Shagbark Restaurant

The story

Shagbark Restaurant Richmond | Seasonal American Cuisine & Award-Winning Wine

A Stage for Virginia’s Bounty

Shagbark takes its name from the hickory tree that grows along the James River, and that sense of rootedness runs through everything here. Chef & Owner Walter Bundy opened the restaurant in June 2016 with a clear mission: to turn the dining room into a stage for local farmers, fishermen, and artisans. The result is a menu that changes with the seasons, built around what Virginia’s land and waters provide. Working alongside chefs Randall Romero and Spencer Smith, Bundy’s kitchen delivers what the restaurant calls “modern up-south cuisine”—a phrase that hints at both tradition and reinvention.

The Space and the Spirit

The restaurant’s design nods to its namesake tree, with shagbark accents woven through the interior, including a show-stopping communal table that anchors the room. Guests can choose between the main dining rooms, a lively bar lounge, or a patio for impromptu gatherings. Two private dining rooms offer flexibility for multi-course dinners or cocktail parties. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming—a place where community comes together around the table.

A Wine Program That Earns Its Accolades

General Manager and Wine Director Rodney Rosser curates a wine list of more than 300 selections, with a focus on American and French wines. The list is constantly updated, and it’s priced accessibly, with many bottles under $50. That dedication has earned Shagbark a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence—a recognition the restaurant has received every year since opening. The award underscores the thoughtful pairing of wine with the seasonal American menu, and it’s a point of pride for the entire team.

Cocktails and Hospitality

Assistant General Manager Zach Angel leads the cocktail program, working with Richmond’s most talented mixologists to create drinks that match the kitchen’s seasonal ethos. Whether you’re stopping by for a single cocktail or settling in for a full evening, the bar lounge and patio welcome walk-ins with the same attentive service found in the dining rooms. Shagbark’s roots are deep, but its outlook is always forward.