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.

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
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

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

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
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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
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
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

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

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

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

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

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

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
Restaurants, Breweries, Bakeries and Cafes
-
Richbrau Brewing: Craft brews and a lively atmosphere along Tobacco Row
-
The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing: Riverside elegance and upscale dining with a festive holiday pop up
- Capital Ale House: Local vibes and a diverse selection of craft beers with an attached music hall
- Chez Foushee: A touch of sophistication and historic charm in the Arts District
- The Hard Shell: Seafood lovers' paradise with a classy twist
- Havana '59: Cuban flair and lively vibes at the 17th Street Market
- Julep's New Southern Cuisine: Southern charm meets delicious cuisine
- Lemaire: Upscale dining in the beautifully decorated historic Jefferson Hotel
- Old Original Bookbinders: Classic venue with timeless Holiday appeal
- Tobacco Company: Historic and beautifully decorated venue offering vibrant nightlife
- Basic City Beer: Casual brewery for a laid-back group celebration
For the full list of restaurants, breweries, bakeries and cafes, click here!
Experiences
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Sweet Wynn's Ice Cream Workshop: Sweet delights with a charming ambiance and your own pint of ice cream in two hours
-
Wick + Sip Candle Making Workshop: Intimate gatherings in a relaxed setting making candles from scratch
- Hotel Greene Indoor Mini Golf: Historic hotel turned indoor mini golf course with a ski-themed holiday pop up
- Discover Richmond Tours: Holiday tours like Tacky Light and, food and brewery tours throughout the Arts District
- Padel Plant: Padel and indoor pickleball courts with an in-house restaurant that you can rent out and have cater your private events
For the full list of workshops, tours and attraction in Downtown Richmond, click here!