When I first heard of this place, for some reason what I pictured was a modern set up, fancy painted walls with Christmas lights dangling at each corner. Harrison st cafe.....with their cute little chalkboard listing their specials adjacent to the front door, this place completely threw me off guard as I first entered. Very small, tiny place, old diner like cases that held desserts with a musty smell from the kitchen, but wow.....for someone who is not even a vegan/vegetarian.....this little hole in the wall made me one of the best breakfast burritos I've ever had! Truly my apologies hsc, my mama always told me too never judge a book by its cover..... Service-similar to when you dine in at a chick Fil, you place your order, find somewhere cozy to sit and wait for them to bring out your yummies. Standard for a cafe, there is nothing meticulous about it, they also pick up after you once you finish, instead of taking it out yourself. Food comes out promptly so overall an A in my Book. Wait is not too long, comfortable, cozy and convenient. This place is awesome Food- I had the deluxe burrito....it was GOOD. As I said, I'm not a vegan or a vegetarian so for it to taste as good as a breakfast burrito I'd get somewhere else is why I have it placed so high. The food was also FRESH, eggs just right, tortilla pressed just right and everything else inside was crisp, juicy and f f f flavorful. The only reason it was 4 stars instead of 5 was the portion size. Although very tasty, wish you'd would get alittle more, unless your 100 lbs and don't really eat much, the portion size is not too filling. I'm sure others would argue otherwise, but that is literally the only reason why I have it at 4. Price-fair. No complaints, you really get what you pay for. I've heard it's overpriced but I disagree because of the fresh ingredients your getting plus the flavor of the food. It's definitely not ridiculously overpriced, all I have to say is that it's fair. Haven't tried anything else yet, heard the coffee was dank, so I'll definitely be coming back for more. Good day
(4)
Tommy B.
Harrison Street Cafe is like the snobby people that go to VCU: a little snooty, a little artsy, probably vegan and a whole lot of elitist attitude. We tried this place out one morning and I wasn't really impressed. Their whole menu is vegetarian friendly, so I had to order soy sausage on my breakfast burrito. Another thing that kinda set me off is an iced coffee cost almost five dollars! Our whole bill, for an omelet, a breakfast burrito, orange juice and an iced coffee was $23! I'm sure there are better things on the menu, and maybe I'm being a cheapskate, but honestly this place didn't do much for me. But hey, if you like eating expensive vegan breakfast with hipsters, be my guest.
(3)
Tom M.
Great vegan French Toast. I really enjoyed their vegan blondie too. Their vegan breakfast burritos were fine but not stellar. Good spot for vegans to get breakfast.
(5)
Erin M.
Get the vegan French toast. Or don't. It's up to you. But if you don't get it, you will be upset with yourself later. The tofu burritos are fantastic as well. I wish this place was in my home town! Cool relaxed cafe where you can order at the front, grab a seat, and chill out for a bit. Breakfast and lunch only.
(5)
Treesa G.
This is absolutely my favorite place to eat in the whole city of Richmond (and I eat out far too often). I absolutely cannot speak highly enough about this place. I love all of the food, but ... BY FAR MY FAVORITE PICK: red lentil burger. Do yourself a favor. Get it. And whatever the side is of the day. My favorite thing about the sides (besides the fact that they're always delicious) is that I never have to ask if they're vegan! Same with the soups! They're ALWAYS vegan. God bless Harrison St!! I also really appreciate the specials oftentimes. The vegan banh mi - best one I've had in town - was an excellent special. The vegan biscuits and gravy were excellent as well. Even better than Elwoods (no offense, Elwoods, I love you!). Oh! And try the vegan desserts. And breakfasts!! Oh man, I'm hungry now. Gonna go there right after this gig I'm at right now.
(5)
Alyssa F.
Cute punx all vegetarian cafe. Good coffee, good bagels. I have had the fried tofu sub from here too which had a really nice texture-would recommend this. Not everything is vegan, but the menu is very clearly labeled. Friendly staff and lots of seating. They accept all major credit cards. 4 stars instead of 5 because they didn't spread the tofu creme cheese on my bagel. There was just a lump of it on one of the halves. I'm not a princess or anything but like...wut?
(4)
Terry D.
I've only had their hot chocolate so this review is only for that and the ambiance at Harrison Street Cafe. The hot chocolate was actually one of my favorites I've had in the city, very rich and perfect for the cold day I went on. The cafe was a nice and relaxing coffee shop with a great atmosphere to get work done or hang out and friendly workers. Pros: cozy, casual, relaxing, food available that looks good Cons: seems like a very VCU spot so will be filled with students (only a con if you don't like students). Closes early (5 on the Friday I was there)
(4)
Parth J.
This place is a lot smaller than I was expecting but the food was great! I had the falafel sandwich was good.
(4)
Michael P.
This was my favorite spot to go to for breakfast or lunch while I went to VCU. It was so close to where I lived, and I often brought people to grab a bite with me on my way to work. My favorite pick was the Asian spicy tofu sandwich. Service was friendly and fast, and for or being vegetarian, it was actually quite filling. Affordable, with sides that changed every time.
(5)
A. P.
I didn't eat here, though I planned to and drove all the way there. This is the college, dumpy, divey vibe at its best - why can't a veggie place be clean and light and somewhat delicious? It was empty, for one, and then the chef refused to make an egg white scramble (not sure why, they clearly have eggs on their menu). He was surly, and I was taken aback. Also, the place is totally dirty - the kitchen looks gross. For out of towners looking for a clean vegan place, steer clear.
(1)
Kevin S.
Great atmosphere, great food, great staff, great prices. It's great to have a restaurant with Vegan options. I have been here once before and I left totally satisfied. I can say it has happened again
(5)
Carolyn D.
I'm not a vegetarian or vegan myself, but this place makes it easy to be one. The food is very flavorful and they're soups are always good. I love coming here for the food and to get some work done as they have free wifi. In my opinion the portions are filling and for the prices it's a good deal.
(5)
Kayla P.
Every meal I've had here has been super tasty and, as a vegan, I'm glad to have a place like this to eat! According to its description it's a coffeeshop and cafe, but I personally think of it more as a cafe than a coffeeshop... The vegetarian/vegan food menu is superb and they have daily specials and pastries, but the coffee is just okay and I'm disappointed that their chai contains dairy. So a quick summary: I'd go here for a vegan meal any day, but I'd probably go somewhere else for coffee.
(4)
Inga S.
This is by far my favorite place to hang out all day. If you're looking for a coffee shop to do work in, this is the spot. I always hear people boasting about Lamplighter sessions, but Harrison has a much quieter atmosphere. It's more applicable to a book worm or writer who wants a cozy corner to sit and sip in. I'm in love with their new set up. The veggie-centric yet indulgent-friendly menu is amazing, and everyone who works there is super friendly. Red lentil anything, jalapeño cream cheese on a pumpernickel bagel, vegan Popeye burrito, vegan sausage breakfast biscuit for $2....I could go on. Coffee game is strong, too. Although, if you're a laptop rat beware, there are only three outlets and they can fill up quick.
(5)
Joe P.
Came here on a Saturday while visiting a friend and couldn't have been more disappointed. They "ran out" of their daily special (biscuits and gravy) by 11:00 AM and wouldn't make an omelette out of egg whites for me. Then my food came out late because they "ran out" of knives. While we were leaving we noticed someone who ordered after we did was served a fresh plate of biscuits and gravy. Pretty sick. They offer breakfast at any time of the day, but, I'm wondering when they serve satisfaction??? Check this place out if you're disorganized, a poor planner and aesthetically hip.
(1)
Sam P.
For breakfast, coffee, or even an occasional large meal, Harrison St Cafe will cover you cravings quickly and satisfyingly. The mocha latte is a must try for the coffee drinker. Get a bagel with one of their unique spreads to accompany it. Plus, who doesn't love 2 stories of cozy seating.
(5)
Bryan P.
used to really love coming here. in fact, I usually made it my first and last stops on visits to Richmond. over the last year, though, the consistency/quality has diminished. most notably, this decline is seen in their coffee. yesterday's brew was the worst I've had in quite a while. beans were roasted to oblivion, and the coffee itself was scalded. lest you think I'm just an online troll, let me make it clear that I'm still rooting for this place, and I'll still come back. if you've been considering a visit to Harrison St., you should still pay them a visit. I just can't endorse them as enthusiastically as I once could.
(3)
John E.
I ordered the 420 sandwich(tempeh) with curry potato salad. So good! On my way out, I picked up a vegan peanut butter cup and vegan carrot cake. I brought a couple carnivores with me and they were loving their food just as much as I was I will definitely be paying this place a visit again the next time I am in Richmond.
(5)
Jobin T.
I always enjoy eating here. The staff are friendly and the food is consistently solid. I appreciate there being an all vegetarian restaurant in the area and it definitely fills an important niche. The felafel burger is one of my favorites, and the to-go "tuna salad" sandwich is a great deal. Only item I'd avoid is the biscuits and gravy, which taste like its made with vanilla... kind of sweet and gross rather then savory and delicious.
(5)
Samantha W.
GREAT!! The food here rocks, especially for vegans! The vegan breakfast burrito was outstanding and wasn't greasy at all. Also, the French toast was amazing. I would totally stop here again when I'm around Richmond.
(5)
Bridget D.
So good this place never disappoints. The breakfast and lunch food are both great, and ideal for vegetarians. The coffee and lattes are super delicious, they play good music and it's a quaint cool space with a small upstairs where you just feel cozy and you can look down at the downstairs area. I usually get a bagel with hummus, sprouts, lettuce, and tomato and it's to die for. For the veg heads they have tofu, soy sausage, and tofu eggs.
With the exception of a very meh vegan sausage breakfast biscuit, everything I've ever had here has been awesome. The coffee is great, the vegan desserts are yummy, THEY HAVE CUPERTINO'S BAGELS (aka the only good NY-style bagels in RVA), and the tempeh/artichoke heart sandwich is bomb. Docking a star for the slightly grimy feel and serious lack of outlets for laptops.
(4)
Shanelle C.
I love it here. The macho burger with comeback sauce ....epic. Recommend the fried artichoke sandwich as well. The baked goods are great. Try the blondie, or muffins. They also are great if you just want to grab some coffee or chai.
(5)
Rebecca F.
Overall this place is great. But dieters and people with diabetes beware: they don't have sugar-free syrup and are pretty condescending about it. Otherwise, great coffee, decent service from most of the staff. Nice atmosphere too. Iced coffee particularly outstanding. Maybe they just need to keep the attitude in check a little better.
(4)
Matt A.
Awesome food. Lentil burger with jalapeños. Vegan potato salad on the side. 5 stars.
(5)
Mike W.
I can't vouch for the whole menu at Harrison St. Cafe but my experience was good. When I was there I just got a salad, which was good, not great. But then again I think I've only had maybe 1 great salad out of my 21 years of life on this earth so far. So not a bad job for being good, because I've also had a ton of really rubbery flavorless heaps of grass that people call a salad. The coffee was pretty good and, spoiler alert, had some much-needed caffeine in it. So the trip was a success. The Cafe is a good place to do some work and has a nice upstairs area for extra seating. I'll be back!
(4)
Dave P.
Always a good option for vegan breakfast or lunch, and a good cup of coffee.
(5)
Erika M.
