First love the fact that they open early on Sunday. Great spot for coffee and breakfast on a Sunday morning (or any day). Both my wife and myself ordered the Grilled Asparagus Egg Sandwich. This was on a knot roll (which was killer), tomato and havarti cheese. This was a great breakfast sandwich. In combination with a mug of strong coffee this was a killer combo for a meal. I know I will be back many more times for the same meal! read more

It might be the best coffee roasted in RVA. I stopped by Lamplighter after trying and disliking a couple of bags from a more widely distributed Richmond coffee company. It was Sunday morning and there was a line out the door. A small shop, but kind of cute in a dingy sort of way. After waiting for about 10 minutes, I got to the front of the line where the bagged coffee is displayed. There were about five varieties including one decaf option. I picked up some beans from Guatemala and from Uganda - both roasted within the past week. Total price was about $27 for two 12 oz bags. I had planned on ordering a large coffee to go, but the cashier told me that it came free with my bagged beans. That was a nice surprise. Lamplighter seemed to be doing a pretty brisk breakfast/brunch food businesses when I stopped in. The tiny dining room was packed and there were about 20 patrons lounging at the exterior tables enjoying bagel sandwiches and baked goods. The cup of Colombian I took to-go was decent, and so was the bag of Uganda coffee that I opened the next morning. It's not earth-shattering coffee, but by local standards it's amazing. Certainly the best I've found in Richmond so far. read more

I've been hearing a lot about Lamplighter. I've been hearing that it's the most adorable place ever, with good food and coffee. Lamplighter was adorable and filled with super cute hipsters. I got a croissant and the brown sugar latte from a young lady with the cutest earrings. The brown sugar latte was not my favorite thing that I've ever had coffee wise, but it was decent. My croissant was tasty, but I'm really looking forward to trying the different sandwiches they have to offer. There are so many options that I'll willing to try everything on the menu at Lamplighter, if only so i can hang out at those picnic tables a few more times. read more

The coffee is great but like any coffee joint in Richmond the food menu is lacking. The bagels are fresh from Costco and the hummus seems to be as well. For vegans who can tolerate it, tofutti is an option for the bagels.. Last time my bagel came with cute slice of watermelon, which was the best part of the whole breakfast other than the coffee. The rest of the menu seems tempting (the vegan parts), but really I can find better food elsewhere. On more than one occasion I have just stopped here for coffee in route to my final breakfast destination. The logo of this place is a tall bike, which makes me want to run half the time, but then I remember how tasty their coffee is. I'll suck up the bike scene references, close one eye, and ignore the tight pants. Obviously there is tons of bike parking, lots of outdoor seating and because it's on a quieter street, you can sit there for hours, hidden from the rush of Main and Cary. -- A note for those who bring their own mug to save money/environment/etc-- You get charged for whatever size they think your mug happens to be even though you brought your own. There seems to be no mug fill price. Also the sizing has recently changed. Be aware. -- read more

Want to channel your inner hipster while caffeinating as a locavore? You can multitask that list all in one place, while also allowing your vegan/gluten-free pals to avoid anaphylaxis and angst. All at once! Only thing you won't get is a smoke-free experience on the patio (which is the best place to sit), but you can't have everything. You can, however, have some outstanding coffee, with some very tasty accompaniments. Served by folks who love what they do. Overall: win. read more

Holy moly! For as highly-vaunted Lamplighter was my experience here left me puzzled - especially the ones raving about the coffee. The moment I took my first sip I was disturbed by how bracingly bitter and acrid the coffee was. In order to pull espresso that tastes like that, they are more than likely either pulling shots with grinds too fine or pushing water through that's too hot, I guarantee it. Not my cup of tea so I'll stick to the food, which is good but I wouldn't come out of my way for anything on the menu. The place also looks like a shack and hardly has spots to talk, much less work. I'm pretty sure you aren't getting anything done if you try to work here because it's a tight, cramped feel with lots of laughter and people milling around. The folks here are super hipster/artsy and it's very conducive to people watching. It feels more like a hipster bar/cafe with not enough seating, so lingering is also out of the option because people are watching tables like a hawk or asking if they can have it the moment you stand up. Personally that's a little stressful so I'm not sure if I'll be back. read more

