Brazen

Brazen is like your annoying cousin who hasn’t grown up. It has a lot of potential but may be confused what they’re trying to be…a neighborhood bar? Fine dining? Family restaurant? Whatever it is, it missed the mark for us. First off, I had barely taken a seat and was told that I needed to leave by a certain time because they had another reservation. Bruh, I’m not planning on spending the night . . . I immediately felt unwelcome. When the food came, only two dishes were served, as the third dish was not what we ordered. Mistakes happen and yet we’re not talking about a high volume time - there were about 6 other tables seated, all of which had food. Then 2/3 of our party was highly disappointed with their food. The mockingbird, flavorless. The braised short ribs were also a miss. Thankfully, the salmon was delicious and one of us enjoyed our meal. Brazens prices are similar to other Richmond upscale restaurants (think Chez Foushee) and that’s where the comparison ends. I would hands down visit another Richmond institution who can figure out how to manage reservations and still make people feel welcome - bc this isn’t it.

We went early on Valentine's Day without a reservation and they were happy to squeeze us in better the reservations starting showing up. I had the special crusted mahi mahi and I thought it was really nice until i tried the braised shirt rib my wife ordered! It was fantastic! Seriously i didn't think you can go wrong with anything on the menu. The service is great and the atmosphere is "modern cozy". Highly recommended!

Great neighborhood spot in the Fan. People are sleeping on this place. The main bartender—and bar manager—, Jackson, is awesome. It is very clear he is inspired, engaged, and creative. Also just very personable and fun/funny. Star of the show IMO. I only had two drinks, an entree and dessert, but I plan to return soon with my girlfriend (or friends) and try the other options on the menu. I had the duck entree which was very well prepared/served and presented. Duck is one of my favorite things to eat in a restaurant setting—don’t usually make or eat it at home so it is a barometer of sorts for me. Brazen’s dish was spectacular. I also had the vegan baklava which was great. I had the Lunar Princess (IIRC this was the name), and an experimental cocktail prepared by Jackson. Both were great. Also met Doug. Didn’t catch his position but pretty sure he was a manager and or more. Super cool and friendly. I was very impressed by their spirits selection for a relatively smaller place. I had to drive so couldn’t imbibe too much, but the spirits selection was impressive. There was a snow/ice storm about a week ago so street parking was kind of whack but not too bad. Found a spot maybe a block away. I’ll also commend Brazen for their lighting—and music that was not overtaking everything. Too many places mess that up. Great atmosphere. Cannot wait to come back. Thank you!

My mother and I had an absolutely fantastic dinner at Brazen tonight. The food, service, and atmosphere were absolutely fantastic. They even made us custom cocktails and mocktails based on what we liked. Each food item was so delicious and full of flavor. We ordered the beets, braised short ribs, and scallops. Wouldn't change a thing. Can't wait to come back soon.

Had a really delicious meal here. The entrees looked great but I was drawn to their unique handhelds. The appetizer were ok. The handhelds are very big. The panna cotta is a winner. Service was great but only gave them a four because they only had one server and the restaurant got busy. The bartender ended up taking our order and waiting on tables. This resulted in drinks taking long for the entire restaurant. Overall it is a solid 5. Easy street parking.