My bf and I were just passing through Richmond on our way to NC and found this little gem! I ordered their lentil burger with curry mayo and he had the BBQ tofu sandwich. I absolutely loved mine and can't wait to try to recreate the taste at home. The BBQ tofu sandwich was good too but came with coleslaw on top that he couldn't eat bc he's following the Engine 2/Esselstyn/McDougall plan. We will definitely be stopping by again the next time we are driving through VA. There were SOOO many menu items to choose from!
(5)
Ramon R.
One week later headed back home to Fla, had to call for take out, had Tempeh Reuben absolutely fabulous, cream red pepper soup w/coconut milk, too delicious. ..and more avocado fudge + graham cracker crumb coconut chocolate cookie, highlight of our foodie trip. We've got to get these recipes!
(5)
Ambrose R.
Been here three times - once in summer, once in fall and once in winter - and had the same problem every time. The food is good, the coffee is good, the prices are good but the place is COLD. Maybe it's a good way to stop people plugging in their laptops and leeching all day (clever if so!) but if they turned the heat up a few degrees I would be there every week!
(3)
Giovanna H.
Delicious vegan food!!! I hate that I live so far now, I wish that I could've discovered this place sooner. The vegan french toast were phenomenal. Look forward to visiting Richmond just to stop by here.
(5)
Thuy V.
Made the mistake of trying to eat a meal after the onion rings. The onion rings are huge and delicious if you are into those things. Everything else is average which is sometimes just fine. Good atmosphere for college students, friends, families. Wouldn't hesitate to eat there again if I just want a casual cafe/diner type food. Service was ok, not super attentive but the way the restaurant is set up it's not hard to find someone to help.
(3)
A R.
Love this place! Great prices for quality food. Only complaint is that they're not open late enough.
(4)
Lyndsey K.
My friend recommended we come here after she had been here once before. We were in town for a concert and decided to come up early, from Hampton, to grab brunch here. We ordered the vegan french toast and vegan popeye burrito. Both were INCREDIBLY delicious! The french toast was by far my favorite french toast I've ever had, not just vegan kind. It was just the perfect size thickness, spongy and not too sweet. The burrito was also really tasty. The "sausage" was seasoned perfect and it had a nice hot sauce in it. I added some extra hot sauce cause I like mine a little more spicy. I am definitely coming back ... in fact we tried to come back after the show and they were closing early for a special event they were hosting :-/ The price is great, the food is better. Definitely recommend coming here when you're in Richmond! Even if you're not vegan.
(5)
Andrea M.
The lentil burger is sooo good! Probably the best I have ever had. Super fast service even during a very busy lunch hr.
(5)
Sean H.
Loved this place. Great vibe, friendly staff, and most importantly... killer food. We had vegan brunch which consisted of a delicious spicy breakfast burrito and amazing french toast. (If you're vegan, you know how rare it is to have reasonable french toast.) Will definitely go back if I'm ever in Richmond again.
(5)
C L.
Sandwich good. Service so so
(3)
Anonymous P.
I used to go here all the time when I went to VCU. Their vegan sandwiches are on point. Whether it was imitation meat or straight up veggies, they know what they're doing in the kitchen when it comes to vegan lunch. Their chai tea was also off the hook. It was one of the few bright spots in the bleakness of Richmond for me.
(5)
Shuchita S.
An unexpectedly awesome, little vegan place! We ordered the beet battered tofu sandwich and the red lentil burger - both exceptionally amazing. The seating upstairs is cute and service is fast and friendly. Loved the red lentil burger with curried veganaise so much that I ordered a few patties to go!
(5)
Justin M.
I have been here roughly everyday sense starting school at VCU, it is my favorite cafe in Richmond. It's all vegetarian and most is vegan or can be made vegan. Everything I have gotten has been phenomenal! The staff is always so nice and it's all for cheap! This is the first place I have been to that has successfully made vegan mac and cheese, although it's only a special and is not always available. It is all homemade in the cafe!
(5)
Alida H.
Great coffee shop. I'm happy with my experience here. The staff is friendly and the menu items are quality and for a good price. The iced coffee is a delicious roast and is a mere $1.80. Another great thing about this place is that soy milk is free! The popeye is a delicious vegetarian breakfast burrito and is a medley of vegetarian sausage, eggs, spinach, cheese, and hot sauce all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. It is something you most definitely should try for just $5 and some change. Needless to say, I will definitely be back--either to grab a quick iced coffee or to try a few more vegetarian items.
(4)
Shar C.
This restaurant is smaller than I expected. I should have known since it was so close to VCU's campus in the downtown area. We almost missed it trying to find it. It's a two story cafe with the smallest booths and tables I've ever seen. The top story is pretty cool because although the booths are small, the railings are lined with a bookshelf that's filled with a variety of used/old books and magazines. My sister and I ordered some coffee (which was better than I expected), and then a couple of tofu vegan wraps. I had heard about the vegan options here and cannot find it in myself to give them such high reviews about the food. I was a bit disappointed because the tofu had an interesting flavor that ended up giving me a stomachache halfway through my meal. Although my experience here was neither negative or super positive. I think I would rather come here to get the coffee.
(3)
Rosslyn D.
You'd think the cafe looks a bit shady from the outside but once you get a taste of the vegan French toast, you'll realize you should never go by the appearance of a restaurant! This cafe is perfect for students, office goers and anyone with a great appetite. We liked it so much that we stopped by even on our way back from Virginia beach. The first time we went it was lunch time but they have an all-day breakfast menu so I ordered the vegan French toast and my wife ordered the breakfast burrito. The French toast was perfect in terms of the texture of the toast as well as the flavors! The burrito was a great mixture of flavors and the portions were perfect. Do get a side of the home fries, they're delectable. For dessert we got the banana bread, avocado chocolate brownie and a chocolate fudge. All of them were vegan but you wouldn't know the difference, they're that good. On our second visit, we got the falafel burger, bagel with vegan cream cheese and biscuits and gravy. All three dishes were super delicious. Even the bagel was toasted to perfection! Since it's located near the university, the prices are extremely reasonable and you could get a whole meal for under $15!
(5)
Veronica V.
This place makes the best spiced chai tea I've ever tasted. I only got a bagel so I can't really comment on the food, however, the tea alone is enough to cement the fact that I'll return here again and again. Service was really friendly too.
(5)
Brett H.
Food and service is great, but I now will smell like a griddle the rest of the day due to poor ventilation in the kitchen. Also, invest in some floor covering, looks gross. ......Ok, now looking back on this maybe I was a bit harsh. Try the popeye burrito, simply delicious.....seriously though, put down some tile.
(3)
Quyen N.
I'm always on the lookout for vegetarian-/vegan-friendly restaurants during my travels. Much easier to do with yelp + smartphone! Yay! I ordered the beer-battered tofu steak sandwich based on other yelp reviewers' comments. After I took my first bite of the sandwich, I uttered words like "this is exceptional." I was surprised to find myself using the word "exceptional" to describe a sandwich, but it was apt. My boyfriend agreed after he took some bites of my sandwich. Who could not like tasty crispy-fried tofu? He much preferred my sandwich to his, tempeh reuben, which wasn't quite reuben, at least on that day. As we were winding down our lunch and preparing to hit the road, I was debating whether to get dessert. As I perused the baked goods near the cash register, the woman worker suggested the peanut butter cup! A superb suggestion! Much superior to the more famously branded peanut butter cup. More rich, more delicious, more flavorful.
(4)
Alex P.
Sort of hipster-ish spot by VCU. Gets busy at peak lunch hours. People that work there are always nice. Daily vegetarian specials which are always good. Try the bean burger, best one I've ever had. Free refills of coffee which is always nice. Not much to say about this place other than its great. If you're in art school you'll fit right in, if not you should go here anyway.
(5)
Hollie W.
Ah, so good. So many vegan options!! I had the vegan breakfast burrito with greens and my friend had the vegan french toast, both were super tasty! I love the portion sizes since they don't explode your belly. Coffee was also delicious and the interior/seating was great. I loved sitting on the second level as it reminded me of some kind of old timey lecture room. The service is laid back and relatively slow so I wouldn't recommend eating here if you're on a time crunch. Love this place!
(5)
Jeremy L.
Very good food. A bit cold. The staff is a bit awkward but the food is quite enjoyable. Nice Vegan place to eat. Good variety. I will be back.
(4)
Alex W.
Great food and great service. This is a great place for breakfast or lunch, or to stop in for coffee between classes. I really enjoy coming here to do work, too (they have free wifi). Definitely a favorite place around vcu's campus.
(5)
S. H.
Best vegan breakfast I've ever had - French toast, biscuits and gravy, hash browns - just awesome. And the owner was so nice. (Be prepared to drink tons of liquid after though - parched from the high sodium content. But worth it :) Want to try everything vegan on the menu. The place isn't anything to look at, was a bit chilly and the ceiling fan needs a really good cleaning, but they offer books and magazines to read upstairs.
(4)
Chung Y.
Before I go in depth, let me use one word to describe Harrison Street Coffee Shop: DANK (This is the word used by one of the employees to describe their sandwiches) When I first turned vegetarian, I asked my best friend Steve for advice on where to take my AMAZING, GORGEOUS vegan girlfriend (sorry for the ridiculousness, I figure I might as well earn brownie points on these reviews). He told me about his heyday about when he turned vegetarian (He did it for the girl, dancin in the sunset, sippin on Corona, little silhouette) and how Harrison Street Coffee Shop was one of his favorites. I usually don't heed his advice, but when I do it's usually a great idea =P Within the crevices of my brain filled with misconceptions and just stupidity sometimes, I thought that becoming vegetarian meant I would never get to experience the taste of a super awesome sandwich ever again. Gone were the days of finding the perfect Philly Cheese Steak (Piccola's and Mojo's are overrated - Yea, I just said it. Hate on me Richmonders). Gone were the days of eating Cubans at Baker's Crust or Kuba Kuba. However, Harrison Street Coffee Shop basically blew my freakin mind away. Location/Ambiance : Very small restaurant which is convenient to get to by parking near Grace and Harrison street. It has two floors, but a very relaxed coffee shop feel to it. Service: Basically, there is a cashier up front who takes orders and brings the food to your table when it is ready. If you are new and have questions, please ask. They are so polite and know their menu well. Food comes out quick and I absolutely love that since I am known for getting impatient when I have to wait too long for food. The FOOD: What's really great about this place is that it allows vegetarians to experience vegan foods without being scared. They can pretty much make any of the vegetarian sandwiches vegan which in my book is pretty darn awesome. Here are the favorites which my girlfriend and I enjoy: The 420 Club Sub. Seriously, this sandwich is DANK. It's on par with the best meat subs I've ever had. Not only do you get a really great portion sized sub/sandwich, you get a FREAKIN super fresh salad (pair this with the Ginger Miso dressing - If I could buy this in vats, it would be done). If you aren't in the mood for the 420 Club Sub, get the beer battered tofu sandwich. You don't like tofu? Guess what, you do now. After the first time going here, the girlfriend and I went back subsequent visits and have always been thoroughly pleased. Be adventurous and order new things, everything is good here. They don't put random useless food on the menu that nobody wants to order/eat. Guys who are dating vegetarians/vegans, you want to front hard and impress your lady friend? Take her here for a casual lunch date. She'll either punch you because the food's too awesome or she'll want to stay with you forever because you are the thoughtful boyfriend who showed her that vegetarian/vegan food doesn't have to taste bland.
(5)
Susan L.
Best vegan sandwiches in town! The power-salad is a good choice on days you want to get some greens in. While they do cater to students (watch for changes in hours around spring and summer breaks), older folks will feel welcome too.
