Richmond Dining Scene Set to Expand
Richmond's culinary scene is preparing for several new restaurant openings. The planned establishments are expected to add diverse dining options to the city's gastronomic landscape for both residents and visitors.
- As of early 2026, Richmond's dining landscape includes approximately 906 restaurants, which equates to about one restaurant for every 253 residents. - Several new establishments are anticipated to open in 2026, including Pizzeria Delores in Scott's Addition and Big Bamboo Asian Kitchen & Teq Bar in the former Wong Gonzalez space downtown. - A prominent opening expected in 2026 is Lafayette Tavern, a classic steak and chophouse concept from the respected Giavos family of restaurateurs, located near their existing Stella's restaurant. - The city's restaurant scene is seeing a trend towards more focused culinary concepts, with an increase in Mediterranean and Egyptian cuisine, such as the recently opened Memi's in the Fan. - Recent additions to Richmond's food scene in late 2025 that are now part of the city's offerings include Slack Tide Fish Co. in the former Blue Bee Cider location and DreamHaus, a cabaret theater and restaurant in Shockoe Bottom. - In 2022, total sales for accommodation and food services in Richmond city were approximately $977,132,000. - The Virginia Department of Health regulates and inspects over 1,100 food establishments in the City of Richmond, including restaurants, mobile food units, and other food service operations. - The growth of the restaurant industry has also highlighted workforce challenges, with a notable increase in food service establishments in previous years leading to competition for qualified employees.
