Thousands of you weighed in for our 2025 Readers’ Poll, chiming in on everything from the city’s smokiest BBQ to the boutiques you swear by and the spots you insist your visiting friends have to see “to get the real Richmond.”
So thanks to everyone who voted. Here’s how it shaked out.
ZZQ DOMINATES FOR A 3RD STRAIGHT YEAR
How does ZZQ Texas Craft BBQ keep hanging onto the crown in a city stacked with heavy hitters? Sure, the brisket is absurdly good, but that’s only part of it. ZZQ has mastered the one thing every other spot is chasing: consistency. In a town that suddenly finds itself on national BBQ lists, they’re still the benchmark everyone else is quietly sizing themselves up against.
WINNER! ZZQ
2nd: The Smoky Mug
3rd: The Original “Ronnie’s BBQ”
4th: Alamo / Frontier by Alamo
5th: Bar-Q
ZORCH IS STILL RICHMOND’S PIZZA KING
Zorch didn’t just keep the crown this year, they ran up the score. Hot For Pizza slid into second, while 8 ½ in The Fan held strong as Richmond’s forever comfort slice. Mary Angela’s is still a locals all time favorite, and Pizza Bones rounded out the list with enough momentum to keep everyone else on their toes.
WINNER! Zorch
2nd: Hot For Pizza
3rd: 8 ½ in The Fan
4th: Mary Angela’s
5th: Pizza Bones
TBT EL GALLO HOLDS THE TACO CROWN AGAIN
Richmond showed up for TBT El Gallo this year, and honestly, fair. What started as a quiet standout inside Hatch has turned into one of the city’s most reliable taco operations with no drama, just great food and a blossoming late night scene.
Cochiloco jumped into second with its Baja-inspired twists and its a must try, Don’t Look Back held its spot as Richmond’s unofficial taco institution, El Chido kept things lively with its queso-on-everything approach, and En Su Boca stayed in the mix as the fan favorite that refuses to fade.
WINNER! TBT El Gallo
2nd: Cochiloco
3rd: Don’t Look Back
4th: El Chido
5th: En Su Boca
COBRA BURGER, RICHMOND’S BURGER KING STRIKES AGAIN
For the second year in a row, Cobra Burger held the top spot with messy, glorious, no-apologies burgers. Big flavor, bigger attitude, and a fan base that is not going anywhere.
Beauvine came in as the polished counterpart at number two. Cobra Cabana landed third with full punk-bar swagger. Eazzy Burger kept things solid in fourth, and Smashed RVA rounded out the list with straight-ahead smash-burger perfection.
WINNER! Cobra Burger
2nd: Beauvine Burger Concept
3rd: Cobra Cabana
4th: Eazzy Burger
5th: Smashed RVA
GARNETT’S HOLDS THE CROWN AS RICHMOND’S SANDWICH QUEEN
Garnett’s kept the crown this year and made it look effortless. Richmond showed up again for the quiet Park Avenue powerhouse, a reminder that sometimes the best sandwiches are the simple, unfussy ones done right. Stanley’s held a confident second, Chiocca’s stayed locked in as one of the city’s long-standing favorites, Coppola’s kept its legacy intact in fourth, and Union Market closed out a top five that proves Richmond takes its sandwiches very seriously.
WINNER! Garnett’s
2nd: Stanley’s
3rd: Chiocca’s
4th: Coppola’s Deli
5th: Union Market
MAMA J’S CLAIMS THE FIRST-EVER FRIED CHICKEN CROWN
If you’re debuting a new category, you might as well let a heavyweight claim the first win. Mama J’s stepped in and set the bar instantly, taking the top spot with the kind of confidence only a true Richmond institution can pull off. Crispy, tender, perfectly seasoned, the voters did not overthink it.
Ukrop’s Market Hall landed in second and reminded everyone why Richmond still has a soft spot for its classic fried chicken. Cocky Rooster took third with late-night swagger, Fuzzy Cactus brought its desert-punk personality into fourth, and Buttermilk and Honey rounded things out with their no-nonsense, flavor-first style.
WINNER! Mama J’s Kitchen
2nd: Ukrop’s Market Hall
3rd: Cocky Rooster
4th: Fuzzy Cactus
5th: Buttermilk and Honey
LUCKY AF REMAINS RICHMOND’S UNTOUCHABLE SUSHI ROYALTY
Lucky AF keeps its title and barely breaks a sweat. Richmond’s sushi scene keeps expanding, but voters made it clear that one spot is still operating on another level entirely. The presentation, the precision, the flavor, it all hits, and people keep lining up to prove it.
