The Trendspotter: January 2026
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.
2026 = *in* with the old and the new; the city is brimming with updated staples and must-try newcomers.
Image Source: Lafayette Tavern
Lafayette Tavern
What it is: A new spot from the Giavos family, who brought Richmond all things Stella’s and much more
Why we love it: Located in the former Lafayette Pharmacy building, this place is already giving neighborhood staple, and its menu promises to keep that energy comin’. Drawing inspo from classic American chophouses and blending vintage Chicago and New York dining vibes with a modern twist, Lafayette Tavern is set to open any minute now, offering a place where patrons can enjoy a casual burger and fries by day and savor a refined, classically prepared fish dinner — paired with expertly crafted cocktails — by night.
Where to find it: 1011 Lafayette St (Malvern Gardens)
Image Source: @vasenbrewing
Väsen Brewing Company - Forest Hill
What it is: Another location below the river for one of Richmonders’ favorite breweries
Why we love it: Väsen Brewing Company brought their cold beer *and* some sizzling Korean BBQ with them for this one. The new hub for the Forest Hill neighborhood brings together crispy brews and mouth-watering eats with Kobop setting up a permanent residency inside and bringing a full dining experience to the situation.
Where to find it: 5047 Forest Hill Ave Ste A (Forest Hill)
Image Source: @sipsocieterva
Sip Société
What it is: A refreshed and rebranded Oxford Cellars for the Near West End and its visitors
Why we love it: With a more boutique, carefully-curated wine and gourmet goods store vibe, this 900-square-foot space offers a smaller but more thoughtfully selected inventory along with merch, prepackaged foods, pasta, crackers, meats, cheeses, and a small but mighty variety of beer, too.
Where to find it: 1707-B Commonwealth Ave (Sauer’s Gardens)
Image Source: Yummvees
Yummvees
What it is: A new (to-go) location for this vegan fave
Why we love it: This spot for handcrafted vegan food has a dedicated following of vegans and non-vegans, and for good reason. The 100% plant-based restaurant serves mean Reubens, cheesesteaks, baked ziti, and way more. While the establishment is for takeout orders only, if you’re drooling the moment you pick yours up, there are tables and chairs set up for just that reason.
Where to find it: 2118 W Cary St (The Fan)
Image Source: @sipsandtripswithpaige
Grisette: Entrecôte
What it is: Grisette’s beloved — and fifth annual! — steak frites bonanza
Why we love it: When steak is what’s for dinner, what’s not to love, really? This indulgent shindig happens January 26 through 31 this year and offers a ruckus-filled evening of steak frites, red wine, and live music. That’s it. That’s the whole menu, that’s your whole evening’s itinerary: steak frites, red wine, and live music. Reservations are $75 and get you three hours at a table, plus the bread and butter, salad, and dessert to enjoy with your — you guessed it — mouth-watering steak frites.
Where to find it: 3119 E Marshall St (Church Hill)
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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