Why Carytown is *STILL* the Cheat Code to a Million-Dollar Date
BY TIA BALLARD
There’s a common misconception that "maximalism" requires a massive bank account. In Richmond, specifically on the mile-long stretch of Cary St, maximalism is a state of mind. It’s the gold leaf on a theater ceiling or the sweet scent of a gourmet chocolate shop — all accessible for the price of a movie ticket and a little bit of footwork. Carytown is a sensory feast; if you want to impress a cultured date, this is your roadmap.
Image Source: Can Can Brasserie
The Pregame
Can Can Brasserie
Grab a seat at the gorgeous bar of one of Richmond’s beloved French restaurants, and start with an order of two espressos or crisp glasses of wine. With its high ceilings, brass fixtures, and beautiful tile, this place tells your date you appreciate the finer, classic things in life before you’ve even spent $25.
Location: 3120 W Cary St
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Image Source: Mongrel
The Window-Shopping Runway
Mongrel & Bygones
Once you leave the cafe, take a slow stroll, darling. Stop at Mongrel to laugh at the quirky cards and one-of-a-kind gifts or peek into Bygones for a little time travel. Both places have so much flare, they are bound to keep the conservation interesting.
Location: 2924 W Cary St and 2916 W Cary St
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Image Source: The Byrd Theatre
The Main Event
The Byrd Theatre
The Byrd Theatre is THE ultimate Richmond date. For a fraction of the cost of a visit to a generic multiplex, here you are entering a literal Richmond royal palace. With absolute grandeur featuring massive chandeliers and red velvet rows, the cultured maximalist vibe hits hard. Of course the mighty Wurlitzer organ rising from the floor pre-show gets us every single time, too — for over twenty years, I have applauded like I was surprised at the Old Hollywood glamour! To boot, the spot’s selection of movies range from cult classic to Oscar-winning powerhouse pictures. There is nothing quite like watching a movie surrounded by a crowd of fans who love the film as much as you do. The energy in the room is far more than nostalgic; it's a celebration.
Location: 2908 W Cary St
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Image Source: For the Love of Chocolate
The Sweet Finish
For the Love of Chocolate
Next, take a dash down the street to For the Love of Chocolate. The sweet shop hosts wall-to-wall indulgence! Perhaps play a little game and choose a few interestingly flavored candy — like lavender, dark sea salt, or champagne — to swap with your date’s few choices. The presentation after checkout is a small, thoughtful luxury that tastes like a million bucks and comes in the signature gold box perfect for a forget-me-not.
Location: 3136 W Cary St
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Image Source: The Jasper
Don’t want the date to end?
Bev’s Ice Cream
This ice cream parlor with unique ice cream flavors, coffee, and custom cakes is another great after-dinner spot for a sweet treat.
Location: 2911 W Cary St
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Galaxy Diner
This fun and classic diner has quirky menu selections that’ll give you and your date eyes like saucers.
Location: 3109 W Cary St
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The Jasper
This beautifully styled vintage cocktail bar is a great place to cozy up for drinks before or after dinner.
Location: 3113 W Cary St
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
RICHMOND’S "LOVE CONSULTANT”
OWNER OF HELLO LOVE & Founder (Co-Owner) LUCKY IN LOVE Tia is a Richmond-based chapel owner, licensed officiant, and elopement specialist dedicated to creating intimate, meaningful love stories. Through her businesses Hello Love and Lucky in Love, she has helped hundreds of couples navigate the city’s most romantic corners.
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