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Fried chicken, a quintessential summer picnic food, is a Southern staple, and Richmond boasts a plethora of locally-owned eateries that each bring their unique flair to this classic favorite. Grab a drumstick and check out these top spots that offer some of the best fried chicken in RVA.

Mama J’s

Mama J’s Kitchen
A Richmond institution and the reigning champion of Richmond’s inaugural Fried Chicken Bracket, Mama J’s serves up its fried chicken with a soulful flair. It is best paired with their famous mac ‘n cheese or collard greens.

Ukrop’s Market Hall
A beloved local favorite, a box of Ukrop’s fried chicken, best paired with their signature potato wedges, is the perfect grab-and-go fried chicken offering.

Richmond has earned its reputation as a haven for food lovers, attracting both visitors and locals to its diverse culinary scene. With countless exceptional eateries, deciding where to dine can be a delightful challenge. To make your choice a bit easier, we’ve asked local business owners—who are passionate supporters of fellow Richmond-owned businesses—to share their favorite RVA meals. Discover their top picks below and get inspired for your next dining adventure!

Jeff Plemons, The Flour Garden Bakery Jeff, the owner of The Flour Garden Bakery, loves the perfect combination of a hot dog from City Dogs, perfectly paired with a Falcon Smash IPA from Triple Crossing Brewery.

Christina Kern, Campfire & Co. Christina, co-founder of […]

There’s no better way to enjoy the summer than with a classic cookout. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a side dish, Richmond’s local businesses are ready to help you find everything you need for the perfect barbecue. From high-quality meats and fresh produce to delicious desserts and beverages, here’s your guide to sourcing the best cookout staples locally.

Beverages

Every great cook out needs a refreshing selection of ice cold beverages plunged in a cooler filled with ice and ready to quench guests’ thirst. Sip on beverages from Blue Bee Cider, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, and The Veil Brewing Co., local favorites offer a variety of craft beers and ciders that are perfect for a summer cookout.

Union Market

Chips, Condiments & Other Essentials

No cookout is […]

While Richmond is renowned for its exceptional craft beer scene, it’s time to shine the spotlight on the area’s equally impressive craft distilleries. From smooth moonshine to rich whiskey, these distilleries blend old-world techniques with innovative new flavors, perfectly catering to contemporary tastes. Here are five locally owned distilleries, imbuing Richmond with spirited craft beverages.

Belle Isle Moonshine

Belle Isle Moonshine

Born from a desire to tap into the rich history of America’s original clear spirt, this premium moonshine offers drinkers a more refined option that pairs well with other flavors. Their premium, gluten-free moonshine is crafted with organic corn and quadruple-distilled for purity. What began as a single product – Belle Isle Black Label – today comes in a variety of flavor infusions including Honey […]

Few businesses cultivate a sense of community quite like a local bookstore. From book signings to book clubs, independent bookstores foster connections as much as they encourage a love of reading. Whether you’re new to reading for pleasure or a seasoned book worm, local Richmond bookstores offer something for everyone.

bbgb

bbgb

Located in Carytown, bbgb is the perfect place to spark a lifelong love of reading in children. From monthly subscriptions to toddler book club, young readers and families will delight in the opportunities bbgb offers to connect over a new favorite read.

The Book Bar

Few things go together like a good book and a delicious glass of wine. The Book Bar, located in Shockoe Slip, offers both while curating a collection that focuses on BIPOC authors and brands, complemented by author talks and […]

Richmond is home to an abundance of women-owned businesses in a wide range of industries, from delightful eateries to unique shopping experiences and engaging activities. There’s no better time than Women’s History Month to celebrate and support these incredible businesses. By supporting women-owned businesses, you not only boost the local economy but also empower and promote gender equality in the business world. Here’s your guide to celebrating and supporting just a few of the many women-owned businesses in Richmond.

Julelp’s New Southern Cuisine

Places to Eat

Richmond’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, with many women leading the charge. Here are some must-visit spots:

• Chez Foushee: Offers an elegant dining experience with a menu inspired by French cuisine in a charming setting.
• Elegant Cuizines: Specializes in beautifully crafted, […]
  

Black History Month is not only a time for reflection and celebration of Black history and culture; it’s also an opportunity to recognize and support the role of Black entrepreneurship in shaping our community. Richmond stands as a beacon of this entrepreneurial spirit, with a rich history of Black business ownership that has contributed significantly to the city’s cultural and economic landscape.

Waller & Company Jewelers

Richmond’s Legacy as a Hub for Black Entrepreneurship

Richmond’s history as a hub for Black entrepreneurship dates back to the era of Reconstruction and beyond, when African Americans, despite facing systemic barriers, began to establish businesses and institutions that would serve their communities and create a foundation for future generations. Jackson Ward, often referred to as the “Harlem of the South,” […]

This holiday season, Richmond shines as a destination for artful and handcrafted items – perfect for thoughtful gift-giving. Local artisans weave stories and love through their creations, creating much more than simply functional items. We’ve curated a unique list of five handcrafted gift ideas from local Richmond businesses and artists that will surely be a gift to remember.