(4)
Liz C.
This review is just for the coffee. When I went to Harrison Street Cafe I actually didn't know it was a vegetarian/vegan place. I looked up coffee and it came up, so I went. I realized it was a veggie/vegan cafe when I walked in and perused the menu. I'm all for veg-friendly items, but I'm a meat-eater 100 percent. Even so, I didn't feel out of place or put off by the menu. In fact, I thought a lot of the food sounded pretty good. The desserts looked good too! Harrison Street Cafe was really cute inside. It's small and cozy, but there's seating upstairs so it doesn't feel crowded. I love the old charm of the cafe; it felt like it was a house turned into a restaurant. Maybe it was; maybe it wasn't. Doesn't bother me either way. I got an iced soy mocha and the bf got the hot version. We were both happy with our drinks. Just wish they had almond or coconut milk since soy doesn't always agree with my belly.
(4)
Mian F.
I am a total convert. I would eat here every day if I could! After going vegan about a year ago, I thought it was Whole Foods or home if I ever wanted delicious food again. Not so! I'm trying everything slowly, but so far I can highly recommend the gyro, club sub, tempeh reuben and oh my gosh, the fried phish poboy is to die for! The banana bread and loose leaf teas are also amazing. 10 stars if I could!
(5)
Philippe F.
Eggplant Po' Boy. Perfectly and lightly fried on a soft bun with sprouts of the alfalfa, tomatoes, lettuce and cajun sauce. I dream about you at night EPB, you know that right?
(5)
Nathan M.
A little hole-in-the-wall joint with some of the simplest, yet flavorful vegetarian and vegan cuisine in town. I'll order in about once a month, and whether VCU is in full swing or it's the dead of summer service is consistently quick and the food is always excellent. Their tempeh Reuben is probably one of my favorite sandwiches--served toasted on rye with 'kraut and a zesty thousand-island-esk mayo. Would have given five stars, but it's only because space is limited. I suggest take-out whenever possible.
(4)
Kristin M.
I'm really torn about how many stars I should give Harrison Street Coffee Shop. I love the food, I love the staff, and I love the drinks. It's incredibly yummy and a fun place to be. My only complaints: I wish there were more space in the shop, and I wish they opened earlier. It's incredibly difficult in Richmond to get breakfast and coffee before 8am. Basically, I wish I could have more HSCS.
(4)
Maia B.
I was driving back to Boston from a spring break excursion when we decided yes, we needed some coffee. Yelp came to the rescue yet again, leading us to this kickass vegan coffeeshop - I had no idea Richmond had such a young hip vegan college scene. This place also reminds me of the Otherside Cafe in Boston. Dusky lighting, tasty vegan entrees, and a sweet upstairs where you can hide from or spy on your fellow patrons. If I ever pass through Richmond again, I'll definitely stop here for an espresso fix!
(5)
Mary G.
I've been going to Harrison St. for years and I don't recall ever having a negative experience. They have the best vegetarian/vegan food in Richmond, hands down. During the week, they always have a creative special that's usually vegan or has a vegan option. They also have a great selection of vegan bakery goods and a house-made side of the day which is always vegan. I cannot rave about this place enough. My favorite things off of the menu are the gyro (seriously better than the real thing), the 420 club sub and the asian tofu sandwich. My boyfriend loves the BBQ tofu sandwich. When it's available as a special, the vegan catfish poboy is AMAZING (hint, hint, please add it to the permanent menu). It's sometimes busy due to it's location near VCU but the staff handles it very well and still gets the food out fast without sacrificing quality. The staff is also always extremely friendly and personable. The dark haired girl that I always saw working the register on the weekends did the best job IMO but I haven't seen her the past two weekends.
(5)
Mark M.
I have eaten here about 5 or 6 times, and expect that I will go back more. I am not a vegetarian, but do enjoy veg foods and make a point of being low-meat. The BBQ sandwich is fantastic, and I have enjoyed a couple of different wraps. For me the downside here is the coffee. I almost always have regular coffee with lunch. Every time the coffee here has been brewed a little too strong--not disastrously strong, but I would expect better from a place with the word "coffee" in its name. The place is small but manages a positive, cozy feel. I have never had to wait long to order, always been able to find a table, and the service is typically quick. (However I have only been at lunch time on weekdays - might be different a dinner.)
(3)
Laura C.
Oh so yummy!! Not being vegan, I'm always leery of places like this. Sometimes the cooks get a little of out touch with what non-vegans like, but this place was great!! I had the tempeh, artichoke, mozzerella and tomato sandwich. Very good!! My co-workers had the black bean hummus wraps. They said they were good. Definitely one of the best places to eat (even for non vegans).
(5)
Alana G.
Harrison St. is my go-to, weekday comfort food. Conveniently located next to VCU's Monroe Park Campus, the service is fast and friendly -- making it perfect for a quick sit-down or to-go lunch. I love never having to ask if a menu item is vegetarian or not. However, they do use peanut oil and nuts, so always check if you have allergies! Though I've had and loved the majority of the menu items, I usually opt to try the daily special which is always delicious. The seitan they use in many of their dishes is thin rather than chunky making it perfect for specials like the gyro. I had breakfast there for the first time this week and must say that the Breakfast Burrito Deluxe is satisfyingly filling and delightfully spicy. Finally, the recent addition of 5 for 5 after 5 is great for after school studying. As a dine-in special, you can choose from 5 of their regular menu items and get it for $5 during the happy hours of 5-8pm. PBR and coffee is $1 then, and I believe a glass of wine is $3. My favorite spot in RVA!
(5)
Erica T.
Harrison Street Coffee Shop is my absolute favorite place to eat in Richmond. The menu is unpretentious but offers a ton of flavor and freshness to vegetarian and vegan diners. The atmosphere is very casual and cozy. I like to sit upstairs and people-watch, chatting with my husband or with a friend, staying for as long as we like. The people who work here are incredibly friendly and always turn out consistent food, coffee, and desserts. And oh, the sandwiches! Such sandwiches! My favorite is the 420 Club Sub (vegan, please!), which is a toasted sub roll loaded up with strips of tempeh (local, I think) marinated and baked in a delicious smoky, sticky, not-too-sweet sauce, fresh avocado, tomato, sprouts, spring mix, and the most delicious vegan chipotle-lime mayonnaise. If the side of the day is vegan potato salad or vegan mac and cheese, I am in heaven. Other favorites are the TLT (tempeh, lettuce, and tomato), the tempeh reuben (toasty, gooey, complex-tasting!), and the barbeque tofu (perfect texture, amazing, slightly spicy sauce). Breakfast is also great. My favorite is the vegan French toast. Thick, hot slices of sweet, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside, cinnamon-dusted toast with homemade veggie sausage and maple syrup. OMG, yes. The vegan breakfast burritos are also excellent, and you have the option to choose your own burrito ingredients, if you wish. The coffee is spectacular. It's fair-trade, locally-roasted black gold. The baristas make excellent espresso drinks as well, and are able to do so quickly and efficiently. I can't seem to resist Harrison Street's vegan peanut butter cups. I usually wind up buying one every time I come in. The prices are very reasonable for the amount and the quality of the food served. I am perfectly happy paying $8.00 for a lunch here, because I know everything will be fresh, flavorful, and delicious, and I will leave happy. If I had one complaint, it would be that during certain times of the year, their hours are a little erratic. I love them so much, I wish they were open all the time!
(5)
Chase G.
Yeah, so this place really is as good as the ratings state. The tempeh sandwiches are DELICIOUS, the sides that I've had from here (which vary every day) are also fantastic: Mexican bean salad and pasta salad. 420 Club Sub is great. Atmosphere is definitely five star for a cafe with the upper level and the books and magazines lining the top. Prices fit perfectly. I will be eating here for a while, and I'm not vegetarian or vegan. The only problem is that sometimes there is a lack of seating. Alas, the sign of a good restaurant.
(5)
Ginger W.
If you're looking for a VCU vegan or vegetarian, this is where you'll find them. I'm not either and on my first visit to this popular coffeehouse, I was afraid there wouldn't be anything I would like. It was packed, and they do a booming take-out business to boot. I had a breakfast burrito and my first encounter with "soysage". I really couldn't tell the difference between the faux meat and the real thing. Not like fakin' bacon which has the consistency of microwaved styrofoam....the latte was really good and I took home a vegan blondie for my mid-afternoon sugar buzz. Their slogan is "good eats, no meats" and the menu is much more creative than a lot of vegetarian/vegan haunts. Beer battered tofu intrigued me, as did the T.L.T. ( a BLT with tempeh...and I have no idea what tempeh is). Whether or not you're a carnivore, the coffee alone is worth a drop-in.
(3)
Joanna C.
I was on the hunt for caffeine. The coffee shop at the hotel was absolute crap, and I needed multiple shots of espresso, STAT. I popped "coffee" into my GPS, and it directed me to this great place! My soy latte was PERFECT, and I was able to grab breakfast there... I originally grabbed a slice of pumpkin bread, but noticed a sign that said "bagel with hummus, sprouts and tomato" and HAD TO HAVE IT. And I was so glad I did! The bagel was perfectly chewy and delicious. I was super impressed with the quality of the bagel! Slighty toasted, with a thick spread of hummus, fresh sprouts and sliced tomatoes. Mmmmmm. It was SO satisfying... I may need to try to recreate this at home!!
(4)
Angela B.
Vegan/Vegetarian cafe with the best tempeh i've had. Super hipster, cute little spot. I had the tempeh, artichoke, mozzerella, and tomato sandwich which made me remember why I don't need meat to have an awesome meal. They do daily sides and specials which I've heard are always fantastic. Plus the staff was super friendly, and very helpful when I had no idea what to get. :)
(5)
Crissie R.
vegan breakfast burrito is amazing!
(5)
Nicolle M.
Great spot in VCU! It does tend to get busy during its peak lunch hour but the food is worth it! I use to go here all the time as a student. It's very close to the grace street theater and Pollack Building. Staff is very friendly! They let two of my friends film here for a VCU project. Again, the food is amazing. I didn't really eat tofu before but this place made me love tofu!!
(5)
Liz M.
This place is seriously amazing. I've never craved a salad like I've longed for the falafel power salad - and the peanut butter cups are out of this world as well. Come to think of it, I don't think I've had any food here that wasn't amazing, and the comfortable environment certainly adds to the enjoyment. If it's just coffee you want, go to Crossroads (but do not eat at Crossroads...seriously).
(4)
Liz M.
Small but cozy restaurant with TONs of delicious vegan options and decent coffee. We came for brunch on a Sunday and it was pretty busy but we didn't have to wait for a table. It would be a great place for a daytime date because there are cute little two person booths upstairs. Service was also really great. We had the Broseph Burrito and the vegan sausage gravy and biscuits. Both were the most delicious vegan breakfast we had ever had. Unfortunately we are just passing through Richmond. Otherwise it would be a regular weekend spot for me.
(5)
Sara G.
Super tasty, love the falafal sandwhich and potato leek soup!
(4)
Court M.
We were visiting for the day and stooped in here. Food was great and staff friendly. I had the TLT and my wife had the Zepplin. Funky college atmosphere. Neither of us are veg but food was really tasty. Coffee afterwards made even better. Defibitely a step over typical college town food !
(4)
Beth A.
We were there last Sunday and popped in for a quick bite. The staff was really cool, and the breakfast was delightful. If you are there and they have pumpkin spiced french toast for a special, get it!
(4)
Angela S.
