Tommy McPhail

Connect with Tommy

Love Richmond? Tell us why and receive invites to exclusive events and more.

Why do you love Richmond?

Since day one, this city has been so good to me. I've met loads of fantastic people, tasted so many great dishes, and truly felt like I was part of this community every step of the way. 

What’s your favorite thing to do in Richmond?

A typical night involves me either seeing bands or playing in my own, if not eating my way through every plate of nachos I can find. I'm a big fan of the Coalition Theater, and can't say no to a trip to Bowtie Cinemas. 

What do you do here?

I'm a project manager for Antimatter Co., a local web design firm. I'm also a communications strategist at Big Spoon. Full disclosure - Big Spoon manages the digital side of OutRVA, including this very website!

What’s your favorite restaurant?

In four years, few dishes satisfy like a heaping plate of nachos and tacos from Don't Look Back. I'm there at least once a week. Kuba Kuba also serves some mean Cubanos, and I'm partial to Pasture's overall experience because their staff is top-notch. All three are at the top of my list. 

What would you tell somebody who has never been to Richmond?

Don't listen to the guides/review sites. Figure out what YOU want out of a new city and seek those things out. Even though I've lived here for four years, every night out brings a vibrant, unique experience. 

What's your favorite store?

World of Mirth has too many hidden gems to pass up, honestly.  

How do you spend your free time?

WHAT IS THIS "FREE TIME" CONCEPT YOU SPEAK OF? Between playing in my band/going to shows, making YouTube videos, volunteering, tweeting at Michael Jordan every day and being a real-life golden snitch for VCU's quidditch team (it's a legit thing, and they are awesome), I almost never have a spare afternoon. I do enjoy running through the Fan in lieu of a full-workout though. So many dogs!

What's your favorite neighborhood?

Again, the Fan. ALL THE DOGS, ALL THE TIME!

How do you describe your community?

My community is empowering. Almost everyone here wants to help however they can, which makes for a wonderful collective of folks doing great things. I couldn't live somewhere that didn't prioritize collaboration, and RVA hits the mark for sure. 

Anything else you would like to add?

I'd love to see even more street art, disruptive media, and creative uses of community spaces for social change. As progressive as Richmond can be, I know there's so many stories out there waiting to be told. Get out there and help make RVA awesome!