Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. The Best Bars on OpenTable
  3. The Best Bars for Foodies in Richmond
Restaurant list

The Best Bars for Foodies in Richmond

A photo of Red logo
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 (4214)
$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
Danielle
Dined 7 days ago
The Scottish salmon is so tasty and the server was incredibly nice.
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
Danielle
Dined 7 days ago
The Scottish salmon is so tasty and the server was incredibly nice.
Bar Solita
4.5 (1255)
$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
Evelyn
Dined 3 days ago
I ate with my brunch group on a Sunday mid-day. From the moment we walked in to the server who kept us well taken care of to the hot food and the awesome cocktails. My experience was nothing short of delightful. We drove over an hour to visit and we will definitely return.
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
Evelyn
Dined 3 days ago
I ate with my brunch group on a Sunday mid-day. From the moment we walked in to the server who kept us well taken care of to the hot food and the awesome cocktails. My experience was nothing short of delightful. We drove over an hour to visit and we will definitely return.
Rappahannock - Richmond
4.7 (2562)
$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
Michael
Dined on Apr 19, 2025
Our first time there and it did not disappoint. Drinks were excellent and food was to die for. Noise level was higher than I expected, however my wife and I were able to carry a conversation easily. Service was prompt and friendly. Will definitely come back for more oysters.
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
Michael
Dined on Apr 19, 2025
Our first time there and it did not disappoint. Drinks were excellent and food was to die for. Noise level was higher than I expected, however my wife and I were able to carry a conversation easily. Service was prompt and friendly. Will definitely come back for more oysters.
Grandstaff & Stein
4.3 (997)
$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
Ava
Dined 1 day ago
Went for friends bday dinner, had a great time!!!!
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
Ava
Dined 1 day ago
Went for friends bday dinner, had a great time!!!!
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Richmond, VA
4.5 (7120)
$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
Shelley
Dined 2 days ago
Always a great experience - the patio on a beautiful spring day is fantastic! The food is always presented well, and the specials are ALWAYS delicious.
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
Shelley
Dined 2 days ago
Always a great experience - the patio on a beautiful spring day is fantastic! The food is always presented well, and the specials are ALWAYS delicious.
Brenner Pass
4.7 (1946)
$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
Frank
Dined 5 days ago
We love dining here and supporting this business. It is a great, well-manage restaurant and the food is top-notch for the price!
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
Frank
Dined 5 days ago
We love dining here and supporting this business. It is a great, well-manage restaurant and the food is top-notch for the price!
Lemaire at The Jefferson Hotel
4.7 (4346)
$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
Karen
Dined 2 days ago
The food and service was excellent! A special place for that special occasion.
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
Karen
Dined 2 days ago
The food and service was excellent! A special place for that special occasion.
The Boathouse at City Point
4.4 (2458)
$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
DebbieVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Great Date Night!!! Loved sitting outside and enjoying wonderful starters and drinks...made a great meal for 2!!!
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
DebbieVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Great Date Night!!! Loved sitting outside and enjoying wonderful starters and drinks...made a great meal for 2!!!
The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing
4.4 (5413)
$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
vernon
Dined on Apr 20, 2025
The food was amazing and my family really enjoyed it. Our server was great and attentive to our every need
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
vernon
Dined on Apr 20, 2025
The food was amazing and my family really enjoyed it. Our server was great and attentive to our every need
The Boathouse at Sunday Park
4.4 (4354)
$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
TamsinVIP
Dined 1 day ago
Beautiful venue, good food. Great steak ! Oysters were only one brand and were very small but tasty. The zookie and Creme brule were great. Was my daughter’s birthday which I specified on the reservations but they said and did nothing special??!! Pricey but the view is worth it
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
TamsinVIP
Dined 1 day ago
Beautiful venue, good food. Great steak ! Oysters were only one brand and were very small but tasty. The zookie and Creme brule were great. Was my daughter’s birthday which I specified on the reservations but they said and did nothing special??!! Pricey but the view is worth it
The Hard Shell - Bellgrade
4.6 (2728)
$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
Eric
Dined 7 days ago
Great food, excellent service! Looking forward to our next visit.
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
Eric
Dined 7 days ago
Great food, excellent service! Looking forward to our next visit.
Tarrant's Downtown
4.4 (3323)
$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
Lori
Dined 5 days ago
Great menu and food was really good. Burgers and pizza excellent. The staff was friendly and attentive. Highly recommend.
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
Lori
Dined 5 days ago
Great menu and food was really good. Burgers and pizza excellent. The staff was friendly and attentive. Highly recommend.
Stella's - Richmond
4.8 (3053)
$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
CalvinVIP
Dined 2 days ago
We had a wonderful weekday lunch at Stella's on Monday. Our orders of Stella's Garden sandwich and the Crabcak sandwich were both well presented and delicious. Most notable was our table service at one of the outside tables. Hannah was an exceptional server in every respect. She was knowledgeable, welcoming and uncommonly pleasant. We noticed that other diners at tables nearby received the same high level of personal service from Hannah. We had an exceptional overall experience on a beautiful Spring day.
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
CalvinVIP
Dined 2 days ago
We had a wonderful weekday lunch at Stella's on Monday. Our orders of Stella's Garden sandwich and the Crabcak sandwich were both well presented and delicious. Most notable was our table service at one of the outside tables. Hannah was an exceptional server in every respect. She was knowledgeable, welcoming and uncommonly pleasant. We noticed that other diners at tables nearby received the same high level of personal service from Hannah. We had an exceptional overall experience on a beautiful Spring day.

More lists for you

Explore other cities and regions
A photo of Tulsa
Tulsa
A photo of Raleigh
Raleigh
A photo of Hawaii
Hawaii
A photo of Central Coast
Central Coast
A photo of Cincinnati
Cincinnati
A photo of Miami
Miami
A photo of Houston
Houston
A photo of Palm Springs
Palm Springs
A photo of Denver
Denver
A photo of West Virginia
West Virginia
A photo of Charlotte
Charlotte
A photo of Orlando
Orlando
Other ways to experience the world through dining
Must Try Korean Dishes The GreatsExplore Asian-Owned and -Operated RestaurantsExplore Award-Winning Restaurants on OpenTable The Best Bars on OpenTableTKTKThe Best Restaurants for Breakfast on OpenTableThe Best Brunch RestaurantsThe Best Burgersbest cafe in town
Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Restaurant reservation software
  • Industry insights
  • Hospitality resources
  • Marketing resources
  • Operation resources
  • How to open a restaurant
  • For restaurants
  • For restaurant groups
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2025 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo