Eat Around the World in Downtown Richmond

7/12/22

Immerse yourself in RVA's cosmopolitan culinary cultures

Make Downtown your one-stop-shop for authentic, international cuisine

These 11 eateries will take your palate on a trip around the globe!

1. Kogi (Korean)

325 N 2nd St, Richmond, VA 23219

From bibimbap house bowls to kimbap rolls, Kogi has you covered with everything Korean. Kogi combines traditional preparations with local ingredients for dishes that are authentic to both their origins and Richmond setting. Come taste authentic, creative Korean street eats right in the heart of Jackson Ward.

Neighborhood: Jackson Ward

Hours: Monday thru Wednesday, 4PM-9PM; Thursday, 4PM-11PM; Friday and Saturday, 12PM-11PM; Sunday, 12PM-9PM

Website: https://kogirva.com/

2. Havana ‘59 (Cuban)

16 N 17th St, Richmond, VA 23219

For 22 years, Havana ‘59 has been a staple in Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom, serving up authentic Cuban cuisine. The string lights, crumbling plaster walls, palm trees, and aroma of cigars transport you straight to the streets of Havana. Stop by to enjoy their fresh squeezed juices, locally sourced ingredients, and exceptional service, alongside the 17th Street Market.

Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom

Hours: Monday thru Thursday, 4PM-10PM; Friday and Saturday, 4PM-11PM; Sunday, 11AM-4PM

Website: http://havana59.com/

3. Sumo San (Japanese)

1725 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23223

Sumo San believes in serving the freshest foods with a unique presentation. This Japanese sushi bar and eatery has been featured in Richmond Magazine’s “Best of,” and has created a menu full of flavor and unique twists on traditional dishes. Stop by for lunch, dinner, or just grab a roll and enjoy the quirky decor!

Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom

Hours: Wednesday thru Sunday, 5PM-10PM; (Closed Monday and Tuesday)

Website: https://www.sumosanrva.com/

4. Ay Caramba (Mexican)

204 E Grace St Suite B, Richmond, VA 23219

Starting as a food cart, Ay Caramba brings Richmond authentic Mexican cuisine in a fun, invigorating environment. From Taco Tuesdays to Fajita Fridays, their delicious flavors are perfect for any occasion. Be sure to stop by during happy hour (every day 5pm-7pm) for a tasty margarita.

Neighborhood: Monroe Ward

Hours: Monday thru Saturday 11:30AM-8PM; (Closed Sundays)

Website: https://www.aycarambamexican.com/

5. Mom’s Siam 2 (Thai)

1309 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23219

Awarded “Best Bite for your buck” in Richmond Magazine, Mom’s Siam 2 hosts a full sushi bar along with an open, Thai inspired kitchen. Built from hard work and passionate roots, Mom’s strives to make you feel at home with its authentic experience. Enjoy fresh, savory ingredients from Bangkok to Tokyo located in the heart of Richmond!

Neighborhood: Shockoe Slip

Hours: Monday thru Saturday, 11AM-10PM; (Closed Sundays)

Website: https://ordermomsiam2.com/

6. Siné Irish Pub (Irish)

1327 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23219

Siné Irish Pub and Restaurant has been a mainstay in Shockoe Slip for decades, with Shepherds Pie and Bangers & Mash, it has a menu that is sure to transport you across the Atlantic. Stop in to see its rustic interior designed and built in Ireland itself. With cozy snugs, a huge bar, and spacious patio, patrons will agree – Siné lives up to its Gaelic translation – “This is it!”

Neighborhood: Shockoe Slip

Hours: Monday thru Thursday, 11:30AM-10PM; Friday and Saturday, 11:30AM-11PM; Sunday 11AM-10PM

Website: https://www.sineirishpub.com/

7. La Grotta Ristorante (Italian)

529 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219

Since 1994, La Grotta has been serving delicious Northern Italian cuisine. In true Italian fashion, La Grotta provides guests with flavorful plates, professional and friendly wait staff, and a warm, enticing atmosphere. La Grotta, meaning “The Cave”, is built to resemble a wine cellar, giving a cozy feel to your delectable Italian meal.

Neighborhood: Financial District

Hours: Monday thru Saturday, 5PM-9PM; (Closed Sundays)

Website: http://www.lagrottarva.com/

8. Cafe Rustika (German)

414 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23219

Richmond’s one and only schnitzel bar, Cafe Rustika has gained a reputation for having the best authentic German food in town. Their menu hosts traditional German food such as Spätzle, Sauerbraten and their famous Bratwurst. This charming, laid-back cafe featuring local art work is your next night-out favorite!

Neighborhood: Financial District

Hours: Tuesday thru Saturday, 4PM-9PM; (Closed Sunday and Monday)

Website: http://caferustika.com/

9. M&F Jamaican Cafe (Jamaican)

1400 Semmes Ave, Richmond, VA 23224

The secret ingredient at M&F Cafe is passion. Whether it’s dine-in or take-out, this cafe is working hard to package your meals in a way that lets you bring its quality, Jamaican flavors into your home. No matter what time of year, you can be sure you're eating only the freshest ingredients from local farmers’ markets. Make sure you don’t leave without trying their highly acclaimed jerk chicken!

Neighborhood: Manchester

Hours: Wednesday thru Saturday, 11AM-9PM; Sunday, 11AM-8PM; Monday, 11AM-9PM; (Closed Tuesdays)

Website: https://mfjamaicancafe.com/

10. NAMA (Indian)

15 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220

Get ready to taste rich and flavorful Indian cuisine right here in Downtown's Art District. NAMA invites its guests to indulge in the flavors and aromas of India's renowned dishes. Step into their restaurant full of vibrant colors and patterns and enjoy their fresh take on Indian culture with shareable plates and scrumptious cocktails.

Neighborhood: Arts District

Hours: Tuesday thru Saturday, 11AM-2PM, 5PM-10PM; Sunday 11AM-2PM, 5PM-9PM; (Closed Mondays)

Website: https://www.namarva.com/

11. Max’s on Broad (French)

305 Brook Rd, Richmond, VA 23220

Max's on Broad is French-inspired cuisine served in a gorgeous space that overlooks the Maggie Walker Monument. Featuring traditional dishes like heritage breed pork chops, Seven Hills beef and tuna tartare. Situated in Downtown’s Arts District, take a seat on their dog-friendly patio and enjoy the chic surroundings with a glass of wine in-hand.