The Trendspotter: December 2025

 

BY KELSEY HEINTZ

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.

Santa Claus and these new and updated spots are comin’ to town.

 

 

Image Source: @foodiesfeed via Unsplash

 

Big Bamboo Asian Kitchen & Teq Bar


What it is: A new one from the team behind Sushi-O in Midlo and Main Street Dragon in the Fan

Why we love it: Big Bamboo doles out elevated versions of tradish Chinese and Asian dishes, with a small nod to fusion items like tacos, and features more than 20 varieties of tequila — along with margarita and tequila flights.

Where to find it: 412 E Grace St (Downtown)

>> Learn more <<


 

Image Source: LEGO

 

LEGO Store Short Pump Town Center


What it is: Yet another thing from LEGO — in addition to this yule log, that is — that’s perfect to enjoy this holiday season

Why we love it: As you know, we usually focus on hyper-local small businesses, but when LEGO came to town, we figured we could make a tiny exception. Stop by Short Pump Town Center while you shop this month, and stock up on all things bricks and blocks.

Where to find it: 11800 W Broad St, #1234 (Short Pump)

>> Learn more <<


 

Image Source: Sub Rosa Bakery

 

Sub Rosa Bakery


What it is: One of Richmond’s favorite bakeries, which is fortunately back in biz

Why we love it: Around this time last year, Sub Rosa was devastated by a fire, but things are looking up for the beloved East End bakery. They’re preparing to reopen in the coming weeks, and in the meantime, we can enjoy a series of pop-ups happening daily in the courtyard next to the bakery.

Where to find it: 620 N 25th St (Church Hill)

>> Learn more <<


 

Image Source: Daily Menu

 

Daily Menu


What it is: Another Richmond fave that’s back in the swing of things

Why we love it: Daily Menu *also* had a destructive fire earlier this year, but things are back up and running in a new location — but with all the same soul food favorites on the menu.

Where to find it: 1800 E Main St (Carytown)

>> Learn more <<


 

Image Source: @jardin_rva

 

Jardin: Expanded


What it is: A wino staple that’s now got more space for sipping and snacking

Why we love it: Jardin just unveiled an under-construction dining room that will eventually house “sexy” new light fixtures plus permanent indoor tables and seating. But in the meantime, you can enjoy the work in progress with a glass or two while you look forward to the final Salon look in the new year.

Where to find it: 1520 W Main St Basement, Ste 1 (The Fan)

>> Learn more <<


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.


 

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