Richmond, Virginia, boasts a vibrant and diverse food scene, making it a fantastic place for families to explore culinary delights. Whether you’re a local parent or visiting with kids, finding the perfect spot to eat can be a delightful adventure. This Daddio Parents Guide is your curated list of Richmond’s best restaurants, coffee shops, and eateries, handpicked by a local food enthusiast. From cozy coffee shops to family-friendly dinner destinations, we’ve got you covered for every meal of the day. Get ready to discover your family’s new favorite spots in RVA!
Coffee Shops: Fueling Your Family Adventures
Start your day right or grab an afternoon pick-me-up at these top-notch Richmond coffee shops, perfect for parents and kids alike.
Whisk
Step into a charming European atmosphere at Whisk. This adorable coffee shop is simple yet beautiful inside, offering excellent coffee and delectable pastries. Parents will love their expertly crafted lattes, while kids can indulge in treats like take & bake chocolate chip cookies and fluffy french buns.
- Fav Menu Items: Iced Latte, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate Croissant, Chocolate Chip Cookie.
Chair Lift
Chair Lift is a local favorite, and for good reason. They pride themselves on using grass-fed organic milk, creating what many consider the best latte in Richmond. The interior is gorgeous and inviting, making it a perfect spot for parents to relax or even get some work done while the kids enjoy a pastry.
Alt text: Cozy interior of Chair Lift coffee shop in Richmond, VA, showcasing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Ironclad Coffee Roasters
With a unique garage door that opens up during warm weather, Ironclad offers a refreshing and airy coffee experience. They serve delicious coffee and have a special treat for bagel lovers – overnighted New York bagels! This is a must-try for a satisfying breakfast or snack alongside your caffeine fix.
Sugar & Twine
Located in the trendy Carytown area, Sugar & Twine is a cute and popular spot. It’s perfectly situated for a stop while exploring Carytown’s shops. Seating fills up quickly, a testament to its popularity. Their coffee is delicious, and they’re known for fun seasonal drinks made with homemade syrups, adding a unique touch to your coffee experience.
- Fav Menu Items: Maple Pecan Scone, Cappuccino, Cinnamon Roll.
Idle Hands Bakery
While primarily a bakery, Idle Hands also serves excellent coffee. Their sourdough bread is a local favorite, and their pastry selection is both beautiful and delicious. Don’t miss their chocolate croissants and the grab & go pizza dough – perfect for a family pizza night at home (especially if you can snag one before they sell out on weekends!).
Black Hand Coffee Co.
Black Hand is loved for its coffee, and it’s conveniently located for many Richmond residents. While the atmosphere might be more conducive to grabbing coffee to go, the taste is undeniable. If you’re a fan of dirty chai, Black Hand’s version is a must-try, often described as “Christmas in a cup.” They also have rave reviews for their breakfast sandwiches.
Alt text: Assortment of delectable pastries and baked goods at Idle Hands Bakery, Richmond, VA, tempting treats for families.
Lamplighter Coffee Roasters
A Richmond staple, Lamplighter was a go-to spot even before the recent coffee shop boom. They still hold a special place in many hearts, thanks to their delicious seasonal lattes made with house-made syrups. For a unique lunch option, try their TLTNA sandwich (BBQ plum sauce marinated tofu with avocado, tomato, mixed greens, and vegenaise) – a surprising and delicious vegetarian choice.
Alt text: Barista preparing a latte at Lamplighter Coffee Roasters, Richmond, VA, showcasing their dedication to craft coffee.
Breakfast Hotspots: Starting the Day Sunny Side Up
Fuel up for a day of family fun at these fantastic Richmond breakfast spots.
The Daily Kitchen & Bar
The Daily is a versatile restaurant perfect for any meal of the day, breakfast included. They offer a broad menu with something for everyone, including great cocktails, mocktails, and juices for the whole family. With a focus on organic and local ingredients, The Daily has two locations, with the original Carytown spot being particularly charming.
- Fav Breakfast Menu Items: Pancakes, Two Eggs Any Style Breakfast.
The Fancy Biscuit
Even if you’re not a “biscuit person,” The Fancy Biscuit might just convert you. This cute spot has a fun and inviting interior with hanging lights and charming decorations. Their bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit is a standout, and they offer a variety of biscuit creations, even simple ones with butter & jam, that are worth exploring.
Alt text: Delicious bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit sandwich from The Fancy Biscuit, Richmond, VA, a perfect family breakfast option.
