We look forward to traveling to Richmond each year just to celebrate our wedding anniversary with Bookbinders (and Thomas). The oysters on a half shell followed by the lobster and the seafood salad is always the best. You all are amazing!!! See ya next year! Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Williams
(5)
Carter S.
Went here for an anniversary with my boyfriend. I'd say that we had reservations for 7:30, maybe 8? And when we walked into the restaurant, it was pretty empty--especially for a Saturday night. This worried me at first! But the waitress was just darling--very warm and friendly, and the place was gorgeous inside. The wine and food were really good too. I am giving this place three stars because they began putting away tables around us as we finished up our meal, almost like they were pushing us out! It was probably only around 9 PM. I could not believe it. The hubby and I had to walk to Julep's (then, in the Bottom) for some after-dinner drinks because, apparently, they were closing at 9:15. I can understand wanting to go home as soon as possible just as much as the next person, but come on. Next time, I'll make a reservation a little earlier in the night just in case! Definitely will give them another try because they are beloved. Perhaps we were just late-goers on an empty night!
(3)
Will P.
This is a modern version of the closed center city Philadelphia c.1865 classic. I was told by a local this place actually started in Richmond, but who knows we are talking 150 years ago. In the old tobacco warehouse area about 23 blocks from the center of town. There is free parking in the lot across the street for dinner. This was recommended as the best place in town for crab. The crab cake was pretty mediocre and super expensive. The fresh bread was excellent, everything including the service was excellent. All in all a really nice place if you want to spend a lot to eat...just do not order the crab here. Try the $8 creamed spinach , enough for at least two people.
(4)
Ruben G.
Just finished dinner....this place is Amazing the food, and service was exceptional! The Murphy-Goode Zinfandel Bottle we preserved was an exceptional choice, of course from California! Haha, I'm visiting here from Cali, thank you so much for the hospitality and great steakhouse! Note: I ordered the Ribeye medium and it came med-well, so order it med-rare and it will be perfect! Enjoy~
(5)
Cathy C.
Fine dining at it's BEST with an upscale Richmond vibe. Everything was perfect. Great place for a Father's Day dinner. Scallops were incredible. Key lime pie was awesome. Service was excellent. The owner was in town and was visiting each table which is always a nice gesture! Easy to park across the street.
(5)
Chez S.
Great restaurant, really care about what they do, and the food is to die for.
(5)
Jay Rand B.
This is a very good, but not great restaurant. The food is reliably good, almost great but there is no "wow" factor to lift it to a 5 star level. At these prices, they should impress you, not just get by. The ambiance is a 5, the service a 4.5 and the food a 4.25. They don't try to do too much and seafood and steak is definitely the sweet spot for the restaurant. Appetizers were very good and desert was very good as well. I will go back but probably not a regular basis.
(4)
Kristine K.
One of Richmond's top steakhouses. Definitely more of a special occasion restaurant rather than your typical date night kind of place. Came here for an anniversary and they had a special menu printed for us which read "Happy anniversary (our names)!" Appetizer - Beef Carpaccio - The raw taste was not too overbearing and it went along perfectly with the Parmesan cheese and added ingredients at the bottom. Entrees - Wasabi Crusted Salmon was incredible. This was kind of similar to the "Salmon Oscar" from Maggiano's with the whole lump crabmeat on top of salmon type of thing, but with an added twist with crusty wasabi outside for that crunch. The Large Filet Mignon was also grilled to a perfect medium rare. Sides - Lobster Mac & Cheese was probably the most disappointing part of my meal. For a $15 side, I expected generous amount of lobster but only a sad tiny little bit of lobster was actually in it. Note. Ask for a corner booth! It's more than spacious for 2 but still cozy and intimate.
(5)
Molly C.
My boyfriend and I were given a very generous gift card, so we were able to come here for our fourth anniversary. We were greeted right off the bat, wished a happy anniversary, and they even had it typed at the top of the menus. Our server came by to take our drink orders and tell us the specials, he didn't seem to have them quite memorized though and recited them in a wierd halting, robotic way. We ended up sharing the jumbo shrimp cocktail (it came with four HUGE shrimp and some awesome cocktail sauce). I ordered the petite filet mignon, and my boyfriend got the kona crusted filet. Mine was amazing, melt in your mouth, best steak I've ever had (not that I've had many, but still). Boyfriend loved his steak; he said that you couldn't taste the fennel-garlic butter, but he was enjoying the kona crust so much he didn't care. We ordered mashed potatoes and Johnnie's potatoes (kind of a tater tot/hashbrown/potato wedge things) as sides. Should have listened to our waiter when he reccommended just splitting one side... We had potatoes coming out our ears. All together it was an amazing dinner. The only cons were that it was so dark in the restaurant that we had trouble reading our menu and the parking sucked. They have a 40 space lot right across from the restaurant, but it was full when we arrived. The website said there was another lot two blocks down, but there was a sign that it was apartment resident parking only. We were worried we'd get towed, so we drove around until we found street parking. Sadly Bookbinders is way out of our price range, so I doubt we'll get to come back. It made for one spectacular and memorable evening though.
(4)
Paul P.
Excellent food, great service and classy atmosphere. Fantastic! Though the location is far from the downtown action this makes it more easily accessible. Parking isn't a problem in the lot across the street. The staff was very professional, attentive and courteous. Also, our waiter Joseph suggested an off menu stuffed lobster (stuffed with crabmeat) which we were told is an occasional special. The atmosphere was great; an old, rehabilitated tobacco factory with lots of exposed brick and woodwork.
(5)
Kim G.
Wow! Fantastic meal, best we have had in a really long time. Lobster appetizer was impeccable, Kona filet and cowboy ribeye cooked perfectly, creamed corn was excellent complement. Felt obliged to try desert, too, and we were not disappointed! Service was prompt and helpful and personable as well. We live close but had never gone before. I think this will be our new "go to" for special dinners!
(5)
Tracie J.
Delicious. It stands up to all of the hype and yes, we tried the world famous turtle soup! Very nice!!
(4)
Melissa H.
I may be in the minority but I wasn't all that impressed with the food at Old Original Bookinders. Richmond has such a burgeoning culinary scene that I think it's really important for restaurants to step up to the plate if you're going to charge that much for food and to me, Bookbinders really lacked the "wow" factor that a lot of similarly priced Richmond restaurants bring to the table. It is a traditional style steakhouse and that's what you get - nothing more, nothing less, but in an elegant and historic setting. I'll be the first to admit that I may have ordered wrong because I went the seafood route instead of ordering steak. I did try a bite of the steak and it was much better than my entree. For my entree I had the Black Pepper Crusted Ahi Tuna and I think that the pepper really overpowered the tuna - to the point where I couldn't taste much of the tuna, just a lot of pepper. For an appetizer we had the oysters and I will say that they were the largest oysters I've ever had, but not the best. As I said, I think maybe it's best just for steak. The service was pretty good and I was very impressed that the owner came around and introduced himself - I think that is such a great practice.
(3)
Jill S.
My family went to Bookbinder's last Saturday to celebrate a special occasion. Having lived in the Philadelphia area for many years, I visited Bookbinder's when it was in its original city. I must say that the Richmond experience is among the best examples of fine dining that I've ever had. The interior ambiance was warm and inviting--you can't beat the gorgeous exposed brick and "old city" feel on the James River front--and the food was exquisitely prepared. For my main dish, I had perfectly cooked scallops on a bed of lemon and asparagus risotto from the gluten-free menu (which I greatly appreciated, since I must go gluten free for medical reasons), while the rest of the table had equally superb swordfish and ahi tuna dishes. And the desserts were eye rollingly delicious, from the creme brulee to the chocolate pate and locally crafted gelati. To top it off, the owner came to our private room to make sure all was well, then subtracted a substantial portion of our final bill in honor of the occasion. I would go back to Bookbinder's for the food alone, but this outstanding example of customer service really sealed the deal for me. Thank you so much for making our celebration so special!
(5)
Lauri T.
How can you give Bookbinder's anything less than 5 stars? It is my absolute favorite restaurant in Richmond. Please note that this is a special occasion only restaurant for me because the prices are pretty steep, but you always always always get what you pay for. So, come expecting outstanding service and equally amazing cuisine. My boyfriend and I will be celebrating 6 years of dating bliss on Monday and so we decided to celebrate yesterday by going to Bookbinder's. We arrived a little earlier than our reservation, so naturally we decided to sit at the bar and have a drink. I didn't have a particular drink in mind that I wanted, so told the bartender that I wanted something sweet and bubbly and told him to take it from there. He crafted a delicious wine spritzer for me! We were seated not long after that and we were greeted by a warm basket of bread and butter. The bread was flavorful and crusty; just the way I like it. After perusing the menu for a bit, I decided to go with the infamous crabcake and he went with the filet and lobster tail. We ordered calamari as an appetizer, mashed potatoes as a side, and a caesar salad. Everything was superb. The portions are smaller than your average restaurant, but the quality is way beyond anything that you can find in the area. We were both incredibly pleased. I personally didn't want to leave after we were finished eating. The atmosphere sucks you in with the low lighting and very attentive service. It is a lot quieter in this restaurant than what I'm used to, and I was very aware of that while conversing. Overall, Bookbinder's is A+, one-of-a-kind, top-notch, and any other superb adjective you can think of. If you find yourself wanting to enjoy a special night out, here's a hint: Costco sells $100 gift cards to Bookbinder's for $80. That's a savings of 20 bucks!
(5)
Matt B.
If you're looking for an elegant and expensive experience, filled with simple high-quality cuisine then Old Original Bookbinder's is the place for you. It is a struggle to offer an in depth review on a traditional steakhouse, due to the simplicity and cookie-cutter approach most take. On the surface, all of the ingredients and dishes appear top notch in terms of quality and accuracy of preparation. Our dining experience was no-frills when it came to the food, and all-frills when it came to the dining experience. Think Morton's, Ruth's Chris, Flemings, Del Friscos - these places serve up consistently prepared expensive cuts of steak and seafood enough to impress your date; while also letting you show off how much money you can spend on dinner. Seriously, our appetizers were great - fresh oysters and wonderfully flavorful stuffed mushrooms and our entrees were both spot on: grilled chilean sea bass and a panko-crusted halibut. The creme brulee was as expected. Be careful about how much you spend, but Bookbinders is certainly worth a visit when looking for a white table cloth dining experience. I have yet to decide if it's the best option in Richmond, but it is an option in Richmond.
(4)
N Y.
Excellent service and staff. Food was delicious and portioned right. Too bad they nickel and dime on sides...who the hell wants to eat a steak and that's it? The drinks were a bit ugh, but the wine selection was pretty extensive. Dessert selection was mediocre but the Creme Broule was tasty. Will probably return.
(4)
David H.
Solid restaurant and dining experience Service is knowledgeable and friendly. Food overall is great. Steak was cooked perfectly, the lobster was delicious. Fromage was also very good. The calamari was ok, and the oysters rockefeller ok as well (wouldn't have noticed if there was no oyster). The lobster mac and cheese was a letdown, tiny bits of lobster that you taste over the 3 types of cheeses. Overall a great place to go for a special occasion
(4)
Mike B.
Very nice restaurant, and the service was very good. I ordered the blackened Mahi, and the peers at my table ordered pan seared rockfish and bone in rib eye. Everything looked very good until we received our food. I had never been here, so I didn't know what the dishes normally looked like. The server gave me the rockfish, and one of my peers the mahi. I thought it looked kind of thick for mahi, but went ahead and took a few bites. I didn't really like the taste, and then the server told my peer he had ordered mahi and I had ordered rockfish. Wrong. Because my other peer already had his steak, and we didn't want to wait for them to cook new dishes, we each went ahead and ate the wrong fish. Now I know I don't like rockfish. What I ordered but didn't get, looked really good. I'm willing to give it a try again sometime in the future.
(3)
Scott F.
Amazing service and even more amazing was the food. Great place to eat for any special occasion. I eat at nice restaurants often, but I have to say this was one of the best meals I've ever had.
(5)
Jane Y.
Went here for Christmas Eve- this place is old school in the best way: Excellent and courteous service. Some people say is it the food that makes a restaurant? Or service and ambiance? Obviously, it's both. And Bookbinders did not disappoint! When NOT to got to Bookbinders: Casual night out. Bachelorette party. Day before your paycheck. When to go: Special Occasion. Parents come to town. Treat Yo'self. Two notes: They have some "crowd favorites" and because we aren't expecting to return anytime soon we got everything we wanted to try. Oysters Rockefeller: good, but COVERED in cheese and spinach. Oyster almost an afterthought? Cheese was more melty than broiled. Flavors excellent, however. Snapper soup: That's turtle soup, y'all. The server mentioned it tasted comparable to pot roast gravy. She was right, in a good way. Very rich, meaty tasting broth. Comes with a small pitcher of sherry to add to taste. OLD SCHOOL DETAIL! I got the filet with lobster tail, he got the filet with crab cake. 1) If you like crab cake, this is the real deal. Unfortunately, he doesn't really so it was kind of wasted on him. 2) In the words of Christopher Hitchens, Lobster is OVERRATED. The petite filet was more than enough food, perfectly seasoned and cooked. Worth it. For dessert (yes, we even wedged in dessert), we got key lime pie, which was a good standard slice of key lime pie. In my opinion, the best favorite thing that they made there, the reason I would go again, is the loaded baked potato. It was HUGE (we split it) and it was PERFECT. The drinks are kind of generic (no egg white cocktails here, exactly). I got the hot and dirty, a martini with jalepeno juice (very good), otherwise there's a lot of peach-tini's and variations of the same (all very delicious sounding). Of course the wine list is excellent.
(5)
Thomas C.
I had a Relative with her husband flying into Richmond, and they wanted to eat at one of the Best Steak Houses in Richmond.... So, I sent her several links, which included Ruth Chris. She made the Choice of Original Bookbinders. I have heard many great things about the Restaurant and Food. I was looking forward to my Restaurant Experience as this was also my First time, including the other 6 people with us. She had made Reservations. Parking was great as they have a NO problem in finding a parking place for the Restaurant is across the street and it is well lighted. You did not have to have the worry of coming out to your auto when leaving. Upon entering, I noticed the Tanks of Lobsters, and as I entered, the atmosphere gave you the feeling you were in the Deep South. We stopped at the bar to have drinks before sitting. I ordered a Dewer's & Water with a twist. The Drink, was perfect as it was not too much Scotch, or too much water. When we finally sat down, the Waiter introduced himself and of course I was anxious to check the Menu. I noticed how everything was Ala cart. Upon ordering I decided on the 18oz. Ancho-Rubbed Cowboy Rib-eye Med-rare. We decided to order the Seafood Sampler which had Lobster; large chunks of Crab Meat; Shrimp; Fresh Shuck Oysters & Claims. I had one of the Claims and I thought it had just come of the water as it was sweet with a hint of the Salty Sea. WOW! What flavor it had... That was a 5 PLUS dish! When my Cowboy Rib-eye came out, I was anxious to cut into it to see if they cooked it the way I had ordered. Since 3 others ordered the same dish, I also wanted to make sure I did not get one of those well cook steaks... The Rib-eye was cooked to perfection and when I cut into it... it was tender, and when it entered my mouth... MY taste-buds went into over drive in excitement in how it had a nice Charcoal taste with the chimichurri on top. It was like this piece of meat melted in my mouth.... I was so over whelmed in what I had... I just wanted to take my time to savory every bite. We had Salads, and the Hanover Tomatoes tasted like they were picked that morning.... We ordered several deserts so we could pass them around... Now, I was beginning to feel like the "Pillsbury Dough Boy"... To TOP my excellent meal off, I had a Cognac VSOP... Finally, I would like to say.... This is a great 5 Star Restaurant for both Steak & Seafood. The Atmosphere and food was Outstanding... It is in the OLD Lucky Strike Building. In fact, my cousin who was with us... Her mother worked in the building when Cigarettes was the thing to smoke. We probably ate in the very room where she worked on the line in making Lucky Strikes... If I could have given this a 5 PLUS rating... I would have. I am looking forward in returning, and I hope you take the time to go.... :-)
(5)
Dan C.
