I’ve always had a passion for food, and I want others to be able to experience some of the top restaurants in Richmond, VA, that I believe offer exceptional value and dining experiences to customers.
Keep reading to learn more about these top picks and what to expect when you visit each one. There is something for just about anyone on this list.
1. The Boathouse at Rockets Landing
$$$ | (804) 622-2628 | WEBSITE
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This upscale seafood restaurant located on the water is a perfect location for a family dinner or a business dinner. They offer takeout and delivery and feature a happy hour with $1 oysters.
Some popular menu items include heirloom tomato burrata salad, chicken piccata, shrimp scampi, filet mignon, and kid’s menu items. It’s the perfect combination of laid-back casual ambiance with upscale food.
2. L’Opposum
$$$ | (804) 918-6028 | WEBSITE
Many people feel L’Opposum is the best restaurant in Richmond, and I would be inclined to agree. Its menu is packed with flavorful options, many of which are vegan. However, their meat dishes are sinfully delicious and worthy of praise too.
Each dish is carefully crafted for flavor balance and pizazz. No boring dishes on this menu! Try The Brisk Fall Cookout in the Boneyard, a roasted lamb rack with chimichurri sauce and a sweet potato salad.
It’s paired with garlic kale, edamame succotash, and a grilled plum with blackberry bordelaise barbecue sauce. If you want some exceptional vegan options, try the “In Like a Lion” Root Vegetable Gratin.
3. Stella’s
$$ | (804) 358-2011 | WEBSITE
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This Greek restaurant boasts some of the finest dishes in the area. They have a wide selection of classic Greek and Mediterranean favorites and a few originals. They have a little something for just about anyone and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for a dinner date or a family meal.
They serve lunch and dinner and strive to provide the freshest ingredients. The options include fresh seafood, spaghetti, Greek casserole dishes, and fresh salads. Reserve a table online or stop in to experience this unique and welcoming restaurant.
4. The Stables at Belmont
$$$ | (804) 588-9231 | WEBSITE
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This upscale Americana restaurant features both classic favorites and unique house specialties. This establishment creates stunning dishes that taste equally amazing.
Some menu items to consider would be the watermelon molasses glazed duck breast, house-smoked burrata, cast iron seared scallops, and fennel and chili-crusted ribeye. Be sure to ask about their vegetarian selections too. Make reservations in advance for guaranteed seating.
5. Shagbark
$$$ | (804) 358-7424 | WEBSITE
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This restaurant, with a relaxed yet elegant ambiance, specializes in Southern cuisine. They are only open for dinner and serve many favorite classics- some with a unique twist.
Some favorites on the menu include prosciutto-wrapped figs, pan-roasted Prince Edward Island mussels, fried green tomatoes, and slow-grilled pork chop. They also have an incredible dessert and cocktail menu that is sure to please.
6. Kuba Kuba
$$ | (804) 355-8817 | WEBSITE
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This welcoming and friendly restaurant serves Cuban classics to the residents and visitors in Richmond. This location is open at 9 a.m. and serves home-style dishes primarily throughout the day.
They don’t accept reservations, so feel free to walk in and enjoy your meal. The atmosphere is very casual, and the portions are very filling. It’s a great place to go for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s also a great place to meet friends or bring family.
7. Perly’s
$$ | (804) 912-1560 | WEBSITE
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This fun and unique deli and restaurant offer a fresh twist on Jewish classics. Some delicious meals offer a fresh perspective on Jewish cuisine. The restaurant/deli is closed on Monday and Tuesday but opens from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. the rest of the week. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and discover some reimagined old favorites.
8. Can Can Brasserie
$$ | (804) 358-7274 | WEBSITE
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This modern Parisian bistro and wine bar is perfect for gathering with friends and relaxing. It features a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
This location offers brunch starting at 10 a.m. and a wide assortment of lunch and dinner options ranging from sandwiches and salads to pork basquaise and boeuf bourguignon. They even have a kids’ menu, offer curbside pickup, and don’t require reservations.
9. Amuse
$$$ | (804) 340-1580 | WEBSITE
This unique restaurant is situated atop a fine arts museum in Richmond. The food is high-quality and upscale, which is ideal for a date or meeting up with work associates or friends. This location offers stunning views of its atrium and the Sculpture Garden.
The focus of the meals is appealing to the senses with unexpected surprises and novel pairings. The dishes are unique and colorful, with plenty of creativity and surprises. This is the destination for truly unique and inspired meals. Make reservations in advance, and don’t forget to visit the bar for some superior cocktails.
10. The Mantu
$$ | (804) 716-6760 | WEBSITE
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This modern take on classic Afghani cuisine is a must. They provide an elegant yet relaxed environment that’s ideal for a nice dinner or special lunch. This location offers private dining and a wealth of meal options for just about any taste. Reservations are available and encouraged.
Check out their specials and famous bread. The menu offers options such as chicken koobideh, half tandoori chicken kebab, lamb shank, Atlantic salmon, and banyan borani (vegetables). They also serve burgers with a unique twist.
11. La Grotta Ristorante
$$ | (804) 644-2466 | WEBSITE
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This Italian restaurant offers upscale food with a casual yet refined atmosphere. They specialize in Northern Italian classics and have an extensive wine list. This location provides lunch and dinner and caters to dinner parties.
Reservations are encouraged, and the menu offers plenty of options. Some favorites include range con polenta, linguine all a scogliera, and apsaragi parmigiana. They also offer gluten-free options and seafood.
12. Bookbinder’s Seafood & Steakhouse
$$$$ | (804) 643-6900 | WEBSITE
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This very upscale seafood and steakhouse are ideal for a dinner date, business gathering, or family get-together. They advertise their selections as elevated Chesapeake fare.
This location is known for hosting celebrities and is famous for its offerings. Reservations are required. Some of the top options on the menu include the Titanic appetizer platter, seafood salad, Bookbinder’s surf, turf, and even vegan dishes. This is a must-experience restaurant in the heart of Richmond.
13. Heritage Restaurant
$$$ | (804) 353-4060 | WEBSITE
This restaurant offers seasonal American food and a large selection of cocktails. The atmosphere is upscale and contemporary. Some highlights of their menu include tuna tartare, house-made corn garganelli pasta, and cherry and almond tort.
The dinner is served in three courses, and the menu items change weekly. Call ahead to make reservations. This is the ideal location for a date or get-together.
14. Julep’s New Southern Cuisine
$$$ | (804) 377-3968 | WEBSITE
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This tavern-style setting serves elevated Southern dishes with amazing cocktails. They offer an upscale atmosphere perfect for business lunches and dinner dates.
Some menu options include shrimp and grits, chipotle deviled eggs, she-crab soup, petite filet mignon, and jumbo lump Chesapeake Bay crab cakes. Reservations aren’t required, and they welcome private parties.
15. Lemaire
$$$ | (804) 649-4629 | WEBSITE
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This new American restaurant in the Jefferson Hotel offers upscale dining experiences and a wide range of cocktails. The elegant and welcoming atmosphere would make a great dinner date location or ideal for meeting business clients.
Reservations are encouraged. This location is also open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Some top menu items they feature include jumbo lump crab cakes, ancho chili-rubbed salmon, caramelized sea scallops, and braised collard greens.
Summary
The best restaurants in Richmond offer diversity and a wealth of flavors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for local specialties or international cuisines, Richmond has something for everyone.
Hayden has been a digital director for years. He has five years of experience editing and writing about food, restaurant, and recipe review content. At Birch Restaurant, he’s in charge of scouting, showing up unannounced in different restaurants, and writing a thorough food guide!