Fighting Fish took second with clean, bright plates. Akida held strong as one of the city’s most beloved old-school staples. Sticky Rice followed with the same chaotic charm that made it a Richmond classic, and Miyabi Sushi rounded out the list with a dedicated crowd of its own.
WINNER! Lucky AF
2nd: Fighting Fish
3rd: Akida
4th: Sticky Rice
5th: Miyabi Sushi
821 CAFE RETURNS TO THE THRONE AS RICHMOND’S VEGAN ICON
821 Café didn’t just win this year, they reminded Richmond why they’ve been the go-to for vegetarians and vegans since before the trend hit mainstream. That classic Richmond mix of big portions, quirky charm, and a menu full of crowd favorites still works, and voters clearly weren’t interested in moving on. It’s comfort food with personality, and it still hits.
Goatocado landed in second with bright, fresh bowls and a growing fanbase. Roots Natural Kitchen held steady in third, Gold Lion Café made an impressive push into fourth, and Philly Vegan rounded out the list with a community that just keeps getting bigger.
WINNER! 821 Cafe
2nd: Goatocado
3rd: Roots Natural Kitchen
4th: Gold Lion Cafe
5th: Philly Vegan
LEMON CUISINE REMAINS RICHMOND’S KING OF THE CURRY
Richmond knows its curries, and Lemon Cuisine of India took the top spot again without much suspense. From fragrant tikka masalas to deeply spiced vindaloos, they continue to be the city’s go-to for rich sauces, balanced heat, and steady-as-ever consistency. Voters didn’t hesitate.
Tulsi Indian Cuisine came in second with warm, homestyle comfort. Carytown Indian Cuisine secured third and proved they’re firmly in the mix. Lehja followed in fourth as one of the region’s most polished Indian restaurants, and Kismet Modern Indian RVA rounded out the list with a sharp, modern take on tradition.
WINNER! Lemon Cuisine of India
2nd: Tulsi Indian Cuisine
3rd: Carytown Indian Cuisine
4th: Lehja Indian Restaurant
5th: Kismet Modern Indian RVA
PHO TAY DO TAKES THE PRIZE ONCE AGAIN
Pho Tay Do keeps proving that quiet confidence wins. Tucked into the stretch locals casually call Richmond’s Little Asia, this tiny shop still feels like a secret even though everyone knows it. Voters once again showed up for the richly layered broth, tender cuts, and no-nonsense bowls that can salvage just about any kind of day.
Pho Thein Phat / Pho So 1 took second with dependable, old-school comfort. Mekong claimed third with deep, familiar flavors. Pho Luca grabbed fourth with a fast-growing fanbase, and Main Street Dragon rounded out the list with its own take on Richmond’s favorite cold-weather fix.
WINNER! Pho Tay Do
2nd: Pho Thein Phat / Pho So 1
3rd: Mekong
4th: Pho Luca
5th: Main Street Dragon
SABAI TAKES BACK THE CROWN IN RVA’S PAN-ASIAN SCENE
Sabai stormed back to the top this year and reminded everyone why it dominates Richmond’s Pan-Asian scene. The mix of Thai comfort dishes, neon glow, and late-night buzz hit voters right where it counts. If there’s one spot that nails bold flavors and big personality, this is it.
Fat Dragon followed in second with its dependable Chinese fusion. My Noodle took third with comforting bowls and a loyal crowd. Mom’s Siam held on in fourth as a long-standing favorite, and Peter Chang Richmond rounded out the top five with the spice and precision that always keeps it in the conversation.
WINNER! Sabai
2nd: Fat Dragon
3rd: My Noodle
4th: Mom’s Siam
5th: Peter Chang Richmond
CITY DOGS REMAINS RICHMOND’S HOT DOG FAVORITE
When Richmond wants a classic dog, it still ends up at City Dogs. This Fan institution has fed college kids, bar regulars, and late-night wanderers for years, and voters made it clear that nobody nails simple, fast, and exactly-what-you-want quite like they do.
The Mayor Meats came in second and made an immediate impression with bold, creative dogs that stood out fast. Black Lodge followed in third with the inventive flair that earned it a cult following. Joey’s Hot Dogs took fourth with its family-friendly charm, and Horne Dogs rounded out the list with playful, over-the-top creations that keep things interesting.