Great restaurant! Came here after work with a colleague. Ordered the steak and crabcake special--phenomenal. Steak-I ordered medium-rare, but it was a little overlooked, IMO. Felt like it was sitting out a bit and the filet was closer to medium. Crabcake-I'm not a huge crabcake person, but this one... well, takes the cake. The filling was flavorful and the amount of crab in there was more than enough. It retained the taste of the sea, which a lot of crabcake a fail at. Service was not overbearing and made good suggestions. Probably the reason that I ordered a great dinner. Little pricey, but well worth it. dmo out.
(5)
Christopher A.
A fancy (and spendy!) place, but goodness was the food wonderful. The steak was to die for, literally the best I've ever eaten.
(5)
Caitlin P.
We've eaten here half a dozen times over the past couple of years, and enjoy this restaurant so much that we held our rehearsal dinner here. I know that fine dining is not always thought of as family friendly, but we have brought my 8 year old with us every time and they treat him great. There is even a reasonably priced kids' menu that he enjoys. However, if your dining habits are anything like ours, it's easy to spend $100+ per person here. Service is wonderful, there is a nice wine list, and aside from a couple minor complaints (don't order the lobster) the food here is prepared well and tastes delicious. Bookbinder's also offers a large gluten-free menu with servers/kitchen staff who are very accommodating to dietary requests. My whole family loves Bookbinder's and will continue to come back when we are in Richmond!
(5)
Samantha D.
This place is probably not for your weekly date-night dinner. Their food is top notch. I prefer it to Del Frisco's or Morton's. It has a lovely and elegant atmosphere is is sure to impress your date. Their prices are definitely on the high side so DO NOT bring her here for a first date unless you need some serious impressing to do. Even then - there are plenty of medium priced places you can take her. This place is for that special occasion or when you want to treat yourself - don't look at the bill when you get it - just hand over your card and act like a champ :)
(4)
Jeryl C.
We celebrated my father's 80th birthday with a rather large party. the Host and food was excellent!
(5)
Roger H.
Everything about this place is top notch. My wife and I went for date night and were not dissapointed. The Oyster Rockefeller was outstanding, as was the Lobster Bisque, Wedge Salad, and the steaks. My wife got the Filet with Steak Oscar (Crab Meat, Asparagus and Hollandaise) and I got the Filet with Blue Cheese melted on top. Both were outstanding. Great wine selection. The chocolate cake with chocolate pudding filling was perhaps the highlight!
(5)
Justin S.
From walking in the door, I knew it would be a good experience. First off, the parking wasnt bad. we parked right across the street but we were there pretty early (4:45PM). There is also valet parking. Once we got in we were seated right away and our coats were checked even though we were 45 min early for our reservation. Our waitress was very nice and helpful as we looked through the menu. The atmosphere is very nice. old exposed brick but very nice furniture and accents. The menu had a nice selection. we also got some wine that matched great with our meal and was very enjoyable. The turtle soup and the clam chowder were both great ( a little small though). The steak was the best I have ever had, and I've been to many nice steakhouses (ruths chris, etc.) It was cooked perfectly, had great marbling and tasted fantastic. My girlfriend got the crab cake and loved it. I also got scallops and they were very large and cooked to perfection. The entire experience was great. We went for Valentines Day. I cant say I'd go regularly, but it is THE choice for a special occasion.
(5)
Aaron K.
My wife and I wanted to get away for the weekend with our young children between Christmas and New Years, chose Richmond and stumbled upon this gem. Knowing we were coming with an infant they sat us in a part of the restaurant where noise was no problem, created chocolate milk from scratch and had a perfect kids menu and quick service for the kids. The seafood was fresh and in large portions and the waitstaff was perfect at bringing out our appetizers and entrees at our pace, with no rush. Also, the warehouse/steakhouse decor fits the bill. To top it off, the owner came, introduced himself and spent 10 minutes talking with us about the city. My highest recommendation.
Very disappointed! My husband and I read all the great reviews while visiting from out of town and decided to make reservations. As a African American couple just being seated by an excellent waiter might I add, the owner of the restaurant is making his rounds. He stops at the table and makes a comment which disturbed both of us which was "Did the two of you buy those outfits for tonight" as if we can't afford nice things! Then goes on to make comments because the both of us have an iPhone 6! So my husband speaks with him (in private) and politely states that the comments he made were offensive and the owner starts to get loud while speaking with him. We politely exited the restaurant. I do not refer this place to anyone due to the unfair treatment.
(1)
Meredith W.
My husband and I came for a romantic dinner. As mentioned in other reviews, it is very expensive, so just for special occasions, but you get what you pay for. The food, wine and dessert was amazing. The crab cakes were pure meat, amazing. The lobster mac and cheese was to die for, and I'm not even a huge lobster fan. Our steaks were cooked perfectly. The big stand out is the service. The service was amazing. We were constantly checked, the waiter could discuss everything on the menu. Our glasses were never empty and the minute I was done using a utensil after a course, it was replaced with a clean one. This is the service I would expect from a classy restaurant and they clearly pride themselves in their work.
(5)
K J.
This is definitely one of the nicest restaurants I've been to. We went for our anniversary and they even customized our menu with a congratulatory message at the top. The food was amazing and the service couldn't have been better. Gotta be honest, though - I thought the booth they sat us in was sloped or worn out or something. Not comfortable. Also, I ordered the creamed spinach as a side dish and it wasn't very good. The scallops, steak, wine, and pretty much everything else was spot on.
(4)
Nate J.
Visiting Richmond for a few days for work and had the pleasure of dining here. The filet was wonderful and service from the staff was attentive! The cheesecake was the best I've had in quite a while.
(5)
Derrick M.
Just had dinner for my 27th birthday at Bookbinders. Been hearing a lot about this place and honestly I'm disappointed the ribeye had a dry run that I didn't like the fillet was good but over cooked. Ordered it medium well came out well done. Appetizers was fair. Desserts was horrible. Not the food quality you would expect in a up scale place. Service was nothing special. Would recommend Flemings Steak house over this place any day.
(2)
Amye B.
Consistently great. We sit at the bar every time. Always one of my favorites. The steak doesn't even need a knife.
(5)
Sonia P.
Really enjoyed our dining experience at Bookbinders! Our group of 4 was set up at a nice, cozy corner booth. Our server was very attentive but not overbearing which is always a huge plus when you're out wining and dining. Now I'm no wine expert, but Bookbinders has an impressively extensive wine list so I'm sure it would please any wine connoisseur's palate. They bring you a hot basket of delicious bread and butter (always a winning factor!) after you order but be careful not to load up too much on the bread - their entree portions are generous. I ordered the lobster fettuccine which was surprisingly light and you can tell the pasta is handmade. The overall favorite dish was the Wasabi Crusted Salmon; it was perfectly cooked without being overpowered by the wasabi. You can also order "side dishes" which are served family-style; 1 side order of mashed potatoes was plenty to feed our party of 4. Bookbinders is definitely a "special occasions" establishment and totally worth it. Nice ambiance, great service, and delicious food. I would recommend this place to anyone looking to celebrate a night out.
(5)
Nicole O.
I had the scallops, which were great but I got a taste of my dad's proscuitto wrapped sea bass and it was absolutely amazing. The patio is absolutely beautiful. Server was great and we didn't wait for anything even though we were the only table outside.
(5)
Bennett J.
Bookbinders is a staple of the Richmond dining scene and for good reason. You will most likely leave very full and satisfied but with a lighter wallet. The location is in an old tobacco warehouse and you can feel the vibes of old money throughout the place. That being said everything was really good. The steaks were high quality and cooked just right, I've definitely had better at more upscale steakhouses but it still hit the spot. The salad that I had was really good, very pungent blue cheese and a refreshing raspberry vinaigrette. The cheesecake also didn't disappoint, great crust. The servers were all very attentive as well and made for a great experience. This place is good but there are definitely better steakhouses out there.
(4)
Gary F.
Great steaks or seafood. One of the best places in Richmond to. Great clam chowder. Also, the parking lot is a lot easier.
(5)
B. L.
This was our second time eating here, and it wasn't as good as the first. Waiter was blah and seemed just not to care that we were even there. Had to always ask for beverage refills, spilled one of them, and when I asked if the coffee was fresh, just answered with, "Yes." Later I found out it was a dark roast, which was too strong for my taste. The manager was on site and is most polite and attentive. Now the food -- what was good? The steak -- perfectly cooked and very flavorful and tender. Excellent Caesar salad. Bread and butter are also topnotch. We didn't have drinks or wine. What wasn't good was the crab cake. I'm what my husband calls a "crab snob" because I was raised in Hampton Va, but it just was not made with fresh crab. The corn side dish was made with that large, tough, yellow corn and had too much cream and cheese to eat as a side dish. As a matter of fact, I wonder why they don't have some lighter side dishes.... But I wanted dessert and thought that would make me forget the crab. Got creme brulee. It too, was a disappointment. The custard was more like a sweet vanilla pudding instead of a flavorful cream custard, and was just a thin bit of it covered with the burnt sugar topping. Just not worth the $130 paid for the dinner.
(3)
Josh J.
Great food, great chop house. I didn't even mind the bill.
(4)
Brianne C.
The girls decided to organize an elegant evening in town to celebrate a group of birthdays, and Bookbinders' appealing menu of steaks and seafood seemed perfect. I strolled into the bar a few minutes before the appointed hour, and chatted with a charming older couple while the waif bartender stirred a Grey Goose martini and stuffed large green olives with fresh blue cheese for my garnish. The drink was a bit overly chilled and the stuffed olives quickly made it cloudy, but the pungent cheese and bartender's winning smile still made the time I spent waiting quite pleasant. Soon, I spotted blond tresses and strawberry curls coming through the door, and joined the ladies at a large round table situated close to the bartender. After settling, we chose a feast of chilled lobster cocktail, kona filets Oscar style, the cowboy ribeye with red pepper bearnaise, lobster macaroni and cheese, asparagus, and the wasabi and macadamia salmon, and several bottles of a decent red whose name has escaped me. Our perky server quickly caught on to the mood of the occasion, and replenished drinks, bread baskets, and other little snacks from the kitchen frequently while letting us laugh and breathe between the courses. The lobsters were small but flavorful, and the chilled shrimp had a lovely snap. The steaks arrived properly cooked, and though I had some reservations about the kona crust on my filet, which was finely powdered but not completely seared into the meat, the flavor was dark, rich, and memorable, and quickly brushed away my concerns. Unfortunately, though the macaroni and cheese was rich with nutty brown butter overtones, the texture of the penne did not match the lobster meat, and the dish lacked cheesiness. The other dishes were excellent, particularly the salmon's crust. Though we all tried to resist dessert, the cheesecake with seasonal berries and burnt caramel seduced us with its amber sauce and pile of raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. The cheesecake itself was light and creamy, and beautifully complemented by the gorgeous, smoky caramel. We also ordered a dark chocolate cake, but the details have faded from memory, such was the exquisite cheesecake. Quite simply, the dessert was luscious. We thoroughly enjoyed our three hours at Bookbinders, and I am eager to return with my family for a special holiday dinner in a cozy booth while snow falls lightly on the weathered cobblestone.
(4)
Jim K.
Another great dining experience at Bookbinders, this time four of us dined for my wife's birthday, a personalized souvenir menu, exceptional service, wonderful atmosphere, and great food. Ribeye: mouth-watering delicious, consistently in the top 1 or 2 I've ever had; salmon - exceptional; NY strip - perfect. Appetizers were calamari and stuffed mushrooms were outstanding, and the desserts equally as good. Bookbinder's remains our first choice for that special place to go when you want the best.
(5)
T A.
Great food and impeccable service. My husband and I just made a reservation 2 hours before we arrived and we got a very nice rounded booth that was very romantic. The Erbes Riesling wine that I ordered was spectacular. My husband and I are foodies and really enjoyed our dining experience here. I had the Rockfish topped with fried oysters (AMAZING) and my husband had the filet mignon and we shared a side of creamed spinach. This was more than enough food and I had stuff to take home. Loved this place and would definitely recommend it.
(5)
Ginger W.
Notice that mostly guys like this place? Now you know where the term "old boys' club" comes from! Hey, if you're on an expense account and hang out at Morton's in Chicago, you'll love it here. There are definitely better places in town to eat for true foodies out there, but if you need a hunkering steak and a smelly cigar, this is your home stomping ground.
(2)
Alex L.
Wow. This place is special. A very elegant atmosphere with a high class feel but very decent prices. I was traveling on business and my co-workers raved about this place and they were dead on. Had the beet salad to start and the wasabi salmon for the entree all accompanied by a generous glass of chard. I'm not normally a big beets fan but the salad combination sounded too interesting to pass up. Delicious. The wasabi on the salmon was subtle but added just enough of a kick and the fish itself was cooked to perfection. Factor in the great service by our waitress and now whenever I'm in Richmond I can guarantee I'll be back here for more.
(5)
Toni T.
I have now been to this gem of a restaurant twice and had a very pleasant experience each time. The servers are consistent with the high level of service they provide, and the quality of the food, which is satisfying to the taste buds, is equally consistent. During my most recent visit, the crab cake appetizer was a stand out dish, along with the lobster mac & cheese my boyfriend and I shared. Bookbinders also has an appealing selection of cocktails, and bartenders who make them just right! I suggest sitting at the bar to enjoy your drink prior to your dinner. Above all of these great qualities, the restaurant has the best ambiance! The low lighting and scenic views of Shockoe Bottom make dining here as suitable for a girls' night out as it is for a romantic wine & dine. When I made reservations via OpenTable to celebrate my boyfriend's, one of the hostesses called me and asked for his name so the staff could create a customized menu to wish him happy birthday! If you're looking for a fancy restaurant to celebrate a special occasion along the lines of Fleming's or Ruth's Chris, try this local spot on for size...I guarantee you won't be disappointed!
(5)
Elle M.
More like Meh...I've experienced MUCH better! I've been here on several locations trying to find some justification for the obnoxiously steep prices. The food is mediocre, especially in relation to the price tag attached to it. The husband and I love dining out in a variety of places (we're like the FoodNetwork no one knows about) so when we pay $$$$ for food, you bet your butt we expect the best. There are better places in Richmond for seafood - try the Boathouse @ Sunday Park (expensive, but very worth it) or Copper Grill. Leave Bookbinders to Philly because the Richmond location isn't worth it.
(2)
Stephen R.
This is a great place to eat when you are looking for some steak or seafood and don't mind dropping some cash. Really anything you order is going to be excellent, but my favorite is the New York Strip with shrimp scampi or the Oscar sauce on it. The atmosphere is great as well.
(4)
Pat J.
Overall this place was pretty good, but not so good that it warrants the price. 1. The appetizers weren't too interesting. The oysters lacked a bit of flavor and the proscuitto wrapped mozzarella was nothing out of the ordinary. The best appetizer was probably the escargot, but you can make anything taste good when it's drenched in garlic and butter. 2. I had the wasabi encrusted salmon(?), Overall, this was very good; however, they had a fruity/syrupy sauce that totally conflicted with the rest of the flavors and was best left off. 3. The lobster Mac & Cheese was excellent. Overall good, not worth the price.
(3)
Brian J.
We went here for a pre-valentine's meal and also with my in-laws. We all were thoroughly impressed, with not only the food, but also the service. The shrimp cocktail was really good, and the cocktail sauce has just enough kick, nut not too much horseradish that you start to gag. My wife had the bisque, also very good. The cowboy rib eye was extremely tender and I questioned if I could eat the whole 18oz in one sitting, but there was nothing left but the small bone when I was done. Lobster Mac and Cheese was AMAZING!! There wasn't even a drop left of it. All in all, we all thoroughly enjoyed our meals, they have a great bourbon selection, and this is definitely a wonderful special occasion restaurant!!!
