• About
  • Contact
  • Closets

Countdown to Friday

A Secondhand Style and Travel File

  • Fashion
  • Reselling
  • Travel
  • Lifestyle
    • Beauty
    • Fitness
    • Home
    • Gift Guides

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Coffee Shops in Richmond, Virginia

September 27, 2018

Coffee in Hand with Colorful Wings Mural

I have been on an intense, extended, and SERIOUS mission in Richmond the past 4 months: to find the best coffee all over the city.

And I’m finally ready to tell you about my findings.

I could say that it’s been a difficult journey. I mean, I don’t have a car so getting to all of these places included walking for miles, using the RVA bike share (uphill in that Virginia heat and humidity…I learned my lesson), and begging friends and family to pick me up and drop me off places. But I am NOT complaining. Honestly, it’s been amazing to get to explore this city more and support local businesses.

This post is for the Richmonder or RVA traveler who is looking for great coffee at a local spot with a good atmosphere.

No national chains (although there are a few businesses that have multiple Richmond locations) or gas station coffee here. You may not expect it, but Richmond has a fantastic coffee scene. Whether you want to sip a cappuccino and study for class, savor a nitro brew and read a book, or grab a latte to go, all of these places are great options.

P.S. This post is organized by the neighborhoods of Richmond, and if you’re unfamiliar with them you can just head to the bottom of the post and check out the Google Map to see which ones are nearest to you.

Best Coffee in Church Hill, Richmond

Captain Buzzy’s Beanery

Iced Coffee in Hand at Cafe

Church Hill is a historic and charming neighborhood of Richmond with tree-lined, residential streets and a few local businesses like Captain Buzzy’s Beanery. The beanery has a quirky, fun vibe with lots of mismatched decorations and plenty of seating for a group. You can grab a quick bite or something for lunch if you’d like, as well.

And get this: they use coffee ice cubes in their iced coffee so that you never have to worry about your beverage getting watered down. Why doesn’t everyone do this?!

Update: Captain Buzzy’s Beanery closed in May of 2019 and has been replaced with Riverbend Coffee Company. I have not tried Riverbend, but let me know what you think if you ever visit!

Front Porch Cafe

Fellow Richmond blogger Sara of PaleoRVA is sharing one of her favorite coffee shops in Church Hill. Read her review below to see more about what they do for Richmond.

Front Porch Cafe

Friends! I am so excited to tell you all about my neighborhood cafe spot, the Front Porch Cafe! This place is special for so many reasons, and their coffee game is ON POINT to boot! 

This Cafe is part of the Work Leadership Institute at CHAT and aims to hire kids from the neighborhood to work there and gain some valuable skills that will set them up for a brighter future! 

Chris Whiting, the Manager of The Front Porch Cafe chose the name as an ode to the neighborhood tradition of seeing people on their front porches actually talking with their neighbors! I know, crazy concept right? When you walk in you are surrounded by photos of actual families in the neighborhood sitting on their front porch. 

The food is very reasonably priced because they want to make sure that everybody that lives in the neighborhood can afford to come here. That said, that does not mean that it is lacking in taste or creativity! They have everything from Quiches to smoothies, wraps to daily lunch specials. 

This is the kind of place where everyone knows your name. Their slogan is “come sit with us” and I think you should!

-Sara of PaleoRVA

Best Coffee in Shockoe Bottom, Richmond

Whisk

Whisk Bakery Cafe Storefront
Funny Cafe Sign and Cappuccino

Since I live in Shockoe Bottom it seems pretty biased of me to say that Whisk is my favorite, but so many people who live all over the city have told me the same thing! What sets it apart? For me it’s the homemade syrups. Over the summer they had honey lavender (LIFE CHANGING!), and now I’ve been getting the coconut almond.

They have a wonderful assortment of pastries, and they even offer some of their baked goods pre-made so you take them home and bake them yourself. The cafe is adorably French feeling (I love the pink sign inside), but it’s not terribly large so it’s best for small groups and solo sipping.

Ironclad Coffee Roasters

Iced Coffee in Coffee Shop Cafe

If you want to wow someone with a luxe ambiance, take them to Ironclad Coffee Roasters. Suede couches, wood tables, pretty plants, it’s wonderfully styled. And these people know coffee. When I visited I saw that there were three different versions of iced coffee, of which I was completely unaware what any of them meant. The barista explained to me each, down to the types of taste using words like ‘chocolatey’ and ‘bright’ and ‘deep.’ I still didn’t know what this meant, but the coffee was delicious and I felt so posh having such a special kind of iced coffee.

