My Favorite Places in Carytown, Richmond, VA

A Local’s Guide: Carytown, Richmond, VA

I’ve been living in Richmond since I started college here in 2005. After almost 15 years (holy moly!) of making the most of this city, I definitely have my favorite spots. Some of them have come and gone. I’ve also fallen in love with a few that are brand spanking new. I always get questions from friends and followers about my favorite spots in Richmond. I decided to start with Carytown, known as the “Mile of Style.” It’s our signature shopping and dining district. I find myself in the area at least once a week, if not multiple times.

Let’s go for a walk…

Food and Drinks

Can Can (3120 West Cary Street)

Can Can is well known for its French atmosphere in fine dining. I, personally, love to come here in the mornings. It’s one of the best cups of coffee in town and you really can’t start the day off in a more inspiring space. It’s also a great place to kick off a night of fun with a high-quality cocktail.

Pit and Peel (3321 West Cary Street)

You can find me here upstairs in a corner every now and then. There’s a little spot next to the windows were natural light comes in and you can see down onto the streets of Carytown. I love being able to come here and get a healthy meal no matter what I pick. I’m a big fan of an Açaí bowl with chocolate chips, chia seeds, strawberries, and a banana. It’s also a cozy, quiet spot for a meeting.

Hai Ya’ll ( 2915 West Cary Street)

I recently had a lunch meeting here with one of my clients. I’m so glad she introduced me to the eatery. I’m a big fan of ramen and Asian food in general. I haven’t been able to enjoy ramen in quite some time since I went gluten and dairy free. Here, they offer a gluten-free noodle substitute, so I was pumped. The broth was absolutely rich and full of flavor. I also ordered some ribs for me and brother to go, which we both loved. I’m looking forward to seeing how this spot evolves and grows.

Shopping

Ashby (3010 West Cary Street)

I’ve written about the family of stores associated with Ashby including Clementine, Clover, and its pop-up concepts. I always seem to come back to Ashby when I shop for myself, though. The store speaks to my funky side and I always find something that I wear and love. I have several pieces in my closet including coats, skirts, and scarves that I discovered here years ago. They still get regular wear and I never cease to get a lot of questions about them. Come here to find something super affordable, high quality, and a little quirky to wear.

Click here to read my tips for selling clothes at Ashby.

Buffalo Exchange (3140 West Cary Street)

I first walked into a Buffalo Exchange when I visited Portland, Oregon years ago. The consignment store still feels a bit more authentic than other consignment chains. Buffalo Exchange carries really unique and different items from a variety of aesthetics. You’ll discover hidden gems like Kate Spade heels and last season’s Converses. I like to pop in here from time to time for a good jacket, a present for a friend, or a solid sweater. You can see that I regularly tag items I found here on Instagram.

Zest (3140A West Cary Street)

I’ve loved getting to know the team at Zest. The store carries a wide range of my favorite items from brands like Free People. You can stop in here anytime and you’ll find basics like a chic pair of denim or a classic blouse. If you’ve got an event coming up, this is also a great place to find a fun dress you can wear again and again.

See my New Year’s Eve outfit edit from Zest.

Bangles & Beads (3322 West Cary Street)

This one may seem out of place, but I find myself recommending it to people again and again. Bangles & Beads has a store full of everything you can imagine that might turn into a piece of jewelry. It’s where I go resurrect old jewelry that’s broken or needs repair.  Many just need a new clasp or are missing a few beads after a long night out. I take them here and have most items repaired for less than $10. It has saved many of my favorite heirlooms and souvenirs from my travels.

Nails

Fusion (2909 West Cary Street)

There are a lot of things that come to mind when I think of nail salons. There are two in Carytown that break the stereotype. I’ll start with Fusion. The atmosphere here is cool, relaxed and feels like a community. The nail techs, who are mostly men, are fun and easy to talk to. Just recently, I couldn’t find the right color and my tech sat with me for five minutes and painted his own fingers to make sure I found the perfect light pink.

Perception (2902 West Cary Street)

This organic nail experience is the move when you need something beyond a straight-forward nail job. Here, the immersive decor and organic supplies are made for slow and luxurious “me-time.” This isn’t your quick mani. You can bring in your own wine if you want, as well. I’m actually looking to try some other services here soon.

Fun

Byrd Theatre ( 2908 West Cary Street)

I can’t really write about Carytown without talking about the Byrd Theater. The old opera house shows movies that are just out of the theater for only $4. The Carytown venue also hosts events like the International Film Festival and shows classic movies from time to time. Check here if you’re out of things to do on a rainy day.

Jasper (3113 West Cary Street)

I wrote about Jasper in Style Weekly last holiday season. I got to know the owner and the philosophy behind this cocktail bar. If you like a fine craft cocktail, you have to go here in Carytown. The menu has creative takes on cocktails I’ve never seen before. If you have something in mind, tell them, and they’ll create it for you.

Babes (3166 West Cary Street)

After you’ve shopped, eaten, and had your fancy cocktails, this is where you go to end the night. It’s easily one of the best dance floors in Richmond. Babe’s is known as a gay bar, but everyone feels at home here. If the dance floor inside doesn’t suit you, head outside for the sandy patio. It’s a party here anytime of the year, trust me.