(5)
LS S.
Bookbinders is such a beautiful restaurant and always a wonderful experience! Steaks and seafood is top of the line, service impeccable, and ambiance perfect! THE place for a romantic dinner or a special event. Bookbinders can easily handle both!
(5)
Sam I.
Showed up with six people and no reservation. We were able to get a table right away and everything was perfect. Scallops were amazing.
(5)
Anh N.
I heard great things about this place. Went there with a few friends. We was greeted warmly by the hostess, but our server was rude and unwelcoming. The food we got was good, everything was made to our liking. With the price, and the atmosphere, i would have expected much better service
(3)
Mr. Helper L.
Yeeeaaah right. Did not live up to the hype. Why do I see Macmurray wine on the wine list AGAIN? I am from California and this is now a running joke. Like cement, you can't get rid of it. Jug wine somehow marketed throughout the free world en mass like it's something special? Lobster tail ......eh. Wine list not very good. Actually quite odd with limited and poor selections by the glass. Bottle selection just OK. Food just OK. Nice location and nice interior but mediocre food. Would go back after trying 43 other spots in Richmond.
(2)
Patrick G.
Bookbinders is terrific, had a private party dinner this week and they did an awesome job. The food was fantastic, service was great and the atmosphere and private room was perfect.
(5)
Enrique M.
Great steaks and seafood. It's nice to have an alternative to the high end chains.
(5)
Quang N.
Really a quality seafood/steakhouse. While not particularly inventive, they use high quality ingredients and execute on them well to deliver a quality product. If you're looking for just a good cut of meat that's cooked well, with no surprises, this is the place for you. Try the oysters rockafeller and stuffed mushrooms for apps, and definitely get desert as well.
(4)
J P.
We came here on a Saturday night and had a very enjoyable meal. The atmosphere was great and the food was quite good with a couple of hiccups. The service was exemplary - some of the best we've had in some time. Not only was the server prompt and helpful, but the timing between dishes was perfect. We started with the seared tuna appetizer as well as the lump crabmeat cocktail. The crabmeat was very nice, but the crust on the tuna was salty and over-seasoned. It was a shame too because the soy-based sauce and the wasabi cream were both delicious. Next was the Caesar salad (with real anchovies!) and the Red Snapper soup. My wife said the Caesar salad was great. The soup was not as good, however. The sherry dominated all other flavors. We chose to split the Ultimate Surf and Turf for our entree. The filet was the best I'd ever had. Perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked (medium rare) and literally melted in the mouth. The crabcake was also tremendous. We can see why all the other reviewers raved about it. We are spoiled with our crab in Maryland (such as the famous "Crab Bomb" at Jerry's Seafood in Lanham, MD) but this comes in a close second. The lobster tail was good (as lobster always is) but not remarkable. My wife testifies to the Lobster Mac 'n Cheese. The driver from our hotel sang its praises and the dish fully earned them. The desserts we had were the creme brulee and the key lime pie. The creme brulee was tasty, though the texture was a little soupy for my liking. My wife says that the key lime pie was great. We saved our appetite all day for this big meal and we came away very satisfied. The highs of the meal were superlative but there were some lows that prevented it from receiving 5 stars.
(4)
Chris C.
Great ambience! Best restaurant in town!
(5)
Jeff T.
This place defines classy. The surf and turf here is beyond comparison in Richmond. The crabcakes are enormous and unlike other places these are filled with pretty much 99% crab. The prices are expensive but that is normal for an upscale restaurant. What you get is an awesome dining experience and probably some of the best seafood you've had in a long time.
(5)
Jon L.
I got the filet mignon Oscar style and it was probably one of the best steaks I have ever eaten. The jumbo limb crab is fantastic, no filler, all crab. Definitely recommend the crab and steak, the Oscar gives you the best of both worlds.
(5)
Jeff M.
If you want a great meal, and exceptional service, this is the place to go. Even the bartender can tell you how the food is prepared. From seafood to steak, there is no place better in Richmond. I've enjoyed both the steak and lobster, and the fillet Mignon. Prepared exactly how I like it. Service is fantastic, and the atmosphere is very nice as well. You get what you pay for, and then some
(5)
Karla B.
We ventured over to the Old Original Bookbinders to try their steaks. After having been greeted by two hostesses (one just stared at us with no expression whatsoever) the other cheery one seated us in the back although few other diners were in the restaurant. We asked to move to the front dining area where we could see out the windows, and she happily obliged. My daughter had the filet mignon, perfectly prepared medium rare. She really enjoyed the flavor and tenderness. She also liked the lobster Mac 'n Cheese but said it didn't have much lobster. I started with the crab bisque which had a lovely flavour but could have been better if there were small chunks of crab added instead of remnants. I had the cowboy steak rubbed with ancho chiles and Chimichurri. Very tender and lean despite the waiter's caution. The only disappointment was the Chimichurri which I also asked for on the side. Btw, I selected this steak over others because I love Chimichurri. Their Chimichurri is oil plus herbs, no vinegar, no salt, no flavor and not a bit how it should be prepared. But, nonetheless the steak was fabulous. We shared a cheesecake that was really good though it could have had a bit more caramel drizzle. We were pleasantly surprised to be visited tableside by the owner and his daughter (the one who was at the front earlier), who, in his presence was a bit more amiable. I'm sure she'll get the hang of smiling at her father's customers in time. Service was very attentive but not overbearing. This is a great restaurant, and although I pointed out the small drawbacks, it is well worth enjoying while in Richmond.
(5)
Phil C.
This restaurant is as good as it gets in Richmond. Of course, it's priced to match that, but the service, food quality, and menu selection are really exceptional. Definitely try: - The cold seafood appetizer platter - a nice selection of oysters, crab, and shrimp. - The ultimate surf & turf - Petit filet with lobster tail and crab. A little decadent, but the atmosphere seems to encourage that kind of behavior. I'll definitely be going back any time I'm in Richmond.
(4)
Jordan C.
I got the surf and turf which really is the best of both worlds, a fillet with a crab cake. The fillet was top quality steakhouse stuff. As others have said, the crab cakes are excellent! There was just enough filler to keep the crab cakes together. Also highly recommend the lobster mac n cheese. Very tasty and rich without overdoing it. A great side dish. Our waitress was very nice and attentive, just as you'd expect at a highend restaurant. Highly recommend this place for a special occasion as the ambiance and food are among the best Richmond has to offer.
(5)
Heather T.
I've only been here a few times, but each time it was out of this world. The service is fantastic and the food is so good! With a la carte pricing, it gets a little expensive, but it's worth it. I highly recommend the lobster potatoes, especially. When you go, don't skimp! Get wine, get dessert, order the best-sounding thing on the menu and enjoy yourself!
(5)
Wendy C.
No offense to Baltimore (haven't been there yet), but I just had the best Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes EVER here in Richmond! The meat portions (98% of it) are lumpy and HUGE. I'm pleased they didn't cheat me by heavily overstuffing them with batter and crumbs. I don't know how many of those poor little crustaceans suffered in that big boiling pot of water (sorry PETA), but I do know they slaughtered a whole colony of them to result in such an amazing dish. It's inhumane, so I plead guilty. My euphoria does not end there. It continues on with their signature Red Snapper Soup. The soup itself is mind-blowingly hedonistic with its rich thick texture and unique spicy flavor. There is an aphrodesiatic quality to it and can easily overwhelm your taste buds like crack would to a drug addict. With one sip, you'll know Meg Ryan wasn't faking it in that movie from 1989. The service is classy minus the stuffiness you normally find in most fine dining establishments. The location itself is in a refurbished tobacco warehouse by the river. The brick walls and exposed air ducts above give this place a historic industrial charm mixed with a modern art loft feel. My overall experience here has been exceptional. It won't be easy to find another place in this city to top this one. It's going to be a hard act to follow.
(5)
Melissa P.
I have eaten at Bookbinders several times, and I swear each time it gets better and better. The past time I went we got the cold appetizer platter and the hot appetizer platter, both were fantastic! I had the filet which was cooked perfectly. For sides I would highly recommend the lobster mac and cheese, it was so delicious and worth the price. I wish I could afford to eat here every week, but its a great "special night" restaurant.
(4)
Nancy A.
My first experience at bookbinders. I read all the reviews so had a preset notion of what to expect. Overall a very positive experience. The wait staff was pleasant,efficient and helpful. The atmosphere elegant but warm and not noisy. Certainly not like a Mortons. We were a party of eight so had the opportunity to sample many of the apps and sides. The assessment of those critics that said the crab cakes were disappointing was accurate. They were mounds of loose, warm crab, with little seasoning....perhaps they should be called something else other than crab cakes. The stuffed mushrooms were well seasoned, tasty and not overcooked...truly good. The oyster on the half shell were succulent, the escargot a hefty, tasty dish. The entrees all were excellent. The sea bass was fresh, moist and delicious, everyone that ordered the beef was very pleased. We had several side dishes. The asparagus In hollandaise was very good,the lobster Mac &cheese I thought was disappointing....the sauce was not cheesy and creamy but the cheese melted on top of the macaroni, the red skinned mashed potatoes also disappointing because they were gummy not light and creamy, the fried Idaho potato balls were good. Over all I would rate bookbinders a 41/2 star. Nancy from NY
(4)
Rachel P.
Best surf and turf in RIC. The service is beyond on point. Classic dishes, perfect steak. Nothing too flashy, just classy. You will pay for this type of perfection....in the form of your next months rent check.
(5)
Adam Z.
Beautiful restaurant in the trendy Shockoe Bottom area. We went on a Monday night without a reservation but I'm sure it gets busier on the weekends. They specialize in fresh seafood (lobster tanks and all as you walk in) but they also have a varity of delicious steaks. Our waiter was Greg, cute young guy, very poised and knowledgable about the menu offerings. I had the soup of the day which was a tomato ginger bisque. Delicious! I'm a sucker for tomato soup and you rarely find it combined with ginger. For my entree I had the Kona Crusted Filet and it was to die for. The filet was a perfect med rare, juicy and tender, could have cut it with a butter knife. The Kona crust wasn't too heavy on the coffee taste, more so added texture and sweetness with almost a mole kind of taste. Paired it with a side of asparagus topped with hollandaise sauce and I was stuffed! They have a pretty extensive wine list, but what they offered by the glass was somewhat limited. A really nice dining experience if you're looking for steak and seafood in Richmond.
(5)
Joshua T.
Not bad but very disappointed. Went here to celebrate our birthdays. I would stick with the high end prime chains like Flemings, Morton's, Del Frisco's etc. Had the cowboy cut ribeye, ate about a third and couldn't finish. The ancho rub made it difficult to taste the beef. The cream of spinach and asparagus tasted pretty good but unfortunately the disappointment from the warm seafood sampler and main courses was too much. The only reason I'm giving 2 stars is for the good service, other than that patrons are paying dry aged prime beef prices, for sub standard product.
(2)
Yasmin R.
Our meal was excellent and the plating of the food was very gourmet. We were treated like special guest. Nice date night spot or special occasion. If you have a birthday they are able to put your name on your own personal menu as a keepsake!
(5)
Fareed R.
This is the place to take someone if you're thinking that you're really serious about them and you're moving in the direction of marriage or something. This place is a high-class establishment. There's a reason that a lot of drug reps will hold their meetings for physicians at this place. If you seriously want to impress your date, this is the place for them. But make sure to dress up, and have them dress up to. Otherwise you're going to look out of place.
(5)
Judith L.
I forget what occasion we came here for, as my visit was a while ago. My parents wanted to come here because they had been to the Bookbinders that used to be in Philadelphia. This place is very nice: your nice shirt with jeans probably won't cut it here. Service was very good, and you'd expect it to be in a place like this. Server was engaging and answered all of our questions about the menu, as well as gave us a little input when we weren't sure what to order. The manager came out to talk to us and engaged my parents in a conversation about history, the old location, landmarks, the area, etc. Was friendly, and left after the conversation was over so it didn't become intrusive to our meal. The food: wonderful. We all ordered seafood. I'm not a fan of scallops, but apparently they were delicious. As was the fish and the crab cakes. Everyone cleared their plate and left completely satisfied. Unless you're rolling in the dough, save this place for a date you want to impress or a special occasion. The dinner will cost you, but the food, service, and ambiance, you definitely get what you pay for.
(5)
Bill P.
Great food, attentive service, nice ambiance. One of the most tender steaks I've eaten in a long time. The side dishes were mostly cream based and very rich. They were good but it would be nice if they had some healthier options. The server did make an error on our bill but corrected it immediately upon being made aware. We'll definitely be back.
(4)
Yvonne M.
My first visit here, dinner was awesome. We did a party of 6, ordered several appetizers, all were perfectly cooked and went very quick. The entrees were great too. i ordered a stuffed flounder (with crab) one word... Yummy,"!!! It was the best thing on my plate. I also had a caesar salad, and a baked potato. The baked potato messed up the flow of deliciousness I was experiencing, it was bland and blah. I thought it was just me except another person ordered one and felt the same way. The surprise of the night was macaroni and cheese.. It wasn't your ordinary mac n cheese from home. It had with else in it.. Possibly lobster?? Anyhoo it was awesome!!! I also tried their Resling white wine... It perfectly complimented my flounder... I would definitely recommend dinner at this place.
(4)
Rafael H.
Great location and they have validated parking. Perfect for taking customers to impress them and make them feel comfortable. Great service and attention to detail. Menu is amazing, I strongly recommend the Wasabee Salmon. I had their espresso ice-cream for desert and I can say it was amazing. I think it was frozen custard and not ice-cream but either way it was amazing. The bad: I wouldn't normally mind but since they do claim to be a steakhouse I was disappointed that they only had one Malbec to choose from on their wine list. Appetizers were the only disappointing part of the night.
(4)
Lynda C.
Went here for our 1st year wedding anniversary. Very romantic and the food and service is impeccable. This place is a Gem and worth every penny spent. I had the filet mignon and lobster mac and cheese..yummy. My s=husband had the salmon and creamed asparagus... delicious!! Will returun on our 5th year anniversary!!
(5)
Christopher C.
I've gone to this place with the wife to celebrate an anniversary. We went during a weekday at about 5 pm, so it wasn't crowded. The parking situation was great compared to many other Richmond restaurants since you can park on the parking deck across the street. The atmosphere was great. Light jazz was playing and people talked in quiet tones. The waiter was helpful and knowledgeable. Instead of ordering the typical steak, I ordered the wasabi-encrusted salmon on an orange ginger glaze with lump crab-meat on top. Honestly, it was the first time in my life that I experienced a "symphony of flavors" in my mouth (to borrow a phrase from the Japanese Iron Chef television show.) The wasabi had no heat, and perfectly complemented the the salmon and glaze. It was so good my wife (who can't stand spicy food) kept eating off my plate. She got a plain tuna fish steak and, while she said it was good, kept wanting more of my dish. I also had a bowl of "World Famous" snapper soup that was both rich and a perfect appetizer. My wife liked that too. Best part of the experience for me was since I work for the railroad, I could look out the window at the poor schlubs I work with going by on the viaduct (railroad bridge) in their trains, and pity them while I enjoyed a great meal.
(5)
KristEn E.
Stuffy and very over priced. Average restaurant that doesn't do anything creative with their menu. Service was ok. 3 waiters stood and watched us leave without saying a word to us. After spending $200 on a meal I'd at least like a, "have a good night." A la carte sides not memorable. Especially the lobster Mac and cheese for $15. So many better choices in RVA for a nice dinner.
(3)
Katie R.