Nate’s Bagels
Nate’s Bagels offers pretty good bagels, though they lean towards a denser style than a traditional New York bagel. They use local ingredients and serve Blanchard’s coffee, a local favorite. With a focus on local sourcing, Nate’s is a great choice for supporting Richmond businesses while enjoying a tasty breakfast.
- Fav Menu Items: The Glamper, Veggie, and Simple Breakfast. (Thomas loves the Lox w/ the Works).
Early Bird Biscuit Co.
While primarily known for their biscuits (which always look and smell amazing), Early Bird Biscuit Co. also serves wonderful coffee drinks. It’s a super cute spot with incredibly friendly staff, making it a pleasant place to start your family’s day.
Alt text: Colorful and tempting display of donuts at Sugar Shack Donuts, Richmond, VA, a sweet treat for families.
Sugar Shack Donuts & Coffee
For donut lovers, Sugar Shack is a must-visit. They specialize in cake donuts and have a fantastic selection of seasonal and creative options, alongside coffee. If your family prefers cake donuts over fried, Sugar Shack is your go-to destination.
- Fav Menu Items: Blueberry Cake, Chocolate Cake, and Old-Fashioned Donuts (you can’t go wrong!).
Ginger Juice
Ginger Juice is a cute and well-executed juice and smoothie shop that has expanded its menu to include toast, acai bowls, wellness shots, and more. They use high-quality ingredients and have multiple locations. Known for their consistently thick and delicious smoothie bowls, Ginger Juice is a healthy and refreshing breakfast or brunch option.
- Fav Menu Items: Peanut Butter Punch Bowl Smoothie, Basil Pesto Toast.
Alt text: Vibrant and colorful smoothie bowl from Ginger Juice, Richmond, VA, a healthy and delicious family breakfast choice.
North End Juice Co.
A charming walk-up juice and smoothie shop, North End Juice Co. offers juices, smoothies, acai bowls, coffee, and quick food options like breakfast burritos and avocado toast. They even sell coconut milk gelato, adding a unique dessert option to their offerings.
Pit & Peel
Pit & Peel is another juice, smoothie, and toast shop with a few locations in Richmond. While they might not use exclusively organic or high-end ingredients, they offer a good and accessible option for a quick and healthy breakfast or lunch.
Alt text: Selection of fresh juices and smoothies at Pit & Peel, Richmond, VA, a quick and healthy option for families.
The Boathouse
The Boathouse is a great brunch spot, especially with its diverse menu. While not exclusively a breakfast place, their brunch options are extensive and family-friendly. With multiple large locations, it’s a good choice for larger family gatherings.
Country Style Donuts
More donuts! Country Style Donuts is another local favorite. While opinions vary on whether they are better than Sugar Shack, both donut shops promise delicious cake donuts that won’t disappoint.
The Juice Laundry
The Juice Laundry is a newer smoothie and juice shop that is 100% organic. With locations in Charlottesville and Richmond, they offer healthy and flavorful options. Their CB&J smoothie bowl is a standout, and they thoughtfully add granola at the bottom of their bowls.
Lunchtime Bites: Quick and Delicious Family Meals
When lunchtime rolls around, Richmond offers a plethora of quick and delicious options perfect for families on the go.
Alt text: Fresh and vibrant Greek salad from Stella’s Grocery, Richmond, VA, a light and flavorful lunch option for families.
Stella’s Grocery
Stella’s Grocery is a top lunch destination in Richmond, offering a wide array of options including soups, salads, sandwiches, souvlaki bowls, to-go dinners, and even grocery items. It’s a true gem, offering incredible food and convenience.
- Fav Menu Items: Classic Greek Salad, Chicken Souvlaki Bowl, Greek Fries, Paninis (Turkey Lafayette, Italiano, Mediterranean Chicken, Butternut Squash), Palm Springs Caesar Salad.
Union Market
Similar to Stella’s Grocery, Union Market is a cute spot offering soups, salads, sandwiches, beer and wine, and grocery items to go. It’s a great lunch stop, particularly if you are in the Church Hill area.
Pop’s Market on Grace
Pop’s Market is known for making their bread fresh daily, resulting in exceptional sandwiches. Their sandwiches are notably large, often shareable (unless you have a big appetite!). With a cute atmosphere and breakfast options as well, Pop’s is a great lunch choice, especially for their Bahn Mi sandwich.
Roots Natural Kitchen
Roots is a build-your-own bowl concept, similar to Chipotle, but with a focus on local ingredients. Choose your veggie base, grain, protein, and extras for a customizable and healthy lunch.