As snobby as I’m making this place sound, it is not whatsoever and they have lots of seating upstairs and downstairs for whatever kind of work you want to do.

Best Coffee in Downtown, Monroe Ward, and Jackson Ward, Richmond

Pop’s Market on Grace

Rack of Food in Cafe
Salad and Iced Coffee

You should come to Pop’s Market on Grace for the coffee AND the food. See that salad? It’s a blue cheese and peach salad and it was heavenly. As the name implies, you can also grab wine, freshly baked bread, and other food items while you’re here.

The space is large and inviting, with lots of light and both tables and couch areas for sitting. I’d come here if you need to get a lot of work done and plan on being there through multiple meals.

Sefton Coffee Co

Iced Coffee on Worn Out Cafe Sign

Sefton Coffee Co is a small, yet inviting shop in the heart of downtown serving up delicious coffee as well as fresh baked goods from another RVA small business, Poor Georgie’s Bake Shoppe. My iced coffee was yummy, but I’d also stop in again for small gifts for coffee lovers. They sell mugs, coffee by the pound, and other handmade items.

At Sefton they make all their syrups in house and they don’t charge extra for milk substitutions. Almond milk lovers of the world rejoice!

Like I said, it’s a bit smaller so I wouldn’t plan on bringing a big group here unless they’re ordering to go.

Shockoe Espresso & Roastery

Mill Mountain Coffee in Shockoe Espresso and Roastery Cafe

All of the cool people have been inviting me to Shockoe Espresso & Roastery for coffee dates. And I’m not mad about it. This place is tucked away in Shockoe Slip and offers well priced drinks in a chill atmosphere.

They serve Mill Mountain Coffee, which is a Virginia company started by a Virginia Tech alumni.

I’d stop by here if you want something unpretentious. It’s got plenty of seating for groups and to stay awhile.

Lift Coffee Shop and Cafe

Coffee in Hand with Colorful Wings Mural

Isn’t that mural just gorgeous? It’s behind Lift Coffee Shop and Cafe in their nice, large outdoor patio.

Lift is a casual spot with lots of eating options (they even cater!) and tasty coffee. They have fair trade and organic coffee options and all of their food is freshly made to order.

This is definitely a space you can stay awhile with the friendly atmosphere and good food to hold you over while you study or work. Or just hang. Whatever you like to do in a coffee shop.

Urban Farmhouse Market & Cafe (2 locations)

 

This place is for sure an RVA favorite. Urban Farmhouse Market & Cafe has several Richmond locations, including one in the Scott’s Addition neighborhood. I frequent the one at Shockoe Slip, which has high french doors that they open up to the street during nice weather. There’s good coffee, smoothies, snacks, and lunch options.

They also sell beer and wine, so you really can come here no matter what mood you’re in. There’s plenty of room and tables at Shockoe Slip so you can come with a group if you’d like.

Best Coffee in the Fan and Carver, Richmond

Lamplighter Coffee Roasters (2 locations)

Another coffee shop where they’re serious about their coffee. Lamplighter Coffee Roasters is all about the best brew, and Richmond Times Dispatch named them the best coffee in Richmond for 2017.

See that coffee in the second photo in the top right? The barista was practicing for a latte art competition and gave my friend that beautiful design!

Lamplighter has a hip vibe and plenty of lunch options for vegans and vegetarians, in addition to their expertly crafted coffee. They also have a few locations, including one in Scott’s Addition.

The Lab by Alchemy

Coffee and Flowers on Table at Cafe

You don’t have to be a student to enjoy the coffee at The Lab by Alchemy. Located right on Virginia Commonwealth University’s campus, the Lab originally started out as a mobile coffee trailer before taking over their current space.

Even though it’s on a busy street, the Lab is relaxing and great for a study session or, for me, a little blog work. Gab a coffee and a pastry and relax!

Best Coffee in Carytown, Richmond

Sugar & Twine

Fun fact: my friend and I were in Carytown at night hitting up a few bars when we walked by Sugar & Twine. We looked inside and said, “We have to go here tomorrow when they open!” And we did, and we loved it.

