Japanese Whisky and a Raw Bar From the Fiorella Team

It’s rare for a spinoff to be just as good as the original.

Just ask Matt LeBlanc.

But sometimes a spinoff can be truly great. You… probably see where we’re going with this.

Straight to Violet’s, an elevated new tavern from the Fiorella team with an impressive raw bar selection. It opens Thursday in the Richmond looking a lot like this.

You and your lovely companion will walk in and grab a pair of seats at the walnut- and mirror-backed central bar, nodding to the picture of a pipe-smoking ram named Violet hanging in the corner. Mostly because how could you not nod to a pipe-smoking ram?

Start with a round of Stolen Tarts and their vodka, Drouin Calvados, rosemary, house-made raspberry cordial, lemon and Bolivar Bitters. Yes, all those things. Or better yet, a Trans-Siberian Tea Service with Suntory Toki whisky, St. George California Citrus Vodka, plum wine, oolong tea, hibiscus, honey and bitters. Yes, all those things, too.

Conversation stirred, you’ll eventually retire to a dark blue booth to begin the difficult business of deciding between fresh oysters and shrimp cocktail from the raw bar or a double-patty burger with steakhouse fries and a sour pickle.

Or do both while simultaneously inventing the best surf and turf ever.