Smoke and Barrel — Restaurant in Richmond

Each month my bestie and I get together for happy hour and we usually try and select places that are new us. Last night we chose Smoke & Barrel and I'm so glad we did! We were immediately made to feel welcome at the bar. In addition to making me the perfect drink, the bartender, Ellie, was full of recommendations about the menu and was quick to inquire with the chef about about anything she couldn't answer. Much appreciated. We started with their signature barrell rolls which were packed with juicy pulled pork, fried, and served with house bbq sauce. Top notch. They were followed by a simple seasonal salad of greens, goat cheese, candied pecans, and cranberries. For me, a good candied pecan makes the salad. These stole the show. Jumbo pecans perfectly toasted and coated in a sweet candy shell that melted in my mouth. Before ordering the crab cakes I inquired about the type of crab used. Chef Andy immediately popped out of the kitchen to tell us about his family recipe that uses blue crab and just enough panko to hold it together. I was sold. Don't expect a thick jumbo lump crab cake but rather a thinner cake consisting of sweet lump and claw meat with a kick of spice. The crab cakes were served with a cauliflower puree and asparagus. The meal was balanced and satisfying. Although, the food was great, the service was even better and by the end of our meal we were taking pictures with the crew. Unfortunately, it's the only picture I took last night. Huge shout out to Chef Andy, Ellie, and Sara for making my trip to Richmond all the more enjoyable. We will...

MUST stop in Richmond‘s Smoke and Barrel —- Smoke and Barrel has a perfect balance of a quaint, intimate ambiance that makes this a perfect romantic date night spot, yet also had a combination of original and modern touches that made this a fun hangout atmosphere. The staff is so passionate and knowledgeable of everything from the history of the space down to every item on the menu. The bartenders all have a wealth of experience, true mixologist. Each cocktail was crafted perfectly and flavors all paired well with the food. We stared with the Spiced Bourbon Americano which was the perfect sipper while trying to decide on our food choices. I then ordered the pain killer (my favorite). The Chef is extremely talented. Every dish was tasty and beautiful. The Barrel Rolls were outstanding, Marie’s Hummus is a classic favorite, and the Empandas were flavorful! I also heard the seasoned dry rub wings are delicious- looking forward to giving them a try next time! The Crabcakes… OH MY GOSH they were so good!! Ever single thing was fresh and hot. I love this place!! If you haves been, you need to! Definitely make a reservation!...

We found our new favorite place to dine! We walked in for our reservation and we were immediately greeted and seated. The dining area is modern yet comfortable. We started with the southwest nachos. They were loaded and perfectly plated. Every nacho had toppings and there was no fighting over the best chips. I got the pineapple fizz cocktail and my husband tried an old fashioned. Both cocktails were delicious and flavorful. For entrees, I got the duck breast which was perfectly cooked. The hash on the side was creative and delicious. The portion was large. My husband got the steak which was served with asparagus and mashed potatoes. My husband cleared the plate and truly enjoyed his entree. The steak was cooked perfectly. We got a second round of cocktails which were also unique. I love how curated the menu is. You can tell how much thought and care was put into every single item on the menu. Our server, Savannah, was wonderful and attentive. After our meal we chatted with one of the owners as well as the bartender. Everyone made us feel incredibly welcomed. We had such a great experience and we will...