Fave Lunch Spots in Central VA
Living out in the “country” at The Compound, La Bear and the Baby Boomer like to be home earlier than later. Anyway, our girls Biggs and Bitsy expect their dinner at 7PM sharp and will certainly let you know if you’re a “moment” late. This means we don’t get out for dinner very often anymore, but we do enjoy going out for lunch. So, WTBS these are our favorite restaurants where we enjoy a good lunch.
There was a time in our life where we went out often for both lunch and dinner and enjoyed fine dining. Folks, those days are gone. There was also a time when we were a bit more adventurous and would try a lot of different restaurants, but, again, as we’ve gotten older, we tend to go to the same restaurants over and over which we enjoy and know we won’t be disappointed–rather boring!
Occasionally, we’ll go to a chain restaurant, but it’s normally our intention to support one that’s locally owned. The food at the chain restaurants just don’t taste as good to us and we feel its over-processed. Of course, we will succumb to fast food every once in a while, but usually when time’s not on our side and we’re in a hurry. Really the truth is I still get a “Big Mac attack” and it’s hard to resist those McDonald’s fries.
So, in no particular order, here’s a list of our fave lunch spots in Central VA:
Melito’s–8815 Three Chopt Road–Richmond
Noted for their world-famous hot dogs since 1981, Melito’s offers traditional American fare in a comfortable saloon atmosphere where we’ve never had a bad meal and all at reasonable prices. Yes, their chili dogs are top notch, but there’s plenty on the menu for you to enjoy like homemade soups, a stuffed deluxe club sandwich, a loaded grilled corned beef or pastrami Reuben sandwich, fresh char-grilled salmon sandwich, or a hot sliced roast beef with Swiss and bacon. We very much enjoy sitting at the bar and visit with Tammy!
Chianti–1304 Gaskins Road–Richmond
The chef and owner, Frank, offers stellar authentic Italian food in a traditional setting using nothing but the finest ingredients. Sure, the typical array of subs and such are available and they’re very tasty, but his pizza and stromboli are top tier and his pasta dishes are exceptional especially his delicious lasagna with that delicious marinara–perfecto! The Italian salad for two is a favorite, but it’s the homemade dressings which set the salads off. Chianti is another restaurant where we’ve never had a bad meal and never will. Bonnie and Cody always exceed your expectations in being well taken care of.
Glory Days Grill–10466 Ridgefield Parkway–Richmond
This locally owned franchise is a sports bar that’s been around for over 25 years. Yes, the beer is cold and the wings are good, but it’s the $7.99 8-ounce classic burgers grilled to your liking at lunch which are the real hit served with those hot spiced fries. Not only are these burgers thick, hot, and juicy, it’s the roll that really “hits the mark” being toasted in a way to soak up all the juices while still remaining soft.
Mexico–11621 West Broad Street–Richmond
A locally owned chain of restaurants, Mexico, delivers a consistent quality which we’ve grown to enjoy. Of course, they start you off with chips and a spicy delectable salsa while your order is prepared. La Bear enjoys the cheese chili rellenos with green sauce and a chicken burrito also with the green sauce. The Baby Boomer enjoys a beef burrito and beef enchilada with traditional red sauce, but does enjoy their grilled chicken fajitas on occasion as well.
Capriccios Italian Restaurant–9127 West Broad Street–Henrico
Why does it seem all Italian restaurants are owned by a man named Frank. Well, this Frank makes, what we think, is the best pizza in Richmond. Hey, they’re steak ‘n cheese ain’t so bad either, but it’s the authentic Homestyle Pizza made simply with the finest authentic sauce and fresh mozzarella cheese which makes you say, “ooh la la”! Summer, the manager, will help ensure a most pleasant dining experience.
Joey’s Hot Dogs–4028 Cox Road–Glen Allen
These dogs are really tasty and made the old-fashioned way using Dogs by Usinger’s grilled to its snappy perfection on the flat-top grill, placed in a warm roll with a runny mustard, almost minced onion, and a family recipe chili sauce handed down for over 80 years originating in the Tidewater area of VA. Joey’s ain’t fancy, but it’s quick and tasty. The dogs are small so you gotta order at least three!
Twin Hickory Tavern–11351 Nuckols Road–Glen Allen
A local spot with a friendly staff serving up comfort food, cold beer, the best New England clam chowder in RIC, and excellent fried chicken fingers in a cozy setting with an open kitchen while taking in your favorite sport. What else needs to be said?
Mary Angela’s Pizzeria–3345 West Cary Street–Richmond
Not sure who the owner is, but I bet his name is Frank in this compact and unassuming Italian spot with a few booths and a couple of tables serving the best (the very best) steak ‘n cheese in all of Richmond–yum, yum– and the best single slices of pizza in Richmond as well.
Little Szechuan Chinese Restaurant–10234 Staples Mill Road–Glen Allen
By far our choice for the best Chinese food in Richmond with very friendly and accommodating owners and always smiling waitstaff. Our favorite dishes include Pork in Garlic Sauce, Twice-Cooked Pork, Moo Shu Pork, and General Tso’s Chicken. Their Wonton Soup and Chicken Egg Rolls are really good too!
Q BBQ–1070 Virginia Center Parkway–Glen Allen
We’ve tried all the BBQ restaurants around and Q BBQ is certainly the most consistent being originally owned by the Food Network’s, “The Professor”, Tuffy Stone. Great pulled pork, excellent ribs, and great sauces. You walk up to order then they bring your food to you. Honorable mention to Redemption BBQ, Smohk, and ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque. Side Note: Why is BBQ so darn expensive??