The food was good but very expensive, almost uncomfortably so; it took us forever to order. I had the Kobe filet, which was delicious, and my husband had the rockfish, which he enjoyed but I thought was a little fishy. The waiter seemed a little stuck up especially after we ordered a bottle of white wine then our friends ordered a bottle of red wine to which he commented, "So, you've graduated to red wine" like we were amateurs for ordering a $50 bottle of white wine! Overall, I didn't think the food was worth the exorbitant prices but the friends who chose the restaurant seemed to enjoy it. The service was good, the wine was overpriced (they paid $50 for a bottle of red that is $17 at Trader Joe's), the food was very good, just not worth the price for me. I'd go again for a very special occasion but not in the near future.
(3)
Andy E.
We went for our anniversary and had a mostly positive experience. The snapper soup was great. I had a NY Strip and my wife had the scallops as our main course. The Strip was a decent size, but there were only 4 scallops served for my wife's dinner. I ended up splitting my Strip with her so she had a decent portion. I would have rated the meal 4 stars, but with a bill of $135 for not a lot of foods I had to mark down my rating. I will say that the flavor of everything was excellent.
Absolutely fabulous. We booked this place to hold my folks' surprise 50th anniversary party. I organized the party with Lynne Cohen, who was incredibly helpful and responsive. All planning was done via email and phone since I live in Denver. We booked the party to be held on a Sunday, which was great because the restaurant is closed Sundays and we had the place to ourselves. It was the weekend after the 4th of July, and traffic was outrageous. We had guests arrive almost 2 hours late. Lynne assured me this was not a problem, and they kept our guests happy in the beautiful bar area and served drinks while we waited. Once the party got started, it went exactly as planned. They served the little kids first, per Lynne's suggestion, to allow moms and dads to enjoy their meals. We had a slide show which we showed as dessert was served, and received assistance with the A/V equipment. I was nervous enough throwing a surprise party for 30+ people, but once I was there, I didn't have to worry about anything. The service was top notch. The food was OUT OF THIS WORLD! Everything was perfectly cooked and absolutely delicious. Our good friend from the Eastern Shore, who is an expert on crab cakes, said that Bookbinder's was one of the best she has tasted. Everyone commented on how good it was, and we saw many of our guests leave with doggy-bags. They especially didn't want to leave the decadent chocolate cake behind! The party went off perfectly, and I could not be happier. My parents were overwhelmed. It was a truly special event. Delicious. Professional. Classy. You will not be disappointed.
(5)
Jeff F.
Bookbinders is a classic steakhouse experience that I can recommend. Here's my rundown on the grub: - tuna app - great - exceptional chooped salad - excellent filet, but I would pass on the seared scallop - maybe do the Oscar instead - good lobster mac and cheese - awesome shoe string fries - probably some of the best you'll find anywhere - cheesecake - ridiculously good
(4)
Matt S.
This place is really close to my apartment. I just wish I was made of money so I could eat there everyday. The food is great and has a nice ambience plus the bartenders there make a darn good drinks. If you got the money and want a nice place for a good date night (meaning good food and good company) then I say head on over to this place. Your stomach wont be disapointed despite what your wallet tells you. If you like to try different things like I do, try the snapping turtle soup. Its good and tastes almost like a beef stew. The service is great and the dress code is well not dressy I would say but you want to wear a nice collared and pants (sorry ladies, I dont know what is the equivalent of that for your gender). I tend to err on the side of a little dressier in a place like this but if your one of those people that think its ok to go out in public wearing basically pj's..... just stay home and rethink your life. (have some pride in the way you present yourself people) So to hell with being fruggle and indulge yourself once in a while. Head on over to this place for a good meal.
(5)
A R.
I was a guest in someone's dinner party and knowing that this is a steak/seafood place I would usually avoid restaurants like this (I'm a vegetarian) but they were very accommodating, and were able to whip up a roasted vegetable risotto for me (which I do not think is on the menu). Hope they read this, thanks again!
(5)
John E.
We went here for a belated Valentine's dinner. The inside of the restaurant is well done - a nice mix of the brick exterior with heavy dark wood interiors. We ordered the shrimp bisque, arugula salads, wasabi salmon, stuffed flounder, and the red velvet cake. The first four were excellent, and the salmon particularly was exceptional. The red velvet cake was disappointing, dense and odd-tasting; in fact, in giving the five star review I am just pretending we did not order dessert. If you've never had turtle, consider ordering the snapper soup to cross that off your unusual food bucket list. I semi-regret not getting steak (or rather, because my salmon was so great, not getting my wife to order a steak). They looked great.
(5)
Zachary W.
This place is/was/will continue to be splendid. The wine selection was full and well-rounded, our service was cheerful (coming from a seven year food and bev vet), and the bone-in Cowboy ribeye knocked my socks off. One would think that a dinner might be a little weird without socks. One would be completely wrong in thinking so. Our party of four was pleased in every way and I'm very much so looking forward to my next special occasion as justification for a Bookbinders trip. Stay strong and eat on!
(5)
Anna P.
I was surprised to see the qualify of food at this place. The service and ambiance was excellent. It was romantic, and welcoming, but unfortunately, when we were served our meal, we were extremely disappointed. I had the Rockfish, and my husband had a steak and lobster, all of which we barely touched.
(2)
Janine S.
Airplane food. Old men. Worn out and staid. If you need a quiet place to have a drink and listen to elevator music and don't mind mediocre at best food this is for you.
(1)
Steven W.
From the moment you walk in you're treated like you're the only table in the restaurant. The ambiance is inviting and the table setting is just perfect for a date or a fancy dinner. Service starts out with hot, fresh baked bread that's crunchy on the outside and soft and warm in the center. Delectable. Since we had an early dinner, we just had water to drink. For an appetizer, we ordered the crab cakes and the shrimp cocktail. Both excellent. My wife ordered the jumbo shrimp dinner and a kale and spinach salad which was the special with a strawberry vinegarette and candied walnuts. The shrimp were HUGE and tasty. I ordered the filet and crab-cakes. The filet melted in my mouth like butter and I didn't even really need a knife to cut it because it was just that tender. The crab cakes was full of jumbo lump crab meat ... No filler. For dessert, I got the key like pie. My only complaint is that I do not like key lime pie with a chocolate sauce drizzle and Oreo crust. I like the old fashioned graham cracker crust LOL. Overall, excellent place to eat and we will definitely go back. Worth the $170 with tip included. Excellent place for date night.
(5)
Duke G.
Their food is great, and service some of the best in Richmond. CCV is the only place I've eaten in Richmond where service is better. However, CCV is a private club, and there really is no fair comparison.
(5)
Todd P.
My family's version of a traditional thanksgiving is to go to a restaurant. This year the clan came down to Richmond and we went to Bookbinders. It is a pre-set menu, but the available options covered everyone's tastes. We were able to get steaks, turkey dinners, and a couple different fish options. The turkey was good, but the highlight of those meals were the sides of mashed potatoes and green bean casserole. The sauce for the filet was also fantastic. One family member has a severe nut allergy and the server and kitchen were great in guiding his ordering and even provided a dessert that was not on the menu to accommodate their needs. It was a great experience and I would gladly go again.
(4)
Johanna Q.
My husband and I went on May 13, 2013 for our anniversary dinner. The atmosphere is great - dark woods, exposed beams, rustic brick and nautical art (fish prints and such). We did have reservations and we were seated promptly. Our waiter was very friendly, and very helpful in helping us to accommodate our gluten allergy. The menu selection for gluten free was just as varied as the main menu and quite delicious. The food is fresh, not over-sauced and so very filling! Great presentation, great execution. Well worth the price for a lovely evening out. We will be going again!
(5)
Brad S.
The food was really good. The atmosphere was great! Some say the food is expensive, but it I think it is reasonable for the upscale type restaurant.
(5)
Meg S.
Wonderful dinner, and they made my husband's birthday very special by adding little touches, like the special menus. Also very accommodating with my bringing in a cake. Always a favorite for special occasions!
(5)
George C.
Excellent service. You will feel a bit out of place if you dress too casual, as we were because we were vacationing and simply stumbled unto this high class place. So we asked for a booth out of the way and they were very gracious. The food and service are top notch just keep in mind the prices match the quality and service. We would go here again if we are ever in the area from our home in So. Cal. Needless to say we had a great dinner and a great time even though we were quite under dressed. BTW, all dishes we had were very good and the desserts were over the top good.
(5)
Kelvin M.
Just discovered that Costco ( local wholesale club) offers discount dinning cards for Bookbinders! So grab one and go..it'll help make it more affordable , at least.
(5)
Patricia A.
My husband and I dined here for our 28th anniversary. Everything here is superior. Food, service, atmosphere. I think we just found our go to anniversary place :)
(5)
Kristen K.
Amazing meal & service! We celebrated my father in law's 70th birthday here. Service was fantastic. Food was amazing. Loved the baby spinach salad and wasabi crusted salmon (huge portions) and the key lime pie with Oreo crust was the perfect ending. The prosciutto wrapped mozzarella was good too, but a bit too rich to finish more than a couple small bites. Scallops and ahi tuna were really good too. Nice upscale (but not stuffy) ambiance and kid-friendly. I would definitely go back.
(4)
Katie V.
The food was great, and the service impeccable. I came for my 25th birthday with my toddler in tow. It's always scary trying to dine with an almost 2 year old. She got fussy, and they set up a private room for us, where she was also able to run around. I'm sure it was mostly to save the other diners from being annoyed, but it was so nice and helpful for us. We started with the stuffed mushrooms and calamari. Both were delicious! My filet was cooked to perfection. A solid medium rare.The lobster mac side was delicious. The brussell sprouts were okay, slightly burnt and lacking flavor, but my scallops made up for it. They were to die for. My fiance got the wasabi salmon dish, and is generally very picky, as he can cook very well--and had only great things to say. It's a great place for a special occasion.
(4)
David C.
Great meal and equally great service. Try the wasabi salmon. A bit sharp but melts in your mouth. Scallops were good risotto a bit too much lemon. Overall the whole experience was great. We are very lucky that our youngest starts UR this summer: four years of quarterly meals at bookbinders.
(4)
Lesley N.
Creamed spinach and the mac & cheese is delicious!
(5)
Megan M.
I was between three and four stars, but the food was pretty darn good, so I'm going for four. We went to Bookbinders for a friends' birthday dinner. It's pretty much your standard, upscale steak/seafood restaurant. It's big, slightly masculine and dimly lit with oversized booths, big wine bottle displays and a large-and-in-charge lobster tank right inside the front door. Since it was a birthday dinner, bottles of wine were in order. We were slightly surprised and turned off by the markup on wine bottles. We started our meal with the popular Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay ($75). I know I've gotten this at other restaurants in town for less money. Other popular wines like Silver Oak and Caymus also seemed high. We went with a more obscure Coted du Rhone with our steaks, which was probably less marked up. For a nice restaurant, our server was, well, kind of clumsy. She knocked over a beer bottle (luckily the person it was knocked onto caught it), she almost pulled the bread basket off the table and was just not too with it. She was also very pushy about upselling. I know at any corporate-ish restaurant you're going to get some of that, but it was kind of over the top here. We started our meal with the crab cake appetizer and the cajun tuna. After hearing about Bookbinder's crab cakes for years, I was kind of underwhelmed. They were mushy and barely held together without much flavor. The cajun tuna, on the other hand, was awesome. It was rare, fresh, well-spiced and it came with a very good, spicy wasabi sauce on the side. This dish was a big hit. The sourdough bread was also very good. It was warm, crusty and hard to stop eating. The main-course menu had your standard steak, seafood and combo items. I went with the medium-rare petit filet with the blue cheese topping. Other people at my table got a regular filet and filets with Oscar topping. We also got sides of creamed corn, mashed potatoes and asparagus. Everyone's steaks were cooked perfectly. The Oscar topping was amazing. The Oscar steaks were served over big, flavorful asparagus spears with mounds of crab and hollandaise on top. My blue cheese topping was also pretty darn good, but if I went back, I'd probably just go Oscar. I personally wished my steak had been a littler crisper on the outside, but I really like that contrast between a crisp, flavorful outside and rare-ish inside. Everyone else was very happy. The sides were all good. The mashed potatoes were fluffy and garlicky, and the creamed corn was sweet, cheesy indulgence at its finest. The asparagus was topped with hollandaise. More of the goodness that came with the Oscar. We were all to full for dessert, and we were disappointed in the dessert wine selection. It was small without any red ones. There were ports, but not red dessert wines. We went on a Friday night with an 8:45 reservation. By the time we left a bit after 10:30, the restaurant was completely empty except for us. This was kind of weird, but no big deal. I'd prefer a place that's a bit busier on a weekend night, but whatever. Despite the service hiccups, the meal was exactly what I expected for a quality steakhouse meal. Nothing inventive, just standards done right. Next time I'm in the mood for this, I'll definitely consider returning to Bookbinder's. If you go and park in the lot across the street, make sure you let the host know. They'll give you a card for free parking.
(4)
Michelle A.
The first Bookbinders was actually in my hometown of Philadelphia, so when it opened here in Richmond, I was super excited. It's in a cute area, right down by all those nice new condos at the foot of Church hill... and its got the dark wood, heavy curtains, expensive glass look of a good steakhouse. When you walk in you feel both refined and exuberant, and they have a lobster tank so you can pick your lobster, which I happen to think is very old-school :) I love it. I also like that they do coat check. Not enough restaurants do that anymore. The restaurant is spacious and well-laid out... wines are by the glass and reasonably priced... bottles are a different story :) But they have an extensive wine list... I had the mid-priced Pinot Noir when I was there, and loved it. The first time I was here with my husband, he got the Kona-rubbed steak, and it was TO DIE FOR. Seriously, one of the best steaks he has even had. I got the filet Oscar-style (meaning they dropped some really delicious crabmeat on top of my steak :)) and even that paled in comparison to that Kona-rubbed steak. PS Sides are ordered separately and in family-style portions, we got green beans and mashed potatoes and both were good. The second time we went to Bookbinders was for Valentines Day, and while the meal was good, it wasn't as good as the plates from the regular menu- they had a special prix fix for the night, and weren't serving off the regular menu. The prix fix was actually very reasonable, which is why we chose to go here to begin with- we loved our first meal here so much that we couldnt believe we could go back so affordably. Anyway, my husband had the duck on the recommendation of the waitress, and I think I got the steak... neither were remarkable, in fact I think the duck was a little fatty, even beyond the fat expected on duck... So overall, this is worth a try if you are looking for someplace really nice to go. I'm not a fan of their prix fix, but any other night of the year, it's a safe bet for a classy meal.
(4)
Tim B.
Nice atmosphere, library style. Service was quite good and most of the food was well prepared. However my lobster tail was way overcooked. It looked wonderful but was chewy and at times I had to really gnaw on it. Being a happy go lucky type I didn't send it back. My drink (whiskey sour) was a disappointment. I expect a restaurant of this quality to know how to make one properly. The wine selection was good but over priced, even for a place where you expect to pay a premium.
(3)
Lisa G.
Another special spot, especially during the wintertime. The huge building with wood everywhere you look makes for a warm atmosphere. Love the bar for a nice glass of scotch. Food is impeccable. Nice place to go for a special occasion.
(5)
Daniel S.
Had diner for three. Everything was done very well: the room, the service and the food. It is, however, an expensive restaurant, with each item on the menu priced higher than at any other Richmond restaurant we've encountered, and each sold a la carte, even the vegetable and starch (potato, rice, etc.).
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Quiet Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Lakeia W.
We look forward to traveling to Richmond each year just to celebrate our wedding anniversary with Bookbinders (and Thomas). The oysters on a half shell followed by the lobster and the seafood salad is always the best. You all are amazing!!! See ya next year! Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Williams
(5)Carter S.
