Richmond, VA, is a city where history and modernity blend seamlessly, offering a vibrant culinary scene that's as diverse as its heritage. From charming cobblestone streets in the historic Shockoe Slip to the bustling arts and culture in the Arts District, Richmond is a city that invites exploration and indulgence.

Whether you're a food enthusiast searching for an unforgettable dining experience or a local craving something new, join us as we uncover the best restaurants in Richmond. Get ready to embark on a journey that highlights the creativity, quality, and flavors that define this dynamic city's dining landscape.

Top 10 Restaurants in Richmond VA

Let's embark on a culinary journey through Richmond, VA, as we explore the top 10 restaurants that define the city's vibrant and diverse dining scene.

1. Perly’s

Step through the doors of Perly’s, and you're immediately transported to a world where old-school charm meets culinary excellence. This Jewish deli, a cornerstone in downtown Richmond, serves up a menu brimming with hearty, traditional fare.

The Jewish Sailor sandwich is a marvel, a towering creation of pastrami, beef sausage, and a rich schmear of chopped chicken liver, all nestled between slices of rye. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, wrapped in the cozy ambiance of patterned walls, wooden booths, and a classic tin ceiling.

  • Address: 111 E. Grace St., Richmond, VA 23219
  • Best Seller: Jewish Sailor Sandwich

2. The Roosevelt

In the storied Church Hill neighborhood, The Roosevelt stands as a beacon of Southern culinary innovation. Here, smoked chicken wings, glazed in Alabama white sauce, are not just an appetizer but a statement of flavor.

Under the stewardship of restaurateur Kendra Feather, The Roosevelt combines upscale dining with the warmth of Southern hospitality, ensuring each dish, from seasonal seafood to unique desserts, is a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage.

  • Address: 623 N. 25th St., Richmond, VA 23223
  • Best Seller: Smoked Chicken Wings

3. Soul Taco

Soul Taco is where the vibrant essence of Latin American cuisine dances with the hearty comfort of Southern cooking. The cornmeal-crusted catfish taco, a standout item, encapsulates this fusion perfectly, offering a delightful crunch followed by the succulent flavors of perfectly seasoned fish.

The restaurant's lively atmosphere, adorned with bright, cheerful colors, mirrors the vibrant flavors served, making each visit a festive dining adventure.

  • Address: 321 N. Second St., Richmond, VA 23219
  • Best Seller: Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish Taco

4. Sub Rosa Bakery

Sub Rosa Bakery, nestled in the historic Church Hill, is an artisanal haven where the air is perfumed with the scent of freshly baked bread and pastries.

The pain au chocolat, a sublime offering of buttery pastry enveloping a rich, dark chocolate center, stands as a testament to their dedication to quality. With flour milled on-site and a commitment to organic ingredients, Sub Rosa is more than a bakery; it's a sanctuary for those who appreciate the art of baking.

  • Address: 620 N. 25th St., Richmond, VA 23223
  • Best Seller: Pain au Chocolat

5. Big Herm’s Kitchen

Big Herm’s Kitchen is where the soul of Southern comfort food is alive and well. Tucked away in Jackson Ward, this casual eatery dishes out generous portions of classics like the fried catfish basket.

Accompanied by their signature cornbread, a perfect blend of sweet and savory, each meal here feels like a warm embrace. It's a spot where simplicity and flavor converge, offering a comforting respite in the heart of the city.

  • Address: 315 N. Second St., Richmond, VA 23219
  • Best Seller: Fried Catfish Basket

6. Hatch Local

Hatch Local isn't just a food hall; it's a vibrant community hub where culinary diversity shines. Within its spacious confines in Manchester, diners can traverse from the smoky allure of Sinceros wings to the refreshing zest of The Beet Box's Hulk Smash juice.

With a wide array of choices, from gourmet burgers to exotic Cambodian dishes, Hatch Local embodies the spirit of communal dining, making it a perfect gathering spot for food lovers of all tastes.

  • Address: 400 Hull St., Richmond, VA 23224
  • Best Seller: Sincero's Wings / The Beet Box's Hulk Smash Juice

7. Lillie Pearl

Lillie Pearl, a beacon of culinary innovation in downtown Richmond, is where Chef Michael Lindsey's vision comes to life. The restaurant dazzles with its short rib egg rolls, a creative twist on a classic, stuffed with pimento cheese and wrapped in a crispy shell.

It's a dish that embodies Lillie Pearl's approach to cuisine: familiar yet surprising, comforting yet exciting. The bustling atmosphere, especially during dinner or Sunday brunch, is a testament to its allure among those seeking a unique dining experience.

  • Address: 416 E. Grace St., Richmond, VA 23219
  • Best Seller: Short Rib Egg Rolls

8. Can Can Brasserie

Stepping into Can Can Brasserie is like being whisked away to a Parisian bistro, with its early 1900s French cafe aesthetics and a menu to match. The onion soup gratinee, rich and bubbling with cheese, is a hearty embrace in a bowl, embodying the comfort and sophistication of French cuisine.

Located in the heart of Carytown, Can Can is more than a restaurant; it's a cultural experience, blending the art of French dining with the vibrant energy of Richmond.

  • Address: 3120 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221
  • Best Seller: Onion Soup Gratinee

9. ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque

In the heart of Scott's Addition, ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque is a temple for smoked meat aficionados. The beef brisket, with its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and smoky depth of flavor, is a masterpiece of barbeque artistry.

The lively, communal atmosphere, combined with the scent of wood-smoke, transports diners straight to the heart of Texas, making each visit an authentic barbeque experience.

  • Address: 3201 W. Moore St., Richmond, VA 23230
  • Best Seller: Beef Brisket

10. Mama J’s Kitchen

Mama J’s Kitchen is the soul of Richmond’s culinary scene, serving up comforting soul food with a generous side of hospitality. The catfish, whether in nugget form or as a whole filet, is celebrated for its crispy exterior and flaky interior.

The home-like ambiance, from the warm welcome to the cozy dining space, makes every meal at Mama J’s feel like a gathering with close friends and family.

  • Address: 415 N. First St., Richmond, VA 23219
  • Best Seller: Catfish

Before You Go

As we wrap up our culinary tour of Richmond, VA, we've seen how this city marries tradition with innovation on every plate. From the hearty classics of Southern cuisine to the refined flavors of international dishes, Richmond's top restaurants offer something for every palate.

As we cherish these dining experiences, it's also crucial to support sustainability in our vibrant food scene. Greasecycle, a company dedicated to providing sustainable waste solutions, stands ready to partner with businesses throughout the Southeast.

By choosing Greasecycle, you're not just enjoying the best of Richmond's culinary delights; you're also contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for our beloved city. Contact us today for more information