Afterglow Coffee: A Cozy, Community-Focused Café in Scott’s Addition

On a rainy Saturday afternoon, Alex and I found ourselves looking for a cozy spot to escape the weather, and Afterglow Coffee was the perfect choice. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee solo, meeting a friend for a drink, or looking for a laid-back date spot, this place checks all the boxes.

The Drinks

Afterglow has plenty of coffee and tea options, but what sets them apart is that they also serve beer and wine. So whether you need a morning pick-me-up or a post-work wind-down, they’ve got you covered. I love a place that offers flexibility—sometimes you want a latte, and sometimes you want a glass of wine.

Since we went in the late afternoon, I ordered a hot chocolate and Alex got tea. Both of them were delicious. The tea was light and flavorful, while the hot chocolate was rich and velvety. I loved how creamy it was.

The Vibe

The space itself is warm and welcoming, with that ideal mix of cozy and modern that makes you want to linger for a while. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in with a book, catch up with a friend, or get some work done without feeling rushed. There are a decent amount of tables, although the shop was pretty full on a Saturday afternoon. We were lucky to snag a table for two!

The Mission

One of the coolest things about Afterglow? It’s fully worker-owned and operated, which means every person behind the counter has a stake in the business. They’re also passionate about sustainability, community, and giving back, making it the kind of place you feel good about supporting.

The Experience

I also found it interesting that they’re a gratuity-free coffee shop. I’ve never seen that before, so I was a little surprised after I placed my order. (I was expecting someone to flip the tablet around so I could leave a team.) I think it’s interesting that they must just factor the cost into the prices. (Although the prices didn’t seem expensive, so I felt like I was getting a better deal than expected!)

Coffee shops are everywhere, but spots like Afterglow—where the focus is on people, the environment, and the local community—are rare. If you’re in Scott’s Addition and looking for a new go-to coffee shop (or a place to grab a beer), definitely check them out.

📍 Afterglow Coffee
Address: 1719 Summit Ave, Richmond, VA
Pro tip: Try their rotating seasonal drinks—you never know what creative combo they’ll come up with next!