Maple & Pine in Richmond

Fabulous. I'm biased - I came during Richmond Restaurant Week and they included a $5 donation to Feed More in the $29.21 price for the three-course meal. (Others are making that an optional add on while still charging the same). Kudos! Started with a Smoke and Rye cocktail - Mezcal and Rye, surprisingly tasty. Small plate was the Country Fried Broccolini on Hollandaise. Nice crunch, but the broccolini was a bit overwhelmed by the batter and the sauce and a bit too salty for my taste. For the large plate I went with the Cotechino sausage with sour cherry mustard, golden raisin gastrique, sweet potato and pine nuts. Dee-effing-licious. Really, a party in your mouth, so many flavors, and they all seemed to really enjoy each other's company. Finished it off with  blood orange tart with baked phyllo, pistachios and honey. Very creatively presented and a nice sweet/tart balance that was refreshing without being gag-inducing or requiring a pledge of extra gym time to work it off.

Maple and Pine, or the "Lobby Bar," is an amazing drinking and dining experience. The space is absolutely beautiful with high vaulted ceilings, warm lighting, and plush seating. The staff were very friendly and approachable (shout-out to our server Kaelynn). Between the two of us we shared the fried shrimp, roasted cauliflower, and the steak, which was just enough to leave us satisfied. We also had the Q 75, and the Warbler to drink, both delicious. I also saw a few people get drinks at the bar and sit on one of the nice couches throughout the lobby (great spot for a night cap). They were very good about covid proto...

Yesterday evening's dining experience lead me to an eccentric and stylish establishment; where idiosyncrasies are truly celebrated. This restaurant is perfectly situated, front and center, in the lobby of downtown Richmond's quirky, Quirk Hotel. As I stepped through the front door, the white walls and high ceiling seemed to capture the natural light shining through the windows. The relaxing, yet chic atmosphere, was accented by Charcoal Grey and Coral Pink throughout. Aesthetically pleasing to the sight, to say the least, as abstract art canvassed the walls. This 2015 originated hidden gem, is known for its creative Modern American fare; carefully crafted by the brilliant Executive Chef David Dunlap. Ladies and Gentlemen of Discovering RVA, it is my esteemed pleasure to unveil, the 1st installment of the "Hotel Series," the sweet and savory, Maple & Pine. @mapleandpine_restaurant . I gotta say that they wished Mr. RVA a happy Birthday with a glass of Champagne. Let's Get It! . Appetizer- Crispy Pork Belly served amidst Grilled Broccoli Rapini, cascading streams of Thai Green Curry and Black Garlic with crisp Pickled Long Bean. . Fam, usually I don't eat pork to much, but I had to try this appetizer right here. GOT DANG! I won't steer you wrong. . Entree- Beef Tenderloin accompanied by Glazed Baby Vegetables Stuffed with marinated Beef Short Rib, and Peppcorn infused Sauce Au Poivre. . Wine...