vol. 108 / ComfortHere's to creating comfort and joy in this place we call home in the year ahead.
VOL. 108 / COMFORT
Here's to not only finding, but creating, comfort and joy in this place we call home in the year ahead. We've rounded up a few sources of inspiration, including the duo behind delicious southern-inspired meals made from scratch; a Richmond artist creating sculptures made from found objects; and a cozy neighborhoodshop that offers coffee and house plants! Read on ...
Comfort
Let's start by raising a glass to Jason Alley and Michele Jones, owners of Comfort, for sharing their love of food and community with Richmond and beyond. Over the past 17 years, Jason and Michele have racked up an impressive collection of culinary awards and are celebrated for turning Southern-inspired classics into modern hits. Beyond the accolades, their real claim to fame is the warmth and hospitality they bring to everything they touch. In recent years, the duo shifted their business model to focus on ending hunger in our area by donating net profits to Feedmore. Do yourself a favor and make a reservation now, as Jason and Michele announced earlier this week that they will be closing the doors to Comfort at the end of the month. But there's still time to stop in, dine with them, laugh with them, and to thank them!
From his Southside work space, artist Keith Ramsey creates practical art for everyday use. A creative force in the Richmond art scene for 20 years, Keith's art ranges widely—including sculptures made from found objects, cityscapes with towering buildings and an occasional peek at the sky painted with oil and acrylic on canvas, vibrant paintings that cast the viewer's eye skyward without the obstructions of the modern world, bikes that have been redesigned into conceptual art pieces, furniture that serves as functional art, and more. As one of the most inviting artists around, Keith can often be found painting on the patio at Crossroads Coffee & Ice Cream or inspiring other artists to pursue their passions. Seek him out, ask him about his latest creations, and dream up a collaborative piece with him.
Nestled in the perfect corner shop in Union Hill is Pomona Plants and Coffee. It's a place to linger while soaking in the plant vibes and enjoying a cup of coffee with friends and strangers alike. Thoughtfully curated by Frayser and Melissa Micou, Pomona is a two-in-one offering that has a little something for everyone. On the food and beverage side you'll find coffee by Blanchard's, housemade herbal sodas, nut-based milks, shrubs, grilled bread baked by nearby Sub Rosa, seasonal and housemade spreads, fruit chutneys, local cheese, and more. And on the retail side, Richmonders are treated to houseplants, pots, plant care tools, herbal based aroma therapy, greeting cards, and goods by local artisans. Whatever brings you to Pomona, you'll quickly settle in and feel right at home in this community gathering spot for all things comforting and connective.