I've been going to Harrison Street Coffee Shop for years when I visit the Fan neighborhood where my sister has lived since 1997. I will not be going back. The service is extremely rude and the food is average, at best - usually below average. I have eaten here plenty of times, at least ten, for both breakfast and lunch, both on-site and via take-out, so I don't say this lightly. Yesterday was the last straw - I called on Saturday a.m., October 27th, to order takeout and was told they didn't open until 10:30 A.M. (ridiculously late for a place that serves breakfast) which is completely at odds with what their posted hours stated, both on their storefront and at Yelp. The man who answered was a complete jerk and hung up on me after I VERY politely asked him to verify when the place opened. The food, as I stated above, is average at best - I have gotten many different types of sandwiches including egg salad, hummus wrap, and the breakfast sandwich which includes vegan bacon. Also apart from the food, it's annoying that this restaurant has no website and doesn't even have an answering machine/voicemail to relay hours, etc. when they're closed. Both of those things are also ridiculous in this day and age. The restaurant itself is very drab, often seems unclean and has a peculiar and unpleasant odor. I would also point out that the staff, when I've picked up take-out (including on Friday, October 26th) seems almost shocked when you DON'T add a tip for picking up your call-in order! As if this were in any way an obligation - it most definitely is not.
(1)
Vince V.
Hmmm ... The latte/coffee is weak and undistinguished ... Very sorry to report ...
(2)
Jordan F.
Overall I really, really enjoy this place. That damn asian tofu sandwich is AMAZING. And the friendly environment is something i dont mind at all. I'll have to come back more as the tofu sandwich is the only thing I've had here, sans a bite of my lady's sandwich which I believe was a bbq seitan sandwich, or maybe a sloppy joes. Either way, I'm impressed and I'm sure that Harrison St Coffee Shop will become one of my favorite vegan eateries in Richmond. Service is great, no complaints there. I can't wait to go back.
(4)
Justin C.
I was driving from Pittsburgh to the beach in nc and wanted a quick healthy meal and coffee for the late drive. They made the migas burrito pretty fast and a triple latte even faster. Both were great and were worth the stop in RVA instead of a rest stop.
(4)
Traci W.
The best BBQ Tofu sandwich ever made. Their tempeh reubens are divine. I would encourage you to eat here, and eat here regularly.
(5)
Hoon S.
I have yet to try a vegetarian restaurant that blows me away. Vegetarian or vegan restaurants focus so heavily on tempeh or tofu, and don't really focus on making a vegetarian dish, something out of the box, something unique. I am still waiting for it. That said, Harrison Street Cafe is okay. Pros: all the food items are vegetarian/vegan, which means a lot of choices/options, and the food is okay. Cons: getting to this location is difficult if you don't live near there since they have no private parking, and street parking is always full, plus their prices are a little high, and the food is okay. I listed the food as both a pro and a con. I had the 420 club sub with potato salad. The sub is approximately 8in long, and has strips of tempeh with some sauce, some cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and sprouts. The sub tasted just okay, the sauce needs a kick upgrade because it is a little on the bland side, and the sub itself was okay, not bad and not really good either. The potato salad also was on the bland side. I still want to try other items on the menu, so I want to go back and try again, if I can find parking near there, but one time I drove around looking for a spot, and after two passes, decided to go to Panera, which has parking. 3 out of 5 stars. Next time I'll try the gyro or the falafel and not tempeh or tofu. Even though I like tofu, vegetarian/vegan restaurants over-use it.
(3)
Jeremy K.
A place I have been going for 10 years. A great go-to for a cup of coffee, a quiet place to study, and a tasty AFFORDABLE vegetarian dish. I particularly like the falafel burger or the tempeh artichoke sub.
(4)
Leslie A.
I kept staring at my friend's beer battered tofu sandwich, longingly. Yet, week after week, I would continue to try different things. The veg breakfast burrito is crazy good, as the tofu ends up being really creamy and smooth and not dried out or over-seasoned. Works so well with the potatoes and sausage... I'm drooling at 2am for breakfast and I have to stop now as it's late. Regardless, I like how you can go upstairs and it's like being in a small train station. Books line the rails. My blood sugar thanks them so much for having agave nectar to put in drinks, and they have a nicely-sized coffee & tea selection. Patrons are asked to bus their own tables. So good, so close, and now I can't stop thinking about that breakfast burrito. May go this weekend!
(5)
Sheila V.
Ordered: Coffee, Deluxe Breakfast Burrito and French Toast The coffee was GREAT, the burrito was yummy and the french toast was average. The soy sausage was delicious speaking from a non-vegetarian point of view. The service was GREAT, you order your food at the register and then pretty much clean up your own plates after but I didn't mind. A hipsterish/Richmondy type of coffee shop.
(4)
Daniel R.
your tea is sooo over priced. seriously you charge me more for a larger cup with more water? I always thought that when one bought tea they were buying the tea bag. I mean maybe I am wrong but over a dollar more for less than 8 extra ounces of hot water seems tyrannical. This has provoked me to 1) stop buying tea (the only thing I came for) and brew my own which is actually positive so thank you! and 2) I will bring my own cup, buy the tea bag and fill it up with my own water, if I ever become bored with my new regiment of loose leaf at home. Also, Ipanema charges the same for their sandwiches and do not give Lay's potato chips but fries and salad.... a salad add-on is a 1.50 here Now, you also charge a dollar after noon for egg products... why? do you, yourself have chickens and some how after noon they need dollars to coax eggs out of them? A place like this can only survive in Richmond
(3)
Juli M.
Delicious veggie/vegan food. I haven't taken any of my omnivorous friends there yet, but I feel like this food would even be appealing to them. I feel like I've gotten close to sampling their entire menu (sadly), and I have found maybe one sandwich that I didn't like. The lentil burger is great. The vegan french dip (when they have it) is Wonderful. Anything w. their homemade seitan is pretty great. I've had a super-spicy jerk chili there that definitely met my normal yearly capsaicin intake. Deluxe breakfast burrito and vegan biscuits and gravy are also good when you can get them. Peanut butter cups, vegan cupcakes, pumpkin bread are always a good choice. I wouldn't go there for the coffee alone. The coffee is good. Espresso is a little bit lacking. Atmosphere is great, everyone is really nice. They don't have free wifi, so don't plan on going there to hang out with your laptop/study all day. Go there for the amazing food.
(5)
Andrew H.
This is the best place to eat food on earth. Ever. The excellence of the coffee is only surpassed by the awesomeness of the owner and staff. I miss this place every day I live.
(5)
Lei G.
I think it all depends on who is working in the kitchen. The menu hasn't changed much, but the taste has =( Even the plain coffee tasted horrible. What's going on Harrison Street, you use to be one of my favs.
(3)
Jim H.
A gem on the VCU campus. The food is excellent, although somewhat pricey. Good place to study or meet with seating on two levels.
(5)
Jenna G.
this place is great for vegan/vegetarians. good food, good prices.
(4)
Nina S.
Really comfortable, familiar atmosphere. Awesome place to meet up with friends or just a quiet place to enjoy quality food, coffee & tea during a break from classes. The menu changes enough to keep things exciting, but never strays from an agreeable selection. I just wish they had longer hours!
(4)
Tommy B.
Harrison Street Coffee is at the top of my list for lunch in Richmond. If you're looking for meat you won't find any here, but I encourage you to try it anyway. I'd like to know how to replicate the beer battered tofu sandwich at home-- so crispy and delicious. The fair trade Central American coffee is superb. This is about as close to perfect as you can get for lunch. The atmosphere is cozy-- not good for large groups of more than four. The small tables upstairs are great for hiding away. My only real complaint is that I wish they had consistent business hours. Highly recommended, but call to make sure they're open first. 804-359-8060.
(5)
Cj A.
This place is AMAZING. By far my favorite quick, cheap place to eat in Richmond. It was the first meal I had when I came to visit VCU as a prospective student, and I've been loyal to them ever since. HSCS offers the best vegetarian lunchtime fare around VCU. When I say that everything here tastes great, I mean it...but I'm especially partial to their tempeh sandwiches and such. Almost every meal is vegan or can be made vegan, and they are very clear about the items that are not vegan. Now that they've renovated, though, I don't like physically eating there as much. The stripped floor looks unfriendly and the new counter placement is awkwardly close to the door. The space in general looks like an unfinished basement. But the food is consistent, and their revamped menu is insanely awesome. I was hoping they'd get free wifi after the renovation, but no such luck. If they had free wifi, I'd be more likely to want to eat in. It used to have a pleasant, eclectic look, and I didn't really mind not being able to pull out my laptop for some last minute homework during my pre-class lunch, but the ugly new "look" coupled with the lack of wireless pushes me to rather get my order to-go and enjoy it in Monroe Park. Bottom line - Harrison Street will always be my first choice for lunch in Richmond. Especially if you're a vegetarian or vegan, try their sandwiches. One complaint about the food, though...the breakfast burrito (I got the one with soysage and egg supplement, no cheese) was terrible. The eggy stuff was WAY too hot (it burnt the roof of my mouth and I was in considerable discomfort for the rest of the day), it didn't taste all that great, and it upset my stomach. Gross. Their breakfast with real egg is much, much better. They use fresh eggs, not crappy processed egg mix.
(5)
Ayla Z.
When I first came to Richmond to Visit this was one of the first places I went to on my own. When I went in it was nice and quiet. Although they do have moments when they are busy. Theres is something nice and relaxed about the atmosphere. The food there as well is really yummy. Im pretty picky when it comes to BAGLES (OF ALL THINGS) and the bagel's they have are good in my book too! They do have vegetarian and vegan options.
(4)
Sarah H.
I looove this place! The menu has a great vegetarian and vegan selection (the super falafel burger is my personal favorite), the prices are reasonable, and the service is great. You can also get unlimited coffee for a very cheap price. It has a quiet atmosphere; it's a good place to go to read or relax for awhile. The only downside is that they close early!
(5)
Anne Marie D.
This is honest to goodness my favorite place in Richmond to eat. EVERYTHING I've had on the menu has been fantastic. My favorites include the beer battered tofu steak sandwich, falafel burger, full throttle chipotle zeppelin, and for breakfast, the vegan french toast/soysage. The specials are always awesome too. My ONLY complaint is that the vegan gyro is not on the regular menu! It's a crime that I can't get it all the time :( It's seriously as close to the real thing as you can get!
(5)
Bianca G.
Lived here four years ago and still try to replicate the reuben to no avail. Took this place for granted....would get a specialty coffee every time I went to class that was always perfect. There needs to be more places like this in the world. Harrison St Coffee Shop is reason alone to to drive nine hours from Providence to Richmond (and worth it!)
(5)
Dae-su Oh _.
Great coffee shop! For around 2 bucks you have unlimited coffee. Excellent original vegetarian menu! Price is good for it's setting. Friendly and knowledgeable service. quiet. Cons: No Internet access
(5)
Rose V.
this place is great if you can ever find it to be open.
(4)
Jackie L.
walk by here almost every day for free trade organic hazelnut coffee..best bbq tofu sammich, great honey walnut cream cheese, amazing homemade vegan muffins when they have them
(5)
Always Right C.
The best little coffee shop in Richmond. Choose from a plethora of Vegetarian and VEGAN menu items. Cute, quaint and delicious!
(5)
Richard Z.
My wife and I just athere for the first time. I had lentil burger, my wife had a falafel burger. Both outstanding. The sides were excellent. Probably going there for lunch again tomorrow. Liked it so much, went back the next day for lunch. Will be back next weekend!