Alt text: Colorful and customizable Mediterranean bowl from Goatocado, Richmond, VA, a healthy and flavorful lunch choice for families.
Goatocado
Starting as a food truck, Goatocado transitioned to a restaurant due to its popularity. They use local ingredients to create delicious wraps, bowls, ramen, and arepas. The Mediterranean bowl with greens and quinoa, topped with a fried egg or organic grilled chicken, is a popular choice.
Ellwood Thompson’s
Ellwood’s is a health food market and grocery store in Richmond with a variety of to-go food options. While their hot food and sandwiches can be hit or miss, their sushi is a standout, known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients.
Cava
Cava, while not local to Richmond, is a popular Mediterranean chain offering customizable salads and grain bowls. It’s an easy and reliable grab-and-go lunch option with online ordering available.
Alt text: Chopped salad from Chopt Creative Salad Co., Richmond, VA, a quick and customizable lunch option for families.
Chopt Creative Salad Co.
Chopt offers easy and customizable salads for lunch. You can add grains and choose from various options, or build your own salad. A key feature is that they chop everything together, ensuring the dressing and flavors are well-mixed.
The Daily Kitchen & Bar
Again, The Daily appears on our list for lunch as well! Their menu is diverse and delicious throughout the day. Their spacious setting and outdoor seating make it a pleasant lunch destination, especially in good weather.
Alt text: Classic Croque Monsieur sandwich from Can Can Brasserie, Richmond, VA, a delicious French-inspired lunch option.
Can Can Brasserie
Can Can Brasserie offers a taste of Paris in Richmond. Their lunch menu is particularly beloved, evoking a Parisian cafe experience.
- Fav Menu Items: Cappuccinos, Croque Monsieur Sandwich, Fries, Classic Baguette with Smoked Salmon and Boursin Cheese, Salads, Quiche.
Taste Unlimited
Located in the Libbie/Grove area, Taste is a spacious and fast-paced spot perfect for lunch. They offer pre-prepared grab-and-go food, made-to-order options, and other goodies.
- Fav Menu Item: Northender Sandwich (Turkey, Bacon, Avocado, Havarti, Tomato, Romaine, Basil Mayo on French Bread).
Date Night & Nicer Dinners: Richmond’s Romantic and Refined Dining
For special occasions or a parents’ night out, these Richmond restaurants offer a more refined dining experience.
Stella’s
Stella’s restaurant (distinct from Stella’s Grocery) is a favorite for dinner, offering excellent Greek food and a great atmosphere. It’s ideal for date night, and their appetizers are generously sized and perfect for sharing as a meal.
- Fav Menu Items: Classic Greek Salad, Octopus, Meatballs, Spanakopita, Crab Cakes, Chicken Souvlaki, Yia Yia’s Fried Potatoes, Lamb Frites, Beets, Lima Beans, Salted Caramel Ice Cream with Honey Brittle.
Can Can Brasserie
While Can Can is excellent for lunch, it also makes for a romantic and cozy date night spot. The French-inspired ambiance and delicious food create a special experience.
- Fav Menu Items: Beet & Arugula Salad, Mains (especially Burger & Fries), Desserts (especially Crème brûlée).
Edo’s Squid
Edo’s Squid is a beloved Italian restaurant, known for its simple, hole-in-the-wall charm and exceptional food. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.
- Fav Menu Items: Braised Fennel (appetizer), Squid, Arugula, and White Bean Salad, Pasta Dish with Sausage, Ricotta, Broccoli Rabe (order with penne).
Bacchus
Bacchus offers Italian and seafood dishes at a very reasonable price point. They are known for their vegetable appetizers and often have a great date night special during the week.
Mamma Zu
Mamma Zu is another popular Italian restaurant in Richmond, known for its fabulous menu and delectable wine. It’s a smaller spot that doesn’t take reservations, so arriving early is advised.
- Fav Menu Items: Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Broccolini.
Dutch & Co.
Dutch & Co. is a cute and quaint restaurant that offers a lovely dining experience. While specific menu items might be harder to recall from past visits, the overall experience is consistently positive.
Brenner Pass
Brenner Pass boasts a beautiful interior and a sophisticated atmosphere. Their bar area is also gorgeous, making it a great spot for drinks.
- Fav Menu Item: Fondue Burger.
The Boathouse Rocketts Landing
The Boathouse Rocketts Landing location offers stunning city views over the water, adding to the dining experience.
- Fav Menu Items: Oysters, Dynamite Shrimp Tacos, Boathouse Crab Cakes, 12oz New York Strip, Classic Zookie (dessert).
