7 places to eat after VCU’s graduation

Virginia Commonwealth University’s graduation ceremonies bring the pomp and circumstance to Richmond this weekend. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate your grad, check out one of the unique dining destinations on this list—just be sure to call ahead, as Richmond’s restaurant scene is sure to be hopping with tassel-turners and their families. 

And Dim Sum

305 Brook Rd.

Monday-Thursday: 4-9 p.m.

Friday-Saturday: 4-10 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Dim sum means “touch the heart” in Chinese, and centers on a custom of serving small foods to accompany tea. If that sounds like you’ll be hungry afterward, fear not—dim sum is known for being one of the most deliciously filling eating adventures the brunch crowd has ever embraced. 

And Dim Sum practices the tradition of family style baskets delicately filled with warm and inviting dishes. BBQ jackfruit buns, pork belly bao, scallion pancakes, dumplings—it’s steam basket heaven in the Arts District. 

Bamboo Cafe

1 S. Mulberry St.

Monday-Wednesday: Noon-Midnight

Thursday-Saturday: Noon-2 a.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m.-Midnight

If you love a good dive bar, here’s the best—literally, according to RVA Mag’s Reader Poll. They’re also a great post-ceremony spot, since their brunch menu stays up until 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. 

LUNCH. | SUPPER!

1213-1215 Summit Ave.

Monday-Friday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Enjoy your shrimp alfredo al fresco, cinnamon rolls with pistachios, and beef cheeks with sweet potato hash at Lunch. | Supper! in Scott’s Addition. This hyper-local southern smokehouse is a fun and inventive spot that’ll have something for every member of the family.

Jamaica House Restaurant

416 W. Broad St.

Monday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

This bright spot in the Arts District offers the food of the owner’s Jamaican childhood—like red peas soup, island fry chicken, coco bread, and rum pound cake. Their homemade juices (beet and cucumber, pineapple and ginger, limeade, and so on) and Jamaican cocktails set the mood for a fun, delicious family meal. 

Can Can Brasserie

3120 W. Cary St.

Wednesday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.

Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., 5-10:30 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 4:30-8:30 p.m.

Are you a little bit fancy? Do you love the idea of celebrating with a truffle caesar salad, crispy oysters, and chicken fricassée? Dance on over to the Can Can Brasserie in Carytown for a late brunch or early dinner. 

Grandstaff & Stein

2113 E. Main St.

Daily, 4 p.m.-12 a.m.

Is your grad getting their degree in theater? Does your family love a good dress-up event? Head to Shockoe/Church Hill for a dramatic Art Deco dinner at Grandstaff & Stein, where the 1920s and 1930s come alive. From burlesque brunches to wholesome homemade shortcake, this juice joint will make a special dinner into a special memory.

Lehja Restaurant

11800 W. Broad St., Suite 910

Monday-Friday: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Monday-Thursday: 4:30-10 p.m.

Friday: 4:30-10:30 p.m.

Saturday: 3-10:30 p.m.

Sunday: 3:30-9 p.m.

One of Richmond’s Top 25 Restaurants, Lejha’s delicious Indian cuisine is handily available in Short Pump Center. The modern Indian restaurant also offers a large wine cellar, and their outdoor area includes a fire pit. Their weekend brunch is a three-course prix fixe menu at $28 per person.