Neighborhood Guide: Northside of Richmond, VA

Neighborhood Guide: The Northside of Richmond, VA

The Northside of Richmond is known for many things: diversity, historical architecture, magical parks, and staples in the Richmond food scene. I’ve spent some time in the area over the years as have my close friends and contacts. In an effort to highlight local businesses during this interesting time, here are some highlights of the area that I personally love. Many of the small businesses and parks are open for business now in modified ways. Keep scrolling to find out what to see and order now and when the COVID-19 smoke clears.

Parks and Landmarks

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden: This Richmond staple hosts Friday concerts, flower shows, butterfly exhibits, and so much more. My cousin got married here and it was downright magical. The park is closed but offering virtual tours and more during COVID-19.

Joseph Bryan Park: This 262-acre City public park has five soccer fields, an 18-hole disc golf course, four tennis courts, a large playground, two picnic shelters and tons of trails. I visited fervently and it was large enough for everyone to maintain lots of social distance while getting some outdoor time. Fun fact: the park is located on the geologic “Fall Zone” where the hilly Virginia Piedmont drops down to the Coastal Plain. About 200 million years ago, the Fall Zone was ocean-front!

Arthur Ashe Tunnel Mural at Battery Park: Battery Park has all kinds of good stuff like tennis courts and a full-service recreation center. One of the newest attractions is the Arthur Ashe tunnel, painted in partnership with Richmond-based artists including Hamilton Glass and James L. Thornhill. The decorated pedestrian tunnel was unveiled on Ashe’s birthday July 10 in 2017.

fuzzy cactus Northside of richmond, va

Foodie Spots

Dots Back Inn: Few Richmond locals HAVEN’T eaten at Dots. The restaurant features creative twists on classic diner foods. You can order online now. I’m personally looking at the soft-shell crab sandwich or the falafel gyro. I’ve gotten down on many brunch items and the Rubens.

Demi’s: This mediterranean spot has hit the target for me and business contacts a few times. I like to have lunch meetings here and also pick it up on the way to a meeting. The hummus and chicken dishes are always crowd pleasers. They’re taking orders via phone during COVID-19.

Fuzzy Cactus: When I ordered wings, burgers and vegan hot dogs here recently, a local drag queen celeb Grace Wet Pants was there to hand me my order. I love that they’re having fun right now. Did I mention they are serving up frozen to-go cocktails? Yeah. Do that.

Stir Crazy: I’ve had so many work meetings here. Because it’s in the Northside of Richmond, it’s easy to get to for a lot of my clients and partners. Stir Crazy serves up a broad menu of coffee drinks, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. The walls are always covered with local art and there is a conference room you can rent anytime for a private meeting. They’re offering curbside pick up right now!

Hob Nob: If strawberry rhubarb barbecue sounds good to you, then you should check out the rest of Hob Nob’s menu for a hardy meal. I see awesome posts all the time from locals chowing down on their food. I’m full just following along. They’re offering curbside pick-up right now!

Shrimps: This cute little restaurant is decorated just like one you may find at the beach. They even have a nod to Forrest Gump on the wall. Shrimps offers really good lunch specials and creative offerings like the salmon Philly sub. You can call or order delivery through GrubHub.

Superior Creamery & Confections: If you are craving something sweet after all these savory spots, hit up Superior. You can find stuff like decadent chocolate covered pistachio and orange flower nut brittle. They’re offering up deliveries through the business’s Weekly Baker RVA service.

table brewery Northside rva

Watering Holes

Once Upon a Vine: I used to pop in here all the time on the way to visit friends in the area. If you’re looking for a discerning and eclectic collection of beers, wine and other snacks and spirits, head here. When there’s not a global pandemic, they host regular beer and wine tastings on Fridays. You can still shop, the store just limits the headcount to five at a time right now.

Tabol Brewery: This cozy spot was recommended by a friend. They’re known for wild, funky beers. I stopped by recently and they were hard at work there still creating! You can order up bottles and cans of flavors like Fructoj Concord Grape and a We Suggest IPA. The Instagram account has lots of good tasting notes. Right now, you can order contactless pick ups of their beer AND local oysters.

Ninja Kombucha: If you remember, some time ago, I featured Ninja Kombucha on Instagram. Their brews and blends are sold in lots of local markets. I have to admit, I didn’t know they had a taproom in the Brookland Park area on the Northside! It’s got a big awesome mural outside, too. I am super partial to the lemon ginger blend. They’re offering deliveries around the city!

Where to Shop

Habitat Restore: I love Habitat ReStore for a few reasons. I volunteered here a few times with my old company and had an awesome experience. I also have shopped here and found all kinds of good items for any apartments over the years. Also, Habitat for Humanity is an transformative nonprofit worth your support. Right now, you can shop online and schedule a pickup!

Little House Green Grocery: This little market is what small city neighborhood dreams are made of. It has a little bit of everything and emphasizes local sourcing. They have veggie and wine subscription services that are really smart. Right now, the shop on the Northside of Richmond ready and open for business as usual and also have an online shop!

Thank You!

Thank you to Michael Hippchen with River Fox Realty for sponsoring this post. If you’re interested in exploring homes in this neighborhood, reach out to him! Get his contact info here.