The capital city of Virginia, Richmond is home to about 217,000 residents. From Federal Reserve employees to food truck entrepreneurs, the city is full of workers looking for a place to blow off steam at the end of the day. Richmond’s myriad bars, clubs, and dives cater to almost every conceivable preference. To help you filter through the many choices the city has to offer, we've compiled a guide to the best bars in Richmond in a wide range of categories.
With an impressive list of wines spanning the European continent, Secco is widely recognized as Richmonds best wine bar. Try a cheese platter pairing, or if youre in the mood for a more substantial meal, Secco is also known for its Mediterranean cuisine.
2933 West Cary Street, Richmond, Virginia 23221
(804) 353-0670
In addition to being the regions oldest microbrewery, Legend is a full-service pub. On tap are year-round staples like pilsner and porter, as well as limited edition and seasonal brews. The brewery sells beer labels and coasters for the craft collector.
321 W 7th St, Richmond, VA 23224
(804) 232-3446
The Home Team Grill is the perfect place to catch the game with some friends. Featuring 15 huge TVs, mouthwatering wings and burgers, and of course, plenty of beers, the HTG is located in the Fan.
1630 W. Main Street, Richmond, VA 23220
(804) 254-7360
McCormacks Big Whisky Grill and Smokehouses list of Scotch, bourbon, and whiskey choices is mind-boggling. They even break their Scotch menu down by region of origin, separating into categories of Highland, Lowland, and Speyside. This is the perfect place for the serious whiskey/whisky connoisseur.
1406 N Parham Rd,Richmond, VA 23229
(804) 740-4000
Capital Alehouse Downtown is the flagship location of a local mini-chain. In addition to a lengthy beer list, they have fantastic appetizers and two-dollar burgers on Monday nights.
623 E Main St, Richmond,VA23219
(804) 780-2537
Wonderlands name belies its atmosphere. This horror-themed pub is a magnet for the local punk and metal personalities. If rockabilly and cheap beer is your thing, Wonderland is a can't-miss experience.
1727 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23219
(804) 643-9233
Juleps features, naturally, three variations on the classic Southern mint cocktail. They also offer several varieties of martini and some house specialty cocktails.
420 E Grace St, Richmond,VA23219
(804) 377-3968
The Camel promotes the underground music scene by showcasing local bands, using themes like Beers and Banjos and Brews and Blues.They also feature an open mic night, as well as anopen aux night, so anyone can come by and plug in for a ten-minute set.
1621 W Broad St, Richmond,VA23220
(804) 353-4901
Conch Republic has an island vibe, amplified by its large deck overlooking the James River. Sip a fruity cocktail and feel like youre on vacation.
11 Orleans St, Richmond,VA23231
(804) 226-6242
Lemaire at the Jefferson Hotel is arguably Richmonds best spot for sipping expertly crafted cocktails. Located within a true Richmond landmark, Lemaire is perfect for special occasions. Cocktails run $10 to $14 each.
101 West Franklin Street, Richmond, VA 23220
(804) 649-4629
OTooles Irish Pub was established in 1966 and has been a staple of the Southbank section ever since. Locals rave about their onion rings, and the pub has happy hour every weekday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
4800 Forest Hill Ave, Richmond,VA23225
(804) 233-1781
The Can-Can Brasserie is a Parisian-themed place in Cary Town. Feel like youve been transported to a French bistro, watching the pedestrian traffic go by as you while away an afternoon sipping cocktails.
3120 W Cary St, Richmond,VA23221
(804) 358-7274
The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing is a great place to bring a date. The setting is gorgeous, overlooking the James River, and the drink menu features oyster shooters for some lighthearted libations.
4708 E Old Main St, Richmond,VA23231
(804) 622-2628
Crush is the perfect place to grab a cold, fruity smoothie on a hot day. They feature drinks named after local neighborhoods, like the Carytown, a peanut butter and banana blend.
1810 E Main St, Richmond,VA23223
(804) 225-0318
Godfreys is Richmonds most famous LGBT bar, mostly thanks to its Sunday Drag Brunch featuring staples like Bloody Mary's and Mimosas, served up with a side of trans talent. The bar hosts drag shows Wednesday through Saturday nights as well.
308 E Grace St, Richmond,VA23219
(804) 549-9512
Newly opened in March 2015, Grandstaff and Stein Booksellers doesnt sound or look like a bar. But thats just the outside. A small bookshop is a front for the speakeasy-themed joint. Staying in character, they require a password for entry, which can be obtained from their Facebook page.
Grandstaff and Stein Booksellers
2113 E Main St, Richmond,VA23223
(804) 918-2627
