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The Best Bars for Foodies in Richmond

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by The OpenTable Team
Updated February 26, 2020

Richmond, the capital city of Virginia, straddles the north and south, offering a blend of warm southern hospitality with a fast-paced Yankee culture. After the hustle and bustle of the day, locals unwind in the standout bar scene. Richmond boasts countless watering holes serving unforgettable cocktails and small bites with opportunities for socializing. But how do they decide which bar to check out when in town? Check out our Tastemaker List of the best bars in Richmond. We’ve pulled data from thousands of bars to find the top spots among OpenTable's most expert, seasoned locals. Pick a bar that suits your taste or cravings, then book a table to discover the best hangouts in Richmond.

The Tobacco Company Restaurant
4.7 (4282)
$31 to $50
American
Richmond
One place with an excellent bar in Richmond Is the Tobacco Company. It doesn’t get more classic Richmond than the Tobacco Company, with old-style wood and leather interiors and a distintly “old-man” feel. This upscale eatery has perhaps the best bar in Richmond because the drinks are strong and the atmosphere feels upscale and special. (it is a good spot for a first date or a special event). The first floor bar here also has its own food menu to enjoy while sipping on cocktails. The menu has small plate items like fried oysters, spinach and artichoke dip, and a crab stack. The Tobacco Company has been located (and thriving) on the Downtown Shockoe Slip since 1973.
Top review
Jim
Dined 4 days ago
This most recent visit, like every other one to The Tobacco Company, has been consistent --great service, excellent and delicious menu, charming ambience, and fine staff. One of our "go to" places for out of town guests.
One place with an excellent bar in Richmond Is the Tobacco Company. It doesn’t get more classic Richmond than the Tobacco Company, with old-style wood and leather interiors and a distintly “old-man” feel. This upscale eatery has perhaps the best bar in Richmond because the drinks are strong and the atmosphere feels upscale and special. (it is a good spot for a first date or a special event). The first floor bar here also has its own food menu to enjoy while sipping on cocktails. The menu has small plate items like fried oysters, spinach and artichoke dip, and a crab stack. The Tobacco Company has been located (and thriving) on the Downtown Shockoe Slip since 1973.
Top review
Jim
Dined 4 days ago
This most recent visit, like every other one to The Tobacco Company, has been consistent --great service, excellent and delicious menu, charming ambience, and fine staff. One of our "go to" places for out of town guests.
Bar Solita
4.4 (1274)
$30 and under
Mediterranean
Richmond
Bar Solita has the word bar in its name because it is an establishment that is focused on the fine cocktail. This beautiful eatery showcases the bar, which spans an entire wall, and the staff knows how to mix a mean, unforgettable drink. The menu here is focused on Mediterranean cuisine, so the cocktails have their own Mediterranean flair, too. In addition to cocktails, the restaurant has an excellent wine list. So visitors can choose to order by the glass or by the bottle. Bar Solita gets particularly busy during happy hour, which takes place Monday to Friday and offers ½ off pizzas, set prices for 2 people, ½ off bottles of wine, and more, depending on the day of the week.
Top review
Alex
Dined on Jul 14, 2025
Great service. Fabulous food. And wonderful drinks.
Bar Solita has the word bar in its name because it is an establishment that is focused on the fine cocktail. This beautiful eatery showcases the bar, which spans an entire wall, and the staff knows how to mix a mean, unforgettable drink. The menu here is focused on Mediterranean cuisine, so the cocktails have their own Mediterranean flair, too. In addition to cocktails, the restaurant has an excellent wine list. So visitors can choose to order by the glass or by the bottle. Bar Solita gets particularly busy during happy hour, which takes place Monday to Friday and offers ½ off pizzas, set prices for 2 people, ½ off bottles of wine, and more, depending on the day of the week.
Top review
Alex
Dined on Jul 14, 2025
Great service. Fabulous food. And wonderful drinks.
Rappahannock - Richmond
4.7 (2576)
$31 to $50
Seafood
Richmond
Rappahannock is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers comforting food a dark, wood rustic interior. This warm and inviting neighborhood joint has one specialty of the house: Oysters. Open since 2011, the joint is known for its raw bar, and they also have great cocktails that can help you wash down that delicious, fresh, ice cold seafood. The bar at Rappahannock is front and center, so grab a seat there to be in the center of the action. Order a cocktail that the bartender can mix up like a show, or choose a glass of bubbly, which pairs perfectly with fresh oysters.
Top review
Robin
Dined on Jul 19, 2025
Excellent food. They farm raise their oysters. Their new scallops dinner is wonderful!
Rappahannock is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers comforting food a dark, wood rustic interior. This warm and inviting neighborhood joint has one specialty of the house: Oysters. Open since 2011, the joint is known for its raw bar, and they also have great cocktails that can help you wash down that delicious, fresh, ice cold seafood. The bar at Rappahannock is front and center, so grab a seat there to be in the center of the action. Order a cocktail that the bartender can mix up like a show, or choose a glass of bubbly, which pairs perfectly with fresh oysters.
Top review
Robin
Dined on Jul 19, 2025
Excellent food. They farm raise their oysters. Their new scallops dinner is wonderful!
Grandstaff & Stein
4.2 (1024)
$30 and under
Contemporary American
Richmond
Grandstaff and Stein Book Sellers is an old-fashioned themed restaurant with a speakeasy twist. The restaurant part of Grandstaff and Stein offers prohibition era food in an authentic-feeling atmosphere that might just make visitors feel like they stepped into a time machine. The bar at Grandstaff and Stein might just be the best part of the establishment. Called the Juice Joint, the watering hole is a legitimate speakeasy, and visitors have to have the right password to get in. (They change it regularly on their website so people can get in if the do the legwork to find what they need). Grandstaff and Stein is perhaps the best bar in Richmond for anyone looking for a fun, entertaining themed night out.
Top review
Brooke
Dined 4 days ago
Grandstaff & Stein is a gem for that special night out. The food always delivers, especially the Filet which is my favorite. Their drink menu will impress those looking for something fun.
Grandstaff and Stein Book Sellers is an old-fashioned themed restaurant with a speakeasy twist. The restaurant part of Grandstaff and Stein offers prohibition era food in an authentic-feeling atmosphere that might just make visitors feel like they stepped into a time machine. The bar at Grandstaff and Stein might just be the best part of the establishment. Called the Juice Joint, the watering hole is a legitimate speakeasy, and visitors have to have the right password to get in. (They change it regularly on their website so people can get in if the do the legwork to find what they need). Grandstaff and Stein is perhaps the best bar in Richmond for anyone looking for a fun, entertaining themed night out.
Top review
Brooke
Dined 4 days ago
Grandstaff & Stein is a gem for that special night out. The food always delivers, especially the Filet which is my favorite. Their drink menu will impress those looking for something fun.
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Richmond, VA
4.4 (7232)
$30 and under
American
Richmond
Sports bar lovers will absolutely love Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant. Despite its name, Cooper’s Hawk is not actually a winery. It is a warm and casual sports bar where people come to eat delicious food and watch their favorite team play. Cooper’s Hawk is a chain, and the location in Richmond does not disappoint. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine or their favorite cocktail, or they can order their favorite beer on tap, since there are many on tap. For visitors coming to see a specific game, saddle up to the bar and ask the bartender or server to change the channel. They’ll be happy to oblige while their guests root in style. Cooper’s Hawk is technically in Short Pump.
Top review
Beverley
Dined 4 days ago
Complimented the manager on the service and he informed us that this was our waitress’s first night on her own. She was very friendly and always smiling. The teamwork was wonderful. Two additional wait staff checked on us providing their names in case we needed anything.
Sports bar lovers will absolutely love Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant. Despite its name, Cooper’s Hawk is not actually a winery. It is a warm and casual sports bar where people come to eat delicious food and watch their favorite team play. Cooper’s Hawk is a chain, and the location in Richmond does not disappoint. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine or their favorite cocktail, or they can order their favorite beer on tap, since there are many on tap. For visitors coming to see a specific game, saddle up to the bar and ask the bartender or server to change the channel. They’ll be happy to oblige while their guests root in style. Cooper’s Hawk is technically in Short Pump.