Went here for an anniversary with my boyfriend. I'd say that we had reservations for 7:30, maybe 8? And when we walked into the restaurant, it was pretty empty--especially for a Saturday night. This worried me at first! But the waitress was just darling--very warm and friendly, and the place was gorgeous inside. The wine and food were really good too. I am giving this place three stars because they began putting away tables around us as we finished up our meal, almost like they were pushing us out! It was probably only around 9 PM. I could not believe it. The hubby and I had to walk to Julep's (then, in the Bottom) for some after-dinner drinks because, apparently, they were closing at 9:15. I can understand wanting to go home as soon as possible just as much as the next person, but come on. Next time, I'll make a reservation a little earlier in the night just in case! Definitely will give them another try because they are beloved. Perhaps we were just late-goers on an empty night!
(3)Will P.
This is a modern version of the closed center city Philadelphia c.1865 classic. I was told by a local this place actually started in Richmond, but who knows we are talking 150 years ago. In the old tobacco warehouse area about 23 blocks from the center of town. There is free parking in the lot across the street for dinner. This was recommended as the best place in town for crab. The crab cake was pretty mediocre and super expensive. The fresh bread was excellent, everything including the service was excellent. All in all a really nice place if you want to spend a lot to eat...just do not order the crab here. Try the $8 creamed spinach , enough for at least two people.
(4)Ruben G.
Just finished dinner....this place is Amazing the food, and service was exceptional! The Murphy-Goode Zinfandel Bottle we preserved was an exceptional choice, of course from California! Haha, I'm visiting here from Cali, thank you so much for the hospitality and great steakhouse! Note: I ordered the Ribeye medium and it came med-well, so order it med-rare and it will be perfect! Enjoy~
(5)Cathy C.
Fine dining at it's BEST with an upscale Richmond vibe. Everything was perfect. Great place for a Father's Day dinner. Scallops were incredible. Key lime pie was awesome. Service was excellent. The owner was in town and was visiting each table which is always a nice gesture! Easy to park across the street.
(5)Chez S.
Great restaurant, really care about what they do, and the food is to die for.
(5)Jay Rand B.
This is a very good, but not great restaurant. The food is reliably good, almost great but there is no "wow" factor to lift it to a 5 star level. At these prices, they should impress you, not just get by. The ambiance is a 5, the service a 4.5 and the food a 4.25. They don't try to do too much and seafood and steak is definitely the sweet spot for the restaurant. Appetizers were very good and desert was very good as well. I will go back but probably not a regular basis.
(4)Kristine K.
One of Richmond's top steakhouses. Definitely more of a special occasion restaurant rather than your typical date night kind of place. Came here for an anniversary and they had a special menu printed for us which read "Happy anniversary (our names)!" Appetizer - Beef Carpaccio - The raw taste was not too overbearing and it went along perfectly with the Parmesan cheese and added ingredients at the bottom. Entrees - Wasabi Crusted Salmon was incredible. This was kind of similar to the "Salmon Oscar" from Maggiano's with the whole lump crabmeat on top of salmon type of thing, but with an added twist with crusty wasabi outside for that crunch. The Large Filet Mignon was also grilled to a perfect medium rare. Sides - Lobster Mac & Cheese was probably the most disappointing part of my meal. For a $15 side, I expected generous amount of lobster but only a sad tiny little bit of lobster was actually in it. Note. Ask for a corner booth! It's more than spacious for 2 but still cozy and intimate.
(5)Molly C.
My boyfriend and I were given a very generous gift card, so we were able to come here for our fourth anniversary. We were greeted right off the bat, wished a happy anniversary, and they even had it typed at the top of the menus. Our server came by to take our drink orders and tell us the specials, he didn't seem to have them quite memorized though and recited them in a wierd halting, robotic way. We ended up sharing the jumbo shrimp cocktail (it came with four HUGE shrimp and some awesome cocktail sauce). I ordered the petite filet mignon, and my boyfriend got the kona crusted filet. Mine was amazing, melt in your mouth, best steak I've ever had (not that I've had many, but still). Boyfriend loved his steak; he said that you couldn't taste the fennel-garlic butter, but he was enjoying the kona crust so much he didn't care. We ordered mashed potatoes and Johnnie's potatoes (kind of a tater tot/hashbrown/potato wedge things) as sides. Should have listened to our waiter when he reccommended just splitting one side... We had potatoes coming out our ears. All together it was an amazing dinner. The only cons were that it was so dark in the restaurant that we had trouble reading our menu and the parking sucked. They have a 40 space lot right across from the restaurant, but it was full when we arrived. The website said there was another lot two blocks down, but there was a sign that it was apartment resident parking only. We were worried we'd get towed, so we drove around until we found street parking. Sadly Bookbinders is way out of our price range, so I doubt we'll get to come back. It made for one spectacular and memorable evening though.
(4)Paul P.
Excellent food, great service and classy atmosphere. Fantastic! Though the location is far from the downtown action this makes it more easily accessible. Parking isn't a problem in the lot across the street. The staff was very professional, attentive and courteous. Also, our waiter Joseph suggested an off menu stuffed lobster (stuffed with crabmeat) which we were told is an occasional special. The atmosphere was great; an old, rehabilitated tobacco factory with lots of exposed brick and woodwork.
(5)Kim G.
Wow! Fantastic meal, best we have had in a really long time. Lobster appetizer was impeccable, Kona filet and cowboy ribeye cooked perfectly, creamed corn was excellent complement. Felt obliged to try desert, too, and we were not disappointed! Service was prompt and helpful and personable as well. We live close but had never gone before. I think this will be our new "go to" for special dinners!
(5)Tracie J.
Delicious. It stands up to all of the hype and yes, we tried the world famous turtle soup! Very nice!!
(4)Melissa H.
I may be in the minority but I wasn't all that impressed with the food at Old Original Bookinders. Richmond has such a burgeoning culinary scene that I think it's really important for restaurants to step up to the plate if you're going to charge that much for food and to me, Bookbinders really lacked the "wow" factor that a lot of similarly priced Richmond restaurants bring to the table. It is a traditional style steakhouse and that's what you get - nothing more, nothing less, but in an elegant and historic setting. I'll be the first to admit that I may have ordered wrong because I went the seafood route instead of ordering steak. I did try a bite of the steak and it was much better than my entree. For my entree I had the Black Pepper Crusted Ahi Tuna and I think that the pepper really overpowered the tuna - to the point where I couldn't taste much of the tuna, just a lot of pepper. For an appetizer we had the oysters and I will say that they were the largest oysters I've ever had, but not the best. As I said, I think maybe it's best just for steak. The service was pretty good and I was very impressed that the owner came around and introduced himself - I think that is such a great practice.
(3)Jill S.
My family went to Bookbinder's last Saturday to celebrate a special occasion. Having lived in the Philadelphia area for many years, I visited Bookbinder's when it was in its original city. I must say that the Richmond experience is among the best examples of fine dining that I've ever had. The interior ambiance was warm and inviting--you can't beat the gorgeous exposed brick and "old city" feel on the James River front--and the food was exquisitely prepared. For my main dish, I had perfectly cooked scallops on a bed of lemon and asparagus risotto from the gluten-free menu (which I greatly appreciated, since I must go gluten free for medical reasons), while the rest of the table had equally superb swordfish and ahi tuna dishes. And the desserts were eye rollingly delicious, from the creme brulee to the chocolate pate and locally crafted gelati. To top it off, the owner came to our private room to make sure all was well, then subtracted a substantial portion of our final bill in honor of the occasion. I would go back to Bookbinder's for the food alone, but this outstanding example of customer service really sealed the deal for me. Thank you so much for making our celebration so special!
(5)Lauri T.
How can you give Bookbinder's anything less than 5 stars? It is my absolute favorite restaurant in Richmond. Please note that this is a special occasion only restaurant for me because the prices are pretty steep, but you always always always get what you pay for. So, come expecting outstanding service and equally amazing cuisine. My boyfriend and I will be celebrating 6 years of dating bliss on Monday and so we decided to celebrate yesterday by going to Bookbinder's. We arrived a little earlier than our reservation, so naturally we decided to sit at the bar and have a drink. I didn't have a particular drink in mind that I wanted, so told the bartender that I wanted something sweet and bubbly and told him to take it from there. He crafted a delicious wine spritzer for me! We were seated not long after that and we were greeted by a warm basket of bread and butter. The bread was flavorful and crusty; just the way I like it. After perusing the menu for a bit, I decided to go with the infamous crabcake and he went with the filet and lobster tail. We ordered calamari as an appetizer, mashed potatoes as a side, and a caesar salad. Everything was superb. The portions are smaller than your average restaurant, but the quality is way beyond anything that you can find in the area. We were both incredibly pleased. I personally didn't want to leave after we were finished eating. The atmosphere sucks you in with the low lighting and very attentive service. It is a lot quieter in this restaurant than what I'm used to, and I was very aware of that while conversing. Overall, Bookbinder's is A+, one-of-a-kind, top-notch, and any other superb adjective you can think of. If you find yourself wanting to enjoy a special night out, here's a hint: Costco sells $100 gift cards to Bookbinder's for $80. That's a savings of 20 bucks!
(5)Matt B.
If you're looking for an elegant and expensive experience, filled with simple high-quality cuisine then Old Original Bookbinder's is the place for you. It is a struggle to offer an in depth review on a traditional steakhouse, due to the simplicity and cookie-cutter approach most take. On the surface, all of the ingredients and dishes appear top notch in terms of quality and accuracy of preparation. Our dining experience was no-frills when it came to the food, and all-frills when it came to the dining experience. Think Morton's, Ruth's Chris, Flemings, Del Friscos - these places serve up consistently prepared expensive cuts of steak and seafood enough to impress your date; while also letting you show off how much money you can spend on dinner. Seriously, our appetizers were great - fresh oysters and wonderfully flavorful stuffed mushrooms and our entrees were both spot on: grilled chilean sea bass and a panko-crusted halibut. The creme brulee was as expected. Be careful about how much you spend, but Bookbinders is certainly worth a visit when looking for a white table cloth dining experience. I have yet to decide if it's the best option in Richmond, but it is an option in Richmond.
(4)N Y.
Excellent service and staff. Food was delicious and portioned right. Too bad they nickel and dime on sides...who the hell wants to eat a steak and that's it? The drinks were a bit ugh, but the wine selection was pretty extensive. Dessert selection was mediocre but the Creme Broule was tasty. Will probably return.
(4)David H.
Solid restaurant and dining experience Service is knowledgeable and friendly. Food overall is great. Steak was cooked perfectly, the lobster was delicious. Fromage was also very good. The calamari was ok, and the oysters rockefeller ok as well (wouldn't have noticed if there was no oyster). The lobster mac and cheese was a letdown, tiny bits of lobster that you taste over the 3 types of cheeses. Overall a great place to go for a special occasion
(4)Mike B.
Very nice restaurant, and the service was very good. I ordered the blackened Mahi, and the peers at my table ordered pan seared rockfish and bone in rib eye. Everything looked very good until we received our food. I had never been here, so I didn't know what the dishes normally looked like. The server gave me the rockfish, and one of my peers the mahi. I thought it looked kind of thick for mahi, but went ahead and took a few bites. I didn't really like the taste, and then the server told my peer he had ordered mahi and I had ordered rockfish. Wrong. Because my other peer already had his steak, and we didn't want to wait for them to cook new dishes, we each went ahead and ate the wrong fish. Now I know I don't like rockfish. What I ordered but didn't get, looked really good. I'm willing to give it a try again sometime in the future.
(3)Scott F.
Amazing service and even more amazing was the food. Great place to eat for any special occasion. I eat at nice restaurants often, but I have to say this was one of the best meals I've ever had.
(5)Jane Y.
Went here for Christmas Eve- this place is old school in the best way: Excellent and courteous service. Some people say is it the food that makes a restaurant? Or service and ambiance? Obviously, it's both. And Bookbinders did not disappoint! When NOT to got to Bookbinders: Casual night out. Bachelorette party. Day before your paycheck. When to go: Special Occasion. Parents come to town. Treat Yo'self. Two notes: They have some "crowd favorites" and because we aren't expecting to return anytime soon we got everything we wanted to try. Oysters Rockefeller: good, but COVERED in cheese and spinach. Oyster almost an afterthought? Cheese was more melty than broiled. Flavors excellent, however. Snapper soup: That's turtle soup, y'all. The server mentioned it tasted comparable to pot roast gravy. She was right, in a good way. Very rich, meaty tasting broth. Comes with a small pitcher of sherry to add to taste. OLD SCHOOL DETAIL! I got the filet with lobster tail, he got the filet with crab cake. 1) If you like crab cake, this is the real deal. Unfortunately, he doesn't really so it was kind of wasted on him. 2) In the words of Christopher Hitchens, Lobster is OVERRATED. The petite filet was more than enough food, perfectly seasoned and cooked. Worth it. For dessert (yes, we even wedged in dessert), we got key lime pie, which was a good standard slice of key lime pie. In my opinion, the best favorite thing that they made there, the reason I would go again, is the loaded baked potato. It was HUGE (we split it) and it was PERFECT. The drinks are kind of generic (no egg white cocktails here, exactly). I got the hot and dirty, a martini with jalepeno juice (very good), otherwise there's a lot of peach-tini's and variations of the same (all very delicious sounding). Of course the wine list is excellent.
(5)Thomas C.
I had a Relative with her husband flying into Richmond, and they wanted to eat at one of the Best Steak Houses in Richmond.... So, I sent her several links, which included Ruth Chris. She made the Choice of Original Bookbinders. I have heard many great things about the Restaurant and Food. I was looking forward to my Restaurant Experience as this was also my First time, including the other 6 people with us. She had made Reservations. Parking was great as they have a NO problem in finding a parking place for the Restaurant is across the street and it is well lighted. You did not have to have the worry of coming out to your auto when leaving. Upon entering, I noticed the Tanks of Lobsters, and as I entered, the atmosphere gave you the feeling you were in the Deep South. We stopped at the bar to have drinks before sitting. I ordered a Dewer's & Water with a twist. The Drink, was perfect as it was not too much Scotch, or too much water. When we finally sat down, the Waiter introduced himself and of course I was anxious to check the Menu. I noticed how everything was Ala cart. Upon ordering I decided on the 18oz. Ancho-Rubbed Cowboy Rib-eye Med-rare. We decided to order the Seafood Sampler which had Lobster; large chunks of Crab Meat; Shrimp; Fresh Shuck Oysters & Claims. I had one of the Claims and I thought it had just come of the water as it was sweet with a hint of the Salty Sea. WOW! What flavor it had... That was a 5 PLUS dish! When my Cowboy Rib-eye came out, I was anxious to cut into it to see if they cooked it the way I had ordered. Since 3 others ordered the same dish, I also wanted to make sure I did not get one of those well cook steaks... The Rib-eye was cooked to perfection and when I cut into it... it was tender, and when it entered my mouth... MY taste-buds went into over drive in excitement in how it had a nice Charcoal taste with the chimichurri on top. It was like this piece of meat melted in my mouth.... I was so over whelmed in what I had... I just wanted to take my time to savory every bite. We had Salads, and the Hanover Tomatoes tasted like they were picked that morning.... We ordered several deserts so we could pass them around... Now, I was beginning to feel like the "Pillsbury Dough Boy"... To TOP my excellent meal off, I had a Cognac VSOP... Finally, I would like to say.... This is a great 5 Star Restaurant for both Steak & Seafood. The Atmosphere and food was Outstanding... It is in the OLD Lucky Strike Building. In fact, my cousin who was with us... Her mother worked in the building when Cigarettes was the thing to smoke. We probably ate in the very room where she worked on the line in making Lucky Strikes... If I could have given this a 5 PLUS rating... I would have. I am looking forward in returning, and I hope you take the time to go.... :-)
(5)Dan C.
Great restaurant! Came here after work with a colleague. Ordered the steak and crabcake special--phenomenal. Steak-I ordered medium-rare, but it was a little overlooked, IMO. Felt like it was sitting out a bit and the filet was closer to medium. Crabcake-I'm not a huge crabcake person, but this one... well, takes the cake. The filling was flavorful and the amount of crab in there was more than enough. It retained the taste of the sea, which a lot of crabcake a fail at. Service was not overbearing and made good suggestions. Probably the reason that I ordered a great dinner. Little pricey, but well worth it. dmo out.
