The Trendspotter: October 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.
The only thing spookier than ghosts and goblins is you not visiting one of these haunts this month.
Image Source: Papi’s Creamery
Papi’s Creamery
What it is: A new-to-Richmond, scratch-made ice cream biz originally from Yorktown
Why we love it: What’s not to love about a spot with a cult following? Papi’s Creamery has quite a fanbase in southeastern Virginia, and now, we suspect, the Central Virginians will follow that lead. Unlike a tradish scoop shop, Papi’s sells small-batch pints through limited weekly drops each Thursday, inspired in part by owner Diego Diaz Infante’s Mexican heritage.
Where to find it: 2105 Lake Ave (Westmont)
>> Learn more <<
Image Source: Lucky AF
Lucky AF - Forest Hill
What it is: Another location for one of Richmond’s sushi staples
Why we love it: Like we said — it’s a staple! And between the bento boxes, signature rolls, and every other mouth-watering item on its extensive menu, it’s no wonder Lucky AF needed a second location for folks who want to roll up below the river.
Where to find it: 4701 Forest Hill Ave c1 (Forest Hill)
>> Learn more <<
Image Source: The Little Gym
The Little Gym
What it is: An indoor space to bookmark for those fall-and-winter zoomies
Why we love it: The upcoming shorter — and colder — days make it harder for parents to get out and about in Richmond, but with places like The Little Gym offering progressive, milestone-based classes for children ages 4 months to 12 years that focus on physical, social, and emotional development, that seasonal depression may not feel so depressing. Programming includes parent-child classes, gymnastics, and sports skills, along with camps, birthday parties, and Parents’ Survival Nights.
Where to find it: 7338 Bell Creek Rd (Mechanicsville)
>> Learn more <<
Image Source: Keeble Observatory
Keeble Observatory
What it is: A *free* chance for you to stargaze with professional-level equipment
Why we love it: Every semester, the teaching lab of Randolph-Macon College's Department of Physics, Engineering, and Astrophysics offers regular public viewings. This year’s fall semester is, of course, already underway, and you can keep an eye on Instagram, or the school’s site here, for upcoming stargazing opps. The Weather Channel says winter is the best time for stargazing, after all.
Where to find it: 202 Henry St (Ashland)
>> Learn more <<
Image Source: Metzger Bar & Butchery
Metzger Bar & Butchery
What it is: The exact opposite of what we usually cover in The Trendspotter — but a must-note all the same
Why we love it: After 12 years of doling out delish contemporary German and European cuisine in the East End, Metzger Bar & Butchery is closing its doors this December. Which means you’ve still got time for schnitzel, but you gotta make it quick.
Where to find it: 801 N 23rd St (Union Hill)
>> Learn more <<
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