Baltik’s Bagel founder Yero Rudzinskas shares his journey from Michelin-starred kitchens and high finance to building one of Richmond’s most buzzed-about bagel shops. In this Eat It, Virginia! podcast episode, he reveals his bagel-making secrets, business philosophy, and why community connection drives his success.

You'll Learn:

• How Yero went from chef to banker to bagel maker.
• The process behind Baltik’s Bagel’s signature chewy, glossy crust.
• Why Richmond’s South Side was the perfect location for his Baltik’s Bagel.
• Tips for perfect bagels at home — fermentation, boiling, baking.
• His plans for expanding in Richmond’s growing food scene.
• Stories from New York City Bagel Fest People’s Choice win.

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Eat It, Virginia, co-hosts Scott Wise and Robey Martin sit down with Tim Gearhart, founder of Gearharts Fine Chocolates, to explore his 25-year journey in confectionery. Tim shares how his love for food began in Charlottesville, took him through a stint as a Marine Corps cook, and eventually led to opening one of Virginia’s most beloved chocolate shops in 2001.

He discusses the artistry behind Gearharts’ signature 16-piece collection, his seasonal creations, and the expansion into a Short Pump chocolate café.

Tim also unveils the story behind James River Chocolate Company and Gunny’s Bark, a veteran-inspired product benefiting the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.

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Eat It, Virginia hit the road to Scott’s Addition in Richmond for a trip to Pinky’s, a Mediterranean‑inspired tapas spot with big personality, unforgettable flavors, and a whole lotta heart. 💖

Owner & chef Steve DeRaffele dishes on everything that makes Pinky’s special, from his mom’s influence (and the nickname that became the restaurant’s name) to the open‑concept vibe, neighborhood events, and some of the most drool‑worthy plates in Richmond.

🍽 Highlights include:

• Tapas that span Spain, France, Italy, North Africa & Greece — totally different flavors on one table
• The legendary pork belly (salt‑cured, braised, crisped, and plated with pickled peppers, fresh orange zest & smoked paprika aioli)
• Gluten‑free fried calamari and other allergy‑friendly eats that make guests cry happy tears
• Steve’s DIY buildout with skills passed down from his grandfather who built diners
• Tropical, vacation‑vibe decor designed by his wife Brittanny (owner of local jewelry shop SUN & SELENE)
• Neighborhood parties like oyster nights, hot dog wine pairings, Friendsgiving, and more

If you love Richmond’s food scene or just want to meet the chef behind one of the city’s most talked‑about restaurants , you’ll want to watch this.

👉 Subscribe to Eat It, Virginia on YouTube or Spotify so you don’t miss our next stop in RVA and beyond! 📺 Watch more at CBS 6’s YouTube page or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

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