Richmond, Virginia, has a new hotspot that’s causing quite a buzz among sports enthusiasts and card collectors. Parlay at Graybo’s, nestled in the lively Scott’s Addition neighborhood, is the brainchild of Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette. These visionaries have brought together the dynamic energy of a sports bar with the interactive charm of a sports card shop, creating an unparalleled experience for patrons.
The grand opening of Parlay at Graybo’s on May 18 marked a momentous occasion for the trio as they unveiled this innovative concept to the public. The event was a vibrant mix of sports excitement, featuring live music, activities, and a viewing party for the Preakness Stakes. The venue, housed in the former Circuit Arcade Bar space on W. Leigh Street, cleverly connects the sports bar and card shop through a breezeway adorned with a small putting green, setting the stage for a truly engaging visit.
Duke Dodson, Gray Burnette, and Ryan Fitz each bring a unique background and passion to the venture. Dodson’s resurgence in card collecting, coupled with his expertise in real estate, Burnette’s transition from education to entrepreneurship, and Fitz’s blend of property management and tech prowess, form a solid foundation for Parlay at Graybo’s. Their childhood memories of collecting cards have inspired them to create a space that caters to all ages, offering a sophisticated yet welcoming environment for sports fans and collectors alike.
The expansion of Parlay at Graybo’s showcases the founders’ commitment to providing top-notch experiences for their patrons. The 3,300 square foot sports bar and 2,200 square foot card shop offer ample space for guests to explore, dine, watch games, and partake in live card breaks. This growth bodes well for the venue, located in a hub of entertainment activity, poised to draw in crowds seeking a fresh and exhilarating social setting.
One standout feature of Parlay at Graybo’s is the opportunity for customers to engage in live card breaks from the bar, heightening the thrills akin to game days. The founders have also cultivated a tight-knit community of collectors through their eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks, fostering connections both locally and beyond. Fitz recognizes the diverse collector base in the Richmond area, ranging from newcomers to seasoned investors, solidifying the venue as a welcoming space for all.
The closure of the previous establishment, Circuit, paved the way for Dodson’s timely acquisition of the property, leading to the inception of Parlay at Graybo’s. This fusion of a sports bar with a card shop represents a groundbreaking concept in the region, promising a dynamic atmosphere that appeals to sports aficionados and collectors alike. The melding of these two worlds creates a vibrant, immersive experience that is set to captivate visitors and establish Parlay at Graybo’s as a must-visit destination in Richmond.
