Heart & Soul, Your Guide to Black Virginia

Matt's Charlottesville

Matt Harmon is a Charlottesville-based entrepreneur and the founder of Harmony Wine. His journey began with a simple mission: to make wine feel less intimidating, more inclusive, and accessible to everyone. That passion has since evolved into curating elevated experiences that bring people together through wine, craft cocktails, music, and culture.

Historic District & Downtown Mall

Alley Light

The Alley Light is a French spot that gives the speakeasy vibes as you walk down a literal alley with a single light outside of the entrance. Love the cocktails there great small plates, and is cozy and intimate which bodes well for date night or afterwork drinks.

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Historic District & Downtown Mall

Charlottesville Downtown Mall

The Downtown Mall is a vibrant collection of more than 120 shops and 30 restaurants housed in historic buildings along the city's Main Street. Enjoy dining al fresco at a number of fine restaurants or shop at a number of unique boutiques.

Historic District & Downtown Mall

Crush Pad

Crush Pad is a welcoming spot for everyone with an interest in wine, whether you’re a longtime collector or a weekend bottle popper. You can also order pasta, pizza, and salad from their sister restaurant Luce.

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Greater Charlottesville

IX Art Park + Looking Glass

The outdoor Ix Art Park is a mural and sculpture area open year-round to the public. It is the location of many events, festivals, and workshops throughout the year.

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Historic District & Downtown Mall

Jefferson School African American Heritage Center

Highlighting Charlottesville’s African American history and culture of the African diaspora through exhibits, galleries and events.

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Greater Charlottesville

MarieBette

A combined bakery and restaurant, MarieBette has become a favorite spot for Charlottesville residents looking for a delicious treat.

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Albemarle County

Saunders-Monticello Trail

Created and maintained by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation at Monticello, the Saunders-Monticello Trail currently stretches 2 miles along the Thomas Jefferson Parkway.

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Albemarle County

Southwest Mountains Vineyards

Southwest Mountains Vineyards is known for its idyllic scenery, pastoral vibe, and award-winning wine. Keswick is a beautiful and integral part of Virginia’s Monticello wine region.

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Historic District & Downtown Mall

Ten

Ten is a sushi restaurant that is on the Downtown Mall in Charlottesville. It's great for date night with an intimate setting and has great rolls. For a night out with friends it's great because of the location being surrounded by a few great bars.

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Paris

Richmond

Born and raised in Richmond, Paris is a flight attendant by day and a full-time Content Creator whose creativity never really turns off. For someone who travels daily for a living, coming home to RVA always feels like a “big hug after a long stretch of time away.” She’s had the chance to see the world and truly enjoys being immersed in other cultures and expanding her worldview, but the 804 will always be her home.

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Jarrell

Norfolk

Jarrell Williams is a storyteller, host, and creative marketer behind the award-winning Nomarama brand, celebrating culture, travel, food, and community. He has hosted numerous shows and helped craft dozens of authentic campaigns that inspire curiosity, connection, and joyful exploration.

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Xavier

Roanoke

Xavier Tramaine Duckett is a community leader, artist, entrepreneur, traveler, and mentor based in Roanoke, VA, where he was raised in a culture of service, generosity, and love for community. In 2015, Xavier moved back to Roanoke after finishing his football career at ODU, with the mission to not only give back to his community, but to uplift it. He recognized the need for local youth empowerment programs and founded nonprofit The Humble Hustle Co. with that in mind. Xavier has leveraged his diverse background to impact youth and inspire others. His work continues to uplift his community and its members.

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