Fun & Casual Dinners: Relaxed Family Dining in Richmond
These restaurants are perfect for a more relaxed dinner out with the family, while still offering great food and atmosphere.
Alt text: Juicy burger and crispy fries from Burger Bach, Richmond, VA, a family-friendly casual dining option.
Burger Bach
Burger Bach is a top burger spot in Richmond, loved for its burgers, fries, and scratch-made dips. It’s a great place for families and groups.
- Fav Menu Items: Hangover Burger (with chicken patty), Original Burger, Aucklander Burger, French Fries, French Shrimp Appetizer.
Casa Del Barco
Casa Del Barco is an upscale Mexican restaurant that offers amazing food that is not your typical greasy Mexican fare. It’s a casual yet quality dining experience.
- Fav Menu Items: Tacos, Fajitas, Guacamole, Salsa.
Alt text: Colorful and flavorful Indian vegetarian dishes from Lemon Cuisine of India, Richmond, VA, a family-friendly ethnic dining option.
Lemon Cuisine of India
Lemon Cuisine of India is a fantastic Indian restaurant, particularly known for its vegetarian dishes. It’s great for dining in or takeout.
- Fav Menu Items: Lasooni Gobhi, Garlic Naan, Raita Dip, Palak Paneer, Chicken Tikka Masala.
Tazza Kitchen
Tazza Kitchen is a reliable choice with multiple locations and a broad menu that appeals to various tastes.
- Fav Menu Items: Brussels Sprouts, Meatballs, Cast Iron Goat Cheese Dip, Carnitas Tacos, Pizzas.
Sabai
Sabai offers authentic Thai street food in a fun and casual setting. Their portions are generous, and they have a selection of tropical cocktails, beer, and wine.
- Fav Menu Items: Nam Tok, Pad Se Ew, Pad King, Gang Panang.
Mekong
Mekong is a favorite Vietnamese restaurant in Richmond, known for its classic Vietnamese dishes and a large selection of draft beers.
- Fav Menu Items: Fresh Spring Rolls, Build Your Own Spring Rolls, Beef or Chicken Pho.
Boulevard Burger & Brew
Boulevard Burger & Brew is a diner-style burger joint offering classic burgers, fried foods, milkshakes, and a diner atmosphere.
En Su Boca
En Su Boca is a quick and easy Mexican spot that is always crowded, indicating its popularity. They have fun margarita options and delicious chips made from fried tortillas.
- Fav Menu Items: Chips with Guacamole and Salsa, Slow Roasted Carnitas Tacos, Braised Chicken Tinga Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos, Black Bean Tacos.
The Daily Kitchen & Bar
Yet again, The Daily makes the list for dinner! Its consistent quality and diverse menu make it a reliable choice for any meal.
Alt text: Classic American burger with a pickle from Citizen Burger Bar, Richmond, VA, a family-friendly casual dining option.
Citizen Burger Bar
Citizen Burger Bar is another popular burger spot in Carytown, known for using 100% local grass-fed beef.
- Fav Menu Items: Sweet Potato Fries, American Classic Burger, Southern Burger.
Anohka
Anohka is a nicer Indian restaurant located in Short Pump, offering delicious Indian cuisine with its own unique flavors.
Takeout Favs (Can Also Dine-In): Family Dinner at Home or Restaurant
For nights when you prefer to eat at home or want a more casual dine-in experience, these are top Richmond takeout options.
Ginger Thai Restaurant
Ginger Thai is a favorite for Thai takeout in Richmond, known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.
- Fav Menu Items: Fresh Vegetable Spring Rolls, Dumplings, Grilled Beef Special Salad, Lemongrass with Chicken, Spicy Basil Leaves with Beef, Green Curry Garlic Chicken.
Lemon Cuisine of India
Lemon Cuisine is also excellent for takeout, maintaining its quality and deliciousness for at-home enjoyment.
Mediterranean Bakery & Deli
Mediterranean Bakery & Deli offers fantastic Mediterranean food in a fast-casual setting, perfect for takeout dinners.
- Fav Menu Items: Pita, Spinach & Feta Fatayer, Hummus, Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves, Taziki, Chicken Shawerma, Falafel.
Akida Japanese Restaurant
Akida is a beloved sushi spot in Richmond, known for its simple and fresh sushi rolls. It’s great for both dine-in and takeout.
- Fav Menu Items: Seaweed Salad, Steamed Dumplings, Avocado Roll, Cucumber Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, New York Roll, Sashimi.
