Have been here 3 times. The first time was so good, we were excited to try it again. The second time, serious missteps, including improper cooks that were not rectified because it took so long for the server to come back and check after the food drop. I still would have re-fired the meal despite my companion's insistence that she was fine, and sent it home with her. (She just didn't eat it.)
We went last night hoping the magic of the first visit would reappear and that we would choose this restaurant for our corporate holiday meal. Service was so inexcusably bad, I was truly shocked. We watched our server spend a solid 10 minutes chatting up a table while we waited to put in our food order. Our drinks took 30 full minutes, and my daughter's unbalanced mocktail came several minutes after my husband's and my drinks. The bartender stopped at our table to tell us she was sorry for the wait about 20 minutes in, but still took another 10+ to produce the drinks. I worked Hell well for a 300 seat restaurant by myself snd never had worse than a 12 minute ticket, so this was just absurd to me. No hustle to be seen here.
When the bill came, I noted that my daughter's mocktail was twice the price of a glass of wine, so that felt ridiculous. What was more ridiculous was that the 30-minute round of drinks was even on the bill. You screw up that bad, you comp it. Or offer free dessert, something.
Food was also much less impressive. My daughter and I both got the chicken. I thought it was ok, she couldn't eat it. The breast was dry and maybe a bit woody and the whole dish was spicier than we would have expected based on the menu. She left all but a slice and ordered popcorn at the theater.
Seems like a decent chef with some really terrible FOH skills. Our first visit was lunch and we were the only table, so I guess you can't give bad service in that case unless you really try. They just don't have...
Read moreSweet P's RVA is nothing short of a culinary treasure in Richmond. From the moment you step through the doors, you're enveloped in an ambiance that feels like a warm embrace—a perfect blend of cozy charm and understated sophistication. The attention to detail in both the decor and atmosphere is a clear testament to the passion that drives this establishment. The star of the experience, of course, is the food. Chef Antonio’s artistry shines in every dish, from the first bite to the last. The menu boasts an impressive variety of offerings, each crafted with care and creativity. It’s clear that every dish and drink here comes straight from the heart. From soul-warming appetizers to decadent entrees, the flavors are vibrant, balanced, and memorable. The drinks are equally exceptional, with cocktails that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. And let’s talk about the pricing—Sweet P’s manages to strike that rare balance of top-tier quality and incredible value. You leave not only satisfied but feeling like you’ve discovered a true gem that doesn’t break the bank. What truly elevates Sweet P’s is Chef Antonio himself. You can feel his love for his craft in every plate that leaves the kitchen. His dedication to excellence, combined with a genuine desire to delight his guests, sets this restaurant apart. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual dinner or celebrating a special occasion, Sweet P's RVA delivers an experience that lingers long after the meal is over. This isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a place where heart, soul, and flavor come together to create something truly extraordinary. My favorites: Crab cakes (I am from the Eastern shore of Maryland, I am a tough critic) Braised short Rib, in all forms. Scallops Entrée. and every single special I have tried. PSA DO NOT LEAVE with out having...
Read moreSweet P’s: A Place for Good Taste
Nestled in the heart of Richmond, Sweet P’s feels like a storybook corner of our beloved city—a place where artful dishes and heartfelt service converge. The Enoki Chicken Sandwich is a revelation: crispy, savory, and layered with flavors that feel both comforting and inventive. And the Smash Burger? A bold, unpretentious marvel that somehow tastes better every time, like it’s been perfected just for you. Consistency like this is rare in Richmond’s bustling food scene, and Sweet P’s has it in spades.
What truly sets this place apart, though, is the experience. The service is as genuine as a neighborly wave on a sunny day in Carytown, and the chef—yes, the chef!—steps out from the kitchen to serve your plate. It’s a small act, but it makes you feel like a guest of honor at a friend’s table. I’m not one for pretense, but this simple gesture added a touch of unexpected elegance. He’s as warm and knowledgeable as you’d hope, happy to talk about the magic behind the menu.
Sweet P’s is a love letter to Richmond: unassuming, full of character, and brimming with good taste. If you’re looking for a spot that feels like home while still surprising your palate, this is it. Five stars,...
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