Apartments With a View in Richmond

Posted on January 23, 2013 by sroman

For great views of the James River, consider moving into a Richmond apartment in the Church Hill neighborhood.

Moving into a new apartment can help you look at life from a different point of view – literally! One of the many considerations when choosing a new home or apartment is often which vistas will be seen through your new windows. And the variety of beautiful surroundings for newcomers looking for apartments in Richmond, Va. will not disappoint.

Start your apartment search today!

This photogenic city can be admired from several prominent spots throughout town. So whether you’re looking to gaze upon a downtown skyline, take in a tranquil park view or be charmed by historic homes, consider searching for your next apartment near one of these Richmond sites.

More about Richmond:
Find Furnished Apartments in Richmond
Which Richmond Neighborhood Suits You Best?

Riverfront Living
The Canal Walk is a concrete pathway that winds over a mile through downtown Richmond along the banks of the Haxall Canal, the Kanawha Canal and the James River. Here, historic tobacco warehouses re-purposed into lofts contrast with modern construction and colorful urban art murals. Glimpse industrial scenes or check out the beautiful park near the James River with great views of the city. At night, the downtown skyline provides a glittering backdrop that is reflected in the water, while lighting along the path enhances the atmosphere for an evening stroll.

Historic Architecture
In Richmond’s East End sits the historic Church Hill neighborhood. Included in its boundaries are sections of the oldest intact residential blocks in the city – some dating back to 1737. The hilly location provides an excellent vantage point to take in restored antebellum homes ranging from modest cottages to magnificent mansions once home to the neighborhood’s original residents, wealthy factory managers. Intricate iron grillwork surrounds porticoes fronting wide streets and decorates long verandas that lead to lush gardens. Gas street lamps and brick sidewalks along certain streets add to the area’s historic ambiance.

Nearby Libby Hill Park showcases some of the best views from Richmond apartments, capturing the curve of the James River to the south and the city skyline to the west. This is the perfect place to watch a sunset or to have a picnic on a sunny day!

Peaceful Streetscapes
Just west of downtown, The Fan is home to 85 blocks of charming houses that represent some of the finest turn-of-the-century domestic architecture standing today. Its name comes from the way the streets spread out at angles from Monroe Park at Belvidere Street to the Boulevard. This area offers magnificent vistas courtesy of the neighborhood’s historic town houses and opulent Victorian and Edwardian mansions. Sprinkled among these homes are large statues, tree-lined parks and streets, beautifully manicured courtyards and cobblestone alleys. If you can’t find enough breathtaking views from your apartment here, visit nearby Maymont Park, a 100-acre Victorian estate with a museum, formal gardens, native wildlife exhibits, nature center and carriage collection.

The next time you’re on the lookout for a new apartment for rent with spectacular city views, set Richmond, Va. in your sights!

Photo credit: iStockphoto/bookwyrmm

Find Furnished Apartments for Rent in Richmond

Posted on January 17, 2013 by tpham

Add a bold rug to personalize your furnished Richmond apartment.

Moving to a new place is stressful, and the entire process can be a hassle. Searching for the perfect apartment, hiring movers and then furnishing and decorating your space can be tedious. But fortunately for you, ApartmentGuide.com is there to make the process easier.

If you’re searching for apartments for rent in Richmond, consider narrowing your search by selecting furnished apartments. Searching for furnished apartments removes one step from the moving process: finding an apartment that will fit your furniture or finding furniture that will fit your apartment. Furnished apartments allow you to focus more on checking items off your moving checklist. They’re also great for potential residents looking for short-term leases in Richmond. But if you think having an apartment that comes furnished means not being able to make it your own, think again. Read on for our suggestions on making it your own, as well as additional items you may need.

Start your apartment search today!

