Those with a discerning taste and a passion for history should check out these historic brunch spots in Richmond VA
As I discovered on a recent trip, Richmond is not only a treasure trove for history lovers, but is also a vibrant hub for cultural and culinary delights.
So what could be better than combining the two and exploring historical sites while sipping a Mimosa and enjoying a delectable brunch?
There are currently 45 restaurants on the Richmond Region Mimosa Trail, with a wide range of offerings. This post is focused on the historic ones that I visited, but if you’re a foodie, you’ll want to hit the road and taste everything that Richmond has to offer.
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For their brunch offerings and historic value, my top brunch spots in the Richmond VA area are Hanover Tavern, Martha’s Kitchen and Lemaire Restaurant at the Jefferson Hotel.
Sip & Savor On Richmond Region Mimosa Trail
There’s nothing quite as relaxing as a weekend brunch with a Mimosa, and thanks to the Richmond Region Mimosa Trail, you have a lot of choices.
The Mimosa Trail showcases a vibrant tapestry of flavors, settings and vibes. Along the way, participants can enjoy gourmet dishes, locally sourced ingredients, and the warm Southern hospitality that Richmond is famous for.
The trail features more than 40 restaurants, some with live entertainment, others with luxurious settings and rooftop views, so you’re sure to find the perfect venue.
Remember to bring along a designated driver or use a ride service for transportation.
1. Historic Hanover Tavern
You can’t get any more historic than Hanover Tavern in Hanover Courthouse. The Tavern was a stage coach stop in the early 1700s, offering hospitality to such guests as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and the Marquis de Lafayette.
As if that weren’t enough, the well-known patriot Patrick Henry lived in the tavern with his wife Sarah Shelton, who was the daughter of the tavern owner. He occasionally served as host in the absence of his father-in-law.
And during the American Revolution, Lord Cornwallis and Colonel Tarleton made their headquarters at the Hanover Tavern for two weeks in 1784, enroute to the historic defeat of Yorktown.
Location: 13181 Hanover Courthouse Rd, Hanover, VA
Brunch: Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
What to Eat: I had a Crabcake Sandwich and Grits with a Mimosa. I’m a bit of a Maryland blue claw crab connoisseur, and give it five stars! The grits were awesome too!
Visiting Richmond? Don’t miss these unique and historical tours!
Those who prefer the brunch menu can choose Chicken and Waffles, Quiche, or French Toast among many other offerings.
As a history buff, I also spent a lot of time walking through this restaurant that is part museum and part dining establishment. It has also been home to the Barksdale Theatre, since 1953.
2. Martha’s Kitchen
Nestled in the heart of New Kent, VA, Martha’s Kitchen stands as a testament to Southern hospitality and timeless culinary tradition.
This beloved eatery is more than just a stop on the Richmond Region Mimosa Trail; it’s a slice of history and a celebration of homecooked goodness!
Walking through the front door is like walking into your grandmother’s house. You instantly feel like you’re home!
The restaurant was named after Martha Washington, the First Lady who resided nearby at her family’s plantation.
The building the restaurant is housed in is rich with history. Edmund Hockaday built the earliest part of the building about 1810. The house was nearly doubled in size in 1830s, with more additions by 1901 and in the 1950s.
The menu at Martha’s is a delightful journey through classic Southern cuisine. Known for its hearty, homecooked dishes, the restaurant offers a variety of options that cater to every palate.
Whether you’re a history buff or a food enthusiast, Martha’s Kitchen is a must-visit on the Richmond Region Mimosa Trail. Its historical significance, combined with its delectable menu, makes it a standout destination that promises to delight and satisfy.
Location: 2495 New Kent Highway, New Kent, VA
Brunch: Special Sunday Brunches between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
What to Eat: I ate at Martha’s in the evening, but still enjoyed a Mimosa, along with Lemon-Pepper Chicken, Fried Brussel Sprouts (had to try them), Grits and Mac and Cheese.
Want to eat and learn some Richmond history at the same time? Try the popular Church Hill Food Tour or Arts District Food Tour. These guided tours provide historic background as well as tasty stops at a wide variety of restaurants.
For those who love breakfasts, Martha’s offers Country Fried Steak, Biscuits and Gravy and Breakfast Bowls, among many other mouth-watering choices.
3. Lemaire at The Jefferson Hotel
In the heart of Richmond, nestled within the luxurious Jefferson Hotel, Lemaire Restaurant offers a dining experience that seamlessly blends historical grandeur with contemporary elegance.
This distinguished establishment is a highlight of the Richmond Region Mimosa Trail, and is well known for its Sunday Champagne Brunches that sell out weeks in advance. (There is a two-hour seating limit and reservations are recommended 90 days in advance).
Cost: $75
Lemaire, named after Etienne Lemaire, the maitre d’hotel to President Thomas Jefferson, offers a refined dining experience that echoes the sophistication of its namesake.
Lemaire’s menu is a culinary masterpiece, celebrating the flavors of Virginia with a modern twist. Every dish showcases locally sourced ingredients, ensuring each plate is fresh, vibrant, and full of character.
Like the other brunch spots in Richmond that I’ve mentioned, dining at Lemaire is not just about the food. It’s about the ambiance, the service, and the sense of history that pervades every corner of the establishments.
The Champagne Sunday Brunch at the Jefferson Hotel is a luxurious dining experience that is a tradition in Richmond. The Brunch offers a bountiful buffet with a variety of breakfast and lunch dishes, including seafood, made-to-order omelet station, and lots of decadent desserts.
Here is a sample menu.
Location: 101 West Franklin Street, Richmond VA
Brunch: Sunday’s 10:30 a.m. first seating. 1:30 p.m. last seating.
What to Eat: Everything on the breakfast menu at the Jefferson is delectable. I didn’t experience the Sunday Brunch, but had a three-egg Omelet made to order with Spinach and Cheddar Cheese, along with a Mimosa and Grits. Delicious!
Where To Stay In Richmond VA
If you’re visiting Richmond from out of town, you have lots of lodging choices, from the luxurious Jefferson Hotel to budget hotels around the Richmond International Airport (only about a 10-minute drive from downtown Richmond)
Wrap-Up Of Richmond’s Mimosa Trail
Whether you’re a brunch enthusiast or simply looking to explore the city’s culinary landscape, Richmond Region Mimosa Trail promises a refreshing and indulgent adventure.
As you traverse the Mimosa Trail, make sure you try one of these historic venues. You will find more than just a good meal. You’ll get to discover some of Virginia’s rich history and get to enjoy its unique culture.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a fun weekend getaway, the Mimosa Trail offers an unparalleled dining experience that is deeply rooted in Richmond’s heritage.
Richmond also offers lots of sightseeing tours for those who want to learn about the city’s history. I highly recommend visiting Hollywood Cemetery, where many of the South’s most renowned Civil War figures are buried.
Other historic sites to visit in Virginia:
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