On Sundays this a popular spot for RVA locals to come in and get some work done while they have their coffee. It was packed when we went! But still worth it. They have a large assortment of fresh baked goods with plenty of vegan and gluten free options as well.

Best Coffee in Scott’s Addition, Richmond

Chairlift at Brenner Pass

So Scott’s Addition is the neighborhood in Richmond that I feel like is way too cool for me. Lots of breweries, repurposed buildings, and Chairlift at Brenner Pass. I’m surprised they let me inside with how uncool I am. But I’m glad they did because my cappuccino and veggie pastry was on point!

Chairlift has a European flair to it, and they also hold wine and cheese nights! Who could say no to European wine and cheese?

I love the clean, elevated feel to the space and the servers were super friendly. I’m not in Scott’s Addition often (the uncool thing, remember?), but it’s a must if I’m there.

Don’t forget! Scott’s Addition also has an Urban Farmhouse and Lamplighter Coffee Roasters location (see my reviews above), and they’re marked on Google Map below.


Now are you ready for some coffee? I had no idea that Richmond had such a fantastic selection of expertly crafted coffees in local spaces before moving here.

You really get a feel for the different neighborhoods and the details that make each unique as you visit Richmond’s coffee shops. 

I hope you enjoy this post and it helps you find a great cup near you while exploring RVA!

Pin this post for later ↓

Linkups: Friday Favorites

Related

   

Leave a Comment / Filed In: Travel
Tagged: richmond, united states

Meet Kristin

Have thrifted clothes, will travel. And let’s get french fries.

I may receive commissions from clicks or purchases made through links on this blog. Thanks for supporting CTF.

Poshmark Closet

Closet Items

Shop more of my closet on Poshmark

For $10 off your first Poshmark purchase, use code COUNTDOWNTOFRI

#ONTHEGRAM

I took this photo 10 months ago to share some of m I took this photo 10 months ago to share some of my favorite thrift finds in a blog post, and I'm currently wearing this vintage sequin sweater today ❇️ I bought it for 99¢ during @arcthrift 's annual sweater sale, and it needed some help. I used dish soap to get a few white spots out of the fabric, and mended a small tear at the seam 🪡 I don't normally give that much care to my thrift finds, but this silk/angora/rabbit hair blend was so soft and the sequins are in perfect shape, so I gave it a shot! Very glad that I did ☺️ #secondhandstyle #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#whatimwearingtoday #secondhandfind #secondhandfirstchoice #secondhandfirst #thriftshopping #thriftunder100k #thriftedthis #thriftedoutfit #thriftstorestyle
I've never made a meme before but couldn't resist I've never made a meme before but couldn't resist 😂 Did you guys hear the story behind Bernie's mittens? They're made from old sweaters and lined with fleece from recycled water bottles! ♻️ Swipe to read more about who made them and why 🧤 #sustainablefashion #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#resellerlife #resellermemes #thriftmemes #berniememes #goodwilloutlet #goodwillbins #thrifterforlife #berniesandersmemes #secondhandstyle #secondhandfirst
Feeling like a million bucks in this perfect condi Feeling like a million bucks in this perfect condition vintage suede and wool coat I got at the Goodwill bins 😝 It's THE winter vacation coat if you ask me ❄️ Since you pay by the pound at the bins, this stunner cost about $5 😱 As a matter of fact, most of my outfit is secondhand: Brooks Brothers turtleneck, J. Crew jeans, and Coach purse via the thrift, and Kenneth Cole suede boots from Mercari 🏷️ Now heading home from a wonderful ski weekend in Beaver Creek 🎿 #secondhandstyle #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#secondhandfind #goodwillbins #goodwilloutletfinds #goodwilloutlet #secondhandfirst #thriftedoutfit #thriftstorestyle #gotitatgoodwill #affordableoutfit
9 years ago we were on our honeymoon in Iceland 🇮🇸 I just had to download this image off of Facebook (hence the low quality!) to post because this coat is thrifted 😂 I still have this coat and need to wear it more! It's a simple, long houndstooth coat. I found it at a big flea market in Florence when I was studying abroad for 25 euro. Once a thrifter, always a thrifter 😝 #secondhandstyle #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#fleamarketfinds #fleamarketstyle #thriftunder100k #thrifted #theviewfromhere #icelandtravel #icelandadventure #reykjavikiceland #honeymoontrip #secondhandfirst
Serving up this silk blend cardigan sweater with f Serving up this silk blend cardigan sweater with fringe detail that I got for $2.50 at the thrift 🤑 Definitely needs a good lint roll but when you're WFH who cares 🤷🏻‍♀️ if you could see my whole outfit there would be straight leg high rise jeans and super cozy wool socks 🧦 #wfhootd #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#secondhandstyle #secondhandfind #secondhandfirst #thriftunder100k #thriftedthis #thriftedstyle #secondhandfirstchoice #thriftstorestyle