WINNER! City Dogs
2nd: The Mayor Meats
3rd: Black Lodge
4th: Joey’s Hot Dogs
5th: Horne Dogs
COUNTRY STYLE DONUTS IS RICHMOND’S SWEETHEART, AGAIN
Some places win on hype. Country Style wins because Richmond genuinely loves it. Those fresh, warm, impossibly soft donuts keep people coming back morning after morning, and voters made it clear that nothing has changed. If someone asks where to get a real donut, this is still the answer.
Sugar Shack held second with its familiar favorites. Oh Mochi Richmond jumped into third with chewy, creative mochi-style donuts. Westhampton Pastry Shop stayed solid in fourth with old-school charm, and The Treat Shop rounded out the list with bright, playful takes on the classics.
WINNER! Country Style Donuts
2nd: Sugar Shack
3rd: Oh Mochi Richmond
4th: Westhampton Pastry Shop
5th: The Treat Shop
MOORE STREET CAFE HOLDS ON TO ITS BREAKFAST CROWN
Moore Street Cafe kept its grip on the breakfast crowd this year, and it makes perfect sense. This Scott’s Addition classic doesn’t bother with trends or gimmicks. It’s strong coffee, big plates, and a room full of regulars who look like they’ve been showing up for decades. Post-pandemic, the place hasn’t just bounced back, it has cemented itself as the spot where breakfast still feels like breakfast.
Joe’s Inn the Fan took second with its timeless comfort. Perly’s landed in third with its modern-Jewish diner magic. 821 Café held fourth with eclectic, veggie-friendly charm, and Baltik’s Bagels rounded out the list as the newcomer quickly turning into a morning must.
WINNER! Moore Street Cafe
2nd: Joe’s Inn the Fan
3rd: Perly’s
4th: 821 Cafe
5th: Baltik’s Bagels
UNION MARKET IS RICHMOND’S MIDDAY FAVORITE
Union Market has quietly become Richmond’s ideal lunch escape. It’s the spot where you grab a sandwich, linger over soup, pick up a bottle of wine for later, and inevitably run into someone you know. Tucked into Church Hill, it works as both café and community hangout, and voters made it clear they like a place that keeps things casual, consistent, and easy.
Garnett’s came in second with timeless Fan-side charm. Cobra Cabana landed third with punk-bar personality and surprisingly great midday plates. Joe’s Inn in The Fan held fourth with its never-fail classics, and Scott’s Shawarma rounded out the top five as one of the city’s quickest, most flavorful stops.
WINNER! Union Market
2nd: Garnett’s
3rd: Cobra Cabana
4th: Joe’s Inn In The Fan
5th: Scott’s Shawarma
L’OPOSSUM IS RICHMOND’S UNMATCHED DATE NIGHT DESTINATION
Some spots fall into being date-night destinations. L’Opossum engineered it. With decadent plates, eccentric charm, and a dining room that feels like someone’s glamorous fever dream, it’s still one of Richmond’s most memorable places to eat with someone you actually want to impress. Voters didn’t overthink it. L’Opossum is where you book when the night needs to matter.
Edo’s Squid came in second as the forever Hall of Fame contender. Stella’s took third with timeless elegance. Blue Atlas landed fourth with global flavors and skyline views, and Grisette rounded out the list with intimate bistro vibes and spot-on hospitality.
WINNER! L’Opossum
2nd: Edo’s Squid
3rd: Stella’s
4th: Blue Atlas
5th: Grisette
PERLY’S REMAINS RICHMOND’S BRUNCH BEACON
Perly’s held onto its brunch crown again, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. The place has national buzz, a dining room that feels like a perfectly preserved mid-century daydream, and plates that balance comfort with real culinary chops. Whether you’re keeping it simple or going all in, Perly’s is still the city’s surest bet for a great brunch.
Moore Street Cafe followed in second with classic diner charm. LUNCH.SUPPER! took third with hearty, no-nonsense staples. The Liberty Public House landed fourth with neighborhood-friendly plates, and Joe’s Inn in The Fan rounded out the top five as one of Richmond’s longest-running weekend rituals.
WINNER! Perly’s
2nd: Moore Street Cafe
3rd: LUNCH.SUPPER!
