Richmond, Virginia, has recently unveiled a groundbreaking establishment that merges the thrill of a sports bar with the allure of a sports card shop. Parlay at Graybo’s, situated in the vibrant Scott’s Addition neighborhood, offers a one-of-a-kind experience for sports enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The brainchild of Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, Parlay at Graybo’s was inaugurated with much fanfare on May 18. This innovative venue serves as a communal hub where patrons can revel in opening fresh card packs, engage in live card breaks, and catch live sporting events on large screens, all while relishing delicious food and drinks.
Nestled in the historical Scott’s Addition area, Parlay at Graybo’s occupies the former location of the Circuit Arcade Bar at 3117 W. Leigh Street. The seamless connection between the sports bar and card shop through a breezeway, embellished with a miniature putting green, enhances the interactive essence of the venue.
The founding trio each brings a unique background and fervor for the sports card industry. Duke Dodson, a real estate stalwart in the Richmond region, reignited his card collecting passion after decades. Gray Burnette, a former educator with a penchant for history, transitioned into this venture following the tumultuous educational landscape during the pandemic. Ryan Fitz, with expertise in property management and technology, injects a modern flair into the operational aspects of the business.
Parlay at Graybo’s was sparked by the founders’ nostalgia for collecting during their formative years and a vision to create a sophisticated space catering to both children and adults. This vision has transformed the initial modest sports card shop into an expansive, multifaceted venue that appeals to a diverse demographic.
The venue’s expansion sees the sports bar covering 3,300 square feet and the card shop sprawling across 2,200 square feet, ensuring ample space for guests to bask in the vibrant ambiance. Positioned in an entertainment-rich locale, the increased square footage is poised to attract a plethora of visitors seeking a unique experience.
A standout feature at Parlay at Graybo’s is the live card breaks that patrons can partake in or observe from the bar, infusing a thrilling game-day element. The founders cultivate a strong collector community through avenues such as an eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks, fostering engagement both locally and in the digital realm.
Ryan Fitz highlighted the burgeoning collector base in the Richmond area, emphasizing the inclusive nature of Parlay at Graybo’s, which caters to rookies, aficionados, and investors alike. The opportune acquisition of the property post the closure of the previous venue, Circuit, enabled Dodson to materialize this innovative concept into reality.
This pioneering fusion of a sports bar and card shop epitomizes the duality of sports excitement and collecting fervor, promising patrons an unmatched, immersive experience. Parlay at Graybo’s stands as a testament to creativity and innovation, beckoning sports fans and card collectors to converge in a dynamic, electrifying setting.