I went to Lamplighter today and had a wonderful experience. The staff was friendly, the outdoor space is great, and the food was good. The drinks came out a bit slow but it was understandable as they were quite busy. Definitely recommend! read more

I visited this little cafe for the first time after hearing so much rave and IG pics of this place and my feelings are half and half. I ordered the Bianchi and Lox and they were both delicious! The Bianchi had a nice tang and the chef did not skimp on the meat. The bread was crispy and complimented the ingredients in the sandwich. The Lox was definitely the winner of the two! It was refreshing and plentiful of flavor - the salmon is what sold me. We ordered the iced Thai coffee and it was good, coming from someone who doesn't drink coffee on the regular. My cousin got the iced Chai coffee and it was really watered down and not pleasant to the taste buds. The downfall of this cafe is definite the EMPLOYEES! Definitely the worse service by far I've encountered in a long time - and I eat out pretty often. The old lady that took our order definitely gave my group the stank face and just looked upset taking our order - like she was not happy to be at work. What was even worse was the guy that delivered the sandwich to our table. He stumbled all over our chair putting with our food and just threw the plate on the table. No "sorry," no nothing. RUDE!!! The atmosphere is very cozy and hipster like! Hip hop music in the background - definitely something I enjoy. But the lack of seating areas is definitely another downfall. We had to all cramped at a small little table and had no arm space. Overall, I would return with a smaller group of people but probably try a different location, with BETTER SERVICE! Service was the only reason why I would give this place 3 stars! read more

Lamplighter Coffee Roasters - Bianchi sandwich! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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I am clueless about coffee and literally only order the strongest, blackest they have for the day whenever I go. However, I do know a thing or two about food. I'd like to publicly complain about my addiction to their Brichta sandwich. Lamplighter, how dare you! How dare you make a vegan sandwich so delicious that I can't even fathom making my own breakfast at home anymore for risk of failing my expectant palette! My goodness, can't you people make something bland and unappealing so I'll stop wanting to go here every morning? You consistently serve me deliciousness on fresh, tasty bread and there's no way I can stop now. Might as well just check myself into sandwich rehab. Geez, the nerve of some places... Side note: I must say that I love the variety of people who are here every time I come by. It's a "hipster" type atmosphere but you'll see every walk of life enjoying the heaven-on-earth that is Lamplighter. Makes my heart all warm and fuzzy to see squatters and their dogs outside next to a couple suited-up dudes with their business accoutrements, both just sipping their coffee and going about their day. read more

Lamplighter Roasting Company's food and coffee is okay, but the craziness you have to wade through to get it is not worth the trouble. As far as I can tell, Lamplighter is always busy. Usually that's a good sign, but the place is absolute chaos inside. It is difficult to figure out where you're supposed to order, where you're supposed to pick up your order when it's ready, and just plain difficult to navigate around the restaurant. I got the distinct feeling that I was not cool enough to be ordering food at this place, and while I waited (what felt like forever) for my food and coffee, I just hid near a half-dead houseplant, trying to make myself small and not get in the way of anybody. There were so many people there, and it was so loud, that this was a very stressful experience. Lamplighter needs to work on making their restaurant a little more inviting and a lot less chaotic. I got my food to go and was so relieved to be out of there. The sandwich I had was just okay - the barbecue tempeh was on the too-sweet side for my taste, though. My iced latte was delicious, and I appreciated the homemade vanilla syrup and the option to have it made with almond milk, soy milk, or regular milk (I chose almond). If you don't mind crowds and crowds of hipsters and feeling inferior and somewhat confused, this might be your ideal coffee shop. If you, like me, prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, go elsewhere: Harrison Street Coffee Shop and Capital Coffee and Desserts are both good options. read more