4th: The Liberty Public House
5th: Joe’s Inn the Fan
1115 (ELEVEN FIFTEEN) CROWNED RICHMOND’S TOP FOOD TRUCK ONCE AGAIN
1115 (Eleven Fifteen) keeps showing Richmond why it follows them everywhere. The truck still punches above its weight with a menu that feels way bigger than its kitchen, and wherever it parks, the crowd isn’t far behind. Voters didn’t overthink it. This is still Richmond’s top pick on wheels.
Auntie Ning’s landed second with Filipino and Asian fusion that hits whether you catch them at their storefront or their mobile setup. Goatocado held third with its fresh, veggie-forward bowls available on the truck and in-store. River City Wood Fire rounded out the top four with fire-kissed pies that work just as well curbside as they do from their permanent home.
WINNER! 1115 (Eleven Fifteen)
2nd: Auntie Ning’s
3rd: Goatocado
4th: River City Wood Fire
BLANCHARD’S IS RICHMOND’S CAFÉ FAVORITE
Blanchard’s continues to anchor Richmond’s coffee scene. What began as a small roastery with a loyal following has grown into a citywide network of cafés, all serving the same meticulous brews and relaxed atmosphere that made them a staple. Consistency, community, and genuinely good coffee keep them at the top, and voters clearly don’t want that to change.
Afterglow Coffee Cooperative took second with its worker-owned model and bright, balanced pours. Lamplighter landed third as one of the city’s longest-standing coffee institutions. The Smoky Mug followed in fourth with its espresso-meets-brunch appeal, and Sugar & Twine rounded out the top five as Carytown’s classic stop for a pastry and a cup.
WINNER! Blanchard’s
2nd: Afterglow Coffee Cooperative
3rd: Lamplighter Coffee Roasters
4th: The Smoky Mug
5th: Sugar and Twine
STELLA’S GROCERY TAKES THE FIRST-EVER CORNER MARKET CROWN
Stella’s Grocery took the first win in this new category, and honestly, anyone who’s ever grabbed a quick bite or a dangerously good prepared meal there saw it coming. It’s more than a market. It’s a neighborhood habit, the kind of place that slips into your daily routine before you even notice. Voters made it clear that when convenience actually tastes good, Stella’s is the spot.
Strawberry Market landed a strong second with a devoted Fan following. Union Market took third with its Church Hill charm and reliable lunch counter. Shields Market held fourth as a true Fan landmark, and The Lombardy Market rounded out the top five, still holding it down in the neighborhood.
WINNER! Stella’s Grocery
2nd: Strawberry Market
3rd: Union Market
4th: Shields Market
5th: The Lombardy Market
THE JASPER DOMINATES FOR A 3RD TIME
Some bars chase trends. The Jasper keeps setting them. For the third year in a row, Richmond picked this Carytown standout as its top cocktail spot, a nod to the team that helped shape the city’s modern drink culture and still executes every cocktail with real craft. It’s the bar you can take anyone to, order anything, and know you’re in good hands.
Emerald Lounge, its Church Hill sibling, landed a strong second. Fan Boy jumped into third with playful, pop-culture spins on craft drinks. The Roosevelt held fourth as one of Richmond’s most dependable classics, and Can Can Brasserie rounded out the top five with grand brasserie charm and timeless cocktails.
WINNER! The Jasper
2nd: Emerald Lounge
3rd: Fan Boy
4th: The Roosevelt
5th: Can Can Brasserie
JARDIN REMAINS RICHMOND’S WINE HAVEN
Jardin has settled in as Richmond’s premier wine destination, and voters backed it again this year. Tucked into The Fan, it’s the kind of spot where the food, the wine list, and the whole vibe line up effortlessly. The patio alone could win awards on a warm spring afternoon, but it’s the sharp curation and consistently thoughtful plates that keep people returning. Readers made it clear that if you care about what’s in your glass, this is where you go.
Brambly Park took second with its sprawling winery-meets-park setup. Celladora Wines climbed into third with a tightly curated selection that appeals to serious drinkers. Penny’s Wine Shop followed in fourth with an intimate, stylish edge, and Can Can Brasserie rounded out the top five with classic brasserie charm and a deep, reliable wine list.