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Brunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Hipster Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : No
Suhan K.
When I first heard of this place, for some reason what I pictured was a modern set up, fancy painted walls with Christmas lights dangling at each corner. Harrison st cafe.....with their cute little chalkboard listing their specials adjacent to the front door, this place completely threw me off guard as I first entered. Very small, tiny place, old diner like cases that held desserts with a musty smell from the kitchen, but wow.....for someone who is not even a vegan/vegetarian.....this little hole in the wall made me one of the best breakfast burritos I've ever had! Truly my apologies hsc, my mama always told me too never judge a book by its cover..... Service-similar to when you dine in at a chick Fil, you place your order, find somewhere cozy to sit and wait for them to bring out your yummies. Standard for a cafe, there is nothing meticulous about it, they also pick up after you once you finish, instead of taking it out yourself. Food comes out promptly so overall an A in my Book. Wait is not too long, comfortable, cozy and convenient. This place is awesome Food- I had the deluxe burrito....it was GOOD. As I said, I'm not a vegan or a vegetarian so for it to taste as good as a breakfast burrito I'd get somewhere else is why I have it placed so high. The food was also FRESH, eggs just right, tortilla pressed just right and everything else inside was crisp, juicy and f f f flavorful. The only reason it was 4 stars instead of 5 was the portion size. Although very tasty, wish you'd would get alittle more, unless your 100 lbs and don't really eat much, the portion size is not too filling. I'm sure others would argue otherwise, but that is literally the only reason why I have it at 4. Price-fair. No complaints, you really get what you pay for. I've heard it's overpriced but I disagree because of the fresh ingredients your getting plus the flavor of the food. It's definitely not ridiculously overpriced, all I have to say is that it's fair. Haven't tried anything else yet, heard the coffee was dank, so I'll definitely be coming back for more. Good day
(4)Tommy B.
Harrison Street Cafe is like the snobby people that go to VCU: a little snooty, a little artsy, probably vegan and a whole lot of elitist attitude. We tried this place out one morning and I wasn't really impressed. Their whole menu is vegetarian friendly, so I had to order soy sausage on my breakfast burrito. Another thing that kinda set me off is an iced coffee cost almost five dollars! Our whole bill, for an omelet, a breakfast burrito, orange juice and an iced coffee was $23! I'm sure there are better things on the menu, and maybe I'm being a cheapskate, but honestly this place didn't do much for me. But hey, if you like eating expensive vegan breakfast with hipsters, be my guest.
(3)Tom M.
Great vegan French Toast. I really enjoyed their vegan blondie too. Their vegan breakfast burritos were fine but not stellar. Good spot for vegans to get breakfast.
(5)Erin M.
Get the vegan French toast. Or don't. It's up to you. But if you don't get it, you will be upset with yourself later. The tofu burritos are fantastic as well. I wish this place was in my home town! Cool relaxed cafe where you can order at the front, grab a seat, and chill out for a bit. Breakfast and lunch only.
(5)Treesa G.
This is absolutely my favorite place to eat in the whole city of Richmond (and I eat out far too often). I absolutely cannot speak highly enough about this place. I love all of the food, but ... BY FAR MY FAVORITE PICK: red lentil burger. Do yourself a favor. Get it. And whatever the side is of the day. My favorite thing about the sides (besides the fact that they're always delicious) is that I never have to ask if they're vegan! Same with the soups! They're ALWAYS vegan. God bless Harrison St!! I also really appreciate the specials oftentimes. The vegan banh mi - best one I've had in town - was an excellent special. The vegan biscuits and gravy were excellent as well. Even better than Elwoods (no offense, Elwoods, I love you!). Oh! And try the vegan desserts. And breakfasts!! Oh man, I'm hungry now. Gonna go there right after this gig I'm at right now.
(5)Alyssa F.
Cute punx all vegetarian cafe. Good coffee, good bagels. I have had the fried tofu sub from here too which had a really nice texture-would recommend this. Not everything is vegan, but the menu is very clearly labeled. Friendly staff and lots of seating. They accept all major credit cards. 4 stars instead of 5 because they didn't spread the tofu creme cheese on my bagel. There was just a lump of it on one of the halves. I'm not a princess or anything but like...wut?
(4)Terry D.
I've only had their hot chocolate so this review is only for that and the ambiance at Harrison Street Cafe. The hot chocolate was actually one of my favorites I've had in the city, very rich and perfect for the cold day I went on. The cafe was a nice and relaxing coffee shop with a great atmosphere to get work done or hang out and friendly workers. Pros: cozy, casual, relaxing, food available that looks good Cons: seems like a very VCU spot so will be filled with students (only a con if you don't like students). Closes early (5 on the Friday I was there)
(4)Parth J.
This place is a lot smaller than I was expecting but the food was great! I had the falafel sandwich was good.
(4)Michael P.
This was my favorite spot to go to for breakfast or lunch while I went to VCU. It was so close to where I lived, and I often brought people to grab a bite with me on my way to work. My favorite pick was the Asian spicy tofu sandwich. Service was friendly and fast, and for or being vegetarian, it was actually quite filling. Affordable, with sides that changed every time.
(5)A. P.
I didn't eat here, though I planned to and drove all the way there. This is the college, dumpy, divey vibe at its best - why can't a veggie place be clean and light and somewhat delicious? It was empty, for one, and then the chef refused to make an egg white scramble (not sure why, they clearly have eggs on their menu). He was surly, and I was taken aback. Also, the place is totally dirty - the kitchen looks gross. For out of towners looking for a clean vegan place, steer clear.
(1)Kevin S.
Great atmosphere, great food, great staff, great prices. It's great to have a restaurant with Vegan options. I have been here once before and I left totally satisfied. I can say it has happened again
(5)Carolyn D.
I'm not a vegetarian or vegan myself, but this place makes it easy to be one. The food is very flavorful and they're soups are always good. I love coming here for the food and to get some work done as they have free wifi. In my opinion the portions are filling and for the prices it's a good deal.
(5)Kayla P.
Every meal I've had here has been super tasty and, as a vegan, I'm glad to have a place like this to eat! According to its description it's a coffeeshop and cafe, but I personally think of it more as a cafe than a coffeeshop... The vegetarian/vegan food menu is superb and they have daily specials and pastries, but the coffee is just okay and I'm disappointed that their chai contains dairy. So a quick summary: I'd go here for a vegan meal any day, but I'd probably go somewhere else for coffee.
(4)Inga S.
This is by far my favorite place to hang out all day. If you're looking for a coffee shop to do work in, this is the spot. I always hear people boasting about Lamplighter sessions, but Harrison has a much quieter atmosphere. It's more applicable to a book worm or writer who wants a cozy corner to sit and sip in. I'm in love with their new set up. The veggie-centric yet indulgent-friendly menu is amazing, and everyone who works there is super friendly. Red lentil anything, jalapeño cream cheese on a pumpernickel bagel, vegan Popeye burrito, vegan sausage breakfast biscuit for $2....I could go on. Coffee game is strong, too. Although, if you're a laptop rat beware, there are only three outlets and they can fill up quick.
(5)Joe P.
Came here on a Saturday while visiting a friend and couldn't have been more disappointed. They "ran out" of their daily special (biscuits and gravy) by 11:00 AM and wouldn't make an omelette out of egg whites for me. Then my food came out late because they "ran out" of knives. While we were leaving we noticed someone who ordered after we did was served a fresh plate of biscuits and gravy. Pretty sick. They offer breakfast at any time of the day, but, I'm wondering when they serve satisfaction??? Check this place out if you're disorganized, a poor planner and aesthetically hip.
(1)Sam P.
For breakfast, coffee, or even an occasional large meal, Harrison St Cafe will cover you cravings quickly and satisfyingly. The mocha latte is a must try for the coffee drinker. Get a bagel with one of their unique spreads to accompany it. Plus, who doesn't love 2 stories of cozy seating.
(5)Bryan P.
used to really love coming here. in fact, I usually made it my first and last stops on visits to Richmond. over the last year, though, the consistency/quality has diminished. most notably, this decline is seen in their coffee. yesterday's brew was the worst I've had in quite a while. beans were roasted to oblivion, and the coffee itself was scalded. lest you think I'm just an online troll, let me make it clear that I'm still rooting for this place, and I'll still come back. if you've been considering a visit to Harrison St., you should still pay them a visit. I just can't endorse them as enthusiastically as I once could.
(3)John E.
I ordered the 420 sandwich(tempeh) with curry potato salad. So good! On my way out, I picked up a vegan peanut butter cup and vegan carrot cake. I brought a couple carnivores with me and they were loving their food just as much as I was I will definitely be paying this place a visit again the next time I am in Richmond.
(5)Jobin T.
I always enjoy eating here. The staff are friendly and the food is consistently solid. I appreciate there being an all vegetarian restaurant in the area and it definitely fills an important niche. The felafel burger is one of my favorites, and the to-go "tuna salad" sandwich is a great deal. Only item I'd avoid is the biscuits and gravy, which taste like its made with vanilla... kind of sweet and gross rather then savory and delicious.
(5)Samantha W.
GREAT!! The food here rocks, especially for vegans! The vegan breakfast burrito was outstanding and wasn't greasy at all. Also, the French toast was amazing. I would totally stop here again when I'm around Richmond.
(5)Bridget D.
So good this place never disappoints. The breakfast and lunch food are both great, and ideal for vegetarians. The coffee and lattes are super delicious, they play good music and it's a quaint cool space with a small upstairs where you just feel cozy and you can look down at the downstairs area. I usually get a bagel with hummus, sprouts, lettuce, and tomato and it's to die for. For the veg heads they have tofu, soy sausage, and tofu eggs.
(5)Renée G.
With the exception of a very meh vegan sausage breakfast biscuit, everything I've ever had here has been awesome. The coffee is great, the vegan desserts are yummy, THEY HAVE CUPERTINO'S BAGELS (aka the only good NY-style bagels in RVA), and the tempeh/artichoke heart sandwich is bomb. Docking a star for the slightly grimy feel and serious lack of outlets for laptops.
(4)Shanelle C.
I love it here. The macho burger with comeback sauce ....epic. Recommend the fried artichoke sandwich as well. The baked goods are great. Try the blondie, or muffins. They also are great if you just want to grab some coffee or chai.
(5)Rebecca F.
Overall this place is great. But dieters and people with diabetes beware: they don't have sugar-free syrup and are pretty condescending about it. Otherwise, great coffee, decent service from most of the staff. Nice atmosphere too. Iced coffee particularly outstanding. Maybe they just need to keep the attitude in check a little better.
(4)Matt A.
Awesome food. Lentil burger with jalapeños. Vegan potato salad on the side. 5 stars.
(5)Mike W.
I can't vouch for the whole menu at Harrison St. Cafe but my experience was good. When I was there I just got a salad, which was good, not great. But then again I think I've only had maybe 1 great salad out of my 21 years of life on this earth so far. So not a bad job for being good, because I've also had a ton of really rubbery flavorless heaps of grass that people call a salad. The coffee was pretty good and, spoiler alert, had some much-needed caffeine in it. So the trip was a success. The Cafe is a good place to do some work and has a nice upstairs area for extra seating. I'll be back!
(4)Dave P.
Always a good option for vegan breakfast or lunch, and a good cup of coffee.
(5)Erika M.
