So, I have never written a review about any restaurant or bar unless it is given on a comment card prior to leaving. Alas, my day has come to do such, with a little nudging from our server, who said it was not only helping him out but others who read up before cutting in and not just blindly choosing a restaurant. We were those blind diners but sure glad we stumbled across this gem. 8/29 Service. Justin - who was 'fabulous' (literally) to say the least, was such a joy to meet. Not only was he prompt throughout, he knew the food and beer menu as if he wrote it himself, which he swears he didn't but we think otherwise, but he also recited the cocktail menu (names, ingredients, and prep) which was not provided due to updates or refinement or "unscheduled and unroutine cleaning." He told us the meaning of Social52, about the huge party we missed for the anniversary, about crazy virginia alcohol laws, and how delicious the brussel sprouts were with gorgonzola. We asked why there were so many employees working, he responded with something along the lines of, "to give you the best you deserve, just think, I don't know you when you walk through that door, but you are my paycheck therefore you are royalty." We could not have asked for anyone better to treat us as such. He was the perfect host for our first time at Social52. WHEN we do come back if he is there, we won't sit in any other section. Drinks. After an elaborate and well versed walk through leading up to drink decisions, I decided to go with his favorite pair combo and my comrade went with his favorite special-tini... The Crabbie Mule was fantastic, if not a little too dangerous when mixed with the full ginger beer in a larger glass, and the London Fizz was a perfect blend of what we were told was low-fat because it is made with fresh lime juice and agave and because it was technically the weekend. As for the water we were insured we were getting "broad streets best" and that was fine cause we were never low. Food. By recommendation we started off with the "I promised it's still a vegetable, even though it's fried...then tossed in butter...then sprinkled with SMOKED salt...then topped with cheese." None other then the terrific brussel sprouts, who could say no to that, accompanied by the number one (possibly second) selling duck spring rolls with two delicious dipping sauces. Only down side is that the spring rolls didn't have enough time to drain, as just after picking one up the oils accumulated on the plate, as well as my impatient lap. Next we progressed to two split-able sea side suppers, the Thai Shrimp flatbread and the Shrimp 'N' Grits. Again going with Justin's suggestions, we were not let down, both had a slight bite to them, which was great. Another down side, I wish I wouldn't have shared! As for dessert, which we had to take away. We were informed there was a mousse but it would not be the same without the presentation. So we opted for the Nutella Cheesecake, much to our dismay we left at the next stop we had visited for continued drinking/night cap. Although with regard to all the above mentioned, I am positive it was superb. We thoroughly enjoyed everything that was prepared for us, from start to finish. We are completely looking forward to eating and drinking our way inside and out of Social52. Also another server side note, he said don't mention it because there is no way they can change the pay rate but Justin deserves more then 2.13$/hr, he can satisfy above and beyond that! Instead he told us that writing a Yelp review meant more, although more money is always a bonus - *hinthint* Everything made a wonderful lasting impression. Until next time Social! read more

Loud, fratty, and an overall disappointment. Visited Social 52 for drinks and the service was very slow despite not being very busy. I miss Avalon. read more

The first time I went here the food was good, but the bartender was rude and acted as if we were annoying her for ordering more than one drink. The second time I came was for brunch last weekend, and the food was cold, you could tell the eggs had been sitting under heat lamps for 20 minutes...yuck, and there were only a few tables that morning so they weren't too busy. There are many other great places to eat and drink in this area. I probably will not be returning to Social 52 anytime soon. read more

We came here last night with a bunch of friends because sticky rice was packed. I was very very pleased. The atmosphere was great, our server was on point and my burger was really good!! They are definitely one of the best craft bars in RVA! read more

Great decor with mediocre food and limited menu. They do have great TV viewing from the bar but that's about where the positives end.