WINNER! Jardin
2nd: Brambly Park
3rd: Celladora Wines
4th: Penny’s Wine Shop
5th: Can Can Brasserie
THE VEIL REMAINS RICHMOND’S FAVORITE CRAFT BREWERY
The Veil continues to anchor Richmond’s craft beer universe. Known for style-bending releases and limited drops that send collectors into panic mode, they’ve built a full-on culture, not just a taproom. With constant collabs, pop-ups, and a presence at every beer-forward event that matters, The Veil stays woven into the center of the city’s scene. Voters didn’t hesitate. The Veil is still the one to beat.
Triple Crossing Beer landed second with steady excellence and dialed-in IPAs. Hardywood took third as one of Richmond’s original craft pioneers. Väsen Brewing Company followed in fourth with its Scandinavian-inspired lineup, and Ardent Craft Ales rounded out the top five with a classic, community-first approach.
WINNER! The Veil Brewing Co.
2nd: Triple Crossing Beer
3rd: Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
4th: Väsen Brewing Company
5th: Ardent Craft Ales
BAMBOO CAFE, THE FOREVER RICHMOND DIVE BAR
Some places don’t bother chasing trends because they’ve already nailed what people want. Bamboo Café is one of them. Long before Richmond’s dive bar scene became something to argue about online, Bamboo had the formula locked in: stiff drinks, familiar faces, and that low-key charm that packs the place on any given night. Readers didn’t mince words. This is still the dive bar that feels like home.
Cobra Cabana took second with pure punk-rock energy and late-night chaos. Patrick Henry Pub landed third as the cozy Church Hill standby. The Locker Room came in fourth with classic, old-school bar vibes, and The Sidewalk Cafe rounded out the top five as one of Richmond’s most dependable neighborhood hangouts. Read our entire DIVE BAR write up HERE.
WINNER! Bamboo Cafe
2nd: Cobra Cabana
3rd: Patrick Henry Pub
4th: The Locker Room
5th: The Sidewalk Cafe
BABES IN CARYTOWN IS RICHMOND’S QUEER QUEEN
Babes in Carytown remains the heartbeat of Richmond’s queer nightlife. One of the oldest gay bars in the country, it’s still the place where history, joy, and community meet under one roof. You can dance, shoot pool, grab a drink, and actually feel like you belong. Another win this year isn’t just expected, it’s a reminder of how essential Babes has been for generations of LGBTQIA+ Richmonders.
The Liberty Public House took second with a welcoming vibe and community-first events. Gold Lion Community Cafe landed third as a rising hub for inclusive gatherings. Fallout held fourth with its alternative, late-night edge, and Thirsty’s rounded out the top five as a neighborhood favorite with a loyal crowd.
WINNER! Babes In Carytown
2nd: The Liberty Public House
3rd: Gold Lion Community Cafe
4th: Fallout
5th: Thirsty’s
BABE’S OF CARYTOWN IS STILL RICHMOND’S DANCE FLOOR CLASSIC
There’s dancing in Richmond, and then there’s a night at Babe’s. Long before the city’s nightlife decided to reinvent itself, Babe’s was already giving people a place to move, sweat, shout-sing, and shake off whatever kind of day they had. That mix of queer joy, unpretentious energy, and pure, unfiltered fun keeps the floor packed year after year. Voters didn’t waffle. Babe’s is still where Richmond goes when it actually wants to dance.
New York Deli grabbed second with packed weekends and reliably rowdy crowds. Fallout took third with its signature alternative edge. LOSO landed fourth with a polished, modern feel, and The Tobacco Company rounded out the top five as a timeless downtown staple with plenty of room to move.
WINNER! Babes In Carytown
2nd: New York Deli
3rd: Fallout
4th: LOSO
5th: Tobacco Company
HOTEL GREEN WINS FOR DOING SOMETHING DIFFERENT
Hotel Green keeps proving that Richmond still loves a bit of spectacle. With its roaring-twenties vibe, immersive mini-golf, and all the theatrical details that make it feel like a movie set, it’s the go-to when people want a night out that’s more than dinner or drinks. It’s quirky, clever, and exactly the kind of charm this city embraces. Voters rewarded the place that actually swung for something different.
Rivercity Roll landed second with its high-energy blend of bowling and cocktails. Purrfect Bean took third as one of the city’s most delightfully unusual hangouts. Metro Richmond Zoo grabbed fourth with family-friendly adventure, and Top Golf rounded out the top five with its always-popular tech-driven take on hitting balls.
