Two students having their coffee at cafe

10 Best Coffee Shops in Richmond, Virginia (2024)

Henry
Henry Muller
Barista

Richmond is not just known for its culture and history.

But also for its flavorful coffee.

So if you are a coffee lover who needs a quick caffeine fix at reasonable prices, then this blog is for you.

Here I will share with you the list of the most beloved coffee shops in Richmond.

These cafes serve tasty food and are also aesthetically pleasing.

So let's get started.

10 Best Coffee Shops in Richmond

1) Proper Pie Co.

Outer view of Proper Pie Co. cafe

Why to visit

Proper Pie Co. is not just a bakery – it's a destination where people who love pie and coffee can get their cravings fulfilled. Both locals and visitors love to visit this cafe. It is best known for its Banana Cream Pie and Sausage Roll. If you visit here, give their Buttermilk Raspberry a try. The staff over here is very attentive and the overall cafe has a great ambiance.

Popular food dishes

  • Banana Cream Pie
  • Sausage Roll

Popular drinks

  • Buttermilk Raspberry

Location

2505 E Broad St #100, Richmond, VA 23223-7269     

Operating hours

Mon - Tue (Closed) & Wed-Sun (12–6 pm)

Average ratings

4.5/5

Customer reviews

1) Yummy and cool

Delicious niche place. Loved the whole atmosphere and sitting in the park to eat them. Great selections, definitely get there early though as lines add up!

- Madeleine O

2) Yummy little pies

We just stopped here to grab lunch on our way to our next stop in our vacation. These pies were better than we expected. So delicious and tasted fresh. We were trying to figure out if it’s a franchise so we could have a chance to have more. Sadly, we’re out of luck. Highly recommend for sure. We loved the chicken pesto and sun dried tomato the best.

-Elizabeth R (Bradenton)

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-343-7437

2) Garnett's Cafe

Inside view of Garnett's Cafe

Why to visit

If you are planning a fulfilling dinner in Richmond, then visit this hidden gem, Garnett's Cafe. Renowned for its mouthwatering sandwiches and welcoming ambiance, this cafe is the perfect spot for a great lunch or a quick bite on the go. Their Tuna Nicoise on ciabatta and The Big Daddy sandwich are really satisfying. It operates from 11 am to 2:30 pm and 4 pm to 9 pm every day.

Popular food dishes

  • Tuna Nicoise on ciabatta
  • The Big Daddy                                                                    

Location

2001 Park Ave, Richmond, VA 23220, United States

Operating hours

Everyday (11 am–2:30 pm, 4–9 pm)

Average ratings

4.5/5

Customer reviews

1) Great Lunch Spot

This spot earns it's excellent reviews. Great sandwiches, nice vibe, fun decor and excellent cake to top it off.

- Anne G

2) Great sandwiches

We ordered the Dutch Aunt and Croque Provençal and they were delicious. The potato salad was not to my liking because I’m not a fan of capers and onions in it. However the other people in our party loved it. The restaurant is extremely small so the service was slow. That was to be expected so we just enjoyed each others company while waiting.

-Melissa V

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-367-7909

3) Early Bird Biscuit Co

Inside Counter view of Early Bird Biscuit Co

Why to visit

If you like the crunchy delights then visit the Early Bird Biscuit Co cafe. This cozy cafe specializes in all things biscuit-related. It has various items included in its menu from classic breakfast sandwiches to tasty coffee cakes. It's open from 7 am to 1 pm Tuesday to Friday and 7 am to 12 pm on Saturdays. Give your day a good start with the flavorful dishes from this cafe.                                        

Popular food dishes

  • Early Bird Biscuit
  • Sausage Egg Cheese Biscuit
  • Breakfast Sandwich
  • Coffee Cake
  • Bacon Egg
  • Cheese Biscuit Sandwich        

Location

119 N Robinson St, Richmond, VA 23228, United States

Operating hours

Sunday and Monday (Closed) & Tue - Fri (7 am–1 pm) & Sat (7 am–12 pm)

Average ratings

4.5/5

Customer reviews

1) Must try while in Richmond!

Had an amazing breakfast sandwich with coffee! Huge portions. Biscuits were delicious. Need to get back to Richmond for more!

- Kirstenna  (New York)

2) Great hidden gem!

Saw this cute biscuit place and swerved across a lane of traffic to pull over. It did not disappoint! We ordered a biscuit and coffee. Biscuit was served with homemade jam—both were absolutely delicious. Ambiance was super cute and and the staff was friendly and warm. Highly recommend!

- Sally C

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-335-4570    

4) Whisk

Whisk cafe.jpeg

Why to visit

If you are craving something sweet, straight head to Whisk. This charming bakery has a vast menu that includes mouth-watering sandwiches to yummy pastries. Their bestseller Bacon, Cheddar, Croissant Bread Pudding, and their famous butter croissants taste so good. It is the perfect place with an overwheming ambiance to satisfy your sweet tooth any day of the week.

