Carytown

Carytown is a small, eclectic neighborhood in Richmond, Virginia. It is approximately one mile long and three or four blocks wide (although many neighboring streets would like to claim they are part of Carytown). Definitely one of Richmond's oldest and most famous "neighborhoods," Carytown is known for its unique shops, restaurants and services... sort of the "Greenwich Village" or Richmond. Although there are a few chain stores in Carytown (i.e. McDonald's, Subway, etc.) the character of the neighborhood has been maintained throughout the years by close neighborhood pride and cooperation. About five years ago, two major shopping malls opened in the Richmond area (Short Pump and Stoney Point) which cut into the profits of many of the smaller retailers. A few of them decided to relocate their shops to one of the two new malls. However, those stores were taken over by new retailers and the area is as vibrant as ever. One of the new additions to Carytown is Penzey's Spices. A national retailer that sells mainly through mail order, this is one of two Virginia locations and they have done an excellent job of bringing people to Carytown because of their excellent reputation. A local jewelry store just had a major expansion, despite the economy. Bottom line: Carytown is prosperous and growing.

No matter what your food preferences, you can find many different types of cuisine in Carytown. French, Italian, Middle-Eastern, American, Burgers and more are available at both small and larger eateries. Most of the restaurants in this small area make the list of "best eats" in Richmond year after year.

Although Carytown is known for its shops and restaurants, living in Carytown is like living in a small town. There are apartments over many of the stores on Cary Street and small homes or multi-family units on the side streets or parallel avenues. Rents are high in this area, since Carytown butts up to the neighborhood where Virginia Commonwealth University resides. However, it really is a small town environment, where neighbors know and help each other.

You don't have to go far to find a food market or drug store, either. At the end of Carytown is a large mainstream grocery store (Ukrops) and Ellwood Thompson's Natural Market, which caters to the folks who enjoy organic and health food. There are also pharmacies dotting the edges of Carytown, as well as banks and other commercial necessities.

Access to downtown Richmond is easy, as Cary Street runs right down into the heart of the city. The downtown expressway borders Carytown on its western side.

The one negative about Carytown is its lack of parking. You have to be lucky to find a spot on Cary Street. There are a couple of small lots and garages, but most visitors will have to find a spot on adjacent streets and walk to their destination. However, everything is relative, since you rarely have to walk more than two blocks.

Carytown is a trendy neighborhood that is great for singles and young couples. Retirees and families with kids would probably be happier in other areas of Richmond.