What Comes in a Furnished Apartment
What exactly comes with a furnished apartment? Each Richmond apartment community may offer different options, but ask the property managers for more details about what is included. These items typically come standard:

Bedroom

Bed
Nightstand
Chest of drawers

Living Room

Sofa(s)
Coffee table
End tables
TV stand

Dining Room

Dining table
Chairs

What You’ll Need to Bring
It is a furnished apartment, but you’ll still need to bring some essentials. These items include:

Bedroom/Bathroom

Sheets, comforter, blankets
Pillows
Hangers
Towels
Toiletries

Living Room

TV, electronics
Lamps

Kitchen/Dining Room

Pots, pans
Dishes
Utensils
Trash can

Making It Your Own
Though the furniture that comes standard is like everyone else’s, you can make it your own. Feel free to rearrange the furniture. Arrange the furniture in the living room around a focal point, and set up the bedroom furniture to optimize your space. Purchase a slipcover for the couch, and add accent pillows to match your décor style. Use a bold-colored rug under the coffee table to add a pop of color to the space. Add lamps to the end tables that will not only add extra light but can become a part of your décor.

For the dining room, add a table runner and/or place settings to add character to a rather boring table. Complete the look of your space by adding window treatments, if given the OK by your landlord. Add wall décor throughout your apartment. And finally, don’t neglect your bathroom; purchase a fun shower curtain to add appeal to the space.

With a few simple steps, your new Richmond apartment will feel like home.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Pincasso

Which Richmond Neighborhood Fits You?

Posted on January 16, 2013 by mprice

If you’re a history lover, check out apartments for rent in downtown Richmond.

As the capital of Virginia and one of the most notably historic cities in the United States, Richmond has something to offer everyone. From history buffs who will love exploring the city’s monuments and historical structures to arts and culture enthusiasts who will enjoy stopping into the museums and galleries in the Museum District, residents of Richmond apartments never get bored. If you’re searching for apartments for rent in Richmond, here are some great neighborhoods to check out.

Start your apartment search today!

Downtown
Downtown Richmond offers residents of Richmond apartments a unique mix of retail, commercial and residential development while paying homage to its historic past, making it an area of the city where you can truly live, work and play.
• The River District is home to Richmond’s 1.25-mile innovative Canal Walk, a popular tourist destination that meanders along the banks of the Haxall Canal and the James River and Kanawha Canal.
• The Jackson Ward neighborhood is a historically black neighborhood that was once known as the “Harlem of the South.” This lively part of town was once frequented by notable musicians like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Nat King Cole and James Brown. You’ll also find several historic buildings here, like the Hippodrome Theatre and the Maggie L. Walker House.
• Court End is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Richmond, home to such historical structures as the John Marshall House, the Museum of the Confederacy and the Virginia State Capitol.

Central
Central Richmond includes some of the city’s most well-known attractions, including Hollywood Cemetery, several universities and the Carytown shopping district. It is truly the heart of the city, and those who live in Richmond apartments in this neighborhood can look forward to a dynamic mix of students, young professionals, artists and musicians.
• Just west of downtown Richmond, The Fan, named because of the way its streets fan out at an angle, is comprised of 85 blocks of beautiful and unique town houses. The campus of Virginia Commonwealth University is located in this neighborhood.
• The budding Museum District hosts events like the First Fridays Artwalk and Broad Appétit. This neighborhood also contains one of the city’s largest collections of early 20th century architecture, with 22 properties being listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

East End
Richmond’s birthplace can be found in the East End, where residents enjoy historical attractions, the beauty of parks and fresh air and a family-friendly environment.
• True to its name, Church Hill is home to many churches, the most famous of which is St. John’s Episcopal, which was the site of Patrick Henry’s inspirational speech. As Richmond’s first historic district, this neighborhood includes many of the original 32 blocks of the town that were set in place in 1737.
• The Fulton neighborhood is tucked along the banks of Gillies Creek and overlooks downtown and the old Manchester docks. You’ll find a wide variety of architectural styles, from Cape Cod to Craftsman bungalows and everything in between. Richmond apartments in this neighborhood are close to the National Cemetery and Powhatan Hill Park, which offers views of the rest of the city.