WINNER! Hotel Green
2nd: Rivercity Roll
3rd: Purrfect Bean
4th: Metro Richmond Zoo
5th: Top Golf
FUZZY CACTUS IS RICHMOND’S HAPPY HOUR HANGOUT
Fuzzy Cactus just gets it. When the workday ends, this is the kind of happy hour people actually want. Easy prices, zero pretension, a mix of regulars and newcomers, and a vibe that settles in fast. Voters made it clear. This is the place to decompress without overthinking a thing. Happy hour at Fuzzy Cactus feels exactly right: simple, relaxed, reliably good.
VMFA Friday took second with its art-plus-evening-cocktails atmosphere. Bamboo Cafe landed third as the forever dive-bar standby. Joe’s Inn came in fourth with decades of neighborhood loyalty behind it, and Emerald Lounge rounded out the top five as the moody, stylish Church Hill pick.
WINNER! Fuzzy Cactus
2nd: VMFA Friday
3rd: Bamboo Cafe
4th: Joe’s Inn
5th: Emerald Lounge
SEE YOU AT BAMBOO FOR LAST CALL
When the night gets late and Richmond starts hunting for that last drink, Bamboo Café is still where people end up. There’s a real comfort to it, the dim lights, the worn-in bar, the familiar faces you almost expect to see every time you push the door open. It’s never fussy, never rushed, and always ready for one more round before the night finally gives up. Voters didn’t complicate it. Bamboo is where Richmond likes to land.
Cobra Cabana grabbed second with loud, late-night energy. Helen’s took third as the forever-cool Fan classic. Fuzzy Cactus followed in fourth with its easygoing close-out vibe, and Patrick Henry Pub rounded out the top five as one of Church Hill’s most dependable last stops.
WINNER! Bamboo Cafe
2nd: Cobra Cabana
3rd: Helen’s
4th: Fuzzy Cactus
5th: Patrick Henry Pub
LOCAL ICON PLAN 9 MUSIC STILL THE GO-TO FOR RECORDS
Some shops don’t just sell music, they hold pieces of a city’s history. Plan 9 Music is one of them. Decades in, it’s still the place Richmond trusts for vinyl digging, razor-sharp staff picks, and that unmistakable joy of flipping through bins on a lazy afternoon. The vote wasn’t close, and of course it wasn’t. Plan 9 isn’t just a record store, it’s a Richmond landmark that has survived every trend and stayed essential.
Deep Groove Records landed second with a tightly curated, audiophile-friendly selection. Vinyl Conflict took third with the city’s strongest punk and metal focus. Wax Moon Records came in fourth with a cozy, collector-forward vibe, and Small Friend Records & Books rounded out the top five with its community-driven blend of vinyl and literature.
WINNER! Plan 9 Music
2nd: Deep Groove Records
3rd: Vinyl Conflict
4th: Wax Moon Records
5th: Small Friend Records & Books
KICKS BOOMIN’ IS THE STREETWEAR SPOT
Richmond’s streetwear scene has leveled up since the early Round Two era, and Kicks Boomin’ has planted itself squarely at the center of it. From rare sneakers to rotating apparel drops and the kind of curated chaos that makes browsing actually fun, it has become the spot where collectors, thrifters, and casual shoppers all end up in the same line. Voters didn’t mince words. Kicks Boomin’ owns this category now.
The Spot RVA took second with a tight mix of vintage and streetwear staples. Laces VA claimed third as a sneakerhead favorite. CHILALAY landed in fourth with a bold Richmond-first aesthetic, and Crewel and Unusual rounded out the top five with an art-forward spin on street style.
WINNER! Kicks Boomin
2nd: The Spot RVA
3rd: Laces VA
4th: CHILALAY
5th: Crewel and Unusual
SHELF LIFE BOOKS TAKES THE INAUGURAL BOOKSTORE CROWN
For the first year of this category, Richmond readers did not hesitate. Shelf Life Books is the city’s literary home base. With sharp curation, steady author events, and a cozy, lived-in atmosphere that makes it dangerously easy to lose an afternoon, Shelf Life has become a true community anchor. It’s where Richmond goes to browse, stumble onto something unexpected, and stay plugged into the city’s creative pulse.
Fountain Bookstore took second as Shockoe Slip’s longtime indie mainstay. Love You So Much Books landed third with a bright, contemporary voice. ABI’s Books + Brews came in fourth with a bookstore-café pairing that feels effortless, and Small Friend Records & Books rounded out the top five with its blend of vinyl culture and literary discovery.
