Marty’s Grill
Sip on a fancy margaritas such as Mary Mary’s magic potion and the Key West while hanging out with Mechanicsville locals on the packed patio for one of the bar’s trivia or burger nights. 9357 Atlee Road, Mechanicsville, 559-1323.
Ride: 15 minutes, 11 miles
GPS Coordinates: N37° 39.1961′, W077° 24.0416′
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Caddy’s
A place where everybody knows your name — unless you don’t want them to. Out-of-the-way bar with patio, longtime owner and down-to-earth regulars who aren’t afraid to smoke. Especially good vibes on karaoke nights. 13312 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, 794-3007.
Ride: 22 minutes, 13.92 miles
GPS Coordinates: N37° 30.1508′, W077° 38.6975′
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Iron Horse
With its perfect trackside patio, this downtown Ashland sweet spot oozes small-town charm and a killer martini, among other libations. Check out the local talent on Tuesday open-mic nights. 100 S. Railroad Ave., Ashland, 752-6410.
Ride: 24 minutes, 19 miles
GPS Coordinates: N37° 45.5313′, W077° 28.8733′
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Bubba’s Restaurant
Just off Williamsburg Road, this no-B.S. roadhouse has a devout following of East End neighborhood folks and the requisite biker crowd that keeps things interesting. Even Hollywood’s interest was piqued when the 2010 Lifetime movie, “Unanswered Prayers,” was filmed here. 4000 Williamsburg Road, Richmond, 236-3262.
Ride: 13 minutes, 4.88 miles
GPS Coordinates: N37° 31.2794′, W077° 24.6559′
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Sedona Taphouse
This upscale, suburban tap house is the latest Midlothian go-to for an extensive draft and bottled suds selection that includes a handful of delicious Virginia brews. Weekly craft beer seminars, live music, and Monday night’s $5 Steak Out for Charity! 5732 Westchester Commons Way, Midlothian, 379-0037.
Ride: 25 minutes, 17.4 miles
GPS Coordinates: N37° 30.9216′, W077° 41.3975′
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The Brickhouse Run
Nestled in historic Old Towne Petersburg, this English-style pub serves up traditional, tasty eats like shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash. Six beers on tap, including a local cask-conditioned ale and other spirits are on standby to wash it all down as you soak up the history of the 190 year-old structure. 407-409 Cockade Alley, Petersburg, 862-1815.
Ride: 27 minutes, 23.8 miles
GPS Coordinates: N37° 13.963′, W077° 24.2338′
