Richmond’s dining landscape continues to flourish as chef Donnie Glass makes bold moves, transforming historic spaces into vibrant culinary destinations. Nearly two years after opening the acclaimed oyster and cocktail bar Beaucoup, the establishment remains a top contender on the city’s must-visit list, offering a blend of French-inspired raw bar delights and inventive cocktails.
Donnie Glass, known for his thoughtful approach and passion for accessible, wine-focused dining, previously launched Grisette in 2019, a cozy restaurant in Church Hill celebrated for its steak frites and local charm. His desire to expand his culinary footprint became evident in interviews, where he expressed interest in creating collaborative, approachable venues that emphasize quality and community.
Building on this vision, Glass and his team took over Jardin, a previously underwhelming Fan district spot, and reimagined it into a lively wine bar with a warm atmosphere and a dedicated following. Now, Glass is venturing into a historic corner of Richmond once home to the Commercial Taphouse, a pivotal locale in the city’s craft beer movement.
The new establishment, aptly named Beaucoup, pays homage to French cuisine while integrating Virginia’s local character. The redesign retains some elements of the old bar but introduces bright, modern touches. The space features a cozy yet lively dining area, with a small but efficient kitchen, a long bar for oysters and shellfish, and intimate bistro tables that foster social interaction.
The menu is a curated, evolving selection of chef-driven specials, highlighting both French classics and innovative dishes. The burger, for instance, is a standout, offering a perfectly cooked patty with options for pink or not, topped with cheese and onions. Red meat offerings change regularly, often featuring dry-aged cuts or a well-cooked coulotte steak served with sauces like Café de Paris or Bordelaise, accompanied by crispy potatoes.
Seafood lovers will appreciate the moules frites, infused with herbs, lemongrass, and ginger, alongside a standout chickpea panisse, which boasts a crispy exterior and a creamy interior. The oyster selection is extensive, showcasing varieties from regions from Puget Sound to Cape Charles, emphasizing freshness and quality.
Desserts at Beaucoup are playful yet refined, with options like a rich Basque cheesecake paired with local vermouth, or a unique pairing of blue cheese with seasonal sweets, offering a memorable conclusion to the meal.
The bar program deserves recognition for its creativity and craftsmanship. Signature cocktails like the Long Story Short, blending Fernet, Campari, and apple cider, evoke warmth and sophistication. The Juliet’s Balcony, with its vibrant pomegranate foam, exemplifies the playful yet thoughtful approach to drink-making.
Most evenings, Beaucoup buzzes with a convivial atmosphere, where patrons often find themselves sharing oysters, frites, and stories, embodying the spirit of a true European bar. Glass’s vision is clear: to create a space where community, quality, and hospitality converge, one oyster, steak, and cocktail at a time.