Location

2100 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23223, United States

Operating hours

Sun - Mon (7:00 am - 2:00 pm) & Tue - Sat (7:00 am - 4:00 pm)

Average ratings

4.5/5

Customer reviews

1) Exceptional

Fabulous food! We had a roast Turkey sandwich and a sensational Bacon, Cheddar, Croissant Bread Pudding! Good iced coffee and the mind blowing Double Chocolate Brownie for dessert. We came back a day later to get some brownies to take home to Fla.!

-cordyroy    

2) Hands Down Best Croissants

We have continued to return over the years for the croissants alone. The prosciutto fig and goat cheese one is just okay. The chive butter (I think) is the favorite of my teenager. The chocolate croissant is pretty good. However, the ULTIMATE favorite that keeps us coming back and not trying some of the other goodies is the basic butter croissant. It is the best I have ever tasted and we have tried a few over the years at different bakeries on the east coast trying to duplicate the experience. Service is always pleasant and prompt.

-Nikzleez (Prince George)

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-728-1576

5)  Urban Farmhouse Market and Cafe

Outside view of Urban Farmhouse Market and Cafe

Why to visit

For a great dining experience with good food and vibes, Urban Farmhouse Market and Cafe is perfect. This cozy cafe is cherished for its vast menu. They use fresh ingredients sourced locally to make their popular Veggie Sausage and Cage-Free Egg Sandwich. Complete your meal with a refreshing Earl Grey Tea with Almond Milk. With operating hours from 8 am to 3 pm, Monday to Friday, Urban Farmhouse Market and Cafe is the ideal place for a delicious breakfast or lunch.

Popular food dishes

  • Veggie Sausage
  • Cage Free Egg Sandwich    

Popular coffee drinks

  • Earl Grey Tea with Almond Milk

Location

2100 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23223, United States

Operating hours

Mon - Fri (8 am–3 pm) & Sat-Sun (Closed)

Average ratings

4.5/5

Customer reviews

1) Breakfast visit

Wonderful breakfast experience at Urban Farmhouse. Had the everything bagel with salmon and capers on top. Truly delicious!

-Ted G
Westport    

2) Delicious lunch and super friendly staff

We were greeted with a warm welcome by staff in this bright airy market/cafe, a popular spot with locals. Delicious menu options and lots of fresh juice choices. Loved the tarragon tuna salad sandwich and friend enjoyed scrumptious avocado toast. Both came with side fresh fruit cup: Asian pear slices w/heavenly purple grapes splashed with a dash of balsamic vinegar. Inspired. All three staff members were engaging and friendly making us out-of-towners feel right at home. Set in historic Richmond very near a wonderful bookshop: The Fountain. Worth a visit!

-Marina Reader    

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-562-9246

6) Best Cafe VMFA

Inside best cafe VMFA

Why to visit

Best Cafe VMFA is the perfect spot to have delicious food before exploring the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Whether you're craving a quick coffee or a fulfilling meal, this cafe has you covered. Try their All Beef Hot Dog or satisfy your cravings with a Greek Pizza. It's so delicious that you can never say no to it. Give your meal a nice finish with an Illy Espresso for a caffeine boost.

Popular food dishes

  • All Beef Hot Dog
  • Greek Pizza
  • Tuna Salad on Brioche soup

Popular coffee drinks

  • Illy Espresso    

Location

200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220, United States    

Operating hours

  • Mon - Tue (10 am–5 pm) & Wed - Fri (10 am–9 pm)
  • Sat (10 am–5 pm) & Sun (10 am–4:30 pm)

Average ratings

4/5

Customer reviews

1) Grab a Coffee and Enjoy the Art
Make sure you stop here for a quick coffee and a snack before you enjoy the beautiful art at the VMFA. It's my go-to when I am in the area.

-Brendan    

2) Quick Bite
This is a very good option for lunch while visiting the museum Cafeteria style with many choices for many palettes!

-gcollins

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-340-1405    

7) The Lift Coffee Shop

 Gallery view of The Lift Coffee Shop

Why to visit

The Lift Coffee Shop is a cozy spot in Richmond to enjoy a cup of coffee with some delicious bites. From their famous Whitman Strawberry to their Brie Croissant, there's something for everyone. Their barista's positive vibes are so catchy and heart-warming. Also the food and coffee are so reasonable and yummy. 9/10 visitors visit them for sure after their first visit experience.

Popular food dishes

  • Whitman Strawberry
  • Brie Croissant
  • Spicy Sausage
  • Hummus Veggie

Location

218 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220, United States    

Operating hours

Sat - Tue (10:00 am - 5:00 pm) & Wed - Fri (10:00 am - 9:00 pm)

Average ratings

4/5

Customer reviews

1) Cofee and a Bite

Nice! Coffee and avacado toast. Just the perfect start to our Wednesday adventure. Light, tasty and a good ol' fashioned cup of black coffee, no cream, no sugar. Thanks!

-Kelly & Michele
Nashville    

2) Yummy coffee & friendly atmosphere made my day!

After a less-than-stellar morning, I needed a pick-me-up. And coffee. Found The Lift and was so happy I did. The lavender latte was absolutely divine, and the breakfast sandwich I ordered came was served to me steaming hot. It didn’t last long. What’s more, the barista’s positive vibes were contagious. The Lift delivered exactly what I needed, quickly and at a reasonable price. If I ever return to Richmond, I will definitely be back.

