BlowToad opens its doors, more drama at Fanhouse, and Peter Chang opens his long-awaited China Café

A culinary mastermind that’s been featured in the New York Times brings his Sichuan dishes to the area, one of the tastiest charity events of the year still has tickets available, and Richmond’s talented restaurant community will be honored by the Elby’s

February 9, 2012; 10:24 AM • by RVANews staff

It’s official: BlowToad is now open! The Jimmy Sneed-owned and operated restaurant took over the old Double T’s restaurant on Cary Street back in the fall and is now fully up and operating–Tuesday through Thursday 5pm to Midnight, Friday through Saturday open until 2am (remember that pizza window, bar-goers) and they will be open for lunch beginning on Tuesday, February 14th. Check their Facebook for updates and specials.

According to Richmond.com, Bobby Kruger has left Fanhouse. Kruger is known as an excellent craft bartender and mixologist, making a name for himself at Julep’s over the past ten years. Sunny Zhao, who owns Fanhouse, has had a lot of ups and downs with the Fan restaurant. Specifically, he’s had run-ins with the Fan District Association that resulted in him closing the restaurant for a few days to tear out the downstairs bar. During that time it was announced Kruger would be joining forces with Zhao to bring his much admired skill set to the corner of Robinson and Floyd. With Kruger now gone, it looks like Zhao will have to switch gears once again.

We all know that Richmond has a great culinary scene and Richmond Magazine has created a great event to highlight the talent behind our restaurant community. The Elby’s will take place this Sunday, 6pm at the Virginia Historical Society (428 North Boulevard). The evening will honor winners in nine categories including Chef of the Year, New Restaurant, Neighborhood Restaurant. Tickets are $65 per person and can be purchased here.

Speaking of great chefs and restaurants, RVANews had the pleasure of dining at Peter Chang’s new restaurant in Short Pump. If you love Chinese food, you’re going to love every single thing on Chang’s menu. The restaurant is now open at 11424 West Broad Street. Hours of operation include Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.

If you love great food and want to support a local charity while savoring each bite, FeedMore is having its annual Zest Fest on February 18th at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. The event generates support for local feeding programs while serving sample dishes from some of the region’s best chefs. Virginia wineries will also be on hand to cleanse your palette in between each plate. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased here.

photo by Finnuala Bradley