Brunch is good. Everyone seems to like the chicken and waffles. Servers are super nice! Mimosas are heavy on ice, so you're better off buying your own OJ and André for your mimosas at home. read more

This is one of our favorites in richmond. So good we had our wedding rehersal here. Everytime we go, the food is different and delicious. Always a good selection. We love the breads and spreads, Brussel sprouts, and black bean burger. As a vegetarian, where else can you go and get a double decker veggie burger??? My husband has had the duck special, burgers, and more and has always been very happy. We have always loved their brunch. They always play fantastic music and the staff is attentive, friendly, and very attractive. The happy hour is one of the most affordable in town, great apps, and craft beers. If you need a private event, use this place. Lauren ran and planned our event and did fantastic. We had 60+ people and it was flawless. Everyone had a blast. Not sure why the bad reviews are on here but try this place, it's amazing. read more

AMAZING EXPERIENCE! The food was wonderful and the drinks were amazing; but the service was even better! The food arrived quickly and was very delicious. I would recommend the steak with mashed potatoes and asparagus. One of the dishes wasn't what I expected but the manger was really friendly and offered me a complimentary appetizer for when I returned the next time. I will be returning VERY soon! read more

Tough shoes to fill as Avalon was the stuff of legends... but I've tried twice and couldn't find any reason to choose this place in a city full of great choices. Trying hard to look like someone cares, but I really don't think anyone calling the shots here does. read more

Visited Social 52 this evening after being closed for renovation. Very nice bar and lively atmoshere. Very attentive bartenders and food was good too!!! read more

Horrible. We went for my birthday and were sandwiched in a booth where we couldn't move our arms. I asked to move and they said all the other tables were reserved...no one ever came and sat at the tables. Our server, a 20-something blonde girl, was very rude. Not pleasant at all. Rolled her eyes often when we weren't ready to order and was never nice once. She also never wished me happy Birthday when I was drinking out of a "birthday girl" glass(A food runner did though). Onto the food- not good at all. All medium burgers were cooked to death, my cowboy burger was missing the pimento cheese, our flatbread apparently fell on the floor back in the kitchen (yet they still brought it out) so we lost a piece, but they brought us another, and my salad came with blue cheese dressing instead of ranch. All In all, a really bad birthday/dinner experience with friends. Don't go there to eat or for good Service. I'm sure it's fun drinking at the bar and that's about it. read more

We had a great night at Social52. We had an excellent local cider on tap along with 4 different apps-all great. Mac n' cheetos, beer bacon and cheddar bread, fried deviled eggs and (the best one) fried brussel sprouts. The deviled eggs sounded good but were a little overdone when fried. read more

Great Birthday Dinner! Great atmosphere (not cave-like as some Fan restaurants tend to be). My new favorite Fan restaurant. Wonderful combination of starters and salads for dinner tonight, and every bite was delicious! Highly recommend the firecracker shrimp, flatbread with duck confit, and the brussel sprouts, as well as the BLT salad (would have been even better with some spring greens or arugula) and beer, bacon and cheddar bread...YUM! Our desserts were fantastic -- chocolate mousse with truffles and today's homemade ice cream -- pistachio (the only pistachio ice cream I've ever had that actually tasted like pistachios...and maybe a hint of almond?). All in all, a wonderful meal and wonderful service. read more

Nothing but good things to say about Social 52.. We held my daughters birthday party here and it was such a great experience. The food was incredible and the staff was so accommodating and helpful.. Atmosphere was great and seemed like it would be a great place to hang out with friends and catch a game.. Would definitely use this establishment for future events... read more

Horrible staff!! It took 15 minutes to receive our drinks and the restaurant wasn't very busy. They were also unwilling to change out very simple requests, like hold egg in a burrito and add grilled chicken. Everyone at the table agreed they would not be going back. read more

Cocktail list is A+. The atmosphere is better than that of the older bars in the neighboring area but it loses a bit of the rustic charm.

We had a small issue with our first visit and brought it up to management. They asked us back to make it right- and they did! I had the Jambalaya Risotto and it was amazing! We will definitely be back! read more

I'm not even a burger girl but the Cowboy burger is the best thing I've put in my mouth all week. That with the sweet potatoes fries was perfection! Think it's only $5 on Wednesday's too. read more