(5)Christopher A.
A fancy (and spendy!) place, but goodness was the food wonderful. The steak was to die for, literally the best I've ever eaten.
(5)Caitlin P.
We've eaten here half a dozen times over the past couple of years, and enjoy this restaurant so much that we held our rehearsal dinner here. I know that fine dining is not always thought of as family friendly, but we have brought my 8 year old with us every time and they treat him great. There is even a reasonably priced kids' menu that he enjoys. However, if your dining habits are anything like ours, it's easy to spend $100+ per person here. Service is wonderful, there is a nice wine list, and aside from a couple minor complaints (don't order the lobster) the food here is prepared well and tastes delicious. Bookbinder's also offers a large gluten-free menu with servers/kitchen staff who are very accommodating to dietary requests. My whole family loves Bookbinder's and will continue to come back when we are in Richmond!
(5)Samantha D.
This place is probably not for your weekly date-night dinner. Their food is top notch. I prefer it to Del Frisco's or Morton's. It has a lovely and elegant atmosphere is is sure to impress your date. Their prices are definitely on the high side so DO NOT bring her here for a first date unless you need some serious impressing to do. Even then - there are plenty of medium priced places you can take her. This place is for that special occasion or when you want to treat yourself - don't look at the bill when you get it - just hand over your card and act like a champ :)
(4)Jeryl C.
We celebrated my father's 80th birthday with a rather large party. the Host and food was excellent!
(5)Roger H.
Everything about this place is top notch. My wife and I went for date night and were not dissapointed. The Oyster Rockefeller was outstanding, as was the Lobster Bisque, Wedge Salad, and the steaks. My wife got the Filet with Steak Oscar (Crab Meat, Asparagus and Hollandaise) and I got the Filet with Blue Cheese melted on top. Both were outstanding. Great wine selection. The chocolate cake with chocolate pudding filling was perhaps the highlight!
(5)Justin S.
From walking in the door, I knew it would be a good experience. First off, the parking wasnt bad. we parked right across the street but we were there pretty early (4:45PM). There is also valet parking. Once we got in we were seated right away and our coats were checked even though we were 45 min early for our reservation. Our waitress was very nice and helpful as we looked through the menu. The atmosphere is very nice. old exposed brick but very nice furniture and accents. The menu had a nice selection. we also got some wine that matched great with our meal and was very enjoyable. The turtle soup and the clam chowder were both great ( a little small though). The steak was the best I have ever had, and I've been to many nice steakhouses (ruths chris, etc.) It was cooked perfectly, had great marbling and tasted fantastic. My girlfriend got the crab cake and loved it. I also got scallops and they were very large and cooked to perfection. The entire experience was great. We went for Valentines Day. I cant say I'd go regularly, but it is THE choice for a special occasion.
(5)Aaron K.
My wife and I wanted to get away for the weekend with our young children between Christmas and New Years, chose Richmond and stumbled upon this gem. Knowing we were coming with an infant they sat us in a part of the restaurant where noise was no problem, created chocolate milk from scratch and had a perfect kids menu and quick service for the kids. The seafood was fresh and in large portions and the waitstaff was perfect at bringing out our appetizers and entrees at our pace, with no rush. Also, the warehouse/steakhouse decor fits the bill. To top it off, the owner came, introduced himself and spent 10 minutes talking with us about the city. My highest recommendation.
(5)Julia T.
Went here for a team dinner (comped by work). Expect higher prices and high end meat. They were very good about food allergies. Would recommend the oysters (bluepoint - very fresh) and the steak was also excellent. Personally had the petite. Coworkers spoke well of the cowboy-cut ribeye and surf-n-turf. The bread pudding and creme brûlée were good, in the future will pass on the chocolate cake (not bad but too rich/dense/huge for me).
(5)Darlissa R.
Very disappointed! My husband and I read all the great reviews while visiting from out of town and decided to make reservations. As a African American couple just being seated by an excellent waiter might I add, the owner of the restaurant is making his rounds. He stops at the table and makes a comment which disturbed both of us which was "Did the two of you buy those outfits for tonight" as if we can't afford nice things! Then goes on to make comments because the both of us have an iPhone 6! So my husband speaks with him (in private) and politely states that the comments he made were offensive and the owner starts to get loud while speaking with him. We politely exited the restaurant. I do not refer this place to anyone due to the unfair treatment.
(1)Meredith W.
My husband and I came for a romantic dinner. As mentioned in other reviews, it is very expensive, so just for special occasions, but you get what you pay for. The food, wine and dessert was amazing. The crab cakes were pure meat, amazing. The lobster mac and cheese was to die for, and I'm not even a huge lobster fan. Our steaks were cooked perfectly. The big stand out is the service. The service was amazing. We were constantly checked, the waiter could discuss everything on the menu. Our glasses were never empty and the minute I was done using a utensil after a course, it was replaced with a clean one. This is the service I would expect from a classy restaurant and they clearly pride themselves in their work.
(5)K J.
This is definitely one of the nicest restaurants I've been to. We went for our anniversary and they even customized our menu with a congratulatory message at the top. The food was amazing and the service couldn't have been better. Gotta be honest, though - I thought the booth they sat us in was sloped or worn out or something. Not comfortable. Also, I ordered the creamed spinach as a side dish and it wasn't very good. The scallops, steak, wine, and pretty much everything else was spot on.
(4)Nate J.
Visiting Richmond for a few days for work and had the pleasure of dining here. The filet was wonderful and service from the staff was attentive! The cheesecake was the best I've had in quite a while.
(5)Derrick M.
Just had dinner for my 27th birthday at Bookbinders. Been hearing a lot about this place and honestly I'm disappointed the ribeye had a dry run that I didn't like the fillet was good but over cooked. Ordered it medium well came out well done. Appetizers was fair. Desserts was horrible. Not the food quality you would expect in a up scale place. Service was nothing special. Would recommend Flemings Steak house over this place any day.
(2)Amye B.
Consistently great. We sit at the bar every time. Always one of my favorites. The steak doesn't even need a knife.
(5)Sonia P.
Really enjoyed our dining experience at Bookbinders! Our group of 4 was set up at a nice, cozy corner booth. Our server was very attentive but not overbearing which is always a huge plus when you're out wining and dining. Now I'm no wine expert, but Bookbinders has an impressively extensive wine list so I'm sure it would please any wine connoisseur's palate. They bring you a hot basket of delicious bread and butter (always a winning factor!) after you order but be careful not to load up too much on the bread - their entree portions are generous. I ordered the lobster fettuccine which was surprisingly light and you can tell the pasta is handmade. The overall favorite dish was the Wasabi Crusted Salmon; it was perfectly cooked without being overpowered by the wasabi. You can also order "side dishes" which are served family-style; 1 side order of mashed potatoes was plenty to feed our party of 4. Bookbinders is definitely a "special occasions" establishment and totally worth it. Nice ambiance, great service, and delicious food. I would recommend this place to anyone looking to celebrate a night out.
(5)Nicole O.
I had the scallops, which were great but I got a taste of my dad's proscuitto wrapped sea bass and it was absolutely amazing. The patio is absolutely beautiful. Server was great and we didn't wait for anything even though we were the only table outside.
(5)Bennett J.
Bookbinders is a staple of the Richmond dining scene and for good reason. You will most likely leave very full and satisfied but with a lighter wallet. The location is in an old tobacco warehouse and you can feel the vibes of old money throughout the place. That being said everything was really good. The steaks were high quality and cooked just right, I've definitely had better at more upscale steakhouses but it still hit the spot. The salad that I had was really good, very pungent blue cheese and a refreshing raspberry vinaigrette. The cheesecake also didn't disappoint, great crust. The servers were all very attentive as well and made for a great experience. This place is good but there are definitely better steakhouses out there.
(4)Gary F.
Great steaks or seafood. One of the best places in Richmond to. Great clam chowder. Also, the parking lot is a lot easier.
(5)B. L.
This was our second time eating here, and it wasn't as good as the first. Waiter was blah and seemed just not to care that we were even there. Had to always ask for beverage refills, spilled one of them, and when I asked if the coffee was fresh, just answered with, "Yes." Later I found out it was a dark roast, which was too strong for my taste. The manager was on site and is most polite and attentive. Now the food -- what was good? The steak -- perfectly cooked and very flavorful and tender. Excellent Caesar salad. Bread and butter are also topnotch. We didn't have drinks or wine. What wasn't good was the crab cake. I'm what my husband calls a "crab snob" because I was raised in Hampton Va, but it just was not made with fresh crab. The corn side dish was made with that large, tough, yellow corn and had too much cream and cheese to eat as a side dish. As a matter of fact, I wonder why they don't have some lighter side dishes.... But I wanted dessert and thought that would make me forget the crab. Got creme brulee. It too, was a disappointment. The custard was more like a sweet vanilla pudding instead of a flavorful cream custard, and was just a thin bit of it covered with the burnt sugar topping. Just not worth the $130 paid for the dinner.
(3)Josh J.
Great food, great chop house. I didn't even mind the bill.
(4)Brianne C.
The girls decided to organize an elegant evening in town to celebrate a group of birthdays, and Bookbinders' appealing menu of steaks and seafood seemed perfect. I strolled into the bar a few minutes before the appointed hour, and chatted with a charming older couple while the waif bartender stirred a Grey Goose martini and stuffed large green olives with fresh blue cheese for my garnish. The drink was a bit overly chilled and the stuffed olives quickly made it cloudy, but the pungent cheese and bartender's winning smile still made the time I spent waiting quite pleasant. Soon, I spotted blond tresses and strawberry curls coming through the door, and joined the ladies at a large round table situated close to the bartender. After settling, we chose a feast of chilled lobster cocktail, kona filets Oscar style, the cowboy ribeye with red pepper bearnaise, lobster macaroni and cheese, asparagus, and the wasabi and macadamia salmon, and several bottles of a decent red whose name has escaped me. Our perky server quickly caught on to the mood of the occasion, and replenished drinks, bread baskets, and other little snacks from the kitchen frequently while letting us laugh and breathe between the courses. The lobsters were small but flavorful, and the chilled shrimp had a lovely snap. The steaks arrived properly cooked, and though I had some reservations about the kona crust on my filet, which was finely powdered but not completely seared into the meat, the flavor was dark, rich, and memorable, and quickly brushed away my concerns. Unfortunately, though the macaroni and cheese was rich with nutty brown butter overtones, the texture of the penne did not match the lobster meat, and the dish lacked cheesiness. The other dishes were excellent, particularly the salmon's crust. Though we all tried to resist dessert, the cheesecake with seasonal berries and burnt caramel seduced us with its amber sauce and pile of raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. The cheesecake itself was light and creamy, and beautifully complemented by the gorgeous, smoky caramel. We also ordered a dark chocolate cake, but the details have faded from memory, such was the exquisite cheesecake. Quite simply, the dessert was luscious. We thoroughly enjoyed our three hours at Bookbinders, and I am eager to return with my family for a special holiday dinner in a cozy booth while snow falls lightly on the weathered cobblestone.
(4)Jim K.
Another great dining experience at Bookbinders, this time four of us dined for my wife's birthday, a personalized souvenir menu, exceptional service, wonderful atmosphere, and great food. Ribeye: mouth-watering delicious, consistently in the top 1 or 2 I've ever had; salmon - exceptional; NY strip - perfect. Appetizers were calamari and stuffed mushrooms were outstanding, and the desserts equally as good. Bookbinder's remains our first choice for that special place to go when you want the best.
(5)T A.
Great food and impeccable service. My husband and I just made a reservation 2 hours before we arrived and we got a very nice rounded booth that was very romantic. The Erbes Riesling wine that I ordered was spectacular. My husband and I are foodies and really enjoyed our dining experience here. I had the Rockfish topped with fried oysters (AMAZING) and my husband had the filet mignon and we shared a side of creamed spinach. This was more than enough food and I had stuff to take home. Loved this place and would definitely recommend it.
(5)Ginger W.
Notice that mostly guys like this place? Now you know where the term "old boys' club" comes from! Hey, if you're on an expense account and hang out at Morton's in Chicago, you'll love it here. There are definitely better places in town to eat for true foodies out there, but if you need a hunkering steak and a smelly cigar, this is your home stomping ground.
(2)Alex L.
Wow. This place is special. A very elegant atmosphere with a high class feel but very decent prices. I was traveling on business and my co-workers raved about this place and they were dead on. Had the beet salad to start and the wasabi salmon for the entree all accompanied by a generous glass of chard. I'm not normally a big beets fan but the salad combination sounded too interesting to pass up. Delicious. The wasabi on the salmon was subtle but added just enough of a kick and the fish itself was cooked to perfection. Factor in the great service by our waitress and now whenever I'm in Richmond I can guarantee I'll be back here for more.
(5)Toni T.
I have now been to this gem of a restaurant twice and had a very pleasant experience each time. The servers are consistent with the high level of service they provide, and the quality of the food, which is satisfying to the taste buds, is equally consistent. During my most recent visit, the crab cake appetizer was a stand out dish, along with the lobster mac & cheese my boyfriend and I shared. Bookbinders also has an appealing selection of cocktails, and bartenders who make them just right! I suggest sitting at the bar to enjoy your drink prior to your dinner. Above all of these great qualities, the restaurant has the best ambiance! The low lighting and scenic views of Shockoe Bottom make dining here as suitable for a girls' night out as it is for a romantic wine & dine. When I made reservations via OpenTable to celebrate my boyfriend's, one of the hostesses called me and asked for his name so the staff could create a customized menu to wish him happy birthday! If you're looking for a fancy restaurant to celebrate a special occasion along the lines of Fleming's or Ruth's Chris, try this local spot on for size...I guarantee you won't be disappointed!
(5)Elle M.
More like Meh...I've experienced MUCH better! I've been here on several locations trying to find some justification for the obnoxiously steep prices. The food is mediocre, especially in relation to the price tag attached to it. The husband and I love dining out in a variety of places (we're like the FoodNetwork no one knows about) so when we pay $$$$ for food, you bet your butt we expect the best. There are better places in Richmond for seafood - try the Boathouse @ Sunday Park (expensive, but very worth it) or Copper Grill. Leave Bookbinders to Philly because the Richmond location isn't worth it.
(2)Stephen R.
This is a great place to eat when you are looking for some steak or seafood and don't mind dropping some cash. Really anything you order is going to be excellent, but my favorite is the New York Strip with shrimp scampi or the Oscar sauce on it. The atmosphere is great as well.
(4)Pat J.
Overall this place was pretty good, but not so good that it warrants the price. 1. The appetizers weren't too interesting. The oysters lacked a bit of flavor and the proscuitto wrapped mozzarella was nothing out of the ordinary. The best appetizer was probably the escargot, but you can make anything taste good when it's drenched in garlic and butter. 2. I had the wasabi encrusted salmon(?), Overall, this was very good; however, they had a fruity/syrupy sauce that totally conflicted with the rest of the flavors and was best left off. 3. The lobster Mac & Cheese was excellent. Overall good, not worth the price.
(3)Brian J.
We went here for a pre-valentine's meal and also with my in-laws. We all were thoroughly impressed, with not only the food, but also the service. The shrimp cocktail was really good, and the cocktail sauce has just enough kick, nut not too much horseradish that you start to gag. My wife had the bisque, also very good. The cowboy rib eye was extremely tender and I questioned if I could eat the whole 18oz in one sitting, but there was nothing left but the small bone when I was done. Lobster Mac and Cheese was AMAZING!! There wasn't even a drop left of it. All in all, we all thoroughly enjoyed our meals, they have a great bourbon selection, and this is definitely a wonderful special occasion restaurant!!!
(5)LS S.
Bookbinders is such a beautiful restaurant and always a wonderful experience! Steaks and seafood is top of the line, service impeccable, and ambiance perfect! THE place for a romantic dinner or a special event. Bookbinders can easily handle both!