A 5×5 tray by Glass Oven Art that is perfect for jewelry, keys, or other trinkets.
Available at Pop of Confetti.

A 24″ hand-tuned and handcrafted Festival Bronze Wind Chime. 
Available at MediaNoche.

A handcrafted leather crossbody bag. Available […]

What’s a small way you can incorporate more local businesses into your holiday shopping this season? Stocking stuffers! Choosing to shop local for stocking stuffers not only adds unique delights but also supports our community businesses. From charming boutiques to specialty stores, the local scene is rich with thoughtful gifts that add an authentic touch to the season of giving. We’ve curated a few ideas to help get you started.

JACK BLACK NightMode Lip Treatment – Franco’s Fine Clothier

Rich, emollient formula provides soothing, replenishing hydration while you sleep  – or while you’re outdoor in the field.

Aveda Hand Relief^™ Iconic Aroma Trio of Hand Creams – Mango Salon

This trio is perfect for splitting amongst multiple stockings and will keep their hands hydrated all winter long.

Playful […]

Give the gift of memories this holiday season when you gift someone an experience through one of Richmond’s small businesses. An experience gift is perfect for those hard-to-shop-for people on your list and the memories created last long after the gift wrap has been tossed. To help you find the perfect experience gift, we’ve curated a list of some of the best and most unique options in Richmond that are sure to delight and create lasting memories.

Ice Cream Making at Sweet Wynns: Perfect for that person with a sweet tooth, Sweet Wynns offers a delightful ice cream-making experience where participants get to create the perfect ice cream pint to take home.

Cooking Class at Mis En Place: For those who love to experiment in the kitchen or want to enhance their culinary skills, a cooking class at Mis En Place is […]

Discover the joy of unique and enduring gift-giving this holiday season as you explore the diverse collection of consignment and resale stores throughout Richmond. Pre-loved gifts embody thoughtfulness and quality, offering a timeless touch to your presents and a more sustainable and often economical option. These stores offer delightful holiday shopping experiences without compromising on the joy of giving.

Consign RVA

For Furniture and Décor Enthusiasts:

Consign RVA offers one-of-a-kind gifts and decor ranging from antiques and collectibles to designer handbags.

For the Fashionista:

Clementine features carefully curated, high-quality women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories.

Clover

For the Kids:

Clover specializes in high-quality, gently used children’s clothing, perfect for kids who will […]

Whether you’re a lifelong sports fan or just entering your football era, gathering with friends and strangers to enjoy game day food and drinks while cheering for your favorite team is a time-honored tradition. Richmond’s hometown sports teams may be in the minors, but when it comes to local bars and restaurants, the River City is truly in the major league. If you’re looking for a bar to cheer on your favorite team this fall, check out a few of our favorites below.

Home Team Grill

Home Team Grill

Situated in a historic building in the Fan, Home Team Grill is a local favorite, offering a welcoming atmosphere whether you’re on the spacious patio or in the bar, where numerous TVs make sure you won’t miss a moment of the game. […]

Hispanic Heritage Month officially kicks off on September 15 and runs through October 15. The month is a time to celebrate the rich culture and contributions of Hispanic Americans. In the Richmond area, the entrepreneurial efforts by those with lineages from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America continue to strengthen the fabric of the region every year with new businesses that help make Richmond a colorful and unique place to live. In honor of this month-long celebration, we are highlighting seven local businesses with Hispanic heritage.

The Queen’s Library Tea Room

The Queens Library Tea Room:

This charming tea room perched along Richmond’s Main Street offers an authentic English tea service complete as well as a variety of specialty experiences, including a Holiday Tea, Hobbit-inspired […]

With more than 170 parks and mild weather year-round, Richmond is a pawsome place for your four-legged friend. Many restaurants, hotels, and local shops are dog-friendly, but sometimes dogs just need a place to call their own. We’re sharing some of our favorite locally owned businesses in RVA that are dedicated to dogs, from grooming to playtime, and, of course, where to shop for the latest in doggy fashions, treats, and accessories.

The Ruff Canine Club

Ruff Canine Club: Part dog park, part bar, Ruff Dog Park Bar offers fun and entertainment for both dogs and their humans.

CritterTown BathHouse & Market: Richmond’s original self-service bathhouse for pets, CritterTown supplies everything you need to keep your pooch looking and smelling great, plus a […]

Entertaining littles is hard work, especially in Richmond’s summer heat. Luckily, the River City has plenty of locally-owned businesses with fun activities perfect for keeping the tiniest Richmonders entertained, learning, and moving. Continue reading for just a few of Richmond’s local businesses that offer kid-friendly summer fun, both indoors and out – making them a happier place for both kids and parents!

Virginia Museum of History & Culture

Virginia Museum of History & Culture’s Commonwealth Explorers Exhibit:

A long-term exhibition featuring designated stations as well as opportunities for free play, this hands-on, interactive exhibition uses a wide range of story-driven features for kids to see, touch, and experience Virginia’s past and present.

Children’s Museum of Richmond:

From dress-up to arts and crafts, interactive exhibits to a beloved carousel, […]