Best place to take an out-of-town guest day drinking

Scott’s Addition

Richmond was recently named the “No. 1 beer destination in the world” by online booze magazine VinePair, and obviously we all got that memo a while ago. But let’s not forget that when it comes to delicious things to drink, this city we love has so much more to offer than just beer. And that’s precisely why when friends or family come to visit, we just can’t help but hop in a Lyft and spend the day boppin’ around from brewery to cidery to distillery all day. It’s almost impossible to keep up with the ever-growing neighborhood, which has come a long way since its quiet, post-industrial days, but here’s our version of the perfect pub crawl:

There’s a reason the Veil Brewing Co. has developed such a cult following, so you must start there. Arrive early in the day, though (it opens at noon on the weekends), because by early afternoon the line will wrap around the building. From the Veil, make your way down to Blue Bee Cider for a flight of locally crafted ciders that range from dry to sweet and from 7 to 18 percent alcohol. Ardent Craft Ales is also nearby, and chances are by then you’ll need some sustenance to soak up all that beer and cider, so take a gander at whatever food truck is parked onsite and consider ordering a taco or a pizza with your brew. From there it’s about a five-minute walk to Reservoir Distillery, which pours whiskeys in the wheat, rye and bourbon varieties. Reservoir’s hours are more limited than its neighbors’ (Saturdays 3 – 6 p.m. and closed Sundays), so if it’s the beer-cider-liquor trifecta you’re after, plan your day accordingly.  

Honorable mentions in the area also include Buskey Cider, Isley Brewing Co. and Three Notch’d RVA Collab House. And before too long, Virago Spirits will join the club with its rum, gin, brandy and liqueurs.

And folks, this should go without saying, but enjoy Scott’s Addition responsibly. Share flights with a buddy, drink plenty of water, and don’t even think about driving.  

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