Richmond Food News: March 16-22

| March 17, 2023 | Sandwich | No Comments

A little more soul

Neighborhood grocery store Soul N’ Vinegar is ready to re-enter. After focusing on dining during the pandemic and suspending public operations, Church Hill North Restaurant is back in a cool new space at 2910 Q St. Need a reminder of their fare? Health-focused, but not overdone, with influences from owner Michelle Parrish’s African-American and Korean ancestry. Pro tip: Order the falafel bowl and grab a packet of spring rolls with homemade chili oil for a no-regrets snack for later. (Richmond Magazine)

A sip in time

Channeling our friends across the pond, Monroe Ward will soon host a new tea house offering an ‘English Tea Experience’. Aiming to share the stories of tea pickers around the world, the Queen’s Library Tea Room is set to open in May with classic small bites, English scones and cucumber sandwiches. (Richmond Magazine)

Pantry Goals

From squeezable bottles of olive oil to vitamin-rich ghee and savory condiments, local boutiques are stepping up their game of pantry goods, perfectly marrying food and lifestyle. Writer Stephanie Ganz sat down with the owners of a few local specialty stores to discuss the transition to stocking products that align mind and body. (Richmond Magazine)

The community diva

A Richmond icon and the baddest diva to ever wear a Duke’s Mayo dress, restaurant industry veteran John Jessie, also known by her stage name Natasha Carrington, died this week. The former managing director of Pasture and Comfort was a lover of show tunes, Broadway and all things entertainment. In 2019 they were nominated for an Elby Award for Best Staff Member, an honor given to a member of the restaurant team who is the glue, whether in the kitchen, in the dining room or on the stand. of reception. Known for his star power at Godfrey, Carrington will be remembered for his lively energy, longtime activism for the gay community and mental health awareness, and for strutting around in a pair of sparkly heels. Godfrey’s is currently hosting a “Celebration of Our Diva” week in Carrington’s honor. A live auction will be held on March 25 to benefit Side by Side Virginia. During a 2019 interview, when I asked Jessie if they had a personal mantra, they replied, “Can I show you what it is? It’s a mug that says, ‘Be a nice human.’ It’s golden and shimmering and it’s just my reminder that everyone is going through something. I may be tired, or my feet may hurt because I had three concerts the day before, but you have to be nice. It’s true.”

RVADine makes its debut

It’s snowing in Carytown! New Orleans-inspired Suzy Sno is officially launching sno-balls in flavors ranging from mangonada to blue raspberry at her new location. (Richmond Magazine)

The owners of Vietnam 1 have introduced a second concept in the former Crazy Greek space at 5905 W. Broad St. Opening earlier this week, 88 Street Food promises banh mi sandwiches, milk teas and grill bowls.

After a year of waiting for approval, the team behind New York Deli got the go-ahead from City Council to move forward with their next concept, The Byrd’s Nest. (Richmond BizSense)

Husband and wife Karen and Matt Verdisco, owners of Brew in Chesterfield, plan to open Local Craft Pizza & Beer, a Neapolitan-style pizzeria with house beers, at 6921 Commons Plaza. (Richmond BizSense)

ICYMI

Perfecting a recipe for the classic cheese snack bar, mozzarella sticks, the owner of Sergio’s pizzeria started a frozen food business. (Richmond Magazine)

Jam maker Andy Waller doesn’t just make a mean and punny fruit spread, he’s also built a support system for trans people throughout the community. (Richmond Magazine)

We spoke with Kismet Modern Indian Chef Ajay Kumar about the relationship between food and art, the Richmond facility and custom spice blends. (Richmond Magazine)

Imbibers, mark your calendars for an “Iron Chef” meets March Madness boozy throwdown. On March 28, the local chapter of the United States Bartenders’ Guild will host its first-ever RVA Bartender Brawl, with 16 competitors. The Challenge: Create cocktails with one spirit and two randomly selected ingredients in just six minutes. The prize: $500 and bragging rights.

Inviting spring with a juicy new release, Belle Isle Moonshine introduced its latest infusion, Mango Tangerine. I’m considering tropical libations with crushed ice or a jazzy mimosa.

Chicken processor Tyson Foods Inc. announced it will close its Glen Allen plant in May, laying off nearly 700 employees. (Richmond Times-Dispatch)

Monopoly—yes, the “Don’t Pass, Don’t Collect $200” Monopoly—creates a Richmond edition of the timeless board game, seeking to showcase the area’s landmarks, outdoor spaces and popular businesses. Suggestions are encouraged via email.

“Ted Lasso” fans can now watch their sitcom and eat cookies with the boss, too. For the remainder of the series’ final season, the Fat Rabbit Bakery will have boxes of shortbread available for pre-order online.

RVA Love

There’s no denying that Blanchard’s Coffee is a pioneer in Richmond roasting, with classic offerings such as Dark as Dark and Black Dog, a permanent staff and a trio of modern cafes. Food & Wine took notice by naming them the best coffee in the state.

Richmond received another shoutout from Food & Wine this week, calling the city a culinary powerhouse thanks to recent appearances by local chefs in food competitions, the growth of the Richmond Black Restaurant Experience and a slew of new additions.

Speaking of local chefs on food contest shows, an interview with pop-up artist Young Mother’s Daniel Harthausen on the “Taste” podcast hit streaming platforms this week, and Harthausen talks about “The Big Brunch “, bucket list destinations and its diverse dining experience.

Events to come

  • Pop-up Hots and Brats, Hatch Local (until March 17): Mayor’s Kyle Morse is extending his residency by serving hot dogs and wagyu brats with a very special St. Patrick’s Day surprise.
  • Peace Espresso Pop-up, Order Hair Co. (March 17): Exuding big-city vibe, the cafe on wheels returns for a day of espresso-centric drinks.
  • Corned Beef and Cabbage, The Cask Cafe (March 17): Enjoy a healthy dose of Guinness alongside the traditional Irish meal.
  • Hello Kitty Cafe, Short Pump Town Center (March 18): The swag and snack mobile is coming to Richmond with everything from cool produce to sweet treats.
  • Just Desserts: European Flavours, The Kitchen Classroom (March 19): Learn how to whip up sticky caramel pudding, crêpes suzette and German apple cake.
  • Gumbo Night, The Black Iris (March 23): A night of N’awlins dishes and dishes with many tunes
  • Small Franco-Mexican Plates & Mexican Wines, Grisette (March 21): An evening of à la carte dishes with Mexican wines