WINNER! Shelf Life Books
2nd: Fountain Bookstore
3rd: Love You So Much Books
4th: ABI’s Books + Brews
5th: Small Friend Records & Books
WORLD OF MIRTH IS A RICHMOND INSTITUTION
Thirty years in, World of Mirth is still one of the truest expressions of Carytown’s bright, weird, wonderful personality. It’s the place you wander into “just to look” and somehow leave with a plush toy, a strangely hilarious greeting card, or something you absolutely did not need until you saw it. Richmond readers showed the love again this year, keeping World of Mirth at the top as a nod to a shop that supported local artists and indie retail long before it was cool.
Mongrel took second with its own beloved lineup of gifts. Dawnstar Video Games jumped into third as the retro-meets-modern gaming favorite. Toy Lair grabbed fourth with shelves full of collectibles and action figures, and One Eyed Jacques rounded out the top five as Carytown’s forever home for games, hobbies, and late-night tournaments.
WINNER! World of Mirth
2nd: Mongrel
3rd: Dawnstar Video Games
4th: Toy Lair
5th: One Eyed Jacques
VELOCITY COMICS TAKES THE FIRST-EVER COMICS CROWN
If you’ve ever spent a Wednesday hunting new releases or debating story arcs with total strangers, you already know why Velocity Comics took the top spot. A longtime pillar of Richmond’s comics scene, Velocity has built its reputation on staff who genuinely care, shelves stacked with everything from indie deep cuts to superhero staples, and an easygoing vibe that keeps both diehards and newcomers coming back. For the first year of this category, readers didn’t hesitate. Velocity is the one to beat.
One Eyed Jacques landed second as Carytown’s trusted standby. Paper Tiger claimed third with a curated, illustration-forward selection. Third Eye Comics came in fourth as the regional heavyweight with a loyal RVA spillover, and Time Capsule rounded out the top five with its mix of nostalgia, collectibles, and classic comic shop comfort.
WINNER! Velocity Comics
2nd: One Eyed Jacques
3rd: Paper Tiger
4th: Third Eye Comics
5th: Time Capsule
ONE EYED JACQUES CLAIMS THE FIRST TABLETOP CROWN
Carytown’s One Eyed Jacques has been the heartbeat of Richmond’s tabletop scene for decades, so it’s no shock they took the first win in this category. From Friday Night Magic to casual Pokémon nights to board-game marathons that swallow half the store, Jacques has built a full community as much as a shop. Newcomers get welcomed in, regulars settle into their usual corners, and somehow the competition stays friendly even when it absolutely shouldn’t.
DawnStar Video Games and Arcade took second with an arcade-meets-TCG vibe that pulls in every kind of gamer. Paper Tiger landed third as the rising home base for card players. Battlegrounds came in fourth with a deep tabletop catalog, and The Veil Brewing Co. rounded out the top five, because of course Richmond’s gamers love a good deck and a good beer.
WINNER! One Eyed Jacques
2nd: DawnStar Video Games and Arcade
3rd: Paper Tiger
4th: Battlegrounds
5th: The Veil Brewing Co.
CLASS AND TRASH AT SCOTT’S ADDITION TAKES THE TOP SPOT
Richmond knows how to treasure hunt, and voters made it clear that Class and Trash in Scott’s Addition is the place to start. Whether you’re digging for a statement piece, quirky home goods, or something you didn’t realize you needed until you spotted it wedged between two dressers, Class and Trash has become the city’s go-to. The mix of vintage finds, repurposed oddities, and pure “you have to see this” surprises keeps people coming back week after week.
West End Antique Mall took second with its sprawling maze of curated booths. RVA Antiques landed third as a steady favorite for serious collectors. Odd Balls Collectibles & Claire’s Antiques grabbed fourth with its own eclectic charm, and Two Rabbits Vintage rounded out the top five as one of Richmond’s most beloved small-space treasure troves.
WINNER! Class and Trash At Scott’s Addition
2nd: West End Antique Mall
3rd: RVA Antiques
4th: Odd Balls Collectibles & Claire’s Antiques
5th: Two Rabbits Vintage
KULTURE IS RICHMOND’S TOP SMOKE & CBD SHOP
Kulture has been part of Richmond’s counterculture backbone for decades, and voters kept it on top again this year. With multiple locations, a staff that actually knows what they’re talking about, and shelves stocked with everything from glass to gummies to CBD tinctures, Kulture stands out in a market that shifts constantly. Longevity is one thing, staying relevant is another, and Kulture still does both without breaking a sweat. Readers made it clear. This is the shop Richmond trusts.
