that comes with key lime pie in the glass, complete with a graham cracker rim. Or try something more tropical, like “Paradise Island,” a mix of Malibu rum, pineapple, and butterscotch. Whatever your tastes, Bang! has you covered.

Address:

213 Second St. SW, Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-984-2264

Link:

BangRestaurant.net

Address:

Fredericksburg

Phone Number:

540-940-2614

Link:

Fahrenheit132.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

Link:

JasperBarRVA.com

Barboursville Winery was originally a landmark 18th-century estate designed by Thomas Jefferson for his friend James Barbour, another Virginia statesman. In 1976, the estate was acquired by Gianni Zonin, already heir to a family wine enterprise in Veneto, Italy. Today, guests can experience world-class wine and the renaissance of European viticulture in the rolling hills of Virginia.

Address:

1765 Winery Rd., Barboursville

Phone Number:

540-832-3824

Link:

BbvWine.com

Address:

Crozet

Phone Number:

434-823-7800

Link:

KingFamilyVineyards.com

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-266-9909

Link:

TrumpWinery.com

Barrel Thief offers a wide variety of wines, wine classes, and even some beer and cider. A carefully curated inventory comes from all over the world. Provisions like chocolates and peanuts are in stock to pair with whatever wine you choose. Wine classes can be unguided, virtually guided, or in-person tastings exploring a specific region or topic.

Address:

5805 Patterson Ave., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-612-9232

Link:

BarrelThiefWine.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-288-0816

Link:

CorkAndKegs.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-726-9463

Link:

OnceUponAVine.us

Belle Isle Craft Spirits is all about moonshine. Twelve flavors like Lemon Lavender and Aged Honey Habanero are available in 750 ml bottles and a selection of 12 oz. canned cocktails in six flavors are sold ready-to-drink in four or 12-packs. These moonshine makers consistently rack up five-star reviews.

Address:

615 Maury St., Richmond

Phone Number:

804-723-1030

Link:

BelleIsleCraftSpirits.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

844-724-7787

Link:

CirrusVodka.com

Address:

Powhatan

Phone Number:

804-818-6330

Link:

ThreeCrossesDistilling.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-231-0280

Link:

BlueBeeCider.com

After opening its Nellysford Cider Barn a decade ago, Bold Rock Hard Cider has become a regional favorite as the nation’s largest independently-owned cider company, racking up more than 100 awards. Experience sweet ciders in-person at the tranquil Nellysford or Carter Mountain locations or purchase hard seltzers and canned cocktails to take home from regional grocery stores.

Address:

Locations in Charlottesville, Nellysford

Phone Number:

434-361-1030

Link:

BoldRock.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-355-0100

Link:

BuskeyCider.com

Address:

Afton

Phone Number:

540-456-8020

Link:

BlueMountainBrewery.com

Address:

Clarksville

Phone Number:

434-265-3343

Link:

BuggsIslandBrewing.com

Founded in 2011, Hardywood’s mission includes a sharp focus on brewing quality, sourcing locally, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. With 12 total variants, Hardywood is well known for its Gingerbread Stout. Its Ownby Lane location in Richmond’s Scott’s Addition includes a pizza kitchen and an outdoor patio with fire pits and a performance stage.

Address:

2 locations in Richmond

Phone Number:

804-420-2420

Link:

Hardywood.com

The Story Behind the Moonshine Explosion in Rocky Mount, Virginia

It was during the early days of the Great Depression, and Virginia’s statewide prohibition was still in effect, banning all sales of alcohol. Meanwhile, in Franklin County, the area was laying the foundation for its future title: the Moonshine Capital of the World. Nestled among the Appalachian and Blue Ridge mountains, the Turner Motor Co. […]

by Gabriela de Camargo Gonçalves

A Couple’s Small-Town Makeover

After a successful career in investigative services in Washington, D.C., Terri Wesselman and her husband, Julien Patterson, decided to settle down in Irvington. Initially drawn to the area by the Tides Inn, the couple had been weekending in the Northern Neck since the late ’90s. “There was something about the area that was quiet but […]

by Stephanie Ganz

The Ghosts of Virginia

The pendulum of the mind oscillates between sense and nonsense, not between right and wrong.—Carl Jung It may be the little diversion on a vacation that no one can resist. After we pad the waistline with fries and ice cream, we turn to the ghost tour in a haunted house. On the surface, of course, […]

by Avery Chenoweth

Best of Virginia Winners

Restaurants

FOOD SHOPPING

DRINK

Current Issue

Most Popular

The Story Behind the Moonshine Explosion in Rocky Mount, Virginia

A Couple’s Small-Town Makeover

The Ghosts of Virginia

Best of Virginia Winners

Restaurants

FOOD SHOPPING

DRINK

Current Issue

Get our most popularweekly newsletter: VL Today

Most Popular

The Story Behind the Moonshine Explosion in Rocky Mount, Virginia

A Couple’s Small-Town Makeover

The Ghosts of Virginia

Get our most popularweekly newsletter: VL Today

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weekly newsletter: VL Today

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weekly newsletter: VL Today