Reader Faves

  • The Ups and Downs of Starting a Poshmark Closet
  • One Year of Selling on Poshmark in Review
  • The Ultimate Guide to Coffee Shops in Colorado Springs, CO
  • Coffee in Hand with Colorful Wings Mural The Ultimate Guide to the Best Coffee Shops in Richmond, Virginia
  • 4 Simple Steps to Concealing Dark Circles

What’s Pinning

Get the Countdown Delivered

#ONTHEGRAM

I took this photo 10 months ago to share some of m I took this photo 10 months ago to share some of my favorite thrift finds in a blog post, and I'm currently wearing this vintage sequin sweater today ❇️ I bought it for 99¢ during @arcthrift 's annual sweater sale, and it needed some help. I used dish soap to get a few white spots out of the fabric, and mended a small tear at the seam 🪡 I don't normally give that much care to my thrift finds, but this silk/angora/rabbit hair blend was so soft and the sequins are in perfect shape, so I gave it a shot! Very glad that I did ☺️ #secondhandstyle #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#whatimwearingtoday #secondhandfind #secondhandfirstchoice #secondhandfirst #thriftshopping #thriftunder100k #thriftedthis #thriftedoutfit #thriftstorestyle
I've never made a meme before but couldn't resist I've never made a meme before but couldn't resist 😂 Did you guys hear the story behind Bernie's mittens? They're made from old sweaters and lined with fleece from recycled water bottles! ♻️ Swipe to read more about who made them and why 🧤 #sustainablefashion #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#resellerlife #resellermemes #thriftmemes #berniememes #goodwilloutlet #goodwillbins #thrifterforlife #berniesandersmemes #secondhandstyle #secondhandfirst
Feeling like a million bucks in this perfect condi Feeling like a million bucks in this perfect condition vintage suede and wool coat I got at the Goodwill bins 😝 It's THE winter vacation coat if you ask me ❄️ Since you pay by the pound at the bins, this stunner cost about $5 😱 As a matter of fact, most of my outfit is secondhand: Brooks Brothers turtleneck, J. Crew jeans, and Coach purse via the thrift, and Kenneth Cole suede boots from Mercari 🏷️ Now heading home from a wonderful ski weekend in Beaver Creek 🎿 #secondhandstyle #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#secondhandfind #goodwillbins #goodwilloutletfinds #goodwilloutlet #secondhandfirst #thriftedoutfit #thriftstorestyle #gotitatgoodwill #affordableoutfit
9 years ago we were on our honeymoon in Iceland 🇮🇸 I just had to download this image off of Facebook (hence the low quality!) to post because this coat is thrifted 😂 I still have this coat and need to wear it more! It's a simple, long houndstooth coat. I found it at a big flea market in Florence when I was studying abroad for 25 euro. Once a thrifter, always a thrifter 😝 #secondhandstyle #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#fleamarketfinds #fleamarketstyle #thriftunder100k #thrifted #theviewfromhere #icelandtravel #icelandadventure #reykjavikiceland #honeymoontrip #secondhandfirst
Serving up this silk blend cardigan sweater with f Serving up this silk blend cardigan sweater with fringe detail that I got for $2.50 at the thrift 🤑 Definitely needs a good lint roll but when you're WFH who cares 🤷🏻‍♀️ if you could see my whole outfit there would be straight leg high rise jeans and super cozy wool socks 🧦 #wfhootd #countdowntofriday
.
.
.
#secondhandstyle #secondhandfind #secondhandfirst #thriftunder100k #thriftedthis #thriftedstyle #secondhandfirstchoice #thriftstorestyle

Theme by 17th Avenue · Powered by WordPress & Genesis

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.Accept Reject Read More
Privacy & Disclosure

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non-necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.