Driving Up Commerce Road (January 9,2010)

A friend at work suggested a visit to Legend Brewing Company on 7th Street in Richmond, Va. I got directions from him via Commerce Road, which was a very interesting drive past a number of industrial sites, plus the big Philip Morris factory. It is a pretty rugged road which is probably due to heavy truck traffic. On the way to Legends went by the old Stockton Street tobacco factory which is now converted to condos, and got to the bar a little after noon. Nice place, and checked out a pint from their selection of Richmond made beers. As you can see, a nice view from the deck. Thought it was a very nice place, will be worth a return visit in the future.
Not really much to look at on the outside, but inside was nice with an English pub sort of look. Crowd was pretty friendly and the bartender was nice as well. When I left, walked over to "Scoot Richmond". They have motor scooters from 50-300 cc's, looked to be some nice bikes. I have a larger motorcycle, but always interested in the world of two-wheels. Did like the shop, again very friendly bunch in there, and a great pit bull which was very friendly as well. Seem to know their product line, and not a real high pressure place which is refreshing. Scooters have come a long way over the years, and some of them are real advanced.

I wandered around Richmond a bit, making a final stop at Village Cafe. I had seen that a few days ago on an episode of "Diners, Drive-in's and Dives" and thought it would be fun to visit. It was packed on the inside, both a reflection of the prices of the food, and the quality...both were very pleasing! That would be the second great discovery from the tv show (the other is The Penguin in Charlotte, NC) that has turned out to be a worthwhile trip. Like with Legends (and who knows maybe even Scoot Richmond) I will be back to check that out.
Nice day of exploring; like Richmond on a Saturday as the traffic is really light. Saw some more new sites, and took a different route (including a drive along the James River) back to the apartment. Good first exploration for the first real drive of the new year for me. Though I have been here for a few days, have not been out far. Tomorrow, going to see "Avatar" which even non-scifi fans have been raving about, which has me thinking this might be well worth the trip as well. Will be writing on what I find from that in my next post.