Secco expands, new chef at Avalon, Mulligan’s repossessed

A longtime wine seller will close its doors to make room for a next door restaurant, Mulligan’s in the Fan closes suddenly, and a traveling tour of downtown restaurants happens on Friday.

October 11, 2012; 10:23 AM • by RVANews staff

On Monday, we found out that after 14 years of providing wine, craft beer, and gourmet food items, River City Cellars is closing. But don’t burst into tears just yet! Owner Julia Battaglini, who owns both River City Cellars as well as Secco Wine Bar, isn’t giving up the space. She’ll simply expand Secco into the adjacent wine shop. The glass is half full on this one! According to Battaglini, Secco has been thriving and this decision will allow her to do more with that side of the business. Cheers to River City Wine Cellars for the past 14 years and to the fun times ahead at the expanded Secco!

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According to Richmond BizSense, Mulligan’s in the Fan is closed. Passersby will notice a sign on the door stating the building has been repossessed by property owner Eck Enterprises. The doors are locked, the owner cannot be reached, and the website has been taken down and replaced with a “details coming soon” placeholder. So, if you were planning on watching football there this weekend, you’ll need to consider another location.

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We know you will be Folk Festivalin’ this weekend, but if you’re looking for some Friday night dining plans, you might want to check out Bubbles and Bites. The plan goes like this: meet at Centerstage at 6:00 PM, and for just $50 you will enjoy libations and culinary bites from 2113 Bistro-Lounge, The Jefferson, 525 at the Berry Burke, and Pasture (transportation is provided). It doesn’t get better than that, ladies and gents. Tickets can be purchased here. Hurry because space is limited.

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If you are a bourbon fan (who isn’t???), Morton’s The Steakhouse has an event with your name on it. On October 22nd from 6:00 – 7:30 PM, the VP of Operations from Maker’s Mark will be in town offering a taste comparison of their Makers Mark and Makers 46. Cost is $49 per person, which includes drinks, food, tasting, and some fun in the Maker’s Mark signature red wax dipping station. Reservations taken here.

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According to Richmond Magazine, Avalon has a new chef, Jen Mindell from the Rooster Cart and former partner in Cafe Gutenberg. She is currently working on a new menu that she hopes to debut in the coming weeks, one that will focus on Mediterranean-style small plates.

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Last week, we told you to eat dinner at the newly opened Heritage. Now you should add them to your brunch list! Brunch will be served on Sundays from 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM. Here’s the menu (pdf).