Top review
Beverley
Dined 4 days ago
Complimented the manager on the service and he informed us that this was our waitress’s first night on her own. She was very friendly and always smiling. The teamwork was wonderful. Two additional wait staff checked on us providing their names in case we needed anything.
Brenner Pass
4.6 (1972)
$30 and under
Contemporary European
Richmond
For diner who love to hang out in a bright, airy feeling space that has a Scandinavian vibe, there is Brenner Pass, one of the cutest and most popular bars in Richmond. Named after a part of the Alps, Brenner pass is stark white and beige inside—perhaps reflecting the cold color palette of the snowcapped mountain range. Those who come to Brenner Pass to drink can enjoy a glass of wine from the extensive menu from the Alpine region (selected by wine director Nathan Conway). Alternatively, they can get a suggestion from bar director James Kohler, who heads up a craft cocktail program and helps diners learn more about amari, brandies, sherries, and his love of cane spirits.
Top review
KevinVIP
Dined 4 days ago
Beautiful space... a fair amount of ambient noise ... drinks were good ... fried artichokes and focaccia were great ... pasta sauces a little heavy ... perhaps not enough wait staff ... took a long time for drinks but staff were nice
For diner who love to hang out in a bright, airy feeling space that has a Scandinavian vibe, there is Brenner Pass, one of the cutest and most popular bars in Richmond. Named after a part of the Alps, Brenner pass is stark white and beige inside—perhaps reflecting the cold color palette of the snowcapped mountain range. Those who come to Brenner Pass to drink can enjoy a glass of wine from the extensive menu from the Alpine region (selected by wine director Nathan Conway). Alternatively, they can get a suggestion from bar director James Kohler, who heads up a craft cocktail program and helps diners learn more about amari, brandies, sherries, and his love of cane spirits.
Top review
KevinVIP
Dined 4 days ago
Beautiful space... a fair amount of ambient noise ... drinks were good ... fried artichokes and focaccia were great ... pasta sauces a little heavy ... perhaps not enough wait staff ... took a long time for drinks but staff were nice
Lemaire at The Jefferson Hotel
4.6 (4374)
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
Richmond
Sometimes hotel bars are lame and overpriced. This is not the case with Lemaire at the Jefferson Hotel, since many consider it to be the best bar in Richmond. This new restaurant offers diners inventive, fresh American cuisine, and they also mix up a huge list of innovative cocktails, with only handcrafted, fresh, local ingredients. The wine list at Lemaire is extensive, with more than 200 offerings. So, whether a visitor is in the mood for a glass of wine or they want to try something a little stronger, Lemaire is definitely a spot for them to consider visiting. The Jefferson Hotel is a destination in the heart of Richmond, so come visit this famous tourist attraction, then stop for a refresh at Lemaire.
Top review
Joseph
Dined 7 days ago
Our dining experience at the Jefferson Hotel was excellent with attentive service, well crafted drinks and excellent food. We highly recommend the experience.
Sometimes hotel bars are lame and overpriced. This is not the case with Lemaire at the Jefferson Hotel, since many consider it to be the best bar in Richmond. This new restaurant offers diners inventive, fresh American cuisine, and they also mix up a huge list of innovative cocktails, with only handcrafted, fresh, local ingredients. The wine list at Lemaire is extensive, with more than 200 offerings. So, whether a visitor is in the mood for a glass of wine or they want to try something a little stronger, Lemaire is definitely a spot for them to consider visiting. The Jefferson Hotel is a destination in the heart of Richmond, so come visit this famous tourist attraction, then stop for a refresh at Lemaire.
Top review
Joseph
Dined 7 days ago
Our dining experience at the Jefferson Hotel was excellent with attentive service, well crafted drinks and excellent food. We highly recommend the experience.
