Saison lauded by Imbibe, details on Rogue Gentleman, and it’s pizza time in Shockoe

Mere weeks after opening, Saison is already getting national attention, we learn a bit more about the elusive Rogue Gentleman, and a new pizza option looks to be headed Shockoe’s way, plus more food news.

January 10, 2013; 9:57 AM • by RVANews staff

Saison, the new restaurant in Jackson Ward, is already getting praise for their cocktail and beer program. Imbibe Magazine named them one of the “75 Places to Watch” in 2013. We chatted with the owner, Jay Bayer, to get his thoughts on the national recognition.

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According to Richmond.com, Southern Railway Deli will soon be up and running again, this time as a pizza place. The current rumor is that the space will be named Pizza 111, and will be owned by the same people behind Off The Hookah. They’re going with a similar concept of restaurant by day and club by night. Southern Railway Deli has been closed since 2010.

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RVANews had the pleasure of getting yet another secret drop off from the people behind the Rogue Gentleman. Here’s what you need to know about these mysterious guys, straight from their Tumblr:

They are a cocktail bar inspired by the Prohibition era that focuses on the classic cocktails of that time, using spirits, sugars, bitters, and essential oils.
They will be located in Jackson Ward
No, they are not a strip club or a private gentlemen’s club

You can visit the website and enter “Blind Tiger” as the password to watch a video clip.

We’ll keep you posted should any additional clues be dropped off at our office!

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According to Fan of the Fan, Savory Grain could open later this month. Jami Bohdan, current executive manager of The Republic and Metro Grill, purchased the restaurant from Melissa Barlow back in December. The new restaurant will feature a chalkboard menu geared toward new American cuisine and will have 24 beers on tap.

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The annual RVANews Beer Dinner is quickly approaching and we only have SIX seats left. Join us on January 20th at 6:30 PM at Ipanema for a dinner you won’t forget. Six vegetarian courses will be perfectly paired with six delicious brews. Again, SIX tickets are left, so purchase now before you’re left out!