Press Release: Harry’s at Hofheimer “A Modern Speakeasy-themed Restaurant Emerges in Scott’s Addition”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -
“A Modern Speakeasy-themed Restaurant Emerges in Scott’s Addition”
Richmond, Virginia - October 12, 2023 - The countdown begins as Harry's at Hofheimer, an eclectic new concept with a focus on historically inspired craft cocktails and innovative modern American cuisine. Residing on the first floor of the iconic Hofheimer Building in Richmond's lively Scott's Addition neighborhood, Harry's at Hofheimer is poised to become a destination for both culinary aficionados and cocktail connoisseurs alike.
The creative brainchild of local entrepreneur Natalie McNamara and real estate developer Carter Snipes, Harry's at Hofheimer draws its inspiration from two iconic "Harrys" of the 1920s: Harry Craddock, the legendary mixologist of The Savoy Hotel in London, and Harry MacElhone, the renowned author of "The ABCs of Cocktails." This new concept seamlessly intertwines with the historical roots of the building itself, a unique landmark constructed in 1928 for the Herold Hofheimer Rug Company. Upon entering, guests will be captivated by the newly built mezzanine, offering an exquisite vantage point overlooking the art deco-inspired bar. Throughout the establishment, eccentric portraits of famous “Harry’s” created by local artist Todd Hale, are surrounded by neon sculptures that add a touch of digital mind expansion. Additionally, the team enlisted the talents of Miami-based atmospheric artist Stefan von Fouts to craft a distinctive interactive selfie mirror that provides each guest with a unique password granting them access to the modern speakeasy within.
Leading this venture as partner and operator, McNamara has meticulously curated a team of local restaurant professionals who are dedicated to delivering a fun and quirky yet refined experience. They have assembled a talented roster including a Sommelier 1, bar manager Dakota Biggs for cocktail design and Executive Chef Amy Terrill leading the food program. McNamara brought in local cocktail consultant, Beth Dixon with Salt and Acid to help her team brainstorm ideas. The food program includes a diverse full-service menu of small plates, entrees, and share boards. McNamara said Chef Amy is bringing her years of experience in the Richmond restaurant community to create an upscale yet approachable menu. “She is appealing to a wide variety of dietary options including Gluten Free and Vegan which will translate to our catering program as well,” McNamara said. Along with Chef Amy, Bar Manager Dakota Biggs focuses a spirit forward cocktail design reaching back to classic techniques and nostalgic flavors. “Our program is not about extravagance; it's about an understated experience that is fun and alluring,” McNamara says. Scott’s Addition is known for its vibrant nightlife, and we aim to provide a space where guests can dress up with friends, savor cocktails and enjoy tasteful food. McNamara says they’ve added little interactive touches throughout the restaurant to engage with customers. One example are the silk scarves and bow ties she’s adorned the restrooms with that patrons can wear and photograph themselves with.
To further expand on the demand of the Richmond market, McNamara emphasizes the availability of ample seating for large groups at Harry’s. Since assuming operations at the Hofheimer in 2022, she has received a steady stream of reservation inquiries for groups of 20+, a niche that is underserved by traditional restaurants. To address this need, she has designed a new mezzanine in Harry’s that overlooks the bar area. McNamara also reveals ongoing renovations to the 7,000 square foot second-floor event venue, which will accommodate larger group dinners set to open in early 2024.
McNamara states “In its 8th anniversary year, the Hofheimer Building Venue has been a pioneer hospitality destination in Scott’s Addition and our team is incredibly thrilled to have a full-service food and catering program with a new state-of-the-art 2,000 square foot commercial kitchen. The popular Hofheimer Rooftop bar, as well as the James Beard award-winning Peter Chang’s, both located within the building, will seamlessly complement the new cocktail-focused restaurant.”
Local real estate developer Carter Snipes, who has owned the Hofheimer Building since 2015, spearheads the project as the lead investor. Snipes, co-founder of Brambly Park Winery and Rigsby Pond Retreat, a 25 acre Glamping retreat in Goochland county, says he is excited about the extensive rooftop renovations planned for 2024. Snipes says the seven-figure investment in the property is to position the business for the continued growth coming to Scott’s Addition. “Entertainment and hospitality was the catalyst for this area 8 years ago and it will continue to be a major draw as more people move here,” Snipes said.
The ambitious renovations planned for Harry's at Hofheimer encompass a mezzanine balcony offering panoramic views of the bar, a revitalized event space on the second floor ideal for rehearsal dinners, and a forthcoming phase 2 that will completely transform the already popular rooftop bar. Snipes said this latest venture was made possible by the collaborative efforts of many local companies and organizations including Johannes Design, Hanbury Architecture, Gray Construction, Davidson Engineering, Balzer, One Stop Data, Capital Beverage, Absolute Stone, RiverCity Remodeling, SS Electrical, Advantage Plumbing, Phoenix HVAC, Salt and Acid, Mike Guyer Photography and Rock Dingo Woodcraft. The new branding was designed by Rob Wooten Design and Chris Mortimer of CreativeMktGroup.
Harry's at Hofheimer is poised to whisk patrons away on an eclectic journey brimming with inventive dishes, meticulously crafted cocktails, and an enchanting ambiance that pays homage to the opulent history of the 1920s seamlessly interwoven with the vibrant spirit of modern-day Scott’s Addition. At some point, Richmond will be in the cocktail books and Harry’s at Hofheimer will be underlined in the index.
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