News Summary
The Blue Heron restaurant at River’s Rest Marina and Resort is scheduled to reopen by the end of May under new management by local businessman Billy Bryan. This beloved dining spot, closed since fall 2024, will offer a diverse menu featuring southern fare, seafood, and more. Plans also include community events and renovations to enhance the dining experience. The restaurant will move to year-round operation, integrating with the marina’s amenities, and aims to attract locals and visitors alike.
Charles City – The Blue Heron restaurant at River’s Rest Marina and Resort is scheduled to reopen by the end of May 2025 under new management. The eatery will be operated by Billy Bryan, an established local businessman who also owns the Richmond bakery Whisk. This reopening marks a significant change for the beloved dining spot, which has been closed since the fall of 2024.
Under Bryan’s management, the Blue Heron aims to capture the essence of the area’s culinary preferences. With plans to offer a diverse menu that includes southern fare, seafood, sandwiches, pizza, and a complete bar service, Bryan intends to pay homage to classic dishes from the restaurant’s previous menu. Highlights include a handmade burger, tasty sandwiches, fried chicken, and made-from-scratch sides, all tailored to attract both local residents and visitors arriving by boat.
The restaurant will operate seven days a week for lunch and dinner, and will additionally serve breakfast on weekends. To foster community engagement and entertainment, the Blue Heron plans to introduce a range of events, including Texas Hold ’em nights, live musical performances, and karaoke.
Recent renovations have breathed new life into the space, including upgrades to the kitchen, HVAC system, roof, and other key cosmetic improvements. Though the total cost of these renovations has not been disclosed, Bryan characterized the investment as significant, reflecting a commitment to revitalizing the restaurant. Additionally, he will manage the marina’s store, which sells fuel and fishing supplies, further integrating the restaurant with River’s Rest’s offerings.
River’s Rest Marina and Resort is owned by National Land Lease Capital, a branch of Richmond’s 1850 Investments, which aims to extend the restaurant’s service from a seasonal operation to one that is open year-round. The larger marina features amenities such as 126 seasonal RV campsites, 68 boat slips, a 21-room inn, a swimming pool, and a dog park, making it a popular destination in the area.
Billy Bryan has a personal connection to the Blue Heron, having been a loyal customer for two decades while living nearby. He discovered the opportunity to take over operations shortly after the previous management, Grub LLC, closed the restaurant. Bryan’s connection with the ownership group played a significant role in his decision, captivated by their vision for the property and its potential.
In 2022, 1850 Investments acquired and revitalized the former Blue Heron Marina, which has further established its footprint in the region. The company also owns several RV resorts in Virginia, Texas, and Massachusetts, as well as a cold storage operation in Suffolk. As the reopening approaches, the community of Charles City eagerly anticipates the return of the Blue Heron restaurant, a cherished spot for dining and social gathering.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Blue Heron Restaurant to Reopen at River’s Rest Marina
Additional Resources
- Richmond BizSense: Whisk Bakery Owner Reopening Blue Heron Restaurant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charles City
- WRIC: Neighbors Frustrated by Proposed Data Center
- Google Search: Charles City News
- Chicago Tribune: Proposed Dam Removals on Fox River
- Google News: Environmental Issues Fox River