(5)Sam I.
Showed up with six people and no reservation. We were able to get a table right away and everything was perfect. Scallops were amazing.
(5)Anh N.
I heard great things about this place. Went there with a few friends. We was greeted warmly by the hostess, but our server was rude and unwelcoming. The food we got was good, everything was made to our liking. With the price, and the atmosphere, i would have expected much better service
(3)Mr. Helper L.
Yeeeaaah right. Did not live up to the hype. Why do I see Macmurray wine on the wine list AGAIN? I am from California and this is now a running joke. Like cement, you can't get rid of it. Jug wine somehow marketed throughout the free world en mass like it's something special? Lobster tail ......eh. Wine list not very good. Actually quite odd with limited and poor selections by the glass. Bottle selection just OK. Food just OK. Nice location and nice interior but mediocre food. Would go back after trying 43 other spots in Richmond.
(2)Patrick G.
Bookbinders is terrific, had a private party dinner this week and they did an awesome job. The food was fantastic, service was great and the atmosphere and private room was perfect.
(5)Enrique M.
Great steaks and seafood. It's nice to have an alternative to the high end chains.
(5)Quang N.
Really a quality seafood/steakhouse. While not particularly inventive, they use high quality ingredients and execute on them well to deliver a quality product. If you're looking for just a good cut of meat that's cooked well, with no surprises, this is the place for you. Try the oysters rockafeller and stuffed mushrooms for apps, and definitely get desert as well.
(4)J P.
We came here on a Saturday night and had a very enjoyable meal. The atmosphere was great and the food was quite good with a couple of hiccups. The service was exemplary - some of the best we've had in some time. Not only was the server prompt and helpful, but the timing between dishes was perfect. We started with the seared tuna appetizer as well as the lump crabmeat cocktail. The crabmeat was very nice, but the crust on the tuna was salty and over-seasoned. It was a shame too because the soy-based sauce and the wasabi cream were both delicious. Next was the Caesar salad (with real anchovies!) and the Red Snapper soup. My wife said the Caesar salad was great. The soup was not as good, however. The sherry dominated all other flavors. We chose to split the Ultimate Surf and Turf for our entree. The filet was the best I'd ever had. Perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked (medium rare) and literally melted in the mouth. The crabcake was also tremendous. We can see why all the other reviewers raved about it. We are spoiled with our crab in Maryland (such as the famous "Crab Bomb" at Jerry's Seafood in Lanham, MD) but this comes in a close second. The lobster tail was good (as lobster always is) but not remarkable. My wife testifies to the Lobster Mac 'n Cheese. The driver from our hotel sang its praises and the dish fully earned them. The desserts we had were the creme brulee and the key lime pie. The creme brulee was tasty, though the texture was a little soupy for my liking. My wife says that the key lime pie was great. We saved our appetite all day for this big meal and we came away very satisfied. The highs of the meal were superlative but there were some lows that prevented it from receiving 5 stars.
(4)Chris C.
Great ambience! Best restaurant in town!
(5)Jeff T.
This place defines classy. The surf and turf here is beyond comparison in Richmond. The crabcakes are enormous and unlike other places these are filled with pretty much 99% crab. The prices are expensive but that is normal for an upscale restaurant. What you get is an awesome dining experience and probably some of the best seafood you've had in a long time.
(5)Jon L.
I got the filet mignon Oscar style and it was probably one of the best steaks I have ever eaten. The jumbo limb crab is fantastic, no filler, all crab. Definitely recommend the crab and steak, the Oscar gives you the best of both worlds.
(5)Jeff M.
If you want a great meal, and exceptional service, this is the place to go. Even the bartender can tell you how the food is prepared. From seafood to steak, there is no place better in Richmond. I've enjoyed both the steak and lobster, and the fillet Mignon. Prepared exactly how I like it. Service is fantastic, and the atmosphere is very nice as well. You get what you pay for, and then some
(5)Karla B.
We ventured over to the Old Original Bookbinders to try their steaks. After having been greeted by two hostesses (one just stared at us with no expression whatsoever) the other cheery one seated us in the back although few other diners were in the restaurant. We asked to move to the front dining area where we could see out the windows, and she happily obliged. My daughter had the filet mignon, perfectly prepared medium rare. She really enjoyed the flavor and tenderness. She also liked the lobster Mac 'n Cheese but said it didn't have much lobster. I started with the crab bisque which had a lovely flavour but could have been better if there were small chunks of crab added instead of remnants. I had the cowboy steak rubbed with ancho chiles and Chimichurri. Very tender and lean despite the waiter's caution. The only disappointment was the Chimichurri which I also asked for on the side. Btw, I selected this steak over others because I love Chimichurri. Their Chimichurri is oil plus herbs, no vinegar, no salt, no flavor and not a bit how it should be prepared. But, nonetheless the steak was fabulous. We shared a cheesecake that was really good though it could have had a bit more caramel drizzle. We were pleasantly surprised to be visited tableside by the owner and his daughter (the one who was at the front earlier), who, in his presence was a bit more amiable. I'm sure she'll get the hang of smiling at her father's customers in time. Service was very attentive but not overbearing. This is a great restaurant, and although I pointed out the small drawbacks, it is well worth enjoying while in Richmond.
(5)Phil C.
This restaurant is as good as it gets in Richmond. Of course, it's priced to match that, but the service, food quality, and menu selection are really exceptional. Definitely try: - The cold seafood appetizer platter - a nice selection of oysters, crab, and shrimp. - The ultimate surf & turf - Petit filet with lobster tail and crab. A little decadent, but the atmosphere seems to encourage that kind of behavior. I'll definitely be going back any time I'm in Richmond.
(4)Jordan C.
I got the surf and turf which really is the best of both worlds, a fillet with a crab cake. The fillet was top quality steakhouse stuff. As others have said, the crab cakes are excellent! There was just enough filler to keep the crab cakes together. Also highly recommend the lobster mac n cheese. Very tasty and rich without overdoing it. A great side dish. Our waitress was very nice and attentive, just as you'd expect at a highend restaurant. Highly recommend this place for a special occasion as the ambiance and food are among the best Richmond has to offer.
(5)Heather T.
I've only been here a few times, but each time it was out of this world. The service is fantastic and the food is so good! With a la carte pricing, it gets a little expensive, but it's worth it. I highly recommend the lobster potatoes, especially. When you go, don't skimp! Get wine, get dessert, order the best-sounding thing on the menu and enjoy yourself!
(5)Wendy C.
No offense to Baltimore (haven't been there yet), but I just had the best Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes EVER here in Richmond! The meat portions (98% of it) are lumpy and HUGE. I'm pleased they didn't cheat me by heavily overstuffing them with batter and crumbs. I don't know how many of those poor little crustaceans suffered in that big boiling pot of water (sorry PETA), but I do know they slaughtered a whole colony of them to result in such an amazing dish. It's inhumane, so I plead guilty. My euphoria does not end there. It continues on with their signature Red Snapper Soup. The soup itself is mind-blowingly hedonistic with its rich thick texture and unique spicy flavor. There is an aphrodesiatic quality to it and can easily overwhelm your taste buds like crack would to a drug addict. With one sip, you'll know Meg Ryan wasn't faking it in that movie from 1989. The service is classy minus the stuffiness you normally find in most fine dining establishments. The location itself is in a refurbished tobacco warehouse by the river. The brick walls and exposed air ducts above give this place a historic industrial charm mixed with a modern art loft feel. My overall experience here has been exceptional. It won't be easy to find another place in this city to top this one. It's going to be a hard act to follow.
(5)Melissa P.
I have eaten at Bookbinders several times, and I swear each time it gets better and better. The past time I went we got the cold appetizer platter and the hot appetizer platter, both were fantastic! I had the filet which was cooked perfectly. For sides I would highly recommend the lobster mac and cheese, it was so delicious and worth the price. I wish I could afford to eat here every week, but its a great "special night" restaurant.
(4)Nancy A.
My first experience at bookbinders. I read all the reviews so had a preset notion of what to expect. Overall a very positive experience. The wait staff was pleasant,efficient and helpful. The atmosphere elegant but warm and not noisy. Certainly not like a Mortons. We were a party of eight so had the opportunity to sample many of the apps and sides. The assessment of those critics that said the crab cakes were disappointing was accurate. They were mounds of loose, warm crab, with little seasoning....perhaps they should be called something else other than crab cakes. The stuffed mushrooms were well seasoned, tasty and not overcooked...truly good. The oyster on the half shell were succulent, the escargot a hefty, tasty dish. The entrees all were excellent. The sea bass was fresh, moist and delicious, everyone that ordered the beef was very pleased. We had several side dishes. The asparagus In hollandaise was very good,the lobster Mac &cheese I thought was disappointing....the sauce was not cheesy and creamy but the cheese melted on top of the macaroni, the red skinned mashed potatoes also disappointing because they were gummy not light and creamy, the fried Idaho potato balls were good. Over all I would rate bookbinders a 41/2 star. Nancy from NY
(4)Rachel P.
Best surf and turf in RIC. The service is beyond on point. Classic dishes, perfect steak. Nothing too flashy, just classy. You will pay for this type of perfection....in the form of your next months rent check.
(5)Adam Z.
Beautiful restaurant in the trendy Shockoe Bottom area. We went on a Monday night without a reservation but I'm sure it gets busier on the weekends. They specialize in fresh seafood (lobster tanks and all as you walk in) but they also have a varity of delicious steaks. Our waiter was Greg, cute young guy, very poised and knowledgable about the menu offerings. I had the soup of the day which was a tomato ginger bisque. Delicious! I'm a sucker for tomato soup and you rarely find it combined with ginger. For my entree I had the Kona Crusted Filet and it was to die for. The filet was a perfect med rare, juicy and tender, could have cut it with a butter knife. The Kona crust wasn't too heavy on the coffee taste, more so added texture and sweetness with almost a mole kind of taste. Paired it with a side of asparagus topped with hollandaise sauce and I was stuffed! They have a pretty extensive wine list, but what they offered by the glass was somewhat limited. A really nice dining experience if you're looking for steak and seafood in Richmond.
(5)Joshua T.
Not bad but very disappointed. Went here to celebrate our birthdays. I would stick with the high end prime chains like Flemings, Morton's, Del Frisco's etc. Had the cowboy cut ribeye, ate about a third and couldn't finish. The ancho rub made it difficult to taste the beef. The cream of spinach and asparagus tasted pretty good but unfortunately the disappointment from the warm seafood sampler and main courses was too much. The only reason I'm giving 2 stars is for the good service, other than that patrons are paying dry aged prime beef prices, for sub standard product.
(2)Yasmin R.
Our meal was excellent and the plating of the food was very gourmet. We were treated like special guest. Nice date night spot or special occasion. If you have a birthday they are able to put your name on your own personal menu as a keepsake!
(5)Fareed R.
This is the place to take someone if you're thinking that you're really serious about them and you're moving in the direction of marriage or something. This place is a high-class establishment. There's a reason that a lot of drug reps will hold their meetings for physicians at this place. If you seriously want to impress your date, this is the place for them. But make sure to dress up, and have them dress up to. Otherwise you're going to look out of place.
(5)Judith L.
I forget what occasion we came here for, as my visit was a while ago. My parents wanted to come here because they had been to the Bookbinders that used to be in Philadelphia. This place is very nice: your nice shirt with jeans probably won't cut it here. Service was very good, and you'd expect it to be in a place like this. Server was engaging and answered all of our questions about the menu, as well as gave us a little input when we weren't sure what to order. The manager came out to talk to us and engaged my parents in a conversation about history, the old location, landmarks, the area, etc. Was friendly, and left after the conversation was over so it didn't become intrusive to our meal. The food: wonderful. We all ordered seafood. I'm not a fan of scallops, but apparently they were delicious. As was the fish and the crab cakes. Everyone cleared their plate and left completely satisfied. Unless you're rolling in the dough, save this place for a date you want to impress or a special occasion. The dinner will cost you, but the food, service, and ambiance, you definitely get what you pay for.
(5)Bill P.
Great food, attentive service, nice ambiance. One of the most tender steaks I've eaten in a long time. The side dishes were mostly cream based and very rich. They were good but it would be nice if they had some healthier options. The server did make an error on our bill but corrected it immediately upon being made aware. We'll definitely be back.
(4)Yvonne M.
My first visit here, dinner was awesome. We did a party of 6, ordered several appetizers, all were perfectly cooked and went very quick. The entrees were great too. i ordered a stuffed flounder (with crab) one word... Yummy,"!!! It was the best thing on my plate. I also had a caesar salad, and a baked potato. The baked potato messed up the flow of deliciousness I was experiencing, it was bland and blah. I thought it was just me except another person ordered one and felt the same way. The surprise of the night was macaroni and cheese.. It wasn't your ordinary mac n cheese from home. It had with else in it.. Possibly lobster?? Anyhoo it was awesome!!! I also tried their Resling white wine... It perfectly complimented my flounder... I would definitely recommend dinner at this place.
(4)Rafael H.
Great location and they have validated parking. Perfect for taking customers to impress them and make them feel comfortable. Great service and attention to detail. Menu is amazing, I strongly recommend the Wasabee Salmon. I had their espresso ice-cream for desert and I can say it was amazing. I think it was frozen custard and not ice-cream but either way it was amazing. The bad: I wouldn't normally mind but since they do claim to be a steakhouse I was disappointed that they only had one Malbec to choose from on their wine list. Appetizers were the only disappointing part of the night.
(4)Lynda C.
Went here for our 1st year wedding anniversary. Very romantic and the food and service is impeccable. This place is a Gem and worth every penny spent. I had the filet mignon and lobster mac and cheese..yummy. My s=husband had the salmon and creamed asparagus... delicious!! Will returun on our 5th year anniversary!!
(5)Christopher C.
I've gone to this place with the wife to celebrate an anniversary. We went during a weekday at about 5 pm, so it wasn't crowded. The parking situation was great compared to many other Richmond restaurants since you can park on the parking deck across the street. The atmosphere was great. Light jazz was playing and people talked in quiet tones. The waiter was helpful and knowledgeable. Instead of ordering the typical steak, I ordered the wasabi-encrusted salmon on an orange ginger glaze with lump crab-meat on top. Honestly, it was the first time in my life that I experienced a "symphony of flavors" in my mouth (to borrow a phrase from the Japanese Iron Chef television show.) The wasabi had no heat, and perfectly complemented the the salmon and glaze. It was so good my wife (who can't stand spicy food) kept eating off my plate. She got a plain tuna fish steak and, while she said it was good, kept wanting more of my dish. I also had a bowl of "World Famous" snapper soup that was both rich and a perfect appetizer. My wife liked that too. Best part of the experience for me was since I work for the railroad, I could look out the window at the poor schlubs I work with going by on the viaduct (railroad bridge) in their trains, and pity them while I enjoyed a great meal.
(5)KristEn E.
Stuffy and very over priced. Average restaurant that doesn't do anything creative with their menu. Service was ok. 3 waiters stood and watched us leave without saying a word to us. After spending $200 on a meal I'd at least like a, "have a good night." A la carte sides not memorable. Especially the lobster Mac and cheese for $15. So many better choices in RVA for a nice dinner.
(3)Katie R.
The food was good but very expensive, almost uncomfortably so; it took us forever to order. I had the Kobe filet, which was delicious, and my husband had the rockfish, which he enjoyed but I thought was a little fishy. The waiter seemed a little stuck up especially after we ordered a bottle of white wine then our friends ordered a bottle of red wine to which he commented, "So, you've graduated to red wine" like we were amateurs for ordering a $50 bottle of white wine! Overall, I didn't think the food was worth the exorbitant prices but the friends who chose the restaurant seemed to enjoy it. The service was good, the wine was overpriced (they paid $50 for a bottle of red that is $17 at Trader Joe's), the food was very good, just not worth the price for me. I'd go again for a very special occasion but not in the near future.