The Boathouse at City Point
4.5 (2484)
$31 to $50
Seafood
Richmond
There is a serious of bars and restaurants in Richmond called the Boathouses. Located in waterfront locations, the Boathouses offer trendy bustling atmospheres, delicious food options, and strong drinks to help people unwind and have fun. The Boathouse at City point is particularly trendy and stylish inside, with distinctive mod and art déco interior design features. The menu here has coastal dishes, with seafood as the star. One real draw is the bar, which is outside. When the weather is nice, people gather at the bar and on the patio to stare out at the water and sip on their delicious libation. For some of the best outdoor drinking in Richmond, this is definitely the spot.
Top review
Amy
Dined 3 days ago
Great place for our birthday celebration. Food and service were excellent. Love the ambiance too.
There is a serious of bars and restaurants in Richmond called the Boathouses. Located in waterfront locations, the Boathouses offer trendy bustling atmospheres, delicious food options, and strong drinks to help people unwind and have fun. The Boathouse at City point is particularly trendy and stylish inside, with distinctive mod and art déco interior design features. The menu here has coastal dishes, with seafood as the star. One real draw is the bar, which is outside. When the weather is nice, people gather at the bar and on the patio to stare out at the water and sip on their delicious libation. For some of the best outdoor drinking in Richmond, this is definitely the spot.
Top review
Amy
Dined 3 days ago
Great place for our birthday celebration. Food and service were excellent. Love the ambiance too.
The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing
4.3 (5454)
$31 to $50
Seafood
Richmond
Another location of the Boathouse is at Rocketts Landing in Richmond. Much more low key and less trendy than the Boathouse at City Point, the Boathouse at Rocketts Landing is a family friendly, casual place where visitors can refuel after a long day in the city. The views at Rocketts Landing are gorgeous, and diners can see them from inside at the bar. Enjoy the view while enjoying delicious food and a well-crafted cocktail or ice cold beer.
Top review
Delores
Dined 3 days ago
great dining experience, wonderful wait staff, excellent meal.
Another location of the Boathouse is at Rocketts Landing in Richmond. Much more low key and less trendy than the Boathouse at City Point, the Boathouse at Rocketts Landing is a family friendly, casual place where visitors can refuel after a long day in the city. The views at Rocketts Landing are gorgeous, and diners can see them from inside at the bar. Enjoy the view while enjoying delicious food and a well-crafted cocktail or ice cold beer.
Top review
Delores
Dined 3 days ago
great dining experience, wonderful wait staff, excellent meal.
The Boathouse at Sunday Park
4.3 (4393)
$31 to $50
Seafood
Midlothian
A third popular location of the Boathouse in Richmond is at Sunday Park. This Boathouse outpost has indoor and outdoor seating options, where diners can sit an enjoy waterfront views. The menu here features local, seasonal ingredients, and diners rave about the food. But, because it has one of the best bars in Richmond, some people just come here to drink and relax, and people can enjoy summery, beachy cocktails in the Virginia sun. Sunday Park is located in Brandermill, which is technically in Midlothian.
Top review
Kristin
Dined 7 days ago
We visited the Boathouse at Sunday Park for my grandfather's 95th birthday. I requested a table with a water view, and the host made sure we not only had a table near the windows, but that we could also see the water. He raised the blinds specifically for my grandfather. Our server, Cam, also spoiled my grandfather. He started with him when ordering, he continually called him the special guest, and he sang Happy Birthday with us. Everyone at the restaurant worked hard to make sure my grandfather's birthday was special and memorable, and I'll never forget it. We will be back - frequently!!
A third popular location of the Boathouse in Richmond is at Sunday Park. This Boathouse outpost has indoor and outdoor seating options, where diners can sit an enjoy waterfront views. The menu here features local, seasonal ingredients, and diners rave about the food. But, because it has one of the best bars in Richmond, some people just come here to drink and relax, and people can enjoy summery, beachy cocktails in the Virginia sun. Sunday Park is located in Brandermill, which is technically in Midlothian.
Top review
Kristin
Dined 7 days ago
We visited the Boathouse at Sunday Park for my grandfather's 95th birthday. I requested a table with a water view, and the host made sure we not only had a table near the windows, but that we could also see the water. He raised the blinds specifically for my grandfather. Our server, Cam, also spoiled my grandfather. He started with him when ordering, he continually called him the special guest, and he sang Happy Birthday with us. Everyone at the restaurant worked hard to make sure my grandfather's birthday was special and memorable, and I'll never forget it. We will be back - frequently!!
