Local Restaurateurs Introduce New Dining Concept at Libbie Mill – Midtown

Libbie Mill – Midtown, the signature mixed-use community developed by Henrico-based Gumenick Properties, is thrilled to announce a new restaurant concept coming to the neighborhood later this year. Located at 4900 Libbie Mill East Boulevard in Suite 150, “OPA! Social” will occupy approximately 6,000 square feet of second-generation space in the Tanner Row building. The new venture comes from the owners of Lola’s Farmhouse Bistro, further enhancing Libbie Mill’s vibrant mix of dining destinations for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Eric Hess and Marianne Trak Hess, the heart behind Lola’s Farmhouse Bistro, bring a deep passion for hospitality, years of experience, and a genuine love for their community to every dish they serve. Marianne grew up in the restaurant industry – most notably at her family’s The Grapevine Greek & Italian Restaurant – where she spent more than 30 years honing her craft and cultivating her passion for exceptional service. Eric discovered his own love for the industry while working in restaurants during graduate school at VCU, where his passion for hospitality first took root. It was at The Grapevine that the two met and inspired one another to go after their dream of entrepreneurship. Together, they are excited to introduce a concept that blends Greek, Italian, and American cuisine, creating a welcoming space where rich culinary traditions, community, and heartfelt service come together. “We have been looking for another location since June of last year and fell in love with the space at Libbie Mill as soon as we walked in,” said owners Eric and Marianne Hess. “OPA! Social will be a welcoming, neighborhood gathering place featuring Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, but also serving a variety of Italian, and American foods – along with many of the wines, cocktails, and favorite dishes our guests have come to love from Lola’s Farmhouse Bistro. We’re excited to create a space where friends and families can come together, celebrate, and enjoy great food and hospitality. We can’t wait to open our doors and become part of this vibrant community.”

“We couldn’t be happier to welcome Eric, Marianne, and their team to Libbie Mill,” said Diane Tidwell, director of property management for Gumenick Properties. “Their extensive experience, diverse culinary perspective, and enthusiasm for hospitality will make them a wonderful addition to our community. We take pride in offering a unique collection of locally owned dining destinations - each bringing its own flavor and personality, from coastal and southern cuisine to baked goods and specialty provisions.” Libbie Mill – Midtown continues to experience strong growth with recent additions including RVA Bakehouse and Extended Studio, and the opening of Wrighthaven Square Apartments, the community’s fourth and newest apartment development. Wrighthaven Square Apartments diversifies the apartment style options available at Libbie Mill, providing walk-up buildings wrapped around an expansive, amenity packed clubhouse and swimming pool. The total rental homes available at Libbie Mill will be over 1,000 upon the completion of Wrighthaven Square. This quantity of diverse apartment homes creates a dynamic environment at Libbie Mill where both businesses and residents can thrive.

Only one retail space remains available within the community, located in the Emmer Row building, at 4901 Libbie Mill East Boulevard. To learn more about commercial leasing opportunities at Libbie Mill – Midtown, please visit www.libbiemill.com/commercialandretail.