My bf and I were just passing through Richmond on our way to NC and found this little gem! I ordered their lentil burger with curry mayo and he had the BBQ tofu sandwich. I absolutely loved mine and can't wait to try to recreate the taste at home. The BBQ tofu sandwich was good too but came with coleslaw on top that he couldn't eat bc he's following the Engine 2/Esselstyn/McDougall plan. We will definitely be stopping by again the next time we are driving through VA. There were SOOO many menu items to choose from!
(5)Ramon R.
One week later headed back home to Fla, had to call for take out, had Tempeh Reuben absolutely fabulous, cream red pepper soup w/coconut milk, too delicious. ..and more avocado fudge + graham cracker crumb coconut chocolate cookie, highlight of our foodie trip. We've got to get these recipes!
(5)Ambrose R.
Been here three times - once in summer, once in fall and once in winter - and had the same problem every time. The food is good, the coffee is good, the prices are good but the place is COLD. Maybe it's a good way to stop people plugging in their laptops and leeching all day (clever if so!) but if they turned the heat up a few degrees I would be there every week!
(3)Giovanna H.
Delicious vegan food!!! I hate that I live so far now, I wish that I could've discovered this place sooner. The vegan french toast were phenomenal. Look forward to visiting Richmond just to stop by here.
(5)Thuy V.
Made the mistake of trying to eat a meal after the onion rings. The onion rings are huge and delicious if you are into those things. Everything else is average which is sometimes just fine. Good atmosphere for college students, friends, families. Wouldn't hesitate to eat there again if I just want a casual cafe/diner type food. Service was ok, not super attentive but the way the restaurant is set up it's not hard to find someone to help.
(3)A R.
Love this place! Great prices for quality food. Only complaint is that they're not open late enough.
(4)Lyndsey K.
My friend recommended we come here after she had been here once before. We were in town for a concert and decided to come up early, from Hampton, to grab brunch here. We ordered the vegan french toast and vegan popeye burrito. Both were INCREDIBLY delicious! The french toast was by far my favorite french toast I've ever had, not just vegan kind. It was just the perfect size thickness, spongy and not too sweet. The burrito was also really tasty. The "sausage" was seasoned perfect and it had a nice hot sauce in it. I added some extra hot sauce cause I like mine a little more spicy. I am definitely coming back ... in fact we tried to come back after the show and they were closing early for a special event they were hosting :-/ The price is great, the food is better. Definitely recommend coming here when you're in Richmond! Even if you're not vegan.
(5)Andrea M.
The lentil burger is sooo good! Probably the best I have ever had. Super fast service even during a very busy lunch hr.
(5)Sean H.
Loved this place. Great vibe, friendly staff, and most importantly... killer food. We had vegan brunch which consisted of a delicious spicy breakfast burrito and amazing french toast. (If you're vegan, you know how rare it is to have reasonable french toast.) Will definitely go back if I'm ever in Richmond again.
(5)C L.
Sandwich good. Service so so
(3)Anonymous P.
I used to go here all the time when I went to VCU. Their vegan sandwiches are on point. Whether it was imitation meat or straight up veggies, they know what they're doing in the kitchen when it comes to vegan lunch. Their chai tea was also off the hook. It was one of the few bright spots in the bleakness of Richmond for me.
(5)Shuchita S.
An unexpectedly awesome, little vegan place! We ordered the beet battered tofu sandwich and the red lentil burger - both exceptionally amazing. The seating upstairs is cute and service is fast and friendly. Loved the red lentil burger with curried veganaise so much that I ordered a few patties to go!
(5)Justin M.
I have been here roughly everyday sense starting school at VCU, it is my favorite cafe in Richmond. It's all vegetarian and most is vegan or can be made vegan. Everything I have gotten has been phenomenal! The staff is always so nice and it's all for cheap! This is the first place I have been to that has successfully made vegan mac and cheese, although it's only a special and is not always available. It is all homemade in the cafe!
(5)Alida H.
Great coffee shop. I'm happy with my experience here. The staff is friendly and the menu items are quality and for a good price. The iced coffee is a delicious roast and is a mere $1.80. Another great thing about this place is that soy milk is free! The popeye is a delicious vegetarian breakfast burrito and is a medley of vegetarian sausage, eggs, spinach, cheese, and hot sauce all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. It is something you most definitely should try for just $5 and some change. Needless to say, I will definitely be back--either to grab a quick iced coffee or to try a few more vegetarian items.
(4)Shar C.
This restaurant is smaller than I expected. I should have known since it was so close to VCU's campus in the downtown area. We almost missed it trying to find it. It's a two story cafe with the smallest booths and tables I've ever seen. The top story is pretty cool because although the booths are small, the railings are lined with a bookshelf that's filled with a variety of used/old books and magazines. My sister and I ordered some coffee (which was better than I expected), and then a couple of tofu vegan wraps. I had heard about the vegan options here and cannot find it in myself to give them such high reviews about the food. I was a bit disappointed because the tofu had an interesting flavor that ended up giving me a stomachache halfway through my meal. Although my experience here was neither negative or super positive. I think I would rather come here to get the coffee.
(3)Rosslyn D.
You'd think the cafe looks a bit shady from the outside but once you get a taste of the vegan French toast, you'll realize you should never go by the appearance of a restaurant! This cafe is perfect for students, office goers and anyone with a great appetite. We liked it so much that we stopped by even on our way back from Virginia beach. The first time we went it was lunch time but they have an all-day breakfast menu so I ordered the vegan French toast and my wife ordered the breakfast burrito. The French toast was perfect in terms of the texture of the toast as well as the flavors! The burrito was a great mixture of flavors and the portions were perfect. Do get a side of the home fries, they're delectable. For dessert we got the banana bread, avocado chocolate brownie and a chocolate fudge. All of them were vegan but you wouldn't know the difference, they're that good. On our second visit, we got the falafel burger, bagel with vegan cream cheese and biscuits and gravy. All three dishes were super delicious. Even the bagel was toasted to perfection! Since it's located near the university, the prices are extremely reasonable and you could get a whole meal for under $15!
(5)Veronica V.
This place makes the best spiced chai tea I've ever tasted. I only got a bagel so I can't really comment on the food, however, the tea alone is enough to cement the fact that I'll return here again and again. Service was really friendly too.
(5)Brett H.
Food and service is great, but I now will smell like a griddle the rest of the day due to poor ventilation in the kitchen. Also, invest in some floor covering, looks gross. ......Ok, now looking back on this maybe I was a bit harsh. Try the popeye burrito, simply delicious.....seriously though, put down some tile.
(3)Quyen N.
I'm always on the lookout for vegetarian-/vegan-friendly restaurants during my travels. Much easier to do with yelp + smartphone! Yay! I ordered the beer-battered tofu steak sandwich based on other yelp reviewers' comments. After I took my first bite of the sandwich, I uttered words like "this is exceptional." I was surprised to find myself using the word "exceptional" to describe a sandwich, but it was apt. My boyfriend agreed after he took some bites of my sandwich. Who could not like tasty crispy-fried tofu? He much preferred my sandwich to his, tempeh reuben, which wasn't quite reuben, at least on that day. As we were winding down our lunch and preparing to hit the road, I was debating whether to get dessert. As I perused the baked goods near the cash register, the woman worker suggested the peanut butter cup! A superb suggestion! Much superior to the more famously branded peanut butter cup. More rich, more delicious, more flavorful.
(4)Alex P.
Sort of hipster-ish spot by VCU. Gets busy at peak lunch hours. People that work there are always nice. Daily vegetarian specials which are always good. Try the bean burger, best one I've ever had. Free refills of coffee which is always nice. Not much to say about this place other than its great. If you're in art school you'll fit right in, if not you should go here anyway.
(5)Hollie W.
Ah, so good. So many vegan options!! I had the vegan breakfast burrito with greens and my friend had the vegan french toast, both were super tasty! I love the portion sizes since they don't explode your belly. Coffee was also delicious and the interior/seating was great. I loved sitting on the second level as it reminded me of some kind of old timey lecture room. The service is laid back and relatively slow so I wouldn't recommend eating here if you're on a time crunch. Love this place!
(5)Jeremy L.
Very good food. A bit cold. The staff is a bit awkward but the food is quite enjoyable. Nice Vegan place to eat. Good variety. I will be back.
(4)Alex W.
Great food and great service. This is a great place for breakfast or lunch, or to stop in for coffee between classes. I really enjoy coming here to do work, too (they have free wifi). Definitely a favorite place around vcu's campus.
(5)S. H.
Best vegan breakfast I've ever had - French toast, biscuits and gravy, hash browns - just awesome. And the owner was so nice. (Be prepared to drink tons of liquid after though - parched from the high sodium content. But worth it :) Want to try everything vegan on the menu. The place isn't anything to look at, was a bit chilly and the ceiling fan needs a really good cleaning, but they offer books and magazines to read upstairs.
(4)Chung Y.
Before I go in depth, let me use one word to describe Harrison Street Coffee Shop: DANK (This is the word used by one of the employees to describe their sandwiches) When I first turned vegetarian, I asked my best friend Steve for advice on where to take my AMAZING, GORGEOUS vegan girlfriend (sorry for the ridiculousness, I figure I might as well earn brownie points on these reviews). He told me about his heyday about when he turned vegetarian (He did it for the girl, dancin in the sunset, sippin on Corona, little silhouette) and how Harrison Street Coffee Shop was one of his favorites. I usually don't heed his advice, but when I do it's usually a great idea =P Within the crevices of my brain filled with misconceptions and just stupidity sometimes, I thought that becoming vegetarian meant I would never get to experience the taste of a super awesome sandwich ever again. Gone were the days of finding the perfect Philly Cheese Steak (Piccola's and Mojo's are overrated - Yea, I just said it. Hate on me Richmonders). Gone were the days of eating Cubans at Baker's Crust or Kuba Kuba. However, Harrison Street Coffee Shop basically blew my freakin mind away. Location/Ambiance : Very small restaurant which is convenient to get to by parking near Grace and Harrison street. It has two floors, but a very relaxed coffee shop feel to it. Service: Basically, there is a cashier up front who takes orders and brings the food to your table when it is ready. If you are new and have questions, please ask. They are so polite and know their menu well. Food comes out quick and I absolutely love that since I am known for getting impatient when I have to wait too long for food. The FOOD: What's really great about this place is that it allows vegetarians to experience vegan foods without being scared. They can pretty much make any of the vegetarian sandwiches vegan which in my book is pretty darn awesome. Here are the favorites which my girlfriend and I enjoy: The 420 Club Sub. Seriously, this sandwich is DANK. It's on par with the best meat subs I've ever had. Not only do you get a really great portion sized sub/sandwich, you get a FREAKIN super fresh salad (pair this with the Ginger Miso dressing - If I could buy this in vats, it would be done). If you aren't in the mood for the 420 Club Sub, get the beer battered tofu sandwich. You don't like tofu? Guess what, you do now. After the first time going here, the girlfriend and I went back subsequent visits and have always been thoroughly pleased. Be adventurous and order new things, everything is good here. They don't put random useless food on the menu that nobody wants to order/eat. Guys who are dating vegetarians/vegans, you want to front hard and impress your lady friend? Take her here for a casual lunch date. She'll either punch you because the food's too awesome or she'll want to stay with you forever because you are the thoughtful boyfriend who showed her that vegetarian/vegan food doesn't have to taste bland.
(5)Susan L.
Best vegan sandwiches in town! The power-salad is a good choice on days you want to get some greens in. While they do cater to students (watch for changes in hours around spring and summer breaks), older folks will feel welcome too.