West End
Life in the West End is a perfect combination of the excitement of the city coupled with the comforts of life in the suburbs. Historic tree-lined streets give way to quaint boutiques and world class dining destinations in this neighborhood that has its own distinct character.
• Windsor Farms is home to two of Richmond’s most famous historical attractions: the Virginia House and Agecroft Hall, both of which are English manor houses that were physically transported to the state and are now open to the public.
• Westhampton is known for its quiet streets and stately homes. Residents love exploring The Avenues, the neighborhood’s premier shopping district which features a great mix of boutiques and local cafes.

Northside
Despite being so close to the buzz of downtown, Northside neighborhoods possess an impressive amount of tranquil green space, making it the perfect place to settle down for some peace and quiet in your Richmond apartment after a long workday.
• The Ginter Park neighborhood spans 21 blocks and was one of Richmond’s first planned developments. Known as the “Queen of the Suburbs,” it was incorporated into the city in 1914 and still remains a quiet refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• Bellevue architecture is some of the most varied in the city, ranging from Italianate to Spanish to American Four Square. Residents unwind and stay fit at the beautiful Joseph Bryan park, an expansive green space complete with walking trails, lakes and tons of natural beauty.

Southside
The Southside of Richmond is known for its natural beauty as well as its quiet atmosphere and well-kept homes. The area is quiet and cozy, with many shady parks where residents of Richmond apartments go to unwind and get some exercise.
• Named for the Westover Plantation on the James River, home of William Byrd, the founder of Richmond, Westover Hills is a quiet neighborhood characterized by its winding, tree-lined streets and friendly residents.
• The Fawnbrook neighborhood blends the spirit of old Richmond with new, modern sensibilities in its architecture and amenities. The expansive Pocosham Park is located just south of this neighborhood, offering a peaceful environment complete with walking trails.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/traveler1116

Specialty Markets in Richmond

Posted on March 1, 2012 by ag-admin

Freshly smoked bacon is just one of the many fresh products you can get from various specialty markets in Richmond.

Though Richmond is a small city, it has a palate that closely resembles nearby bigger cities. Foodies have come into the city and taken over, revamping the entire food scene in Richmond. Southern cuisine, fresh seafood and unique eats are just the start of it. Most Richmond restaurants and eateries incorporate locally grown ingredients, which is convenient because of Richmond’s proximity to small farms in the area. To recreate the local fare at home, check out these specialty markets in Richmond.

Byrd House Market
What: Located in downtown Richmond, the Byrd House Market is open every Tuesday from 3:30 to 7 p.m. in May through October. The market features local vendors and farmers. Products include fresh fruits (blackberries, raspberries, peaches, etc.), vegetables (kale, spinach, shiitake mushrooms, potatoes and collards), cheeses, eggs and poultry. Prepared foods such as pizzas, spring rolls, tofu and noodles are available at the Byrd House Market. Specialty items, including canned goods, baked goods, desserts and wines can also be found at the market. As an added bonus, the Byrd House Market holds cooking courses, as well as fun events like the Master Chicken Keeper certification training series.
Where: 980 Idlewood Ave., Richmond, VA 23220

Tan A Supermarket
What: Fresh produce and unique items are two of the many things that make up Tan A Supermarket on Broad Street. If you’re feeling an Asian-inspired night, stop by Tan A for some Chinese noodles, won ton wrappers, seafood and fresh vegetables to create a delicious meal at home. Stroll through the vegetables and discover fresh herbs, and don’t forget a bag of rice. Prices are fair, and it’s a perfect place for those on a budget. Remember to bring cash or your checkbook, as they do not accept credit cards.
Where: 6221 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23230

Ellwood Thompson’s Local Market
What: This local market has a strong commitment to supporting local businesses and farms in Virginia, and you can see that when visiting their store. Products that are created within a 100-mile radius of Ellwood Thompson’s bear an Ellwood Thompson’s Local label. This guarantees that the food and products you are purchasing are fresh, and it directly benefits the local economy. Stop in for a few groceries and stay for lunch, as the hot bar will keep you fed and full. Ellwood Thompson’s features an impressive selection of local meat, produce, honey, cheese and bread, as well as prepared foods, beer and wine.
Where: 4 N. Thompson St., Richmond, VA 23221

