Discover Manchester's best breweries, rooftop bars, distilleries, and local spots for a great drink.
Where to Drink in Manchester, Richmond: Breweries, Bars, Distilleries & Rooftop Cocktails
Discover Manchester's Best Breweries, Bars, and Distilleries
If you're looking for the best places to drink in Richmond, you've come to the right neighborhood. Once known primarily for its industrial roots, Manchester has transformed into one of Richmond's fastest-growing destinations for craft beer, locally distilled spirits, rooftop cocktails, and unique dining experiences.
Whether you're planning a brewery crawl, searching for a rooftop bar in Richmond, or simply looking for somewhere to enjoy a local beer after work, Manchester offers something for every kind of drinker. From award-winning Richmond distilleries to neighborhood breweries, here's your guide to the best places to grab a drink in Manchester, Richmond.
Basic City Beer Co.: Pizza, Craft Beer, and Community
If you're planning a brewery stop in Manchester, Basic City Beer Co. is an easy place to start.
Not everyone drinks beer, and Basic City accommodates everyone with wine, seltzers, cider, non-alcoholic beer, and soft drinks.
Belle Isle Moonshine: Richmond's Home for Local Spirits
If you're searching for a Richmond distillery experience, Belle Isle Moonshine should be your first stop in Manchester.
Located just off Commerce Road, Belle Isle Moonshine has become one of Richmond's most recognizable craft spirit brands. Their Manchester tasting room offers guided tastings where visitors can sample a variety of moonshines, infused spirits, canned cocktails, and seasonal releases while learning how they're produced.
Although Belle Isle is famous for its award-winning moonshine, today's lineup includes premium vodka, ready-to-drink cocktails, bottled classics like the Old Fashioned and Mint Julep, and rotating seasonal flavors that make every visit a little different.
Benchtop Brewing: One of Richmond's Favorite Neighborhood Breweries
Just a short walk from Basic City Beer Co., Benchtop Brewing has built a loyal following among Richmond craft beer lovers.
Known for its constantly rotating beer list, relaxed atmosphere, and extensive board game collection, Benchtop offers a brewery experience that's both social and approachable. Grab a locally brewed pint, order one of their signature hot dogs, choose a board game from the shelves, and settle in for an evening with friends.
Bolo's Eatery: Rooftop Cocktails in Manchester
Looking for a rooftop bar in Richmond?
Bolo's Eatery brings elevated dining and handcrafted cocktails to the heart of Manchester. Located just off Hull Street, the rooftop restaurant serves local craft beer, signature cocktails, wine, and seasonal drinks alongside a menu of burgers, seafood, oysters, brunch favorites, and American classics.
Whether you're planning date night, celebrating with friends, or catching the sunset over Manchester, Bolo's offers one of Richmond's newest rooftop drinking destinations.
Legend Brewing Company: Richmond's Original Craft Brewery
No guide to where to drink in Manchester, Richmond would be complete without Legend Brewing Company. Since opening in 1994, Legend has been a cornerstone of Richmond's craft beer scene and remains Virginia's oldest continuously operating craft brewery. Perched above the James River, it's known as much for its sweeping views of the Downtown Richmond skyline as it is for its handcrafted beers.
Stop in for one of Legend's signature brews, like the legendary Brown Ale, or explore their rotating seasonal taps while enjoying lunch, dinner, or happy hour on the outdoor patio. Legend Brewing offers the perfect combination of locally brewed craft beer, classic pub fare, and one of the best views in Richmond. It's an essential stop on any Manchester brewery crawl or night out in the neighborhood.
Explore More Places to Grab a Drink in Manchester
Looking for even more places to enjoy craft beer, handcrafted cocktails, wine, or locally distilled spirits? Browse all of Manchester's bars, breweries, tasting rooms, and restaurants below to plan your next outing.