-G-Thing44

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-344-5438

8)  Bell Cafe

Inside view of Bell Cafe

Why to visit

If you like the Southern hospitality, head to Bell Cafe. This aesthetic cafe offers a menu that includes classic Southern dishes with a modern twist. Give their Lobster Bisque a try or have their wholesome Chicken & Waffle. People love it so much. It operates from 8 am to 3 pm every day of the week. They have a very warm and welcoming atmosphere which adds to its beauty.

Popular food dishes

  • Bloody Mary
  • Lobster Bisque
  • Chicken & Waffle
  • Sausage Egg
  • Cheese Croissant Fried Potatoes        

Location

8319 Bell Creek Rd B, Mechanicsville, VA 23116, United States    

Operating hours

Everyday (8 am–3 pm)

Average ratings

4/5

Customer reviews

1) Breakfast Crabcakes

Omg...I had the lump crabcake with cheese biscuits and two fried eggs hard with a side of hollandaise sauce and potatoes. Talk about delicious. All the flavors combined are so tasty.

-Tre S    

2) Unexpectedly Upscale

My wife saw this coming up on her phone just in time for lunch. We had a 20-minute wait-- on a Monday afternoon-- which gives you an idea of the popularity, as there were a lot of other places to eat around it with no one around. My wife had the mimosa flight, which she really enjoyed, and I had the black garlic bloody mary. It was one of the best I've ever had. I feel like going back the 99 miles for another. My wife had the Addison Sandwich (turkey) and I had the turkey reuben as I already had a naughty-off diet weekend; yes, the corned beef would have been better but I really liked this. Sides were OK. All of that goodness was $80 (the mimosa flight was $27) and well worth it. I can't wait to go back, they have a huge menu of just benedicts alone! Service is great too

-Dave C
Alexandria

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-746-4647        

9) WPA Bakery

WPA Bakery

Why to visit

WPA Bakery is a treasure trove with different flavorful dishes. It is considered best for its amazing dining experience. Renowned for its mouthwatering pastries and friendly service, this bakery is a favorite among locals and visitors too. Try out their delicious Cheesecake or have their gluten-free treats for a guilt-free experience. Sweet tooths rate it 10/10.

Popular food dishes

  • Cheesecake

Location

3414 Semmes Ave, Richmond, VA 23225, United States    

Operating hours

Mon-Sat (7 am–6 pm) & Sun (7 am–4 pm)

Average ratings

4.5/5

Customer reviews

1) Yummy Yummy Yummy
We wanted something sweet and stumbled upon this place. Everything looked so good we could have bought a ton of stuff. The pecan pie and sticky buns were awesome! We tried caneles for the first time and wish we bought a dozen! They do have gluten free treats too! Excellend stop for sure!

-Tre S

2) Best Quick /Takeout Breakfast Ever!

My egg and cheese biscuit was massive - and so delicious that my husband, who had already had cereal for breakfast wanted a bite - just to taste it -- and finished it off! And I HAD to try the blueberry muffin! And it was delicious as well. Of course, we had to go back the next morning for breakfast too. Don't miss this place!

-SkippinWork

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-477-6449    

10) The Fancy Biscuit

Inside view of The Fancy Biscuit

Why to visit

The Fancy Biscuit is a charming cafe with a vast menu inspired by Southern dishes and a gourmet twist. From their Sausage Gravy Side to pepper jelly, they have something for everyone. It operates from 9 am to 3 pm Tuesday to Friday and 9 am to 4 pm Saturday to Sunday. You can visit here with friends or family for a leisurely brunch.

Popular food dishes

  • Sausage Gravy Side
  • Pepper Jelly
  • Got Your Goat        

Location

1831 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23220, United States

Operating hours

Mon (Closed) & Tue - Fri (9 am–3 pm) & Sat-Sun (9 am–4 pm)

Average ratings

4.5/5

Customer reviews

1) Best breakfast spot in RVA

Everything about this place was excellent. The food, the service, and the ambiance. Our server was Sam and he was super friendly and welcoming. We will definitely be back.

-Dujott30    

2) Packed for a reason

Place was full, but the food was worth the wait. Massive biscuits that are as big on flavor as they are size - a real southern breakfast.

-intactwf    

Contact info

Phone: +1 804-938-3449

In Summary

This was the list of the best coffee places that you must visit in Richmond city of Virginia.

After having a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a delicious meal at one of Richmond's above-listed top cafes, there's a lot more to see and do around the city.

You can also visit different attractions and activities that Richmond has to offer.

Don't forget to explore this city’s rich history by visiting landmarks such as the Virginia State Capitol, Monument Avenue, and the Edgar Allan Poe Museum.

If you love art, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit. For outdoor activities, visit the James River Park System.

Being a vibrant blend of historic charm, cultural attractions, and flavorful delights, Richmond offers something for everyone to enjoy.

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Henry Muller

Team TAB
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I am a barista by profession hailing from NC. My journey began in my late teens when I started working as a barista in a local coffee shop. My passion for coffee quickly became evident as I immersed myself in the art of espresso extraction, latte art ...