6 Of The Best Restaurants In Richmond’s Jackson Ward
Jackson Ward has the best of two worlds, blending the past with the present. Its historic roots remain intact (see it in the architecture, the statues, and museums), but revitalization efforts have added new life to this already-great neighborhood. One of the top things to do when visiting this part of Richmond is to explore its booming restaurant life. Here is a list of the best restaurants in Jackson Ward.
Buna Kurs Ethiopian Cafe
New to Jackson Ward, Buna Kurs Ethiopian Cafe is the spice-filled spot we’ve been craving. Besides offering delicious coffees (and teas and smoothies), you have to try the Timatim Fit Fit (diced vine ripened tomatoes, peppers, onions and shredded injera, tossed in awaze [berbere paste], olive oil, and vinaigrette) as a starter, and the Lala Shiro (slowly stirred chickpea flour, onions and garlic, cooked on medium heat, served on a bed of injera with spicy tomato salad on the side).
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Kogi
Kogi is authentic and creative Korean street food in the heart of Jackson Ward. They’ve got bimibap bowls to kimbap rolls, noodles, and tons of spice. They use traditional Korean cooking methods with local ingredients to bring you dishes authentic to their Korean origins and the RVA community. We can’t get enough of the Bulgogi BBQ Lettuce Wraps and the Kimchi Bacon Fried Rice (with an egg)!
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Lift Coffee Shop
For more than a decade, Lift Coffee Shop has been serving up locally roasted organic and fairly traded coffees, breakfast sandwiches, bagels and homemade cream cheeses, specialty sandwiches, and paninis. We can’t get enough of the Turkey, Apple, Brie panini, especially when paired with a delicious housemade lemonade on the back porch!
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Mama J’s
This cozy restaurant based on the tradition of going to grandma’s house for Sunday dinner stays true to the definition of soul food. Specialties include fried catfish and chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and candied yams. The best part about Mama J’s? The food isn’t the only thing that’ll make you feel at home. The energetic and friendly staff (and oftentimes Mama J herself!) will treat you just like family for an experience you won’t get anywhere else.
Our Art’s District Food Tour includes the legendary Mama J’s – you don’t want to miss it!
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Penny’s Wine Shop
Penny’s Wine Shop is a must-visit in Jacksons Ward. Penny’s is a brick and mortar concept with natural wines, small plates, and seasonal menu offerings… perfect for an incredible evening out! Brought to you by two locals – who happen to be childhood friends – Penny’s is hand-built with love and serves as a curated space for community, exploration of the palate, and conversation.
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Speakeasy Grill
Located in the heart of Jackson Ward inside the Old Tyler Mansion (once known as the largest house owned by an African American in the United States), the Speakeasy Grill has been restored into a 1920’s-themed restaurant, offering brunch on Sundays and private dining the rest of the week. On top of its history, it offers great southern food with a bit of a twist. Enjoy seafood, creative 1920’s-era dishes, or some of the best burgers in town. But the best part of night may be the challenge in finding the hidden door leading to the back show rooms. Think you can find it?
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Take A Food Tour
Can’t pick just one restaurant? The Arts District Food Tour by Discover Richmond Tours is a great way to explore the food and history of this great neighborhood. Join a tour to try tasty dishes, meet new people, and see the Arts District (including parts of Jackson Ward) like an insider!
The Arts District Food Tour is offered every Saturday at 2 PM and 3:30 PM. You can learn more at discoverrichmondtours.com or reserve your spot online by clicking the image below.
Take A Food Tour
Can’t pick just one restaurant? The Arts District Food Tour by Discover Richmond Tours is a great way to explore the food and history of this great neighborhood. Join a tour to try tasty dishes, meet new people, and see the Arts District (including parts of Jackson Ward) like an insider! And with a 4.9/5 rating on TripAdvisor, Google, and Facebook, you know you won’t leave hungry!
The Arts District Food Tour is offered every Saturday at 2PM. You can learn more on the Discover Richmond Tours website or reserve your spot online by clicking the image below.
Taste the best of Richmond’s unique neighborhoods with the city’s top-rated, most delicious walking food tour! Book your tickets now!
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