There’s no shortage of Black-owned businesses to support in Virginia’s capital city.
Richmond, Virginia, is a city that’s steeped in history. Like many places in the U.S. and the world, it possesses a past that can be tough for some to honestly acknowledge. However, as the former capital of the Confederacy and one of the largest hubs for trading enslaved Africans, it is now a present-day progressive capital.
You won’t find the traffic and congestion of Washington, D.C., or the high prices of New York City, but Richmond is overflowing with a thriving arts community, amazing food, and Black-owned businesses that add flavor to the River City.
If Richmond is new to you, or you just want to support a new-to-you business, here’s a great 72-hour itinerary for Virginia’s capital.
Day One
Checking in for your stay at the Graduate Hotel is the first order of business. Although it’s not a Black-owned property, the Richmond location pays homage to tennis great Arthur Ashe. The Brookfield cafe is named after the park where Ashe, the Grand Slam champ and hometown hero, learned to play tennis. The walls are lined with tons of aviator glasses, his signature style marker.
A short walk from the Graduate is Jackson Ward. While Tulsa is often referenced as Black Wall Street, Jackson Ward also has that honor. Every visit to Jackson Ward should include a stop at Urban Hang Suite. In addition to the usual coffee and all-day breakfast, you’ll find an impressive and diverse lineup of craft beer here, thanks to a curation from Uncap Everything. Don’t overlook the small freezer next to the cash register, where you’ll find sweet treats from Black-owned businesses, like Favour Cookie Co.’s vegan cookie dough.
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As you explore, you’ll come across amazing street art honoring Jackson Ward legends, as well as the Maggie Walker statue on Broad Street, dedicated to the first Black woman to charter a bank in the U.S. If time permits, food enthusiasts or anyone with a sweet tooth will want to pop into One Way Market. This store offers unique snacks like salted caramel Oreos, tomato-flavored Cheetos, and cotton candy Cap’n Crunch.
After an afternoon of strolling and snacking, dinner at Lillie Pearl is a must. The Smashville fried chicken sandwich offers just the right amount of kick without being overly spicy, maintaining its perfect crispy crust whether you’re dining in or taking it to go. Locals rave about their pimento cheese, evident in menu options from the breaded panko balls to the cheese enhancing the short rib egg rolls.
Day Two
After a jam-packed day, slow down with BareSoul Yoga. The sessions are suitable for all skill levels. Head to the spacious studio for yoga or meditation, or opt for a virtual session.
A short walk from BareSoul is the 17th Street Market in Shockoe Bottom, a former hub for slave trading that is now a popular spot for weekend brunch and independent shops. When the weather permits, the Black Farmers Market sets up, featuring vendors selling everything from stationery to candles to beauty goods. For those interested in beauty, Adiva Naturals has been a community staple, offering all-natural hair and body products for nearly two decades. Enjoy a light lunch with healthy cold-press options from Juice Life, or order a charcuterie box from Amazin’ Graze. The individual box is perfect for a picnic at Libby Hill or Chimborazo Park.
For a light, flavor-packed meal, visit Church Hill’s Nile. The Ethiopian restaurant offers vegan options like red lentil or potato stew and a delicious lamb entrée. Whether you choose the small or large serving, you won’t leave hungry, and it won’t break the bank.
Day Three
Spend the final day in Richmond neighborhoods that are expanding and brimming with exciting developments.
Cross the James River and head to Manchester. This formerly industrial area now boasts modern apartments and lofts with stunning views, in addition to a highly anticipated food hall.
Brewer’s Waffles serves up sweet and savory waffles and shakes. If you’re seeking lighter fare, simply head to nearby Brewer’s Cafe, where you can grab a quick snack before exploring Manchester on foot and admiring murals that are part of Hamilton Glass’ Mending Walls project.
Brookland Park is another exciting neighborhood worth visiting. Since 2015, the family-run Nomad Deli has been serving soup and sandwich combos, oyster mushroom po boys, and vegan options like fried eggplant sandwiches.
Last but not least, one of the most exciting new additions to the Northside neighborhood is Ruby Scoops. After a successful Kickstarter, this charming shop opened in late 2020, serving handcrafted ice cream and sorbets with unique flavors like blackberry mandarin mojito and chocolate dulce de leche. Even when temperatures drop, it’s not unusual to see a line outside the door.