(4)Liz C.
This review is just for the coffee. When I went to Harrison Street Cafe I actually didn't know it was a vegetarian/vegan place. I looked up coffee and it came up, so I went. I realized it was a veggie/vegan cafe when I walked in and perused the menu. I'm all for veg-friendly items, but I'm a meat-eater 100 percent. Even so, I didn't feel out of place or put off by the menu. In fact, I thought a lot of the food sounded pretty good. The desserts looked good too! Harrison Street Cafe was really cute inside. It's small and cozy, but there's seating upstairs so it doesn't feel crowded. I love the old charm of the cafe; it felt like it was a house turned into a restaurant. Maybe it was; maybe it wasn't. Doesn't bother me either way. I got an iced soy mocha and the bf got the hot version. We were both happy with our drinks. Just wish they had almond or coconut milk since soy doesn't always agree with my belly.
(4)Mian F.
I am a total convert. I would eat here every day if I could! After going vegan about a year ago, I thought it was Whole Foods or home if I ever wanted delicious food again. Not so! I'm trying everything slowly, but so far I can highly recommend the gyro, club sub, tempeh reuben and oh my gosh, the fried phish poboy is to die for! The banana bread and loose leaf teas are also amazing. 10 stars if I could!
(5)Philippe F.
Eggplant Po' Boy. Perfectly and lightly fried on a soft bun with sprouts of the alfalfa, tomatoes, lettuce and cajun sauce. I dream about you at night EPB, you know that right?
(5)Nathan M.
A little hole-in-the-wall joint with some of the simplest, yet flavorful vegetarian and vegan cuisine in town. I'll order in about once a month, and whether VCU is in full swing or it's the dead of summer service is consistently quick and the food is always excellent. Their tempeh Reuben is probably one of my favorite sandwiches--served toasted on rye with 'kraut and a zesty thousand-island-esk mayo. Would have given five stars, but it's only because space is limited. I suggest take-out whenever possible.
(4)Kristin M.
I'm really torn about how many stars I should give Harrison Street Coffee Shop. I love the food, I love the staff, and I love the drinks. It's incredibly yummy and a fun place to be. My only complaints: I wish there were more space in the shop, and I wish they opened earlier. It's incredibly difficult in Richmond to get breakfast and coffee before 8am. Basically, I wish I could have more HSCS.
(4)Maia B.
I was driving back to Boston from a spring break excursion when we decided yes, we needed some coffee. Yelp came to the rescue yet again, leading us to this kickass vegan coffeeshop - I had no idea Richmond had such a young hip vegan college scene. This place also reminds me of the Otherside Cafe in Boston. Dusky lighting, tasty vegan entrees, and a sweet upstairs where you can hide from or spy on your fellow patrons. If I ever pass through Richmond again, I'll definitely stop here for an espresso fix!
(5)Mary G.
I've been going to Harrison St. for years and I don't recall ever having a negative experience. They have the best vegetarian/vegan food in Richmond, hands down. During the week, they always have a creative special that's usually vegan or has a vegan option. They also have a great selection of vegan bakery goods and a house-made side of the day which is always vegan. I cannot rave about this place enough. My favorite things off of the menu are the gyro (seriously better than the real thing), the 420 club sub and the asian tofu sandwich. My boyfriend loves the BBQ tofu sandwich. When it's available as a special, the vegan catfish poboy is AMAZING (hint, hint, please add it to the permanent menu). It's sometimes busy due to it's location near VCU but the staff handles it very well and still gets the food out fast without sacrificing quality. The staff is also always extremely friendly and personable. The dark haired girl that I always saw working the register on the weekends did the best job IMO but I haven't seen her the past two weekends.
(5)Mark M.
I have eaten here about 5 or 6 times, and expect that I will go back more. I am not a vegetarian, but do enjoy veg foods and make a point of being low-meat. The BBQ sandwich is fantastic, and I have enjoyed a couple of different wraps. For me the downside here is the coffee. I almost always have regular coffee with lunch. Every time the coffee here has been brewed a little too strong--not disastrously strong, but I would expect better from a place with the word "coffee" in its name. The place is small but manages a positive, cozy feel. I have never had to wait long to order, always been able to find a table, and the service is typically quick. (However I have only been at lunch time on weekdays - might be different a dinner.)
(3)Laura C.
Oh so yummy!! Not being vegan, I'm always leery of places like this. Sometimes the cooks get a little of out touch with what non-vegans like, but this place was great!! I had the tempeh, artichoke, mozzerella and tomato sandwich. Very good!! My co-workers had the black bean hummus wraps. They said they were good. Definitely one of the best places to eat (even for non vegans).
(5)Alana G.
Harrison St. is my go-to, weekday comfort food. Conveniently located next to VCU's Monroe Park Campus, the service is fast and friendly -- making it perfect for a quick sit-down or to-go lunch. I love never having to ask if a menu item is vegetarian or not. However, they do use peanut oil and nuts, so always check if you have allergies! Though I've had and loved the majority of the menu items, I usually opt to try the daily special which is always delicious. The seitan they use in many of their dishes is thin rather than chunky making it perfect for specials like the gyro. I had breakfast there for the first time this week and must say that the Breakfast Burrito Deluxe is satisfyingly filling and delightfully spicy. Finally, the recent addition of 5 for 5 after 5 is great for after school studying. As a dine-in special, you can choose from 5 of their regular menu items and get it for $5 during the happy hours of 5-8pm. PBR and coffee is $1 then, and I believe a glass of wine is $3. My favorite spot in RVA!
(5)Erica T.
Harrison Street Coffee Shop is my absolute favorite place to eat in Richmond. The menu is unpretentious but offers a ton of flavor and freshness to vegetarian and vegan diners. The atmosphere is very casual and cozy. I like to sit upstairs and people-watch, chatting with my husband or with a friend, staying for as long as we like. The people who work here are incredibly friendly and always turn out consistent food, coffee, and desserts. And oh, the sandwiches! Such sandwiches! My favorite is the 420 Club Sub (vegan, please!), which is a toasted sub roll loaded up with strips of tempeh (local, I think) marinated and baked in a delicious smoky, sticky, not-too-sweet sauce, fresh avocado, tomato, sprouts, spring mix, and the most delicious vegan chipotle-lime mayonnaise. If the side of the day is vegan potato salad or vegan mac and cheese, I am in heaven. Other favorites are the TLT (tempeh, lettuce, and tomato), the tempeh reuben (toasty, gooey, complex-tasting!), and the barbeque tofu (perfect texture, amazing, slightly spicy sauce). Breakfast is also great. My favorite is the vegan French toast. Thick, hot slices of sweet, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside, cinnamon-dusted toast with homemade veggie sausage and maple syrup. OMG, yes. The vegan breakfast burritos are also excellent, and you have the option to choose your own burrito ingredients, if you wish. The coffee is spectacular. It's fair-trade, locally-roasted black gold. The baristas make excellent espresso drinks as well, and are able to do so quickly and efficiently. I can't seem to resist Harrison Street's vegan peanut butter cups. I usually wind up buying one every time I come in. The prices are very reasonable for the amount and the quality of the food served. I am perfectly happy paying $8.00 for a lunch here, because I know everything will be fresh, flavorful, and delicious, and I will leave happy. If I had one complaint, it would be that during certain times of the year, their hours are a little erratic. I love them so much, I wish they were open all the time!
(5)Chase G.
Yeah, so this place really is as good as the ratings state. The tempeh sandwiches are DELICIOUS, the sides that I've had from here (which vary every day) are also fantastic: Mexican bean salad and pasta salad. 420 Club Sub is great. Atmosphere is definitely five star for a cafe with the upper level and the books and magazines lining the top. Prices fit perfectly. I will be eating here for a while, and I'm not vegetarian or vegan. The only problem is that sometimes there is a lack of seating. Alas, the sign of a good restaurant.
(5)Ginger W.
If you're looking for a VCU vegan or vegetarian, this is where you'll find them. I'm not either and on my first visit to this popular coffeehouse, I was afraid there wouldn't be anything I would like. It was packed, and they do a booming take-out business to boot. I had a breakfast burrito and my first encounter with "soysage". I really couldn't tell the difference between the faux meat and the real thing. Not like fakin' bacon which has the consistency of microwaved styrofoam....the latte was really good and I took home a vegan blondie for my mid-afternoon sugar buzz. Their slogan is "good eats, no meats" and the menu is much more creative than a lot of vegetarian/vegan haunts. Beer battered tofu intrigued me, as did the T.L.T. ( a BLT with tempeh...and I have no idea what tempeh is). Whether or not you're a carnivore, the coffee alone is worth a drop-in.
(3)Joanna C.
I was on the hunt for caffeine. The coffee shop at the hotel was absolute crap, and I needed multiple shots of espresso, STAT. I popped "coffee" into my GPS, and it directed me to this great place! My soy latte was PERFECT, and I was able to grab breakfast there... I originally grabbed a slice of pumpkin bread, but noticed a sign that said "bagel with hummus, sprouts and tomato" and HAD TO HAVE IT. And I was so glad I did! The bagel was perfectly chewy and delicious. I was super impressed with the quality of the bagel! Slighty toasted, with a thick spread of hummus, fresh sprouts and sliced tomatoes. Mmmmmm. It was SO satisfying... I may need to try to recreate this at home!!
(4)Angela B.
Vegan/Vegetarian cafe with the best tempeh i've had. Super hipster, cute little spot. I had the tempeh, artichoke, mozzerella, and tomato sandwich which made me remember why I don't need meat to have an awesome meal. They do daily sides and specials which I've heard are always fantastic. Plus the staff was super friendly, and very helpful when I had no idea what to get. :)
(5)Crissie R.
vegan breakfast burrito is amazing!
(5)Nicolle M.
Great spot in VCU! It does tend to get busy during its peak lunch hour but the food is worth it! I use to go here all the time as a student. It's very close to the grace street theater and Pollack Building. Staff is very friendly! They let two of my friends film here for a VCU project. Again, the food is amazing. I didn't really eat tofu before but this place made me love tofu!!
(5)Liz M.
This place is seriously amazing. I've never craved a salad like I've longed for the falafel power salad - and the peanut butter cups are out of this world as well. Come to think of it, I don't think I've had any food here that wasn't amazing, and the comfortable environment certainly adds to the enjoyment. If it's just coffee you want, go to Crossroads (but do not eat at Crossroads...seriously).
(4)Liz M.
Small but cozy restaurant with TONs of delicious vegan options and decent coffee. We came for brunch on a Sunday and it was pretty busy but we didn't have to wait for a table. It would be a great place for a daytime date because there are cute little two person booths upstairs. Service was also really great. We had the Broseph Burrito and the vegan sausage gravy and biscuits. Both were the most delicious vegan breakfast we had ever had. Unfortunately we are just passing through Richmond. Otherwise it would be a regular weekend spot for me.
(5)Sara G.
Super tasty, love the falafal sandwhich and potato leek soup!
(4)Court M.
We were visiting for the day and stooped in here. Food was great and staff friendly. I had the TLT and my wife had the Zepplin. Funky college atmosphere. Neither of us are veg but food was really tasty. Coffee afterwards made even better. Defibitely a step over typical college town food !
(4)Beth A.
We were there last Sunday and popped in for a quick bite. The staff was really cool, and the breakfast was delightful. If you are there and they have pumpkin spiced french toast for a special, get it!
(4)Angela S.