Belmont Butchery
What: At Belmont Butchery, find artisanal hand-cut meats, house-cured sausages and prepared foods from a European-style butchery. This Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Muse Award winner has skilled and enthusiastic staff that brings you the same love of food to your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking to add sausage to your jambalaya, pasta or pizza, Belmont Butchery probably has what you’re looking for with its selection of sausages. Bacon is already delicious on its own, but how about whiskey peppercorn bacon, or even applewood brandy bacon? Belmont Butchery has those, too. Their handcrafted cured meats are made daily, so the selection varies, but you will never be disappointed. This butchery also has a selection of poultry, beef and pork.
Where: 15 N. Belmont Ave., Richmond, VA 23218

Bodega Latina Market
What: This market specializes in Latino groceries and has earned a distinct identity in the Richmond market due to its specialty meat count and popular restaurant and grill. Bodega Latina offers products from Mexico, Central America and South America. You’ll find fruits and vegetables that you won’t find at Kroger or other chain grocery stores, and you’ll gain perspective into a whole new culture while visiting Bodega.
Where: 9020 Quioccasin Road, Richmond, VA 23229

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/billnoll

Best Pet Boutiques in Richmond

Posted on February 27, 2012 by mprice

Most pets and their two-legged companions don't have go to far to find great specialty pet boutiques in Richmond.

If you’re a dog owner, you know that your pet deserves only the best. Luckily, most pets and their two-legged companions don’t have to go far to find specialty groomers, bakeries and boutiques offering unique and high quality products that often rival offerings from luxury department stores. From tasty treats to custom collars, here are the best pet boutiques in Richmond.

Fin & Feather
As Richmond’s oldest locally owned pet boutique, Fin & Feather, which first opened its doors in 1959, has attracted a loyal following of the furry, feathered and four-legged variety that flocks to this charming store for its impressive selection of all things pet-related. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the store stocks a lot of specialty products that are hard to find at the larger chain stores. Check the store’s website regularly for coupons and special deals.
Where: 5208 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, VA 23228

Fido Park Avenue
Located in Short Pump, Richmond’s premier shopping district, Fido Park Avenue is a luxury dog boutique inspired by chic New York City specialty stores. From the latest designer clothes, collars and jewelry to the most technologically advanced toys and the tastiest treats, this cute boutique carries the highest quality products for your favorite pup. For especially diva dogs, you can even purchase a custom dog bed, choosing from a wide selection of fabrics and fashions so your pooch can sleep in style.
Where: 4027 Lauderdale Drive, Richmond, VA 23233

Ridge Dog Shop
The Ridge Dog Shop offers professional grooming, de-shedding and bathing services for dogs of all sizes, breeds and temperaments. Whether it’s an aesthetic or a practical choice, the professional groomers at the Ridge Dog Shop know how to give your pooch the cut of a lifetime, taking into account your opinions and your dog’s preferences.
Where: 1505 North Parham Road, Richmond, VA 23229

CritterTown Bathhouse
If you long for a clean pet but just don’t have the space to wash your pup or can’t deal with the mess, take your animal to the CritterTown Bathhouse, Richmond’s first self-service pet wash. The prices are reasonable, and if you don’t want to purchase the more expensive shampoos and soaps, you can bring your own. They even have doggie dryers, so you don’t have to worry about a wet dog jumping around in your car. CritterTown also sells premium pet foods and pet products like collars, leashes and harnesses, making it somewhat of a one-stop-shop experience.
Where: 2819 Hathaway Road, Richmond, VA 23225

Three Dog Bakery
Three Dog Bakery is on a mission to bake the world’s best dog biscuits and give dog lovers everywhere the opportunity to provide their pets with healthy, all-natural alternatives to additive-laden food and treats. And the treats are so good, you might even be tempted to sneak a taste. Favorites include the Boxer Brownies, a carob-flavored wheat flour cake topped with a delicious frosting made from honey, yogurt and buttermilk, and the Bulldog Bar, a large peanut butter biscuit dipped in carob and filled with frosting.
Where: 9200 Stony Point Parkway #152A, Richmond, VA 23220

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Yuri_Arcurs

Best Seafood in Richmond

Posted on February 24, 2012 by ag-admin

With Richmond's proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, you'll find delicious places with crab, lobster, clams, oysters and more.

