The Trendspotter: July 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 sell out the Ida Jacket before we get to it, okay?
Auntie Ning’s
What it is: A long-time fave of ours that’s getting a new storefront
Why we love it: We’ve been known to *scarf down* orders from Auntie Ning’s (thinking of you, Pork Belly Adobo Bowl), and now that the spot for Filipino deliciousness is getting its own brick-and-mortar this month, we’ll plan on doing that a lot more in the near future. Stop by for fan-favorites and expanded vegan options yourself come mid-July.
Where to find it: 15 E Brookland Park Blvd
Commonwealth Cafe
What it is: Virginia Museum of History & Culture’s latest addition
Why we love it: To honor Stella Dikos — a beloved Richmond figure who brought Greek flavors to the Village Café in the ‘50s, created the city’s iconic Stella’s restaurant, and expanded that into a family of gourmet markets — VMHC has teamed up with Stella’s Grocery to launch this new spot inside the museum, meant for a coffee break, lunch, and to-go snacks. (Stella’s journey will also be spotlighted in We the People exhibition, which debuts in the spring.)
Where to find it: 428 N Arthur Ashe Blvd (Museum District)
Dottir
What it is: Where to find your next haul of Nordic-inspired must-haves
Why we love it: Even though it just opened in the East End, this boutique is brimming with a whole collection of apparel, jewelry, accessories, and gifts. We’ve already got eyes on this Ida Jacket for fall, but we’re trying to play it cool, you know?
Where to find it: 2509 E Broad St (Church Hill)
Giorno
What it is: Another spot to visit in Church Hill before or after you’re done shopping at Dottir
Why we love it: We were crushed when Tiny Space closed its tiny door last fall, but, what always cushions the blow during that kind of transition is when something equally stellar moves into the neighborhood. Giorno offers “local produce and affordable Italian staples for slowing down, eating well, and celebrating today.” Maybe pop by Chimbo Sandwich Shoppe, Cobra Burger, and/or Second Bottle, too, while you’re on that corner of the neighborhood?
Where to find it: 2708 E Marshall St (Church Hill)
Hiss Off
What it is: A space for nostalgic, gothic, and Harajuku finds alike
Why we love it: This clothing and vintage décor store adds even more character to our very colorful Carytown. Think: bold hot pink walls, eclectic fashion, unique vintage home goods, and local artist creations, all inspired by alternative styles, '90s/Y2K fashion, and Japanese streetwear.
Where to find it: 3122 W Cary St Ste C (Carytown)
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.
Looking for more?:
