A Local's Guide To Dining In Downtown Richmond Near Linden Row Inn

Forbes

21-05-2025

Aerial view of Richmond Skyline. Virginia.
Set inside a series of beautifully preserved Greek Revival row houses, the Linden Row Inn is the kind of hotel that quietly stuns. It's a portal to another time—complete with antique furnishings, gas-lit charm and a deep connection to one of Richmond's most famous literary sons: Edgar Allan Poe who reportedly courted his first love in the garden. While an on-side restaurant is coming soon, it's also in prime territory for exciting dining. Just steps from Monroe Ward and a short ride from some of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods, Linden Row is perfectly placed for food lovers.
Linden Row Inn Exterior
To help navigate the city's ever-evolving food scene, we turned to someone with serious local intel. Sarah Leffler, Senior Marketing Manager at Savara Hospitality and the woman behind the brand's buzz-worthy presence online, is also a passionate food enthusiast. She knows exactly where she'd go—and why. Here are her top picks.
Mama J's Exterior
Just blocks from the hotel, Mama J's is a cornerstone of the neighborhood—and Richmond's go-to for soulful Southern cooking. Leffler calls it a must. 'It's one of those places that feels like home,' she tells us. 'The Southern and soul food here is the real deal and such a staple in the neighborhood.' On any given day, you'll find regulars filling the booths for fried catfish, collard greens, and hot cornbread. The energy is warm, the food hits deep, and you'll be thinking about the mac and cheese long after you leave.
Perly's Restaurant & Delicatessen dishes
This beloved Jewish deli is a short stroll from Linden Row—and an absolute crowd-pleaser. 'Perly's delivers authentic, crave-worthy dishes,' Leffler says, noting its Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives cameo. From towering Reubens and matzo ball soup to blintzes and brisket, the menu balances nostalgia and creativity. The vibe is retro, the pickles are sharp, and there's always something new on the specials board.
Restaurant Adarra Interior
Now in its new Oregon Hill digs, Restaurant Adarra remains one of the city's most transportive dining experiences. Leffler loves its intimate, under-the-radar feel: 'It's one of those places that feels like a little secret, everything on the menu is thoughtfully crafted.' The Basque-leaning menu leans earthy and elegant—winter lettuces, lamb belly, or black bass with charred scallion butter—and the natural wine list is impeccably chosen.
Lost Letter Dishes
Lost Letter is a pasta-and-wine haven in Scott's Addition is Leffler's dream dinner spot. 'If you're into fresh pasta, housemade bread, and a great glass of wine, Lost Letter is a dream,' she says. Settle in on the patio when the weather's right, or grab a candlelit corner inside. The menu is seasonal and subtle, with a focus on technique and texture—simple dishes that hit with precision.
Lolita's Hero Shot
When the vibe calls for bold flavor and a buzzy room, Leffler heads to Lolita's in Carytown. 'It's my favorite place to kick off a girls' night,' she says. 'Amazing, authentic Mexican food in this super vibey, colorful space.' Standouts include the variety of tacos with homemade tortillas tuna tostadas, and conchinita pibil. Look forward to unique cocktails like the flamenco rosa with tequila, fermented pink peppercorn and raspberry-rhubarb honey, grapefruit soda topped with salted foam. It's a party—whether you show up for lunch or roll in for dinner.
Echelon Wine Bar Exterior
Echelon Wine Bar in historic Shockoe Slip is where Leffler unwinds after work or meets clients in a more relaxed setting. 'The visible wine cellar adds such a cool touch, and the selection is top-notch,' she says. The space toes the line between refined and unfussy. Think curated dishes, like chef's selection of cheese and charcuterie plates or more substantial options like homemade cavetelli or a Wagyu burger paired with a thoughtful, globe-trotting list of wines.
Q Rooftop at Quirk Hotel
Just a half-mile from Linden Row Inn, Quirk Hotel is a favorite for rooftop cocktails with a view—Leffler points to Q Rooftop Bar as a great spot to catch the sunset over the Richmond skyline. The hotel restaurant named The Lobby Bar serves seasonal dishes and a well-edited list of Virginia wines in a stylish, art-filled space. The cocktails lean inventive, with fresh herbs and house infusions—like the garden growni, a savory-sweet blend of vodka, Aperol, and tomato-basil syrup. The pastas hold their own, too, like the house-made bucatini in a briny, botarga cream that tastes like summer on a plate.