With access to New England clams and Maryland crabs, Richmond, Va., is a great place to chow down on fresh seafood, as it’s only 50 miles from the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. In addition to the annual River City Beer and Seafood Festival on nearby Brown’s Island, where you can enjoy imported and craft-brewed beer, seafood and live music, you can get your fix year-round in Richmond by visiting one of the best local spots to sample seafood, listed below.

Croakers Spot Restaurant

What: For mouth-watering seafood in soul food form, Croakers Spot doesn’t disappoint. Fish, crab and shrimp appetizers are largely fried here, but Croakers’ raw/steamed bar features oysters on the half whell, crab legs, lobster tail, steamed shrimp in a spicy Bay seasoning and steamed mussels in garlic butter and white wine reduction. The menu is quite extensive and includes breakfast offerings all day, such as salmon cakes served with cheddar grits, and a local favorite is the Croakers Spot Seafood Bowl, with sautéed shrimp, scallops, mussels and crab claws indulgingly simmered in Creole butter and served over rice.

Where: 1020 Hull St., Richmond, VA 23224

Pescados China Street

What: The ingredients are from the East Coast, but the menu is decidedly Caribbean-Latin fusion at Pescados. Inventive dishes include the Ceviche of the day, which could be baby octopus with mango or Mahi-Mahi with watermelon, and any of the Chef’s Specialties is a must-try. Familiar favorites include the fish tacos with a cilantro-lime aioli and coconut black beans, conch fritters and crab cakes. Don’t forget to wash everything down with a guava jalapeno margarita or pineapple mojito.

Where: 626 China St., Richmond, VA 23220

Stuart’s Fresh Catch

What: For true Virginian, bare bones, hole-in-the-wall fresh fish, stop by Stuart’s Fresh Catch, a seafood stand that also serves delicious spoonbread. In addition to seafood, fried lake trout sandwiches and dinners are stand-outs here, though you can always get your fill of whiting, spot croaker, shrimp, oysters, scallops and salmon from Stuart’s dinner menu, which comes with two sides and a choice of that wonderful spoonbread, hush puppies or a roll.

Where: 2400 Mechanicsville Pike, Richmond, VA 23223

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/julichka

Best Places to Run in Richmond

Posted on February 22, 2012 by mprice

Richmond's natural beauty makes it a great place to go for a run.

With so much natural beauty, great scenery and fabulous people watching, it’s almost a shame to confine your workouts to a treadmill in Richmond. So whether you’re just starting a fitness regimen or training for the Richmond marathon, here are a few of our favorite spots to lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement.

Monument Avenue
If you’re looking to take in a little history with your workout, Monument Avenue makes for a beautiful and historical run. It’s also the place where the fourth largest 10k in the country is run, the Monument Avenue 10K, named by USA Today as one of the 10 great road races in the United States. You’ll run past impressive monuments erected in honor of Robert E. Lee, Matthew Fontaine Maury and Arthur Ashe in this district that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Where: 3321 Monument Ave., Richmond, VA 23218

Belle Isle
If you’re looking for great view of Richmond or the James River, you’ll find it at Belle Isle. A long suspension footbridge links the island to downtown, and crossing it is just part of the fun. Head out on the gravel road that runs around the perimeter of the island, or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, take to one of the biking trails and explore the island.
Where: Tredegar St., Richmond, VA 23219

Byrd Park
Stretching out over 287 well manicured acres and featuring three small lakes, Byrd Park is spacious and perfectly shaded, making it a great place for a jog at any hour of the day. The most popular trail is the one mile Vitacourse, heavily utilized for running and walking. If you want to venture off the beaten path, take a loop around Swan Lake, where you might get the chance to see some waterfowl.
Where: Boulevard and Idlewood Ave., Richmond, VA 23220