I must say management is on top of things here. My friend and I were seated next to a large partying party! Our waitress immediately sensed that the large party was going to be disruptive and apologized that there wasn't another table available. The place was pretty full on a Saturday night at 7:30-- prime time. We ordered a bottle of wine (selection is very slim, while the beer list was a book of its own, but too bad I'm not a beer drinker), our attentive waitress brought it right away. By then the rowdy table's party was spreading to all surrounding tables (some sort of going away party? But they weren't going any where soon). A table opened up in another part of the restaurant and we were thankfully moved, our food came-- lamb meatballs. Very tasty with just the right amount of rich gravy. My friends salmon was "meh" (her official review). Then the manager came by to apologize for the loud table and to make sure we were comfortable, then the host stopped by a while later with an apology and a check in. I explained that the rowdy table was no reflection on them. But nice that they were all so very attentive. After our entrees we ordered some specialty cocktails (with peaches) but after some time, an apology from the waitress for the delay (actually hadn't noticed a long wait) but she explained the peaches were being tracked down. When the cocktails arrived we were surprised at the large size! We excepted martini glasses but they were served in large mason jars! But due to the "delay" they generously comped us the beverages. So nice! By the time we left at 10:00 the restaurant was turning into "the bar" and a line was forming out the door. Good to see it's doing well. We will have to check out the brunch. read more

Food was good. But ingredients were left off of a meal that was ordered straight as the menu stated. Also the server was quite rude and clearly didn't want to wait on us. No idea why because a larger party usually makes it worth it. Even though, we were pleased with the food for the most part, won't be going back. read more

Great food and even better service. The menu has a great variety of food, everyone in our group found something they loved. The highlight of the night though was the service. Our waitress was incredibly friendly and personable. After our meal we went to the bar for drinks and couldn't recommend Braeden and Bria more as bartenders. read more

Great place. Good food. Great happy hour. Staff is erratic. Some better than others. Love Nicky (really really love Nicky) Lauren is great Chris is great. Mike is great. Joe not a fan of read more

Good value for happy hour. delicious fried brussel sprouts.

Great service, friendly, innovative menu and very nice craft beer menu in a wonderful part of RVA. Nothing but good things to say here.

Funday mimosas are where it's at! Food was good, my poached eggs were slightly over but the service was great and, as mentioned above, mimosas were fantastic! read more

I am super impressed with this place! I saw an ad for it & literally stumbled upon it! A tourist to the area! Super cool little neighborhood & a cool little local place! The food was absolutely delicious! Fresh & tasty! Great kids menu too & I loved my salad & wine! I had the BBQ pork salad but substituted chicken! OMG SOO good!!! Just the right amount of dressing & you could taste the grilled corn in the salad! Delicious! My daughter loved her pasta with Parmesan & Nutella Cheesecake! All a home run! Our server was awesome & the owner was equally delightful to talk with! I highly recommend if in the area or to make a trip to visit! I will be back!!! read more

Mother's Day brunch with family and it was very good. The service was good and the varied menu had something for everyone. Kids menu of French toast sticks to grilled cheese that were all good, waffle and chicken served with both syrup,and gravy for a nice touch, butterfly shrimp and French toast sounds an unusual combination but very tasty, normal breakfast of eggs, bacon, potatoes were cooked just right, the she crab soup was creamy although a bit shy on crabmeat but excellent flavor, a good lunch salad. The menu of beverages is large. The service was very good and attentive to our party of eight with 3 children. read more

Absolutely terrible experience. We never really saw our server. The hostess had to take our drink and food orders (after we had already been waiting 15 minutes). We got there at 7 and didn't get our food until 7:40. The food was ok at best. I got a blue shroom burger and my girlfriend got the salmon. My burger was undercooked (which I don't mind), but it was very bland and fell apart quickly. My girlfriends salmon was also very bland and the potato strips on top of the fish were undercooked. We also got a basket of sweet potato fries, but were also let down by those. All in all it was not a good experience and we certainly won't be going back. If you're looking for a good burger in the same area, just go to citizen burger. 1000 times better with a cheaper menu read more

Their brunch is so delicious and affordable. Honestly when they first opened, I had the worst service and never wanted to go back. But today between the food and our awesome waitress Lindsey, I'm hooked! She spent time going through the menu and making suggestions which I always appreciate, and checked in whenever we needed anything. Their brunch options have both classics and unique twists. The pitcher of mimosas had 4 full glasses worth for $11! Great food, drinks, and staff. read more

Good beer but wouldn't recommend buy food here. The food is okay but would rather big food somewhere else due to the higher prices.