Cannabist landed second with a polished, dispensary-style setup. gLeaf followed in third as one of the city’s most established names in medical and CBD products. High Rollerz took fourth with reliable neighborhood accessibility, and Mamie’s Apothecary rounded out the top five with a boutique, wellness-driven approach.
WINNER! Kulture
2nd: Cannabist
3rd: gLeaf
4th: High Rollerz
5th: Mamie’s Apothecary
BYGONES FOR THE VINTAGE LOOK WIN
Bygones is still one of Richmond’s great time machines, a shop where decades of style are preserved, curated, and absolutely still wearable. From mid-century silhouettes to dramatic evening looks, it continues to set the pace for vintage shopping in the city. Ask any longtime Richmonder and they’ll tell you Bygones and Halcyon shaped the city’s vintage identity long before thrifting was cool. This year, voters once again put Bygones at the top.
Halcyon Vintage Clothing landed second with its own iconic racks. Blue Bones Vintage took third as the rising favorite for bold statement pieces. Saturn Returns grabbed fourth with an eclectic, from-every-era curation, and Cut N Run Vintage rounded out the top five with a sharp, distinctive inventory that keeps fashion hunters coming back.
WINNER! Bygones
2nd: Halcyon Vintage Clothing
3rd: Blue Bones Vintage
4th: Saturn Returns
5th: Cut N Run Vintage
DIVERSITY THRIFT IS STILL RICHMOND’S FAVORITE THRIFT STORE
Diversity Thrift has been part of Richmond’s fabric for decades, and voters once again pushed it straight to the top. Long before thrifting became a trend, this place was turning donated goods into direct support for the city’s LGBTQ+ community, proving that secondhand shopping can have real impact. Pair that mission with the thrill of finding something unexpected in the aisles, and it’s easy to see why Richmond keeps coming back. A shop with roots this deep still leading the way feels exactly right.
Ashby landed second with a curated, fashion-forward mix. Furbish took third as a rising favorite for home goods and clothing. Clothes Rack came in fourth with its long history and charitable mission, and Rumors Boutique rounded out the top five as one of the city’s most beloved eclectic thrift stops.
WINNER! Diversity Thrift
2nd: Ashby
3rd: Furbish
4th: Clothes Rack
5th: Rumors Boutique
HOMME ESSENTIALS SETS THE STANDARD FOR MEN’S STYLE
For the first year of this category, Richmond readers didn’t hesitate. Homme Essentials is the city’s go-to for men’s style. With a sharp, modern aesthetic and an eye for well-made basics that actually hold up, Homme has carved out a space that feels elevated without being precious. It’s the kind of shop where you can upgrade your wardrobe or grab something for everyday wear without overthinking a thing, and voters clearly took notice.
Brick and Mortar landed second with polished, heritage-inspired looks. Blackbyrd Goods took third with a mix of streetwear and timeless staples. A Man’s World followed in fourth as a long-running hub for classic menswear, and Shockoe Atelier rounded out the top five with beautifully made, Richmond-crafted denim that still sets a high bar.
WINNER! Homme Essentials
2nd: Brick and Mortar
3rd: Blackbyrd Goods
4th: A Man’s World
5th: Shockoe Atelier
ROSEWOOD CLOTHING CO. TAKES THE FIRST WOMEN’S STYLE CROWN
For the first year of this category, Richmond didn’t hesitate. Rosewood Clothing Co. is the city’s pick for women’s fashion. The racks feel intentional, the vibe is warm, and the clothes actually match how people dress here. With a mix of modern essentials, vintage gems, and thoughtful, sustainable labels, Rosewood has carved out its own lane, and voters clearly love where it’s going.
Dear Neighbor took second with a beautifully curated selection and that refined, quietly cool neighborhood feel. NA NIN landed third with its minimalist aesthetic and cult-favorite scents. Wild Heart came in fourth as one of Richmond’s most adventurous boutiques, and Roan Boutique rounded out the top five with polished, contemporary style.
WINNER! Rosewood Clothing Co.
2nd: Dear Neighbor
3rd: NA NIN
4th: Wild Heart
5th: Roan Boutique
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