The Trendspotter: August 2025
We’re back again with your monthly dose of must-know news, The Trendspotter! This content series features monthly roundups of the newest and hottest businesses (namely, restaurants, bars, and then some!) around RVA.
Don’t let August slip away into a moment in time; get to these new spots ASAP.
Booth’s Esoterica
What it is: A new cog in beloved shop Barrel Thief Wine & Provisions
Why we love it: Now when you stop by Barrel Thief, you can peep the spot’s watch collection, too. Owner Booth Hardy has had a passion for vintage timepieces since he inherited a 1940s pilot’s watch from his grandpa, and now he’s bringing that to his wine space in the West End; he finds a natural crossover between wine and watch enthusiasts, seeing both as niche interests rooted in appreciation, history, and passion. Peruse the collection of clocks (plus a small selection of apparel, tablewares, and ashtrays, too).
Where to find it: 5805 Patterson Ave (West End)
Coalesce Coffee
What it is: Your go-to spot for a caffeine boost before or after tee time
Why we love it: Coalesce Coffee Co originally launched as a mobile coffee truck three years ago and now has opened its first brick-and-mortar cafe inside Independence Golf Club in Midlo. The newly renovated cafe offers holistic beverages and health-conscious eats, making it a great pit-stop whether or not you’re also putting in time on the golf course — you don’t need to be a member to order up.
Where to find it: 600 Founders Bridge Blvd (Midlothian)
Coalescence Coffee
What it is: Where to get a caffeine boost when you’re in the heart of the city instead
Why we love it: This Norfolk-based coffee company focuses on delivering genuine hospitality in creative, welcoming spaces and is celebrating its Richmond grand opening at the very start of the month — today, August 1 — before it gets officially rocking and rolling on Monday. Look for a menu of exceptional coffee drinks and keep your eyes peeled for some class offerings; the spot is focused on its role as a place for conversation, collaboration, and connection, after all.
Where to find it: 23 W Broad St (Downtown)
Daisy’s at Tredegar
What it is: A riverside spot for coffee, lunch, happy hour, and then some
Why we love it: Coming to us from the folks behind Grisette, The Roosevelt, and Neighbor is this spot blends approachable food with fine-dining techniques, all in close proximity to the James *and* new Allianz Amphitheater. Order things like egg sandwiches, French toast, Afterglow coffee, Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches, salads, and namesake eats like the Daisy Burger.
Where to find it: 500 Tredegar St (Gambles Hill)
The Purrfect Bean
What it is: A space for coffee beans and toe beans alike
Why we love it: This highly anticipated cat cafe is set to open this month and serve sips from Afterglow Coffee Cooperative and The Spice & Tea Exchange of Richmond. But that’s not even the half of it; here, you can *also* cuddle kittens and cats from Purring Hearts VA and consider adopting a furry friend (?!) while you ‘re at it. BTW, def make sure you reserve a spot if you are interested in a feline visit with your finish. The cafe is on the ground level while the cat lounge is upstairs, and you need to book online in advance to visit the latter.
Where to find it: 214 N Lombardy St (The Fan)
Sharing new trends each month!
Check back the first week of each month for a new edition of The Trendspotter to find out which businesses you need to know about (and check out!) in RVA.