Cultures Clash Deliciously at JewFro Restaurant
By Malina Gavris
During their freshman year, Honors students are required to take Humans of RVA, a course that focuses on the city’s rich history and its diverse group of inhabitants. Now two years later, I look back with fond memories of that class. It was interesting and engaging, but even more so, it was timely and relevant to my life, as I not only attend VCU, but am also from the Richmond area.
The course sparked my interest in exploring the city more often and trying new things, and those who know me- know that food is a central part of my life. And so, I took it upon myself to try a new restaurant everytime I go out to eat.
The foodie scene in Richmond is pretty big and I don’t think I’ll ever run out of options or cuisines. Along my journey to eat, there have been a few places that have left a shimmering lasting impression and JewFro is definitely at the top of that list for me.
It was only a few weeks ago, just before seeing Hairspray at the Altria Theatre, that I suggested to my family that we eat at JewFro for a pre-show dinner. A blend of Jewish and African cuisines, the place had stood out to me on Yelp since I had never seen that sort of fusion restaurant before.
Now two years later, I look back with fond memories of that class. It was interesting and engaging, but even more so, it was timely and relevant to my life, as I not only attend VCU, but am also from the Richmond area.
It also didn’t hurt that the restaurant had 4.5 out of 5 stars on every review site that I looked at. In agreement with my suggestion, we took the drive over to Shockoe Bottom, did a shoddy job of parallel parking on East Franklin Street, and finally entered the funky establishment.
Upon walking in, I could instantly tell I was going to have a relaxed meal. The lighting was dimly golden and there were just enough other people to make the place cozy but not crowded.
The host graciously allowed my party to be seated on the second floor even though it wasn’t set up yet, which resulted in us having a gorgeous private room all to ourselves. However, the evening reached peak gorgeousness when the food came out.
Lamb brisket. Lox bagel bisque. Crispy carrots smothered in cream cheese. Fresh out of the oven challah bread with perfectly spiced hummus. All of the dishes that we ordered were an unexpected yet spectacular symphony of flavors and aromas.
With every bite, I was left surprised and curious for more. The menu was perfectly balanced with lots of dishes for everyone’s palate and tons of vegetarian options as well, such as the pumpkin pierogi.
My table decided that the food was so good after trying the appetizers that we kept a menu on retainer so we could order more as we went along. Unfortunately, my stomach wasn’t bottomless and I was unable to order the entire menu. Even so, I felt like I had a perfect sampling with the foods that I did try.
In the end, what stood out to me the most was the challah bread and the creamy salmon soup that was dotted with creme-fraiche, fish roe, and chunks of toasted bagel. I used the soft challah as a dipping utensil and didn’t stop until the bowl was wiped clean.
Dining at JewFro in Shockoe Bottom was a wonderful experience. From the food to the service, the establishment excelled on all fronts and made me proud to call Richmond my home.
Eating at JewFro made me so happy that I decided to start exploring the city more and it’s taught me that this city is truly a vibrant and welcoming place for those who know how to make it so.
I’m so thankful that the Honors program emboldened my love for RVA and that the program really goes the extra mile to make us students feel involved in the community.
Now if we can just petition to start a restaurant tasting class for Honors credit… Or a restaurant bracket for engagement points… Someone contact Mr. Johnson.
Photos courtesy of JewFro