Grab your friends, family or coworkers and let's eat!

It's that time of year! We're all looking for a great place to take visiting family out to eat this holiday season, a special place for the last gatherings of the year, or even where to host this year's office holiday party. 

Need a space that accommodates group dining? Downtown Richmond's dining scene has a treasure trove of culinary delights and many spaces to gather and toast to the year-end. Whether celebrating a special occasion, hosting an office event, or simply sharing a meal with friends, these establishments offer diverse cuisines and inviting atmospheres to ensure your group dining experience is memorable.

JUMP TO: Where to Have Your Holiday Parties Downtown

Addis Ethiopian- Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

Addis Ethiopian Restaurant

Truly authentic flavors with a mellow atmosphere! Be prepared to spend some time here while enjoying the experience, embracing the Ethiopian culture, and catching their open mic nights on Tuesdays!

Shareables: Sambussas and Katenya

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday- Wednesday, 5-10 PM
  • Thursday- Saturday, 12-10 PM

Address: 9 N. 17th Street

Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom

Website: addisrva.co

The Boathouse- Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

The Boathouse

The Boathouse occupies the top floor of a restored Power Plant building, which sits on the James River and once provided electricity for Richmond’s trolley cars. This fine dining restaurant in Richmond specializes in seafood and locally-sourced signature entrees with an incredible view!

Shareables: Crab and Artichoke Dip and Corn and Jalapeno Hush Puppies

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday-Thursday, 4-9:30 PM
  • Friday-Saturday, 11 AM-10:30 PM
  • Sunday, 10 AM-9:30 PM, brunch until 3 PM

Address: 4708 E. Old Main Street

Neighborhood: Rocketts Landing

Website: theboathouse.com

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Bookbinders

A Richmond favorite for years, Bookbinders offers elegant group seating arrangements indoors and out. Their historic ambiance and classic American cuisine, including delectable seafood and steaks, make it a great choice for special occasions.

Shareables: Titanic Appetizer Platter and Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday-Thursday, 5- 9 PM
  • Friday, 5-10 PM
  • Saturday, 4:30-10 PM
  • Sunday, 4- 8 PM

Address: 2306 E. Cary Street

Neighborhood: Shockoe Slip

Website: bookbindersrichmond.com

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Bottoms Up Pizza

In the heart of Shockoe Bottom just beside the Canal Walk, Bottoms Up Pizza has been firing out gourmet pizza for 31 years. Stop by to try their classics, monthly specials or build a pizza your favorite way. They have gluten-free and vegan options too!

Shareables: Bread Tracks and Super Nachos

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday- Wednesday, 11 AM- 10 PM
  • Thursday, 11 AM- 11 PM
  • Friday- Saturday, 11 AM- 11 PM
  • Sunday, 11 AM- 11 PM

Address: 700 Dock Street

Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom

Website: bottomsuppizza.com

Capital Ale House- Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

Capital Ale House

With its spacious layout and an extensive beer selection, Capital Ale House is an ideal spot for group gatherings. Enjoy pub fare and craft brews while catching up with friends or colleagues.

Shareables: Loaded Fries and Bavarian Pretzel

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday-Thursday, 11-12 AM
  • Friday, 11- 1:30 AM
  • Saturday, 10- 1:30 AM
  • Sunday, 10- 12 AM

Address: 623 E. Main Street

Neighborhood: Financial District

Website: capitalalehouse.com

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Casa Del Barco

Experience the flavors of Mexico at Casa Del Barco. Their group seating options make it perfect for fiestas with friends, complete with margaritas and flavorful Mexican cuisine.

Shareables: 3 Amigos and Carne Asada Fries

Hours of Operation:

  • Sunday-Thursday, 11 AM- 9:30 PM
  • Friday- Saturday, 11 AM- 10:30 PM

Address: 320 S. 12th Street

Neighborhood: Riverfront District

Website: casadelbarco.com

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Croaker's Spot

Croaker's Spot offers a variety of seafood dishes such as fried fish, oysters, shrimp, crab cakes, and po'boys, as well as salads, soups, and sides! Enjoy their tasty and historically enjoyed dishes with your friends and family.

