Richmond’s Hidden Gem | The Tobacco Company Restaurant

📍 The Tobacco Company Restaurant 1201 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23219 💰 Price: $ • Vibe: Historic charm meets upscale dining 🏛️ Why It’s a Must-Visit ✅ Stunning ambiance: Exposed red-brick walls, wooden chandeliers, and lush green plants evoke the old-world charm of Manhattan’s iconic bookshops. The green pendant lights over each table add a cozy, intimate glow. ✅ Rich history: Housed in a 19th-century tobacco warehouse, the building retains its industrial heritage while offering a refined dining experience. Fun fact: The restaurant’s decor includes original architectural details, like the marble floors and vintage tobacco memorabilia. ✅ Live music: On weekends, the second-floor bar hosts jazz or blues bands—perfect for post-dinner drinks. 🍽️ Food Highlights & Misses ✅ Must-try dishes: • She Crab Soup: A creamy, sherry-laced local specialty praised for its rich flavor. • Tournedos Bayou: A decadent steak dish with shrimp, mushrooms, and béarnaise sauce—reviewers call it "outrageously delicious". • Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy and tangy, served with remoulade. ⚠️ Hit-or-miss: • Prime Rib: Once a star, now described as "average" and sometimes overcooked. • Seafood Pasta: Overwhelming portions with uneven quality (e.g., scant crab meat). 💡 Tips for Visitors ✔ Book ahead: The second-floor dining room is quieter and more romantic. ✔ Budget note: Entrées range $30–50; opt for lunch or happy hour for better deals. ✔ Special occasions: Request a table near the chandelier-lit central atrium for photos. 🌟 Final Verdict "A feast for the eyes, not always the palate." While the food is inconsistent, the ambiance and history make it worth a visit—especially for date nights or out-of-town guests. #DMVDining #HistoricRichmond #FoodieTravel