Trying Richmond out
“If students only go to businesses with which they are already familiar, they are doing themselves a grave disservice.”
Illustration by Dan Naku
Colin Hannifin
Columnist
As students flood the streets of our fair city, they are greeted by recognizable storefronts and restaurants. Broad Street is dotted by the same logos around which we’ve grown up – there’s Panera and Chipotle nary a block from the dorms, Five Guys and Qdoba just a bit further away and a Subway or Smoothie King for the truly brave.
There is nothing wrong with these brands, and they undoubtedly serve up quality food and refreshments, but if students only go to businesses with which they are already familiar, they are doing themselves a grave disservice.
Richmond – while no New York or Washington, D.C. – is still a city, with plenty to offer for students and residents alike. Shopping, eating and supporting local businesses provides great benefits for this fine city.
When you support local businesses, your money is reinvested in the community instead of being funneled into a corporate office in some far-off city.
Some cities have built substantial economic growth on the back of the local establishments, and there are other cities whose local hot spots thrive without the support of national infrastructure. In supporting local eateries and shops, you’re supporting Richmond and making this city better for everyone.
Supporting local businesses also helps build community. I know several people involved with local establishments through no other route than being a patron at those particular establishments.
The service is warmer and friendlier, and, as far as I’ve ever been able to tell, the quality of the product is better. This is what helps keep Richmond such a unique city, despite its small size compared to major cities. It’s the local shops that distinguish one city from the next.
The local movement is neither new nor unique. All around the nation, communities are pushing residents to buy locally, for all the reasons – and more – listed above. Corporations may provide the cheapest prices and the highest efficiencies, but the local spots provide the spirit, the fun and the community.
So when you’re craving a sub, instead of another Quiznos sub, try a gourmet sandwich over at The Black Sheep on Marshall Street: It won’t be your average cold-cut creation. Grab fries and a shake at The Village Café, or try to see how much will actually fit on one burger at Carytown Burger & Fries. Skip Cold Stone Creamery and give Bev’s Homemade Ice Cream a visit instead. Pick up some light reading material at The Fountain Bookstore, grab a gourmet hot dog at City Dogs, catch a concert at The National and see summer blockbusters at The Byrd Theatre.
Richmond has a lot to offer you can’t find anywhere else, but it’s up to you to hunt it out.
For those interested in the local movement, check out thinkshopbuylocal.com to see how you can live locally in Richmond.