Shareables: Buffalo Shrimp and Hot Buttered Soul Wedges

Hours of Operation:

  • Sunday-Thursday, 11 AM- 9 PM
  • Friday, 11 AM- 10 PM
  • Saturday, 12-10 PM

Address: 1020 Hull Street

Neighborhood: Manchester

Website: croakersspot.com

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The Hardshell

The Hard Shell offers a wide variety of fresh fish and shellfish including clams, shrimp, oysters, mussels, crab legs, and lobster as well as steaks, ribs, and vegetarian options! Enjoy their outdoor bar and patio during happy hour Monday-Friday, 3-6 PM!

Shareables: Tuna Tartare Tacos and Jumbo Crab Cocktail

Hours of Operation:

  • Lunch: Tuesday- Friday, 12 PM- 5 PM
  • Dinner Hours: Tuesday- Saturday, 5- 9 PM | Friday- Saturday, 4- 10 PM | Sunday, 4- 9 PM

Address: 1411 E. Cary Street

Neighborhood: Shockoe Slip

Website: thehardshell.com

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Havana '59

For a taste of Cuba in the heart of Richmond, Havana '59 is a lively choice. Their colorful decor, mojitos, and flavorful Cuban cuisine make it perfect for groups looking for a festive atmosphere.

Shareables: Shrimp and Chorizo Empanadas and PEI Mussels

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday- Thursday, 4-10 PM
  • Friday- Saturday, 4-11 PM
  • Sunday, 10:30 AM- 3 PM

Address: 16 N. 17th St.

Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom

Website: havana59.com

Juleps- Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

Julep's New Southern Cuisine

Get a taste of new Southern cuisine with cocktails & wine in an upscale tavern setting with wood-&-brick accents!

Shareables: Charcuterie and Chipotle Deviled Eggs

Hours of Operation:

  • Tuesday- Saturday, 4:30- 9 PM
  • Happy Hour: Tuesday- Friday 4:30- 7 PM

Address: 420 E. Grace Street

Neighborhood: Monroe Ward

Website: juleps.net

La Grotta- Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

LaGrotta

LaGrotta offers an authentic Italian dining experience, complete with cozy group seating arrangements. Savor traditional Italian dishes and fine wines with your loved ones.

Shareables: Carpaccio di Manzo and Rane con Lolenta

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday- Saturday, 5- 9 PM

Address: 529 E. Broad St.

Neighborhood: Monroe Ward

Website: lagrottarva.com

Le Maire- Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

Lemaire

Located in the historic Jefferson Hotel, Lemaire offers group seating in a luxurious setting. Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine and impeccable service in their private dining rooms, ideal for special occasions.

Shareables: Matheson Oysters on the Half Shell and Fried Deviled Eggs

Hours of Operation:

Lounge: 

  • Sunday, 3 PM- 11 PM
  • Monday- Thursday, 4-11 PM
  • Friday- Saturday, 4 PM- 12 AM

Dinner

  • Daily, 5 PM- 10 PM

Address: 101 W. Franklin Street

Neighborhood: Monroe Ward

Website: lemarierestaurant.com

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Mama J's

Mama J's specializes in Southern comfort food and welcomes groups with open arms. Gather your friends and family for soulful dishes like fried chicken and cornbread.

Shareables: Catfish Nuggets and Chicken Wingettes

Hours of Operation:

  • Sunday- Thursday, 11 AM- 8 PM
  • Friday- Saturday, 11 AM- 9 PM

Address: 415 N. First Street

Neighborhood: Jackson Ward

Website: mamajskitchen.com

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ML Steak

This upscale steakhouse offers a sleek ambiance and delectable cuts of meat. Reserve a booth to enjoy a sumptuous steak dinner with your group.

Shareables: Roasted Cauliflower and Smoked Pork Bao Buns

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday- Tuesday, Closed
  • Wednesday- Friday, 4- 10 PM
  • Saturday, 11 AM- 10 PM
  • Sunday, 11 AM-9 PM

Address: 328 E. Broad Street

Neighborhood: City Center

Website: mlsteakrva.com

Penny Lane Pub= Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

Penny Lane Pub

Penny Lane is a tribute to all things English, from the beers on tap to the football on the telly to the memorabilia that fills every square inch of the pub. Enjoy a late-night bite or a pint with your friends and family!

