Every sliver of concrete that legally can hold a table and chairs is ready for Richmond’s insatiable desire for outdoor drinking and dining. A few new options join the many longstanding terraces, and even when you’re sizzling on a slab like so many fajitas, owners are carving out space for you wherever they can find it.
New to the scene is an eight-table sidewalk corral outside the Republic at 2053 W. Broad St. Full menu and bar service attracted a crowd from opening night last week, and smokers are allowed to indulge both inside and out.
Patios and decks are bustling at Conch Republic in Rocketts, and coming soon to the White Anchovie on Lauderdale Drive. Keegan’s Pub in Short Pump has an active following for its street-side barstools; Nuevo Mexico’s covered patio is a neighborhood winner on Huguenot Road. A bigger deck has arrived at Ashland Coffee and Tea, and the petite balcony at Xtra’s Café in Carytown is busy late into the evening most nights. Readers are encouraged to share their favorite outdoor options online at Styleweekly.com.
Greek Gods: Richmond’s 35-year devotion to the Greek Festival ramps up June 2-5. See the website for menu, parking, to-go options, culture, charities and other reasons to attend at greekfestival.com.
Moonlight Magic: This ninth annual fundraiser for Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Cancer Center is set for June 10 from 6:30-10 p.m. at James River Cellars. Events include a silent auction, foods from Champagne Taste Catering and Pearl’s Cupcake Shoppe and music from Flat Elvis. Tickets are $40 before June 9, and a free shuttle is available. Get details at massey.vcu.edu/moonlight.
Cocktails at Company: New to the Tobacco Company in Shockoe Slip is a lineup of craft cocktails created by its bar staff, and an appetizer sampler from chef David Mussi. The summer-long promotion runs weekdays from 5-7 p.m. and costs $10.
Readers eat and tell:
“The Phoenician has become one of our favorites — the food is always fantastic and the staff knowledgeable and courteous. What is really disappointing though is that they never seem to be very busy. I love the food, there isn’t much else like it in town and everyone that we have ever taken there has also loved it. Whenever we eat there (several times a month now), everyone in the restaurant is always raving about their meals.” — Megan Compton
“Quick request for a locally owned and operated restaurant. My family and I have been enjoying the new El Cerro Azul Mexican restaurant in Midlothian Village. We’ve tried many others in the area and have decided that this is our new favorite. … I’m concerned that many people will never find them.”
— Ryan Pierce
