The Ultimate Richmond Coffee Shop Guide
Listen. We know that when most people need a little pick-me-up in the morning, they hit up the Starbucks drive-thru. We’d love to change that. There are so many incredible local coffee shops to pop into or stay and work at for hours – and you’ll get better brew and support small businesses at the same time. To prove there’s a café for your every need, we’ve compiled a guide of where to go on any occasion.
When you just want a darn good cup of joe: Blanchard’s
A true Richmond coffee addict knows that, when you want good coffee for a good price every time you go, you go to Blanchard’s.
It’s tried and true. It’s freshly roasted. It’s their own custom blends and single origins. And you can find them in three different locations around the city. What more could we ask for?
When it’s all about the aesthetic: Ironclad Coffee Roasters
You’re in the mood to splurge. Can we interest you in a cookie-topped latte in a historic building with live jazz music?
Ironclad is all about the vibes. Cute shop, post-able drinks and delicacies, and, we’ll admit, maybe a bigger price tag than you’d see at other competitors. But if the aesthetic is what matters most, we won’t judge you treating yourself.
When you’re going for something seasonal: Sefton Coffee Company
Sefton Coffee Company is the place where you’re greeted by a warm atmosphere any time of year – and the perfect warm drink in the cooler months. They have a rotating menu of specialty drinks, so you can always get something new and delicious that gets you in the spirit of the season (whatever season it is!).
Their syrups are made in-house, they source their ingredients locally or sustainably, and their options are inclusive for all, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free items on the menu.
When the whole gang is getting together: Stir Crazy Cafe
Grab a table … or a couch … or a patio seat … or an arm chair. Stir Crazy is a cute little North Side shop with lots of space to sit down with some friends and enjoy a latte and a plate of something delicious.
Oh – and the coffee doesn’t have to just be in the cup. Try their pulled pork sandwich with dirty chai BBQ sauce!
When man’s best friend is coming, too: Lift
The coffee is great. And where you’re having the coffee, and with whom? It makes it even better!
Lift Coffee Shop’s expansive back patio is surrounded by beautiful murals, perfect to take a picture in front of with your furry friend. You might even find a jar with some treats that will make your dog as happy as your coffee makes you.
When you want a real meal with that latte: Harrison Street Cafe
Harrison Street Café is the perfect place for VCU students, visitors, or anyone taking a stroll downtown to stop in for coffee and a bite to eat. All offerings are either vegetarian or vegan, which means finding morning comfort food here rather than a chain is good for you, the community, and the animals, too.
When you want to bring the best back home: Rostov’s
You can smell it as you walk by: Rostov’s roasts their own beans in-house. They are certified coffee-lovers who are ready to answer any of your questions as you browse their bulk beans and teas. Don’t just leave with a drink in hand – buy a bag (or three) to make the highest-quality brews at home, too.
When you want to stay all day: Fuel Pump
Wake up. Take a stroll down West Cary Street. Enjoy a cold brew and a croissant. Get some work done. Check the time.
Five p.m. already?!
No worries. Fuel Pump is a coffee station in the morning and a wine bar in the evening! You don’t have to worry about running late for your date – you can meet for cocktails or a glass of rosé right here.
When your coffee has to be paired with patisserie: Sugar & Twine
Locally roasted coffee, local espresso, and pastries made fresh every morning? What more could you want!
There is a reason Richmonder’s line up for Sugar & Twine. Their coffee is just as good as their goodies – so whether you get a weekend-exclusive cinnamon bun or a divine brown butter blackberry muffin, you’ll be in heaven. Vegan and gluten-free visitors have options to explore, too!
When you need a good work spot: Alchemy
Step into this cozy environment for a coffee and free wi-fi and you probably won’t be the only one with your laptop out. Students and remote workers gather in The Lab by Alchemy Coffee for community – including a friendly barista who really knows what they’re doing – and a quiet place to be heads-down for hours.
And we mean hours! They’re open from 8-7 each day, so you don’t have to worry about heading home after the lunch rush.
When you’re meeting a friend: Urban Hang
Urban Hang Suite refers to itself as a social cafe and what better place could there be to socialize? This little local shop takes great pride in its city with Richmond art and businesses promoted all around.
The menu is inclusive for anyone you bring with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to enjoy.
When your trip needs to be allergy-friendly and vegan-approved: Minglewood
Minglewood Bake Shop is a 100% vegan business that are known for their incredible baked creations – but while you’re eyeing those cupcakes, order a maple pancake or lavender latte, too!
They have plenty of flavors for their brews, as well as breakfast treats alongside birthday sweets. Whether you are looking for a vanilla cake, milkshake, or warm beverage, you can be sure they’ll serve you something so good, you can’t believe it’s plant-based.
When you’re on your way to the Poe Museum: Whisk
We can’t tell if we come here for the fresh-brewed coffee or tea… or the fresh-baked pastry. Whisk’s croissants are no joke.
This stop is perfect for when you are out and about in Shockoe, only steps away from the Virginia Holocaust Museum, the Poe Museum, and the Canal Walk.
When you take your coffee with … barbeque?: Smoky Mug
Alright, listen. We couldn’t make an ultimate Richmond coffee guide without mentioning The Smoky Mug. They have excellent brews, but you’ll find their front porch filled with people appreciating their great craft barbecue and Tex Mex, too.
Your dog is welcome on the covered patio as well, whether you’re stopping by for a morning mug or a lunchtime cowboy plate.
When coffee is going to someone in need: Lamplighter
Not only is Lamplighter Coffee Roasters super cute. Not only are their coffees, teas, breakfasts, and lunches delicious. They’re also accessible.
This big-hearted business offers a selection of free drinks and food each week to community members who aren’t able to pay. If you know a family in need or someone who forgoes coffee in the mornings because they can’t spare the change, let them know that Lamplighter is there. (And if you are in the position to help, tell your cashier that you’d like to purchase an item to pass on to someone else.)
What’s your favorite coffee shop in Richmond?