Shareables: Irish Cheese Fries and Toasted Ravioli

Hours of Operation:

  • Tuesday- Wednesday, 3 PM- 12 AM
  • Thursday, 3 PM-2 AM
  • Friday, 3 PM- 2 AM
  • Saturday, 10- 2 AM
  • Sunday, 10 AM- 8 PM

Address: 421 E. Franklin Street

Neighborhood: Financial District

Website: pennylanepub.com

Southern Railway Taphouse- Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

Southern Railway Taphouse

Featuring a full patio, arcade, event spaces and something on the menu for everyone, this spot is perfect for a group gathering! Enjoy their Happy Hour from 3:00PM - 7:00PM Wednesday-Friday with discounted appetizers and alcohol.

Shareables: Beer Battered Shrimp and Fried Green Tomatoes

Hours of Operation:

  • Wednesday, 11:30 AM-10 PM
  • Thursday, 11:30-12 AM
  • Friday + Saturday, 11:30-2 AM
  • Sunday, 11 AM-9 PM

Address: 100 S. 14th Street

Neighborhood: Shockoe Slip

Website: srtaphouse.com

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Sine Irish Pub and Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Irish dishes and lighter fare with Celtic music playing in the background! Check out their spacious outdoor deck and patio that welcomes large parties.

Shareables: Irish Spring Rolls and Fried Pickles

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday-Thursday, 11:30-1 AM
  • Friday, 11:30-2 AM
  • Saturday, 11-2 AM
  • Sunday, 11-1 AM

Address: 1327 E. Cary Street

Neighborhood: Shockoe Slip

Website: sineirishpub.com

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The Speakeasy Grill

Step into the 1920’s and experience a recreated speakeasy with your friends and family! Enjoy tasty selections from their menu while embracing your inner “flapper.”

Shareables: Two Street Shrimp and New Orleans Gumbo

Hours of Operation:

  • Open for private events daily, 7 AM- 11 PM
  • Sunday Brunch, 11 AM- 3 PM

Address: 526 N. 2nd Street

Neighborhood: Jackson Ward

Website: hippodromerichmond.com

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Station 2

Station 2 offers a variety of burgers, sandwiches, salads, starters, and desserts made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy their unique dining experience and historic location with your friends and family!

Shareables: Black Bean Veggie Fritters and American Nachos

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday-Sunday, 11-12AM

Address: 2016 E. Main Street

Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom

Website: station2richmond.com

Txtur- Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

Stock Bistro

This spot is located in a lovingly restored railroad freight terminal that is also home to a modern furniture gallery, Txtur. The indoor and outdoor space invites you to lounge and enjoy a meal like no other whether taking time with friends or celebrating a special event!

Shareables: Fried Gouda and Kapsalon

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday- Friday, 11:30 AM- 6 PM
  • Saturday, 10 AM- 9 PM
  • Sunday, 10 AM- 3 PM

Address: 604 Hull Street

Neighborhood: Manchester

Website: txtur.com

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Tarrant's Cafe

Tarrant’s Cafes motto is to “Celebrate the Everyday”! You can do just that with your friends and family at their homestyle restaurant for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Shareables: Hummus and Fried Mozzarella Sticks

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday- Friday, 11 AM- 10 PM
  • Saturday, 10 AM- 10 PM
  • Sunday, 10 AM- 9 PM

Address: 1 W Broad Street

Neighborhood: Monroe Ward

Website: tarrantsdowntown.com

Hippodrome Speakeasy- Group Dining in Downtown Richmond

The Tobacco Company Restaurant

Find southern-influenced steak, seafood, pasta & more in this fine dining restaurant in Richmond! They are also known for their upscale cocktail lounge and nightclub, perfect for groups.

Shareables: Ahi Tuna and Meatballs Al Forno

Hours of Operation:

  • Sunday-Thursday, 5- 9:30 PM
  • Friday- Saturday, 5 PM- 10 PM

Address: 201 E. Cary Street

Neighborhood: Shockoe Slip

Website: thetobaccocompany.com

Where to have your holiday party in Richmond, VA

Raise a toast to unforgettable celebrations in the heart of Richmond! Whether it's a holiday event, office party, or a gathering with friends, Downtown Richmond, VA, has the perfect venue for every occasion. This list features just a taste of all the Holiday group fun to be had in Downtown Richmond. Click through the linked pages below for the full list of businesses downtown. 
 
Restaurants, Breweries, Bakeries and Cafes

For the full list of restaurants, breweries, bakeries and cafes, click here!

Experiences

For the full list of workshops, tours and attraction in Downtown Richmond, click here!