(3)Andy E.
We went for our anniversary and had a mostly positive experience. The snapper soup was great. I had a NY Strip and my wife had the scallops as our main course. The Strip was a decent size, but there were only 4 scallops served for my wife's dinner. I ended up splitting my Strip with her so she had a decent portion. I would have rated the meal 4 stars, but with a bill of $135 for not a lot of foods I had to mark down my rating. I will say that the flavor of everything was excellent.
(3)Steve S.
I had another awesome experience at this restaurant and was so excited about my visit and looking forward to a delectable night of seafood. I walked thru the door and was warmly greeted by Tess, saw Ellen in the kitchen, who complimented my outfit and footwear, and of course, Jeanette, my server gave me a nice hug and several other servers including Morgan, Tyler and Melissa came over and last but not least, the owner, Johnny! I started out with a half dozen Long Island oysters and they were incredible and big so we're off and running. Next, I had their signature Silver Dollar mushrooms topped with Virginia Ham, goat cheese and other fine herbs, lobster bisque which was a special soup and a nice refreshing change from the shrimp bisque which is one of their signature soups. My entreee comprised of a two pound meaty lobster which I was craving since my last visit with sautéed spinach. Lastly I took it easy with a dessert of berries and whipped cream since I was full and needed some berries in my system. The service was spectacular, Jeanette was so friendly and attentive to my needs and I don't mind paying a few extra dollars for some awesome food, service and ambiance. It was truly a special and exciting meal and looking forward to my next visit New Year's weekend(Jan 2-5)!
(5)Holly G.
Absolutely fabulous. We booked this place to hold my folks' surprise 50th anniversary party. I organized the party with Lynne Cohen, who was incredibly helpful and responsive. All planning was done via email and phone since I live in Denver. We booked the party to be held on a Sunday, which was great because the restaurant is closed Sundays and we had the place to ourselves. It was the weekend after the 4th of July, and traffic was outrageous. We had guests arrive almost 2 hours late. Lynne assured me this was not a problem, and they kept our guests happy in the beautiful bar area and served drinks while we waited. Once the party got started, it went exactly as planned. They served the little kids first, per Lynne's suggestion, to allow moms and dads to enjoy their meals. We had a slide show which we showed as dessert was served, and received assistance with the A/V equipment. I was nervous enough throwing a surprise party for 30+ people, but once I was there, I didn't have to worry about anything. The service was top notch. The food was OUT OF THIS WORLD! Everything was perfectly cooked and absolutely delicious. Our good friend from the Eastern Shore, who is an expert on crab cakes, said that Bookbinder's was one of the best she has tasted. Everyone commented on how good it was, and we saw many of our guests leave with doggy-bags. They especially didn't want to leave the decadent chocolate cake behind! The party went off perfectly, and I could not be happier. My parents were overwhelmed. It was a truly special event. Delicious. Professional. Classy. You will not be disappointed.
(5)Jeff F.
Bookbinders is a classic steakhouse experience that I can recommend. Here's my rundown on the grub: - tuna app - great - exceptional chooped salad - excellent filet, but I would pass on the seared scallop - maybe do the Oscar instead - good lobster mac and cheese - awesome shoe string fries - probably some of the best you'll find anywhere - cheesecake - ridiculously good
(4)Matt S.
This place is really close to my apartment. I just wish I was made of money so I could eat there everyday. The food is great and has a nice ambience plus the bartenders there make a darn good drinks. If you got the money and want a nice place for a good date night (meaning good food and good company) then I say head on over to this place. Your stomach wont be disapointed despite what your wallet tells you. If you like to try different things like I do, try the snapping turtle soup. Its good and tastes almost like a beef stew. The service is great and the dress code is well not dressy I would say but you want to wear a nice collared and pants (sorry ladies, I dont know what is the equivalent of that for your gender). I tend to err on the side of a little dressier in a place like this but if your one of those people that think its ok to go out in public wearing basically pj's..... just stay home and rethink your life. (have some pride in the way you present yourself people) So to hell with being fruggle and indulge yourself once in a while. Head on over to this place for a good meal.
(5)A R.
I was a guest in someone's dinner party and knowing that this is a steak/seafood place I would usually avoid restaurants like this (I'm a vegetarian) but they were very accommodating, and were able to whip up a roasted vegetable risotto for me (which I do not think is on the menu). Hope they read this, thanks again!
(5)John E.
We went here for a belated Valentine's dinner. The inside of the restaurant is well done - a nice mix of the brick exterior with heavy dark wood interiors. We ordered the shrimp bisque, arugula salads, wasabi salmon, stuffed flounder, and the red velvet cake. The first four were excellent, and the salmon particularly was exceptional. The red velvet cake was disappointing, dense and odd-tasting; in fact, in giving the five star review I am just pretending we did not order dessert. If you've never had turtle, consider ordering the snapper soup to cross that off your unusual food bucket list. I semi-regret not getting steak (or rather, because my salmon was so great, not getting my wife to order a steak). They looked great.
(5)Zachary W.
This place is/was/will continue to be splendid. The wine selection was full and well-rounded, our service was cheerful (coming from a seven year food and bev vet), and the bone-in Cowboy ribeye knocked my socks off. One would think that a dinner might be a little weird without socks. One would be completely wrong in thinking so. Our party of four was pleased in every way and I'm very much so looking forward to my next special occasion as justification for a Bookbinders trip. Stay strong and eat on!
(5)Anna P.
I was surprised to see the qualify of food at this place. The service and ambiance was excellent. It was romantic, and welcoming, but unfortunately, when we were served our meal, we were extremely disappointed. I had the Rockfish, and my husband had a steak and lobster, all of which we barely touched.
(2)Janine S.
Airplane food. Old men. Worn out and staid. If you need a quiet place to have a drink and listen to elevator music and don't mind mediocre at best food this is for you.
(1)Steven W.
From the moment you walk in you're treated like you're the only table in the restaurant. The ambiance is inviting and the table setting is just perfect for a date or a fancy dinner. Service starts out with hot, fresh baked bread that's crunchy on the outside and soft and warm in the center. Delectable. Since we had an early dinner, we just had water to drink. For an appetizer, we ordered the crab cakes and the shrimp cocktail. Both excellent. My wife ordered the jumbo shrimp dinner and a kale and spinach salad which was the special with a strawberry vinegarette and candied walnuts. The shrimp were HUGE and tasty. I ordered the filet and crab-cakes. The filet melted in my mouth like butter and I didn't even really need a knife to cut it because it was just that tender. The crab cakes was full of jumbo lump crab meat ... No filler. For dessert, I got the key like pie. My only complaint is that I do not like key lime pie with a chocolate sauce drizzle and Oreo crust. I like the old fashioned graham cracker crust LOL. Overall, excellent place to eat and we will definitely go back. Worth the $170 with tip included. Excellent place for date night.
(5)Duke G.
Their food is great, and service some of the best in Richmond. CCV is the only place I've eaten in Richmond where service is better. However, CCV is a private club, and there really is no fair comparison.
(5)Todd P.
My family's version of a traditional thanksgiving is to go to a restaurant. This year the clan came down to Richmond and we went to Bookbinders. It is a pre-set menu, but the available options covered everyone's tastes. We were able to get steaks, turkey dinners, and a couple different fish options. The turkey was good, but the highlight of those meals were the sides of mashed potatoes and green bean casserole. The sauce for the filet was also fantastic. One family member has a severe nut allergy and the server and kitchen were great in guiding his ordering and even provided a dessert that was not on the menu to accommodate their needs. It was a great experience and I would gladly go again.
(4)Johanna Q.
My husband and I went on May 13, 2013 for our anniversary dinner. The atmosphere is great - dark woods, exposed beams, rustic brick and nautical art (fish prints and such). We did have reservations and we were seated promptly. Our waiter was very friendly, and very helpful in helping us to accommodate our gluten allergy. The menu selection for gluten free was just as varied as the main menu and quite delicious. The food is fresh, not over-sauced and so very filling! Great presentation, great execution. Well worth the price for a lovely evening out. We will be going again!
(5)Brad S.
The food was really good. The atmosphere was great! Some say the food is expensive, but it I think it is reasonable for the upscale type restaurant.
(5)Meg S.
Wonderful dinner, and they made my husband's birthday very special by adding little touches, like the special menus. Also very accommodating with my bringing in a cake. Always a favorite for special occasions!
(5)George C.
Excellent service. You will feel a bit out of place if you dress too casual, as we were because we were vacationing and simply stumbled unto this high class place. So we asked for a booth out of the way and they were very gracious. The food and service are top notch just keep in mind the prices match the quality and service. We would go here again if we are ever in the area from our home in So. Cal. Needless to say we had a great dinner and a great time even though we were quite under dressed. BTW, all dishes we had were very good and the desserts were over the top good.
(5)Kelvin M.
Just discovered that Costco ( local wholesale club) offers discount dinning cards for Bookbinders! So grab one and go..it'll help make it more affordable , at least.
(5)Patricia A.
My husband and I dined here for our 28th anniversary. Everything here is superior. Food, service, atmosphere. I think we just found our go to anniversary place :)
(5)Kristen K.
Amazing meal & service! We celebrated my father in law's 70th birthday here. Service was fantastic. Food was amazing. Loved the baby spinach salad and wasabi crusted salmon (huge portions) and the key lime pie with Oreo crust was the perfect ending. The prosciutto wrapped mozzarella was good too, but a bit too rich to finish more than a couple small bites. Scallops and ahi tuna were really good too. Nice upscale (but not stuffy) ambiance and kid-friendly. I would definitely go back.
(4)Katie V.
The food was great, and the service impeccable. I came for my 25th birthday with my toddler in tow. It's always scary trying to dine with an almost 2 year old. She got fussy, and they set up a private room for us, where she was also able to run around. I'm sure it was mostly to save the other diners from being annoyed, but it was so nice and helpful for us. We started with the stuffed mushrooms and calamari. Both were delicious! My filet was cooked to perfection. A solid medium rare.The lobster mac side was delicious. The brussell sprouts were okay, slightly burnt and lacking flavor, but my scallops made up for it. They were to die for. My fiance got the wasabi salmon dish, and is generally very picky, as he can cook very well--and had only great things to say. It's a great place for a special occasion.
(4)David C.
Great meal and equally great service. Try the wasabi salmon. A bit sharp but melts in your mouth. Scallops were good risotto a bit too much lemon. Overall the whole experience was great. We are very lucky that our youngest starts UR this summer: four years of quarterly meals at bookbinders.
(4)Lesley N.
Creamed spinach and the mac & cheese is delicious!
(5)Megan M.
I was between three and four stars, but the food was pretty darn good, so I'm going for four. We went to Bookbinders for a friends' birthday dinner. It's pretty much your standard, upscale steak/seafood restaurant. It's big, slightly masculine and dimly lit with oversized booths, big wine bottle displays and a large-and-in-charge lobster tank right inside the front door. Since it was a birthday dinner, bottles of wine were in order. We were slightly surprised and turned off by the markup on wine bottles. We started our meal with the popular Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay ($75). I know I've gotten this at other restaurants in town for less money. Other popular wines like Silver Oak and Caymus also seemed high. We went with a more obscure Coted du Rhone with our steaks, which was probably less marked up. For a nice restaurant, our server was, well, kind of clumsy. She knocked over a beer bottle (luckily the person it was knocked onto caught it), she almost pulled the bread basket off the table and was just not too with it. She was also very pushy about upselling. I know at any corporate-ish restaurant you're going to get some of that, but it was kind of over the top here. We started our meal with the crab cake appetizer and the cajun tuna. After hearing about Bookbinder's crab cakes for years, I was kind of underwhelmed. They were mushy and barely held together without much flavor. The cajun tuna, on the other hand, was awesome. It was rare, fresh, well-spiced and it came with a very good, spicy wasabi sauce on the side. This dish was a big hit. The sourdough bread was also very good. It was warm, crusty and hard to stop eating. The main-course menu had your standard steak, seafood and combo items. I went with the medium-rare petit filet with the blue cheese topping. Other people at my table got a regular filet and filets with Oscar topping. We also got sides of creamed corn, mashed potatoes and asparagus. Everyone's steaks were cooked perfectly. The Oscar topping was amazing. The Oscar steaks were served over big, flavorful asparagus spears with mounds of crab and hollandaise on top. My blue cheese topping was also pretty darn good, but if I went back, I'd probably just go Oscar. I personally wished my steak had been a littler crisper on the outside, but I really like that contrast between a crisp, flavorful outside and rare-ish inside. Everyone else was very happy. The sides were all good. The mashed potatoes were fluffy and garlicky, and the creamed corn was sweet, cheesy indulgence at its finest. The asparagus was topped with hollandaise. More of the goodness that came with the Oscar. We were all to full for dessert, and we were disappointed in the dessert wine selection. It was small without any red ones. There were ports, but not red dessert wines. We went on a Friday night with an 8:45 reservation. By the time we left a bit after 10:30, the restaurant was completely empty except for us. This was kind of weird, but no big deal. I'd prefer a place that's a bit busier on a weekend night, but whatever. Despite the service hiccups, the meal was exactly what I expected for a quality steakhouse meal. Nothing inventive, just standards done right. Next time I'm in the mood for this, I'll definitely consider returning to Bookbinder's. If you go and park in the lot across the street, make sure you let the host know. They'll give you a card for free parking.
(4)Michelle A.
The first Bookbinders was actually in my hometown of Philadelphia, so when it opened here in Richmond, I was super excited. It's in a cute area, right down by all those nice new condos at the foot of Church hill... and its got the dark wood, heavy curtains, expensive glass look of a good steakhouse. When you walk in you feel both refined and exuberant, and they have a lobster tank so you can pick your lobster, which I happen to think is very old-school :) I love it. I also like that they do coat check. Not enough restaurants do that anymore. The restaurant is spacious and well-laid out... wines are by the glass and reasonably priced... bottles are a different story :) But they have an extensive wine list... I had the mid-priced Pinot Noir when I was there, and loved it. The first time I was here with my husband, he got the Kona-rubbed steak, and it was TO DIE FOR. Seriously, one of the best steaks he has even had. I got the filet Oscar-style (meaning they dropped some really delicious crabmeat on top of my steak :)) and even that paled in comparison to that Kona-rubbed steak. PS Sides are ordered separately and in family-style portions, we got green beans and mashed potatoes and both were good. The second time we went to Bookbinders was for Valentines Day, and while the meal was good, it wasn't as good as the plates from the regular menu- they had a special prix fix for the night, and weren't serving off the regular menu. The prix fix was actually very reasonable, which is why we chose to go here to begin with- we loved our first meal here so much that we couldnt believe we could go back so affordably. Anyway, my husband had the duck on the recommendation of the waitress, and I think I got the steak... neither were remarkable, in fact I think the duck was a little fatty, even beyond the fat expected on duck... So overall, this is worth a try if you are looking for someplace really nice to go. I'm not a fan of their prix fix, but any other night of the year, it's a safe bet for a classy meal.
(4)Tim B.
Nice atmosphere, library style. Service was quite good and most of the food was well prepared. However my lobster tail was way overcooked. It looked wonderful but was chewy and at times I had to really gnaw on it. Being a happy go lucky type I didn't send it back. My drink (whiskey sour) was a disappointment. I expect a restaurant of this quality to know how to make one properly. The wine selection was good but over priced, even for a place where you expect to pay a premium.
(3)Lisa G.
Another special spot, especially during the wintertime. The huge building with wood everywhere you look makes for a warm atmosphere. Love the bar for a nice glass of scotch. Food is impeccable. Nice place to go for a special occasion.
(5)Daniel S.
Had diner for three. Everything was done very well: the room, the service and the food. It is, however, an expensive restaurant, with each item on the menu priced higher than at any other Richmond restaurant we've encountered, and each sold a la carte, even the vegetable and starch (potato, rice, etc.).
(4)