Mint’s chef leaves, Rappahannock opens for lunch, and what’s a Bento Dog?

The chef at Mint leaves for the comforts of Comfort, the new Rappahannock restaurant is open for lunch, and a downtown Asian restaurant is offering a different take on the hot dog.

January 3, 2013; 10:30 AM • by RVANews staff

According to Richmond Magazine, changes are coming to Mint New Casual Cuisine, sister restaurant to Julep’s New Southern Cuisine. Travis Milton, Mint’s former head chef, has left to become the chef de cuisine at Comfort. Milton has a similar cooking style as that of Comfort owner (and Pasture partner), Jason Alley, and the timing appears to be good for the change. Randall Doetzer, executive chef of both Julep’s and Mint, said there will be changes to Mint’s menu, which will soon offer more lighter fare and seafood dishes. Doetzer said he wants Mint to have its own identity, separate from Julep’s.

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Rappahannock, Richmond’s newest oyster bar, is now serving lunch from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM at 320 E. Grace Street. Menu items include a Rockfish sandwich, Barcat oyster chowder, grilled tuna salad sandwich, and of course a full raw bar. Rappahannock is also open for dinner from 5:00 – 10:00 PM nightly.

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There’s a new Asian restaurant that’s combining Japanese cuisine with the good ‘ol American hot dog. Downtown’s A² is now offering the Bento Dog, an apparent first for Virginia. There are nine Bento Dogs to choose from, ranging from $12 to $13. There’s also a signature dinner and lunch menu that offers both vegan and gluten-free options. Take a peek at the menus here. The restaurant is located at 1112 E. Main Street.

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A quick reminder: January 20th is the 2013 RVANews Beer Dinner! Six vegetarian courses will be perfectly paired with six delicious brews for a dinner you won’t forget. Join us at 6:30 PM at Ipanema to enjoy a great custom menu. Tickets are just $58 and includes tax, tip, and this souvenir RVA pint glass.