05-02-2025
Black Iris Social Club in Richmond now takes Bitcoin
Black Iris Social Club in the Arts District is now accepting Bitcoin and other digital asset payments.
Why it matters: The move makes it among the first Richmond venues to accept digital currency as payments, according to a spokesperson.
The big picture: Black Iris is a Broad Street art gallery and music venue turned private social club, coworking space and cigar lounge.
The space has been a fixture in the Arts District for more than a decade and continues to host open-to-the-public music and art shows, in addition to its members-only offerings.
To execute the cryptocurrency initiative, the social club is partnering with the Virginia Blockchain Council, which will also host regular educational workshops at the space.
Fun fact: The Virginia Blockchain Council was inspired by Pubkey in Manhattan, which describes itself as a dive bar for Bitcoiners (it also accepts cash and credit cards).
Zoom in: For now at Black Iris, digital assets can only be used to purchase Black Iris memberships, which start at a $275 initiation fee and $37 a month thereafter, per their website.
They're hoping to expand the usage to include drinks, tickets and other items once it's integrated with their point-of-sale system.
What they're saying:"This partnership is a bold step toward positioning Richmond as a leader in blockchain and digital asset innovation," Virginia Blockchain Council executive director Greg Leffel said in a statement.
What's next: The next crypto-learning event at Black Iris is Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 6pm.
The event is free, so no need to bring your Bitcoins to this one.
