Things We're Way Loving Right Now
BY THE RVAX TEAM
Think of this series like a Richmond-y LIKEtoKNOW.it kinda thing — but ~this is NOT an ad~.
Paige
Fountain Bookstore
One of Richmond’s most beloved independent bookstores has a new address — and it’s ~swoon-worthy~. Fountain Bookstore recently moved into a gorgeous, spacious shop right across the street from its former location. The Shockoe Bottom spot that many of us know and love isn’t going away completely (it will now host special events), but the books have officially found a new home.
The expanded store means more shelves, more room to browse, and of course… more books. Inside, titles are thoughtfully curated and organized by genre and interest. You’ll find buzzy new releases, trending favorites, hidden gems, and — don’t skip these — the staff picks. The Fountain team truly knows their stuff, and their recommendations rarely miss the mark. I left with a new read to add to my TBR pile and a fun new journal, and I already can’t wait to go back.
Location: 1307 E Cary St (Shockoe Bottom)
>> Learn more <<
The Smoky Mug
I stopped by the new Smoky Mug location for breakfast with friends, and their bigger, better space made a huge impression. The new spot feels bright and versatile, with plenty of seating inside, a dog-friendly patio outside, and even a ten-seat bar.
Of course, the food and drinks are what really shine. On our visit, the menu delivered across the board: cold brew coffee (with a sweet cream key lime pie twist), hearty breakfast burritos, and a breakfast biscuit sandwich with chorizo that’s tough to beat. Don’t skip the hatch chili cream cheese — it’s a standout.
One last detail worth knowing: Coffee Power Hour runs daily from 3 to 4 pm, with discounts that make it even easier to linger and catch up with friends.
Location: 2930 North Ave (Northside)
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Movieland at Boulevard Square
Holly and I recently caught a film at the newly renovated Movieland, and let me just say — it has completely reimagined the theater experience. The upgrade brings electric recliners to every theater, which makes settling in feel like a luxury. It’s real niiiiice.
Two BTX auditoriums feature massive 50-foot screens and Dolby Atmos sound, perfect for big action releases. Beyond the theaters, the lobby now includes a giant arcade, while duckpin bowling lanes sit beside a sleek new bar.
The food and drink options also got a serious glow-up. Jack & Harry’s popcorn is made fresh onsite in flavors like cheddar, caramel, and seasonal Oreo. The kitchen has expanded too, with fun bites like Philly cheesesteak egg rolls, buffalo cauliflower, and jalapeño poppers. Drinks range from cocktails to beer and wine.
Pro tip: Tuesdays are the day to go. Movies drop to $10, popcorn is just $5, and even BTX screenings are reduced from $21 to $15. Just plan to snag tickets early and be ready to park a little farther away.
Location: 1301 N Arthur Ashe Blvd (Scott’s Addition)
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Rick’s Garden
If you follow along with us on Instagram or listen to The Chatter, you know I’ve been talking about this a lot — but I can’t get over Rick’s Garden. It’s a hidden community treasure tucked between North Mulberry and Hanover in the Fan, and it deserves every bit of love it’s been getting.
For more than 35 years, Rick has cared for this alleyway garden, creating a little oasis of flowers, buzzing bees, shady benches, and open gates. It’s a peaceful space where neighbors meet, kids play, and anyone can pause to breathe for a moment. Rick has never asked for recognition or payment; he’s simply poured his care into this space, season after season, for the community to enjoy.
Now, though, the garden is at risk. With new ownership of a nearby property, its future is uncertain. Neighbors and supporters have rallied to preserve it, creating a petition to protect its 35-year legacy of community care. If you’d like to learn more or add your name, you can find the petition at change.org here or follow along at @ricksgardenrva on Instagram.
Location: Between North Mulberry & Hanover (The Fan)
>> Learn more <<
Kelsey
Image Source: HandiMaids
HandiMaids
I was living my best Hot Pregnancy Summer this season (see: almost exclusively sweating or chugging ice water), and the closer I got to my due date, the more help I needed getting things tidied up around the house — you weren’t gonna catch me throwing elbow grease at the soap scum when I was nine months along, you know? Enter: HandiMaids. These stellar cleaning professionals stopped by for a consult, quickly got me on their schedule, and completely freshened up my bathrooms, from top to bottom (of my hard water deposit-y shower door and more).
Location: Services the city of Richmond, eastern Powhatan County, western Henrico County, and Chesterfield County including Midlothian and Bon Air
>> Learn more <<
Image Source: Streckline Design
Streckline Design
After Paige and I were talking about the probably awesome merch options folks could expect at the Richmond Raceway’s NASCAR Weekend last month, I decided to scope some out. But before I could even land on official swag, I came across Streckline Design’s Francine T-shirt, which is now all I’d ever need to support the thrilling series (or Richmond in general, really). Preorders for the next drop appear to be closed, but if you’re into Reddit sleuthing, it seems plenty likely that there’ll be more where that came from in the future.
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