A quintessential Richmond take: Waiting in line for Sub Rosa, first thing in the morning, is always worth it. | Photo by RICtoday
Today’s the day. Sub Rosa Bakery is reopening this morning, Dec. 16, at 7 a.m., just over a year after a building fire caused the local bakery to close.
You’ll notice some changes as you step back into the restored Church Hill space. Over the summer, Sub Rosa bid adieu to its wood-fired oven, gave away the dismantled bricks, and ushered in a new era of electric.
The heart of this Richmond staple remains the same. If you have any doubts, we recommend sitting down and reacquainting yourself with a classic chocolate croissant. In fact, we wouldn’t blame you for dropping everything right now and following your croissant calling.
Set your thermostat to 68 degrees or switch to a smart thermostat for automatic savings.
Change furnace and HVAC filters regularly to keep air moving freely and prevent breakdowns. Plus, clear space around your vents and furnace so your system can breathe.
Seal air leaks around doors, windows, and attic entryways to keep warm air where it belongs.
Lower your water heater to 120-125 degrees and wrap the tank with an insulation blanket.
Switch to LED lights for festive, energy-efficient decorating that lasts longer.
And that’s not all. Looking for more ways to save? Take a look at Dominion Energy’s new energy savings finder.
DreamHaus channels a moody big-city atmosphere in Shockoe Bottom.
Photo by Alex Burrus
Open
DreamHaus, Shockoe Bottom’s new cabaret theater, raised the velvet curtains for its grand opening this past weekend. If you want to check out the atmosphere, browse the theater’s upcoming events. If you’re naturally drawn to the stage, DreamHaus is seeking local talent.
Development
What’s in the future for Chesterfield Towne Center? Last Friday, the 40-year-old shopping mall was sold to firms based in New York and Switzerland. According to the development team, project proposals aim to improve and expand retail options with both national and local brands. (Virginia Business)
State
New nature trail, restored rail line, or both? This pending decision sparked conversation last week when the Virginia Department of Transportation proposed a double-header development in the Shenandoah Valley: a new 50-mile trail + the restoration of the Manassas Gap rail line. How much would each cost? (Virginia Mercury)
Announced
American rock band Alabama Shakes is coming to Richmond’s Allianz Theater in April 2026. Best known for songs like “Hold On” and “Sound and Color,” you can grab tickets starting this Friday, Dec. 19, at 10 a.m.
Transit
Incoming: timed-parking zones on Scott’s Addition’s main commercial streets, effective Monday, Jan. 5. Most residential parking will remain free, but be sure to check out the revised parking map to avoid tickets in 2026.
State
Dominion Energy’s Charitable Foundation awarded $3.5 million to nonprofit organizations nationwide, with about $2.3 million allocated to 208 nonprofits in Virginia. One of our local recipients included the Maggie Walker Community Land Trust.
Community
When Helen “Page” Powell started at Goodwill 12 years ago, she was looking for a healthy change. What she found was meaningful work, supportive coworkers, and room to grow. Get to know Page and how she lives Goodwill’s values every day.*
Civic
What would it take to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries — for good? The City of Richmond’s three-part radio series explores whether zero fatal crashes are possible, how law enforcement fits in, and the role of pedestrians, bikers, and drivers.*
Read
Staying behind on tech trends can be a career killer. The Code is a twice weekly newsletter with curated tech news, practical resources, and insights decoded. Join 100,000+ engineers who read The Code to stay ahead of the curve.*
The Buy
Add some fun and laughter to holiday gatherings with a few of our favorite card and board games. We love these five:
🎲 Put your drawing skills to the test in Telestrations — perfect for 4-8 players.
🎲 The award-winning game Flip 7 is self proclaimed “the greatest card game of all time.”
🎲 Shut the Box is an easy-to-play dice game for up to six players.
🎲 Perfect for parties, Ransom Notes will have your entire crew belly laughing.
🎲 Connect words with colors in an engaging game of Hues and Cues.
Like many Richmonders, I’m over the moon about Sub Rosa’s reopening. My go-to order has typically been a Sour Cherry + Pistachio pastry (the swirly one pictured here).
What’s your Sub Rosa fave?Share the love (and help me decide my next several orders).
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