Richmond, Virginia has been making waves recently with an impressive roster of exciting restaurant openings that’s turning the city into the next top foodie destination in America. While there's no shortage of mouth-watering options, here is the impressive lineup of restaurants in Richmond that's shaking up the dining scene in Virginia's capital.

The most notable leader of Richmond's elevated dining scene is Heritage , an Elby award-winning Restaurant of the Year in 2015. The exceptional menu of new American dining is constantly evolving to reflect the availability of local ingredients, and each dish is beautifully presented with style and flair. The artisan cocktail menu packs a punch with its blend of modern mixology and classic bartending techniques. The cozy dining area and bar are consistently packed so be sure to make a reservation.

Another award-winning restaurant that’s captured the attention of diners in Richmond is Rappahannock: Esquire Magazine’s Best New Restaurant in 2014. With its large, airy space and wraparound bar, the masses have flocked to the downtown restaurant post of the decades-old family-operated oyster and seafood company for their outstanding take on fresh, delicious local seafood. The oysters are, as expected, spectacular, tasting as if they had just been plucked right out of the sea.

A few doors down from Rappahannock, the large open kitchen at Pasture dishes out Southern classics with a contemporary twist in a simple, modern space. The second outpost of Chef Jason Alley of Comfort, another local favorite, Pasture focuses on inventive, seasonal menus served on small, sharable plates. The pimento cheese appetizer, a creamy and spicy concoction served with a side of Ritz crackers, hits all the marks.

Community and great food are the ideals driving the proprietors of The Dog and Pig Show, and the cozy atmosphere and delicious menu items reflect their passion. Chef James Eckrosh’s take on shrimp and grits is brilliantly executed with large, juicy gulf shrimp, cheesy grits, rich bacon butter, spicy kimchi, and garlic, all topped with delicate roe. The insanely delicious and sophisticated grilled cheese sandwich is no child’s play, either.

L'Opossum is yet another award-winning new restaurant in Richmond and the wildly decorated digs offer beautifully plated dishes from the creative menu. It may not be for everyone, since the imaginative dishes can sometimes lean toward eccentric. Still, if you can handle the flavor trip, the playful decor and fanciful menu lends itself to a fun environment, making it a dining option in Richmond that should be experienced.

Authentic Greek cuisine in Richmond makes its home at Stella's, a bustling Greek taverna-style outpost on a charming neighborhood corner. The large windows, decorative terra cotta pots, and communal table at the center makes for a warm, inviting dining space -- while the staples of Greek cuisine are anything but standard.