The best Richmond eats we had in 2025
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Illustration: Allie Carl/Axios
Karri here, thinking about some of the stellar meals I had in Richmond this year.
Why it matters: James Beard may have snubbed RVA (again) and the state might've punted on being included in Michelin's South guide, but we don't need 'em. Richmond restaurants serve up award-worthy dishes all yearlong.
Zoom in: Want proof? Here's a sampling of the amazing food I ate in Richmond in 2025.
🥩 The beef tartare, $23, and, (not pictured), butterkin squash gnocchi at Lost Letter in Scott's Addition, from their menu earlier this year.
- Easily the best tartare of my life.
🥬 The Darlene sandwich, $11.75, at Janet's Cafe & Bakery in South Richmond.
- The braised cabbage with pickled veggies on focaccia is like a winter stew served between bread.
- Fun fact: It wasn't my order. I got the stellar Carmela mortadella sandwich, but my pal John's sandwich was the clear winner of the two (and dining with me means sharing).
🥪 The Rachel sandwich, $16, at Susie's Deli in the Fan.
- The pic does not do the size justice. This was easily two meals in one, the first of which was enjoyed in a packed house at Susie's.
🥗 The wedge salad, $12, at Laura Lee's in South Richmond, piled high with bacon and bleu cheese.
- I got it the best way a salad can be enjoyed: alongside the pile of fries (and two glasses of wine) part of their Girl Dinner happy hour special ($30).
🐚 Smoked clams, $24, at Restaurant Adarra in Oregon Hill.
- I'm still dreaming of these clams — heaven on a plate — served with potatoes and crème fraîche. Go to see the completely transformed former Mamma Zu space, stay for the clams.
- I snapped a picture, but the image isn't exactly ... appetizing.
🍸 The espresso martini at Riverside Tavern in South Richmond.
- Foamy, coffee-y, delicious — and best enjoyed in an all-decked-out-for-the-holidays bar.
- The secret to their superior espresso martini is the use of the Italian espresso liqueur Caffè Borghetti instead of Kahlúa, owner Wade Skelton tells Axios.
The bottom line: There's lots of good eats to be had in RVA. Cheers to more happy eating in 2026.