Maymont Park
Maymont Park is a hidden gem amongst the urban sprawl of Virginia’s capital city. Featuring a pristine landscape covered in ponds, waterfalls and gardens, it’s one of the most picturesque of all of Richmond’s parks. If you’re looking for a really tough workout, Maymont has some steep hills that would challenge even the most experienced of runners.
Where: 2201 Shields Lake Drive, Richmond, VA 23220

Canal Walk
If you happen to work downtown or just find yourself there often, the Canal Walk is perfect for a quick yet scenic mid-day run. Meandering 1.25 miles through downtown along the banks of the Haxall Canal, the James River and the Kanawha Canal, the Canal Walk is a popular tourist destination during the summer, so it is best to go during off-peak hours.
Where: S. 14^th St., Richmond, VA 23219

Pocahontas State Park
If you don’t mind taking a little drive to get to your running destination, head out to Pocahontas State Park, which is just under 20 miles from downtown Richmond. It’s well worth it, as this popular recreational park is over 7,600 acres and has two small yet scenic lakes. The park offers five miles of hiking trails around Beaver Lake, a five mile bicycle trail and numerous other trails that wind through the surrounding forest. Consider taking a refreshing dip in the park’s pool after a long, hard run.
Where: 10301 State Park Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832

Photo credit: iStockphoto/RichVintage

2012 Wedding Trends in Richmond

Posted on February 22, 2012 by ag-admin

Use items from your own backyard for your centerpieces, and don't be afraid to mix and match.

With wedding season approaching, it’s time to put together wedding plans and ideas during National Weddings Month this February. From going green to doing things yourself, Richmond weddings in 2012 seem to incorporate a rustic feel to your romantic and unforgettable day. Plan the wedding of your dreams and stay trendy with these tips.

Going Green
Helping save the environment is always a trend, and you can help save the environment one invitation at a time. Use environmentally friendly products, like recycled paper, for your invitations. To add character to décor items for your wedding, consider repurposing old items. For example, collect wine corks for place cards, and spray paint old coffee cans to create rustic-looking vases for your centerpieces.

Vintage
Here’s your something old for the wedding. The old-Hollywood style is coming to weddings this year, and it includes the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s – just avoid the puffy sleeves on your wedding gown. In addition to a vintage-style gown, brides will be hitting up thrift shops and antique stores around Richmond to gather décor items. Include old wedding photos from both sets of families on the tables during your reception. You can also incorporate an old family tradition, like the song your grandmother danced to at her wedding, into your own wedding.

Do-it-Yourself
With easy access to DIY tips from websites like Pinterest, creating crafts and putting together wedding décor by yourself is the hot wedding trend in 2012. Not only will this bring in personal touches, but it will help your budget. Gather a few of your willing bridesmaids, and create your own bouquets, centerpieces and decorations. Handwrite place cards and print your own invitations.

Dress
White is a classic, and it will always be around. However, many brides in 2012 are reaching for something new – pink wedding gowns. However, if you’re not comfortable wearing a pink dress, you can still add a pop of color to your gown. Add a sash to your dress, or sew a heart-shaped cutout from your favorite fabric onto the back of your dress. If you’re still looking for that something blue, have your seamstress sew your wedding date in blue on the inside and bottom of your wedding gown.

Photography
We saw these popping up in 2011, and they’re still a hit for 2012 weddings: photo booths. Keep with the DIY and create a backdrop for these fun photos, and create props to go with it. This could include funny items like mustaches, bowties, funny sayings and chalkboards for your guests to personalize messages.

Mix and Match
Not all of your centerpieces have to match. Have one item that is the same for each (this could even include using all white flowers or including white roses in each centerpiece). The containers can be of different shapes and sizes, but keep in mind that smaller centerpieces are the trend this year.

Colors
Adding bright and bold colors to your wedding is right on trend this year. This could come in the form of accents to chair covers to flowers. Don’t be afraid to mix a couple of vibrant colors.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/davidf

Unique Eats in Richmond

Posted on February 20, 2012 by mprice

As the capital of Virginia, Richmond is chock full of unique restaurants.

