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Richmond's Restaurant Scene: New Openings & A Farewell

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/16 .. -s-restaurant-scene-new-openings-a-farewell.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, January 16th 2026 at 7:03 GMT by Richmond
      Locale: UNITED STATES

A Flourishing of New Flavors

Richmond's appetite for diverse and innovative dining experiences remains strong, spurring a wave of new restaurant openings. Leading the charge is Barrio Restaurante, located at 1811 W. Cary St. This eatery promises an authentic taste of Mexico, diverging from the typical Tex-Mex fare by spotlighting regional specialties. While currently open for dinner, plans are underway to introduce a highly anticipated brunch menu, signaling an ambition to become a cornerstone of the Carytown dining scene.

For those seeking a touch of European elegance, Bistro Francais, situated at 5010 Skipwith Rd., has recently opened its doors. The bistro's commitment to a refined French dining experience is demonstrated through its prix fixe menus available for both lunch and dinner. This model, while requiring careful planning and ingredient management, suggests a focus on quality and a curated culinary journey for diners.

Expanding Richmond's modern culinary offerings, L. Monroe, nestled in the heart of the Arts District at 2001 Jefferson Ave., presents a contemporary take on Southern cuisine. The establishment aims to reimagine classic Southern flavors with innovative techniques and presentations, catering to a growing demand for elevated comfort food.

Rounding out the recent openings is Sora, a Korean fried chicken and noodle shop at 3000 E. Parham Rd. #122. This addition caters to Richmond's steadily increasing enthusiasm for Asian-inspired cuisine, and its specific focus - crispy Korean fried chicken and hearty noodle dishes - suggests a targeted appeal to a younger demographic and those seeking a casual, flavorful meal.

The Closure of a Legacy: Bacchus Says Farewell

A significant loss to Richmond's dining community is the closure of Bacchus, a Shockoe Bottom institution for 22 years. Known for its Mediterranean-inspired menu and warm atmosphere, Bacchus's departure highlights the increasingly challenging environment for Richmond's restaurants. Owners cited a confluence of factors driving the decision: the relentless pressure of escalating ingredient costs, an ongoing struggle to secure and retain qualified labor, and a broader shift in the restaurant landscape itself. The closure serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of even long-standing businesses in the face of economic headwinds.

Adaptation and Expansion: The Resilient Richmond Restaurant Community

Despite the closure of Bacchus, the spirit of innovation and adaptation remains strong within Richmond's restaurant community. The Urban Farmhouse, already a beloved local institution, is expanding its footprint with a second location within the Stony Point shopping center. This strategic move points to continued confidence in Richmond's appetite for fresh, farm-to-table cuisine.

Furthermore, Stella's Grocery is demonstrating remarkable entrepreneurial spirit by acquiring the space previously occupied by Bacchus in Shockoe Bottom. This expansion represents an opportunity to revitalize the area while further establishing Stella's Grocery as a crucial community hub for both food retail and prepared meals.

Finally, a subtle but significant move, Pho Pasteur has relocated to 1520 W. Cary St., adapting to shifting neighborhood dynamics and seeking to better serve its loyal customer base.

Looking Ahead: Navigating Future Challenges

The restaurant industry's struggles are far from over. Experts predict that the prevailing challenges--rising ingredient costs and the persistent labor shortage--will continue to shape Richmond's culinary landscape throughout 2026 and beyond. The ability of Richmond's restaurants to innovate, adapt to changing consumer preferences, and manage operational costs effectively will be paramount to their survival and continued success. The next few months will be critical in determining which establishments thrive and which face further adversity.