Ghent Business District
Ghent is one of Hampton Roads’ most unique business districts.
In its few square blocks, there are artisans, eclectic gift shops, wonderful restaurants, and professional services. Our area’s oldest business landmarks — Naro Cinema and Doumar’s Cones and Barbecue — are both located in Ghent. Ghent thrives on its local pride and support. Many of the business owners grew up in the area, went to Maury or Granby High School, received degrees from Old Dominion University and stayed in the area to live and work. The Ghent Business Association plays an integral part of this community and coordinates events and activities all year long. Reminiscent of a time before mega malls and department stores, it has a high concentration of niche craftsman producing fine hand made products.
As the economy slowed, Ghent was affected like the rest of the nation, but not as severe. The business owners found that their niches kept them busy, as their specialties couldn’t be duplicated or cheapened. Small business is the backbone of our economy and supporting the local business districts like Ghent eases the recovery. When asked about opportunities in Ghent, Richard Levin said “I’m bullish on Ghent, its historic Ghent, it’s only going to get better.”
