Richmond, Virginia has just gained a thrilling new spot that caters to sports aficionados and aficionadas of collectibles alike. Parlay at Graybo’s, nestled in the lively Scott’s Addition neighborhood, is not your typical hangout joint. It marries the convivial vibes of a sports bar with the captivating allure of a sports card shop, setting the stage for an unforgettable fusion.
The brainchild of Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, this exceptional destination is a place where patrons can relish the excitement of cracking open fresh card packs, engage in live card break sessions, catch live sports action on oversized screens, all while indulging in delectable food and drinks. The venue made its official debut on May 18 with a bang, treating guests to a viewing party of the Preakness Stakes, accompanied by live music and special entertainment.
Taking up residence in the former Circuit Arcade Bar space at 3117 W. Leigh Street, Parlay at Graybo’s seamlessly connects the sports bar and card shop through a breezeway adorned with a mini putting green, amplifying the interactive and immersive nature of the establishment.
The founding trio behind Parlay at Graybo’s brings with them a wealth of experience and a profound love for the sports card industry:
Duke Dodson, a card collector since the late 1980s, reignited his passion for collecting in 2021. With a solid business and finance background, Dodson has notably made his mark in the real estate realm in Richmond.
History buff Gray Burnette transitioned into this venture post his teaching career, drawn in after pandemic-related challenges in education.
Ryan Fitz, hailing from property management and tech spheres, focuses on customer engagement, injecting a modern twist into the business operations.
Influenced by nostalgic memories of their own collecting adventures and a vision to create a space catering not just to youngsters but also offering a sophisticated environment for adults, the trio transformed a modest card shop into a grander, more inclusive venue.
The new establishment features a significant expansion, with the sports bar spreading across 3,300 square feet and the card shop stretching to 2,200 square feet. This growth is expected to drive up foot traffic significantly, leveraging its prime location in a vibrant entertainment hub.
Parlay at Graybo’s introduces an exciting element where patrons can join or spectate live card breaks from the bar, infusing a thrill similar to that of game days. The founders have fostered a tight-knit community of collectors through avenues like their eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live break events, ensuring ongoing engagement with the collector community, both locally and beyond.
Pointing out the burgeoning collector scene in Richmond, Fitz emphasizes the welcoming space that Parlay at Graybo’s offers to enthusiasts of all levels. The closure of the previous venue, Circuit, paved the way for this fresh endeavor, seized by Dodson with the timely acquisition of the property.
This innovative amalgamation of a sports bar with a card shop sets a pioneering benchmark in the local scene, promising a distinctive, high-energy ambiance that will draw in sports buffs and collectors alike, promising an unforgettable and unique experience.