The Hard Shell - Bellgrade
4.4 (2757)
$30 and under
Seafood
Midlothian
Seafood lovers who also love a nice bar will love the Hard Shell. This seafood-centric eatery features an upscale menu with a fine dining vibe (with white table cloths and impeccable service). People who come here to sit at the bar can enjoy ordering from the menu while in a more casual, laidback atmosphere. Make conversation with the bartender while sipping on a delicious glass of wine.
Top review
NancyVIP
Dined 4 days ago
A group of six of us went to lunch yesterday. We got there when they opened and it was nice and uncrowded. Everyone got something different and everyone enjoyed their choices. Service was good.
Seafood lovers who also love a nice bar will love the Hard Shell. This seafood-centric eatery features an upscale menu with a fine dining vibe (with white table cloths and impeccable service). People who come here to sit at the bar can enjoy ordering from the menu while in a more casual, laidback atmosphere. Make conversation with the bartender while sipping on a delicious glass of wine.
Top review
NancyVIP
Dined 4 days ago
A group of six of us went to lunch yesterday. We got there when they opened and it was nice and uncrowded. Everyone got something different and everyone enjoyed their choices. Service was good.
Tarrant's Downtown
4.5 (3330)
$30 and under
American
Richmond
Tarrant’s Café is a Richmond Classic. Some also consider it to have the best bar in Richmond. This historic location (West Broad and Foushee) has long held an important Richmond business. In 1883, it became home to a famous drugstore, which eventually was renamed Tarrant’s, which is where the restaurant got its name. Tarrant’s touts its beautiful interior and fun dining vibe. This is one of the best spots in Richmond for anyone who loves a good martini. There are more than 7 options on the menu that bartenders can customize to visitors’ likings.
Top review
Tony
Dined on Jul 21, 2025
Food and service great as always. This has become a weekly place we like to eat.
Tarrant’s Café is a Richmond Classic. Some also consider it to have the best bar in Richmond. This historic location (West Broad and Foushee) has long held an important Richmond business. In 1883, it became home to a famous drugstore, which eventually was renamed Tarrant’s, which is where the restaurant got its name. Tarrant’s touts its beautiful interior and fun dining vibe. This is one of the best spots in Richmond for anyone who loves a good martini. There are more than 7 options on the menu that bartenders can customize to visitors’ likings.
Top review
Tony
Dined on Jul 21, 2025
Food and service great as always. This has become a weekly place we like to eat.
Stella's - Richmond
4.9 (3111)
$30 and under
Greek
Richmond
Stella’s is a popular rustic Greek restaurant in Richmond. It is also home to a popular bar. The menu features its own cocktail list, each inspired by Greek or Mediterranean ingredients. Sidle up to the bar and order something like the Onassis (champagne, fresh mint, lime, housemade syrup, and float of rum), or the Santorini (tito’s, blueberries, ginger, lemon and pomegranate). For flavorful, ethnic food and inventive cocktails to match, Stella’s is a great option in Richmond.
Top review
Allie
Dined 4 days ago
Amazing atmosphere, exceptional service, delicious Greek food without being gimmicky. The beet side was amazing, and was pleasantly surprised with the variety of the sample entree. So much food for your money and great quality, so glad I made this a destination during my weekend vacation!
Stella’s is a popular rustic Greek restaurant in Richmond. It is also home to a popular bar. The menu features its own cocktail list, each inspired by Greek or Mediterranean ingredients. Sidle up to the bar and order something like the Onassis (champagne, fresh mint, lime, housemade syrup, and float of rum), or the Santorini (tito’s, blueberries, ginger, lemon and pomegranate). For flavorful, ethnic food and inventive cocktails to match, Stella’s is a great option in Richmond.
Top review
Allie
Dined 4 days ago
Amazing atmosphere, exceptional service, delicious Greek food without being gimmicky. The beet side was amazing, and was pleasantly surprised with the variety of the sample entree. So much food for your money and great quality, so glad I made this a destination during my weekend vacation!

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