As the capital of Virginia, Richmond has a lot going on. Whether you’re spending the day taking in the exhibits in the Museum District, wandering around the beautiful grounds of the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden or browsing among the unique stores and boutiques downtown, chances are you’re not too far from an interesting place to sit down and have a meal. Here are our top choices for spots that have the most unique eats in Richmond.

Burger Bach
It’s not often that the cuisine of the Southern Pacific is the focus of restaurants in the United States, so the brand-new Burger Bach stands out amongst Richmond’s culinary offerings. The centerpiece of Burger Bach’s offerings is the burger made from all-natural, mostly New Zealand-sourced, grass-fed beef. You’ll also find hormone-free chicken and fish burgers with New Zealand-inspired names like “Wellington” and “Queenstown,” hand-cut fries and healthy, fresh sides. To wash everything down with, the restaurant offers a unique selection of New Zealand wines and beers. If you’re not in the mood for meat, Burger Bach is also home to an oyster bar featuring a famous Kiwi export, the New Zealand green mussel.
Where: 10 S. Thompson St., Richmond, VA 23221

88 Garden
This little hole-in-the-wall spot serves up wonderfully authentic Korean food in a somewhat unlikely location. True to its name, there’s actually a garden in the back of the restaurant where they grow fresh vegetables and spices. This modest, family-run place is known for their fiery Korean-style fried chicken, an interesting take on the standard Southern staple that is elevated to the next level with Korean spices and marinades. And if the mood (or the Korean beer) strikes you, 88 Garden even has a karaoke room.
Where: 6135 Midlothian Turnpike, Richmond, VA 23225

Peter Chang’s China Café
Foodies across the globe know of the legend of Peter Chang, an enigmatic, award-winning chef specializing in Szechwan cuisine who has served his pleasantly tingly, mouth-numbing culinary creations to American Presidents and Chinese Premiers, as well as spicy food fanatics across the United States. He’s been known as somewhat of a disappearing chef, alighting briefly to commandeer restaurants in Fairfax, Alexandria, Atlanta, Knoxville and Charlottesville, and then moving on to his next destination. No one knows just how long he’ll stay in any given place, but while he’s in Richmond, a trip to Peter Chang’s China Café is definitely a must-do. Chang fanatics rave about his crisp and tasty Dry-Fried Eggplant appetizer, as well as the aromatic Fish and Coriander Rolls, and the Golden Mountain Chicken, covered in red chilies, is one of the chef’s specialties.
Where: 11424 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23230

Bistro 27
Featuring a wonderfully creative menu, first-rate service and beautiful décor, Bistro 27 caters to visitors and residents of Richmond alike who crave delicious, inventive food with different flavors. Run by head Chef Carlos Silva, who was born and raised in Brazil and imbues his food with a distinctly global aesthetic, Bistro 27 is a welcome addition to the Richmond culinary scene. If you’re feeling slightly adventurous, start off with the Escargots, delicately poached in garlic, parsley and butter and served in a mushroom cap. Or, try the Quail Egg Skewers, wrapped in peppered bacon and served with a French brandy aioli. For the entrée, you could play it safe with the Chicken Cordon Bleu, featuring a pan roasted chicken breast awash in a creamy sauce of Emmental cheese, but with such unique offerings as Beef Two Ways on the menu, featuring slow-cooked Angus beef short ribs and braised beef tongue served over local grits, why would you want to?
Where: 27 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220

Chicken Fiesta
Don’t let the slightly corny, Taco-Bell-type-chain-restaurant name fool you: Chicken Fiesta is the real deal. Billing itself as a “Rotisserie Chicken and Tex-Mex grill,” Chicken Fiesta specializes in juicy, flavorful Peruvian-style charcoal rotisserie chicken and traditional, tasty sides like yellow rice, beans and fried yucca. You can order the signature chicken by the whole, half or quarter chicken, or try it in a burrito or taco salad. Make sure to try the Tamal de Elote, a sweet corn cake served in a steamed corn husk that is often eaten as a breakfast treat in Mexico.
Where: Two locations in the Richmond area

Photo credit: iStockphoto/bookwyrmm

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