Peter Chang China Cafe
Peter Chang offers quality Chinese takeout, even for those who might not typically be fans of Chinese takeout.
- Fav Menu Items: Vegetarian Spring Rolls, Steamed Pork Dumplings, Chicken with Mixed Vegetables, Hunan Chicken.
Pizza Picks: Family Pizza Night in Richmond
For pizza night, Richmond has some fantastic options ranging from Neapolitan to classic American styles.
Alt text: Neapolitan-style pizza from Pupatella, Richmond, VA, a light and delicious option for family pizza night.
Pupatella
Pupatella is a top pizza choice in Richmond, serving certified Neapolitan pizza that is light, fluffy, and delicious.
- Fav Menu Items: Diavola Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza, Spinach Pizza, Margherita DOC Pizza, Sausage and Onion Pizza, Side Salads.
Billy Pie
Billy Pie offers great pizza along with appetizers and a selection of beer and wine. Their menu is simple but well-executed.
- Fav Menu Items: Meatballs, Panzanella, Arugula & Fennel Salad, Ricotta Mushroom White Pie, Pepperoni Red Pie, Prosciutto & Arugula Red Pie.
Alt text: Classic cheese and pepperoni pizza from Belmont Pizzeria, Richmond, VA, a perfect choice for family takeout pizza.
Belmont Pizzeria
Belmont Pizzeria is perfect for classic takeout pizza in Richmond. They offer tasty and visually appealing pizzas with customizable crust options.
- Fav Menu Items: Cheese Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza, Loaded Veggie & Pepperoni Pizza.
Candela’s
Candela’s, located in Midlothian, holds nostalgic value for many Richmond locals. They offer a salad bar and classic pizza options.
- Fav Menu Items: Cheese Pizza with Onions, Pepperoni Pizza, Greek Salad.
Zorch Pizza
Zorch Pizza is a food truck around Richmond, known for its giant New York-style pizza slices. It’s a must-try for New York pizza lovers.
Dessert Delights: Sweet Endings for the Family
No meal is complete without dessert, and Richmond has some fantastic sweet spots.
Alt text: Creamy gelato scoops from Gelati Celesti, Richmond, VA, the ultimate gelato experience for families.
Gelati Celesti
Gelati Celesti is the go-to gelato spot in Richmond, offering thick, creamy, and delicious gelato with multiple locations.
- Fav Menu Items: Mint Chip with Oreo Gelato, Strawberry with Vanilla Gelato, Salted Caramel Gelato, Just Ask Gelato, Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches.
Charm School
Charm School is another top dessert destination, specializing in ice cream with fun and seasonal flavors, including vegan options and soft serve.
- Fav Menu Item: Cinnamon Toast Crunch Milk Ice Cream.
Alt text: Decadent slices of cake from Shyndigz, Richmond, VA, a dessert heaven for families with a sweet tooth.
Shyndigz
Shyndigz is a dessert heaven, offering a restaurant side for enjoying desserts and drinks, and a to-go side for cakes and other treats.
- Fav Menu Items: Fresh Fruit Cake, Oatmeal Cream Pies, Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake, Banana Cake.
Pearls Cupcake Shoppe
Pearls Cupcake Shoppe is the place to go for high-quality and beautiful cupcakes, perfect for bringing to events or simply enjoying at home.
Proper Pie Co.
Proper Pie Co. is a pie shop that is worth revisiting, especially for pie lovers.
Breweries: Richmond’s Craft Beer Scene for Parents
While perhaps not exclusively for kids, Richmond’s breweries can be family-friendly and offer a relaxed atmosphere for parents to enjoy local craft beer.
Triple Crossing Beer
Triple Crossing is a favorite brewery with two locations, offering excellent beers and pizza at their Fulton Hill location.
- Fav Beers: Falcon Smash IPA, Clever Girl IPA.
Alt text: Outdoor patio area at The Veil Brewing Co., Richmond, VA, a family-friendly brewery with a relaxed atmosphere.
The Veil Brewing Co.
The Veil is known for consistently good beers, especially IPAs. Their location often hosts events and food trucks, creating a fun atmosphere, particularly in warmer weather.
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Hardywood is a great family-friendly brewery with a large outdoor space and frequent food truck events.
- Fav Beer: Gingerbread Stout (seasonal).
Richmond’s food scene is constantly evolving, with new places popping up regularly. This Daddio Parents Guide provides a solid starting point for exploring the city’s culinary landscape. Enjoy discovering these Richmond favorites with your family!
