International wine comes to Richmond, a tale of two Continentals, and Tiki Bob’s owner adds to Shockoe

Just because Halloween celebrations kick off this weekend, it doesn’t mean that our diet must be restricted to alcohol, cider, and candy. To get you in the mood, we have the goods on a burgeoning wine fest, old favorites becoming new incarnations, and a little bit about a new brewery.

October 27, 2011; 9:46 AM • by RVANews staff

This weekend marks the very first Richmond International Wine Excursion which is a two day wine event at Historic Tredegar. Variant Events, the same group behind the Virginia Wine Expo, has been looking for an opportunity to bring such an event to Richmond that combines both international and locally sourced wines paired beside global cuisine. Weather won’t even be a concern because the event will be hosted underneath heated tents. Good weather, wine, and food–these are the three things Richmonders love most when combined into one grand event. It looks like this event is going to turn into yet another Richmond tradition (the 2012 plans already including a third day). You can check out ticket prices and more information here.

According to Richmond.com, things are moving along nicely for the two Continentals at both Libbie and Grove. Phil’s Continental Lounge which we love for those adult limeades has moved up a block to to 5810 Grove Ave, and Johnny Giavos has bought out the old Phil’s location and renamed it The Continental at 5704 Grove. It is all VERY confusing, I know, but the key facts are that Phil’s Continental Lounge will pretty much stay the same, and The Continental will bring us Giavos favorites that you know and love from 3 Monkey’s, Kitchen 64, and Sidewalk. Both restaurants opening soon.

According to Bizsense, Erik Brockdorff, who owns Tiki Bob’s in Shockoe Bottom, is planning to open a second restaurant across the Street at 119 N. 18th St. called On the Rox. Brockdorff is trying to attract more business in The Bottom and is hoping On the Rox will become a neighborhood restaurant where you can get a delicious meal for a reasonable price. The new restaurant is set to open next month and will serve dinner and brunch.

Everyone has been hearing about Hardywood Park, the new craft brewery in Richmond, and if you haven’t had a chance to sample their beers here is another opportunity for you. Strawberry Street Vineyard located at 407 Strawberry Street, same block as 8 ½ for all you take out lovers, will host a free tasting on Friday from 5 – 8pm. Stop in, have a taste, and support two local businesses in one stop.