The Trendspotter: September 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.
These stars are about to steal the *month* away.
Bar Buoy
What it is: The new tenant moving into Brenner Pass’s former digs
Why we love it: Chef and restaurateur Brittanny Anderson never misses (see: Metzger Bar & Butchery, Pink Room, Black Lodge), so we have to assume that trend will continue with this new space drawing inspo from her roots in the Northern Neck and featuring a casual, Chesapeake Bay-inspired food menu with seafood staples like fried fish plates, shellfish, and Southern-style sandwiches and drink menu with playful “boat drinks” such as buttered popcorn rum and Cokes, creative crushes, and non-alcoholic sodas.
Where to find it: 3200 Rockbridge St #100 (Scott’s Addition)
Bolo’s Eatery
What it is: The latest concept from another local chef and restaurateur who never misses
Why we love it: Mike Lindsey is behind this one, and with places like Lillie Pearl and Buttermilk & Honey stacking his portfolio, we can pretty much guarantee Bolo’s Eatery will be on our regular cravings rotation. Named after Mike’s father, the brewpub plans to offer a welcoming neighborhood feel as the backdrop to its beer, fried chicken, oysters, and more.
Where to find it: 1209 Hull St (Manchester)
By Any Beans Necessary
What it is: An online-only shop bringing its coffee and book wares to a storefront
Why we love it: Built with reclaimed materials, this space will feature coffee, teas, and light food alongside a mix of new and used books, with a strong focus on queer lit, Richmond history, radical politics, and DIY titles. Owner Mo Karnage also plans to showcase goods from local artists through a partnership with the Richmond Makers Market and position the spot as a community hub, hosting book clubs, open mics, craft nights, and other gatherings in its colorful, cozy space.
Where to find it: 3006 1st Ave (North Highland Park)
Janet's Café & Bakery
What it is: A space its owners hope becomes a morning watering hole
Why we love it: This spot comes to us from longtime friends and bakers Will Darsie and Janey Gioiosa, who met a decade ago while working at Charlottesville’s MarieBette (another must-try spot, FWIW). Janet’s blends diner and bakeshop vibes, sprinkled with personal touches like vintage cake stands, family photos, and wallpaper featuring the owners’ dogs. And then, of course, there are the menu items, including fresh breads, pastries, sandwiches, salads, coffee, and more.
Where to find it: 4701 Forest Hill Ave C6 (Forest Hill)
The Smoky Mug
What it is: A new location for one of our fave craft BBQ eateries
Why we love it: The Smoky Mug is a Richmond staple, and now it’s opened a larger and more versatile location (still in Northside) to serve its mouth-watering barbecue and Tex-Mex-inspired dishes like brisket, carnitas tacos, and breakfast burritos, along with some exciting updates, including the return of the smoked half-chicken, tofu tacos, and house-made biscuits. Plus, its bar serves creative cocktails — crafted by Beth Dixon of Salt and Acid — and coffee fans will love the daily Coffee Power Hour, too, happening from 3 to 4 pm with special discounts.
Where to find it: 2930 North Ave (Northside)
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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