Four stars overall. Great food and decent portions for the price. Closest thing to bottomless brunch in Richmond, they even offer a few twists on the classic mimosa. Visited today for the first time for Brunch and was really impressed up until it was time to receive our check...our waitress after being awesome the whole time literally forgot about us after the check was requested. After twenty minutes of waiting (and watching her take care of her other two tables) we tried to track her down when she was picking up drinks for another table of hers at the bar, but she turned around and went into the kitchen. After another 15 minutes of waiting, instead of walking out on our checks (which we would have, if karma didn't exist) we grabbed the hostess who promptly, and apologetically returned to our table with our checks. She stated that the delay was due to the fact that our waitress had to show the new employee where the shed was...kind of weird. We inquired where this shed was, and she pointed to the back of the restaurant where there were a few cars parked. (We assumed that the shed would be blocks away, or have 16 different padlocks, and after a little unsuccessful post brunch investigating we gave up hope of ever locating this mystical shed.) Needless to say, the hostess did turn things around for us by bringing us a round of drinks on the house, but unfortunately due to being held "social" hostage for 35+ minutes, this place gets four stars. Perhaps next time won't be as sheddy... read more

Went there for a Sunday Brunch. Food was excellent. Service was great. Mimosas and make your Bloody Mary cart was fantastic. Will be back to try lunch and dinner. Great tap beer selection. read more

The food here is AMAZING. The atmosphere is young and very fun, modern yet very Richmond-y. I recently hosted an event here and would highly recommend it. The entire process was made super easy for me because everything was taken care of from the menu for the Buffett to the DJ and decorations. All I had to do was get people to come. Try the mac and cheetohs! read more

Service was initially slow due to two large groups that walked in off the street. The waitress quickly recovered and later the owner came over and apologized and comped our first round. Food was very good- I had burger and sweet tato fries that were out of this world. My bride had ravioli in a sun dried tomato sauce that was just the right mix of rich and creamy. Definitely on the return list. read more

My family and I really enjoyed our Saturday afternoon dinner with Social 52. We had shrimp n grits burgers and fries and a veggie burger with cool refreshing drinks and spirits our server surely exceeded our expectations and is the reason we gave 5 stars instead of 4 read more

Great bar. Great craft beer selection. The food will fill you up. The cheetos Mac and cheese is unreal good. I'd recommend to anyone looking for a good drink and some solid food! read more

Went to Sunday brunch with my friend, mimosa was good but could've been stronger. Brunch brisket was delicious and my friend's omelet was good and home fries were tasty. Atmosphere was friendly and welcoming and not too loud. Waitress was attentive. read more

First night in town and staying in the neighborhood so my husband and I stopped in for a drink and a light dinner. The selection of wine and beer was quite good. I had the Sangria. It was excellent with fresh strawberries and peaches. Both bartenders were attentive, pleasant and helpful. Although the menu was pleasingly diverse, we both decided on the Caesar with added steak. The salad was cold and crisp with a nice dressing and flavorful croutons. The steak came out medium as requested and was flavorful and tender. We had a great dining experience. read more

Hands down the BEST brunch in RVA. And I have been to multiple places for brunch in Richmond.... quite literally every restaurant on Main St. and quite a few in Carytown. The chicken and waffles are to die for. Has a delicious chicken gravy on top and the chicken is super juicy and fresh. Also, great mimosas. Also you seriously cannot beat the $10 burger and brew night in Wednesday's. A craft beer and specialty burger for only $10 and the burgers aren't your typical burgers they are amazing... I personally like the Diablo. Fries are extra, but are super delicious. This place has become my favorite spot in Richmond. Also great craft beer selection check it out!! read more

I had the great good fortune of stopping by Social 52 for dinner last Friday. I cannot say enough good things about this restaurant. I travel a lot in my job as a result I eat at a lot of restaurants; from the very high-end to the mediocre. Few if any can match Social 52's balance of casual charm, inventive menu, great service, excellent food and all at a very fair price. What else can I say - run to Social 52 and make it your regular hang-out! read more