Buckhead’s–8510 Patterson Avenue–Richmond
This is our go to Richmond high-end steakhouse. It’s certainly only for special occasions, but it’s truly worth the “price of admission”. Reservations are a must as it’s always crowded. White-tablecloth establishment in a very comfortable setting with lots of dark wood accents and attentive service. It can be a bit noisy and boisterous, but I suppose that’s part of the experience. Huge wine list with a large selection of single malt scotches and small batch bourbons. You won’t be disappointed here!!
Sparrow’s Pizza–6313 Rigsby Road–Richmond
Best carry out pizza in Richmond! Mike, the owner, a ho-hum guy who’s very matter-of-fact churns out a tasty pie. The toppings are plentiful and the crust is crisp yet chewy. It’s a “hole in the wall” place amongst a number of Asian businesses, but who cares as you’re just pickin’ it up for goodness gracious sakes!
Tim’s at Lake Anna–200 G Boardwalk Way–Mineral
A seafood restaurant overlooking Lake Anna, but it’s the place for hardshell crabs with this year’s season just “around the corner”. Who can resist an entire afternoon pickin’ crabs and washing them down with ice cold beer. We go for the reasonably priced “all you can eat” crabs. The service is friendly, the restaurant is large with a huge outdoor patio, and it’s very clean and comfortable. Tim’s is just a scenic 45-minute drive from The Compound.
Bodo’s Bagels–3 Locations–Charlottesville
Always busy, Bodo’s offers the best bagels loaded your way with your selection of cream cheese, breakfast items, or lunchmeats. The Baby Boomer’s fave is the sausage and egg on a poppy seed bagel. It’s a stand-in-line place which offers ample seating or orders to go. Friendly and efficient staff moving quickly to fulfill your order. Bodo’s is a Charlottesville institution!
Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie–4916 Plank Road–North Garden
A recent find serving really outstanding and delicious pizza. Located on Route 29 outside Charlottesville heading towards Lynchburg this place is worth the ride. A smaller rustic restaurant which is “first come, first serve” also offering salads, starters, sandwiches, specials, specialty pizzas, and homemade ice cream and desserts. The crust is really tasty and the homemade sausage is “next to none”.
Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que–447 East Rochambeau Drive–Williamsburg
A Williamsburg institution since 1961 serving pulled pork, ribs, and chicken. I ain’t sayin’ this bbq is great by any means, but you head to Pierce’s because it’s just Pierce’s. Almost always busy, you wait in line to order, find a seat if you can, and pick-up your order when your number is called.
Golden Horseshoe Clubhouse Grill–401 South England Street–Williamsburg
Sandwiches, salads, and cocktails served in a relaxed space with a terrace featuring picturesque golf course views of the 18th green. You come here for the peaceful ambiance.
Blue Talon Bistro–420 Prince George Street–Williamsburg
Relaxing comfortable setting serving good food and drink. The clam chowder along with a chicken Caesar salad hit the “spot”. Knowing how cheap the Baby Boomer is, Blue Talon is a bit pricey. Located in Merchant’s Square. While there don’t miss the chance to visit The Peanut Shop of Williamsburg just two doors down.
Berret’s Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill-199 South Boundary Street–Williamsburg
Also located in Merchant’s Square, this seafood restaurant offers a number of satisfying dishes in a handsome environment. When in season, known for its Happy Hour $1 oysters. Outside seating is also available weather permitting.
The Vienna Inn–120 Maple Avenue East–Vienna
This “dive” hasn’t changed “one iota” since it opened in 1960 and, so what, although this family-owned establishment offers a full menu, you’re there just for the “one of a kind” chili dogs, with seasoned fries, and washed down with a couple of cold Bud drafts. Once you’ve “downed your dogs”, you merely walk up to the bar, tell the gal what you had, and pay your bill! What??
Mike’s American–6210 Backlick Road–Springfield
Large two-story saloon offering American fare and regional seafood in a comfortable setting with lots of wood. This restaurant is very popular and always crowded so be sure to make advance reservations. The immediate parking lot is small usually forcing you to park across a busy street, but the experience is well worth it.
The Italian Store–5837 Washington Boulevard–Arlington
Family owned for over 30 years this Italian specialty shop is known for its delicious and loaded subs and New York style pizza. The two subs you gotta try and, if you do, you’ll often be back for are the Milano and the Capri. Folks also enjoy the ready-to-go Italian entrees. Seating is limited and they’re always slammed with customers!
Lost Dog Cafe–5876 Washington Boulevard–Arlington
Also family owned and operated since 1985 beginning as a small wine, beer, and cheese shop and expanding into a full-service restaurant known mainly for its unique 41 specialty sandwiches and personal pizzas. The Baby Boomer’s favorite sandwiches are the #3 New York Giant (hot pastrami, melted swiss, creamy coleslaw, mustard on a toasted sub roll), #5 Italian Club (peppered hickory ham, smoked turkey, melted provolone, LTO, oil & vinegar, sprinkled oregano on a toasted sub roll), and the #16 National (roast beef, turkey, bacon, melted muenster, topped with coleslaw and thousand island dressing on a toasted sub roll). Lost Dog has expanded to 5 locations, but we go to the original in Westover.
RT’s Restaurant–3804 Mount Vernon Avenue–Arlandria
Truly, the best Creole and Cajun seafood outside of New Orleans for over 30 years. Great food, great service, and a great atmosphere. The She Crab Soup is rich and creamy, the Oysters Three Way are delectable, the Shrimp and Crab Etouffee thick and rich, the Crab and Crawfish Imperial is incredible, as is the Trout Orleans topped with spicy sauteed shrimp, lump crab, and hollandaise sauce. Located very close to the Birchmere, RT’s is a great place to eat an early dinner prior to the show. When heading back to NOVA this is La Bear’s and Baby Boomer’s “go to” restaurant–you will NEVER be disappointed!!