I've been going to Harrison Street Coffee Shop for years when I visit the Fan neighborhood where my sister has lived since 1997. I will not be going back. The service is extremely rude and the food is average, at best - usually below average. I have eaten here plenty of times, at least ten, for both breakfast and lunch, both on-site and via take-out, so I don't say this lightly. Yesterday was the last straw - I called on Saturday a.m., October 27th, to order takeout and was told they didn't open until 10:30 A.M. (ridiculously late for a place that serves breakfast) which is completely at odds with what their posted hours stated, both on their storefront and at Yelp. The man who answered was a complete jerk and hung up on me after I VERY politely asked him to verify when the place opened. The food, as I stated above, is average at best - I have gotten many different types of sandwiches including egg salad, hummus wrap, and the breakfast sandwich which includes vegan bacon. Also apart from the food, it's annoying that this restaurant has no website and doesn't even have an answering machine/voicemail to relay hours, etc. when they're closed. Both of those things are also ridiculous in this day and age. The restaurant itself is very drab, often seems unclean and has a peculiar and unpleasant odor. I would also point out that the staff, when I've picked up take-out (including on Friday, October 26th) seems almost shocked when you DON'T add a tip for picking up your call-in order! As if this were in any way an obligation - it most definitely is not.
(1)Vince V.
Hmmm ... The latte/coffee is weak and undistinguished ... Very sorry to report ...
(2)Jordan F.
Overall I really, really enjoy this place. That damn asian tofu sandwich is AMAZING. And the friendly environment is something i dont mind at all. I'll have to come back more as the tofu sandwich is the only thing I've had here, sans a bite of my lady's sandwich which I believe was a bbq seitan sandwich, or maybe a sloppy joes. Either way, I'm impressed and I'm sure that Harrison St Coffee Shop will become one of my favorite vegan eateries in Richmond. Service is great, no complaints there. I can't wait to go back.
(4)Justin C.
I was driving from Pittsburgh to the beach in nc and wanted a quick healthy meal and coffee for the late drive. They made the migas burrito pretty fast and a triple latte even faster. Both were great and were worth the stop in RVA instead of a rest stop.
(4)Traci W.
The best BBQ Tofu sandwich ever made. Their tempeh reubens are divine. I would encourage you to eat here, and eat here regularly.
(5)Hoon S.
I have yet to try a vegetarian restaurant that blows me away. Vegetarian or vegan restaurants focus so heavily on tempeh or tofu, and don't really focus on making a vegetarian dish, something out of the box, something unique. I am still waiting for it. That said, Harrison Street Cafe is okay. Pros: all the food items are vegetarian/vegan, which means a lot of choices/options, and the food is okay. Cons: getting to this location is difficult if you don't live near there since they have no private parking, and street parking is always full, plus their prices are a little high, and the food is okay. I listed the food as both a pro and a con. I had the 420 club sub with potato salad. The sub is approximately 8in long, and has strips of tempeh with some sauce, some cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and sprouts. The sub tasted just okay, the sauce needs a kick upgrade because it is a little on the bland side, and the sub itself was okay, not bad and not really good either. The potato salad also was on the bland side. I still want to try other items on the menu, so I want to go back and try again, if I can find parking near there, but one time I drove around looking for a spot, and after two passes, decided to go to Panera, which has parking. 3 out of 5 stars. Next time I'll try the gyro or the falafel and not tempeh or tofu. Even though I like tofu, vegetarian/vegan restaurants over-use it.
(3)Jeremy K.
A place I have been going for 10 years. A great go-to for a cup of coffee, a quiet place to study, and a tasty AFFORDABLE vegetarian dish. I particularly like the falafel burger or the tempeh artichoke sub.
(4)Leslie A.
I kept staring at my friend's beer battered tofu sandwich, longingly. Yet, week after week, I would continue to try different things. The veg breakfast burrito is crazy good, as the tofu ends up being really creamy and smooth and not dried out or over-seasoned. Works so well with the potatoes and sausage... I'm drooling at 2am for breakfast and I have to stop now as it's late. Regardless, I like how you can go upstairs and it's like being in a small train station. Books line the rails. My blood sugar thanks them so much for having agave nectar to put in drinks, and they have a nicely-sized coffee & tea selection. Patrons are asked to bus their own tables. So good, so close, and now I can't stop thinking about that breakfast burrito. May go this weekend!
(5)Sheila V.
Ordered: Coffee, Deluxe Breakfast Burrito and French Toast The coffee was GREAT, the burrito was yummy and the french toast was average. The soy sausage was delicious speaking from a non-vegetarian point of view. The service was GREAT, you order your food at the register and then pretty much clean up your own plates after but I didn't mind. A hipsterish/Richmondy type of coffee shop.
(4)Daniel R.
your tea is sooo over priced. seriously you charge me more for a larger cup with more water? I always thought that when one bought tea they were buying the tea bag. I mean maybe I am wrong but over a dollar more for less than 8 extra ounces of hot water seems tyrannical. This has provoked me to 1) stop buying tea (the only thing I came for) and brew my own which is actually positive so thank you! and 2) I will bring my own cup, buy the tea bag and fill it up with my own water, if I ever become bored with my new regiment of loose leaf at home. Also, Ipanema charges the same for their sandwiches and do not give Lay's potato chips but fries and salad.... a salad add-on is a 1.50 here Now, you also charge a dollar after noon for egg products... why? do you, yourself have chickens and some how after noon they need dollars to coax eggs out of them? A place like this can only survive in Richmond
(3)Juli M.
Delicious veggie/vegan food. I haven't taken any of my omnivorous friends there yet, but I feel like this food would even be appealing to them. I feel like I've gotten close to sampling their entire menu (sadly), and I have found maybe one sandwich that I didn't like. The lentil burger is great. The vegan french dip (when they have it) is Wonderful. Anything w. their homemade seitan is pretty great. I've had a super-spicy jerk chili there that definitely met my normal yearly capsaicin intake. Deluxe breakfast burrito and vegan biscuits and gravy are also good when you can get them. Peanut butter cups, vegan cupcakes, pumpkin bread are always a good choice. I wouldn't go there for the coffee alone. The coffee is good. Espresso is a little bit lacking. Atmosphere is great, everyone is really nice. They don't have free wifi, so don't plan on going there to hang out with your laptop/study all day. Go there for the amazing food.
(5)Andrew H.
This is the best place to eat food on earth. Ever. The excellence of the coffee is only surpassed by the awesomeness of the owner and staff. I miss this place every day I live.
(5)Lei G.
I think it all depends on who is working in the kitchen. The menu hasn't changed much, but the taste has =( Even the plain coffee tasted horrible. What's going on Harrison Street, you use to be one of my favs.
(3)Jim H.
A gem on the VCU campus. The food is excellent, although somewhat pricey. Good place to study or meet with seating on two levels.
(5)Jenna G.
this place is great for vegan/vegetarians. good food, good prices.
(4)Nina S.
Really comfortable, familiar atmosphere. Awesome place to meet up with friends or just a quiet place to enjoy quality food, coffee & tea during a break from classes. The menu changes enough to keep things exciting, but never strays from an agreeable selection. I just wish they had longer hours!
(4)Tommy B.
Harrison Street Coffee is at the top of my list for lunch in Richmond. If you're looking for meat you won't find any here, but I encourage you to try it anyway. I'd like to know how to replicate the beer battered tofu sandwich at home-- so crispy and delicious. The fair trade Central American coffee is superb. This is about as close to perfect as you can get for lunch. The atmosphere is cozy-- not good for large groups of more than four. The small tables upstairs are great for hiding away. My only real complaint is that I wish they had consistent business hours. Highly recommended, but call to make sure they're open first. 804-359-8060.
(5)Cj A.
This place is AMAZING. By far my favorite quick, cheap place to eat in Richmond. It was the first meal I had when I came to visit VCU as a prospective student, and I've been loyal to them ever since. HSCS offers the best vegetarian lunchtime fare around VCU. When I say that everything here tastes great, I mean it...but I'm especially partial to their tempeh sandwiches and such. Almost every meal is vegan or can be made vegan, and they are very clear about the items that are not vegan. Now that they've renovated, though, I don't like physically eating there as much. The stripped floor looks unfriendly and the new counter placement is awkwardly close to the door. The space in general looks like an unfinished basement. But the food is consistent, and their revamped menu is insanely awesome. I was hoping they'd get free wifi after the renovation, but no such luck. If they had free wifi, I'd be more likely to want to eat in. It used to have a pleasant, eclectic look, and I didn't really mind not being able to pull out my laptop for some last minute homework during my pre-class lunch, but the ugly new "look" coupled with the lack of wireless pushes me to rather get my order to-go and enjoy it in Monroe Park. Bottom line - Harrison Street will always be my first choice for lunch in Richmond. Especially if you're a vegetarian or vegan, try their sandwiches. One complaint about the food, though...the breakfast burrito (I got the one with soysage and egg supplement, no cheese) was terrible. The eggy stuff was WAY too hot (it burnt the roof of my mouth and I was in considerable discomfort for the rest of the day), it didn't taste all that great, and it upset my stomach. Gross. Their breakfast with real egg is much, much better. They use fresh eggs, not crappy processed egg mix.
(5)Ayla Z.
When I first came to Richmond to Visit this was one of the first places I went to on my own. When I went in it was nice and quiet. Although they do have moments when they are busy. Theres is something nice and relaxed about the atmosphere. The food there as well is really yummy. Im pretty picky when it comes to BAGLES (OF ALL THINGS) and the bagel's they have are good in my book too! They do have vegetarian and vegan options.
(4)Sarah H.
I looove this place! The menu has a great vegetarian and vegan selection (the super falafel burger is my personal favorite), the prices are reasonable, and the service is great. You can also get unlimited coffee for a very cheap price. It has a quiet atmosphere; it's a good place to go to read or relax for awhile. The only downside is that they close early!
(5)Anne Marie D.
This is honest to goodness my favorite place in Richmond to eat. EVERYTHING I've had on the menu has been fantastic. My favorites include the beer battered tofu steak sandwich, falafel burger, full throttle chipotle zeppelin, and for breakfast, the vegan french toast/soysage. The specials are always awesome too. My ONLY complaint is that the vegan gyro is not on the regular menu! It's a crime that I can't get it all the time :( It's seriously as close to the real thing as you can get!
(5)Bianca G.
Lived here four years ago and still try to replicate the reuben to no avail. Took this place for granted....would get a specialty coffee every time I went to class that was always perfect. There needs to be more places like this in the world. Harrison St Coffee Shop is reason alone to to drive nine hours from Providence to Richmond (and worth it!)
(5)Dae-su Oh _.
Great coffee shop! For around 2 bucks you have unlimited coffee. Excellent original vegetarian menu! Price is good for it's setting. Friendly and knowledgeable service. quiet. Cons: No Internet access
(5)Rose V.
this place is great if you can ever find it to be open.
(4)Jackie L.
walk by here almost every day for free trade organic hazelnut coffee..best bbq tofu sammich, great honey walnut cream cheese, amazing homemade vegan muffins when they have them
(5)Always Right C.
The best little coffee shop in Richmond. Choose from a plethora of Vegetarian and VEGAN menu items. Cute, quaint and delicious!
(5)Richard Z.
My wife and I just athere for the first time. I had lentil burger, my wife had a falafel burger. Both outstanding. The sides were excellent. Probably going there for lunch again tomorrow. Liked it so much, went back the next day for lunch. Will be back next weekend!
(5)