Lamplighter is one of those rare places that just makes life awesome. It's been built into the old 1920s garage at the corner of South Addison and Parkwood, and has quickly become an important fixture in the neighborhood. The entire space is youthful and edgy, but also very family-friendly - the back wall of their outdoor eating area is a giant chalkboard for anyone to draw all over. They have everything I need to stay awake: Cold-pressed iced coffee, Thai coffee, big to-go cups, americanos, or whatever. They have all the basics covered and then some with their home-roasted beans. Their rotating menu is simple and delicious, featuring many locally sourced, homemade, and/or vegan options. I normally eschew pastries, but the other day I couldn't resist trying one of their vegan peanut butter whoopie pies and it was so good that I wanted to cry. The staff is incredibly nice and are very enthusiastic and knowledgeable about everything they serve. Lamplighter has been a great addition to the community, and I'm very happy to see how successful they've become. read more

Oh Lamplighter, oh Lamplighter...how do I love thee...let me count the ways: 1) your beans are delicious. Whether in the store or to take home - consistently satisfying. 2) Your food...is amazing. Like two lovers meeting for the first time - your lox bagel appeared on my birthday hangover day and I could not keep myself from having hearts in my eyes. It was perfect. Just like bagel and lox should be. 3) Your clear commitment to the environment warms my heart. From the mason jars used as cups to the using silverware as opposed to plasticware...you're doing a good thing. 4) Your employees are awesome. Always friendly and always informed...not too shabby on the eyes either. Thank you, Lamplighter - for being all that and a bag of beans. I heart you. read more

This place needs to get some basic sh*t in order. It emanates chaos particularly when busy, and I always seem to visit when it's busy. From the grubby hipster waifs loitering near the register, fingering baby's first beard, and speaking rococo (as their musical messiah famously disparaged) to the three different doors that confront a customer (have an "entrance" or "order" sign), there are far too many obstacles in the way of finding a cup of coffee. It appears to be a single building, but beware, as a few doors lead to a sweat-lodge like seating area that's disconnected from the register. Coming from stumptown by way of Bellingham I can say that most comparable coffee shops out near coffee mecca tend to communicate the austere as opposed to the labyrinthine. I've had excellent coffee from plenty of the small drive-through only "espresso" joints littering the Mount Baker HWY, the 548, and the 99. The best thing about them? It's so f*cking easy to get your coffee. Loggers, fisherman, and Mt. Baker shredders need beards and coffee because your face gets cold when it's cold outside and they need fuel for hellish days outdoors... not because they're skipping psych 101 to talk with people who look just like them about... the Decemberists, or raising backyard chickens in the off-campus house they're renting. I really hate it when the social deviators wear the same uniform. Come here if you need to see the latest ironic styles for the nonconformist and maybe get a cup of coffee. read more

The second star is for their iced coffee which is the most consistent I have found in Richmond but the service, food preperation, and organization in the past few months has dropped below what one could find in the shittiest fast food joint in the worst part of town. A major issue seems to be forgetfulness and inconsistency in the presence and quantity of ingredients. I could have forgiven this indefinitely but this happened: They forgot the egg on two sandwiches in a to go order. We returned and were offered new sandwiches after I pulled everything out and showed them it was wrong. They took the bag and returned it with the same sandwiches with added egg. That is illegal. And the sandwiches were repulsive. This has been my breakfast coffee spot every weekend for over a year. I live two blocks away. I wont eat there again. read more

I live really near here and have wanted to try this place for a while. It doesn't look too inviting as it occupies what appears to be an old gas station so I've kind of shied away. I'm so bummed that I missed out all this time! Like Elwood's coffee everything is fresh and locally sourced. They get their doughnuts from one of the few surviving independent doughnut places in Richmond, they have a local shop roast their own beans (they used to roast them in-house until demand got to be too much) and a whole bunch of other stuff that -honestly- I've forgotten! There are some really innovative drinks and food on the menu. The only drawback is that you have to ask the counter person what exactly is IN some of the drinks (like the gingersnap) and they are always so busy that I feel bad for taking up their time. The lack of explanation makes it feel a little cliquish, sort of like, "well gee, if you were a regular here, you'd know." I'm sure that's just my own left over high school paranoia as they are eager to explain anything or share a detail that will make your experience here richer. The food here is REALLY good. So good that it could have another syllable or two added to it, re-he-heeely good. I really dig on any of their sandwiches that include Twin Oaks tofu (try the veg*n chorizo) and I believe that there are options for omnivores as well. I've never paid attention and my boyfriend is more of a "doughnuts for breakfast" kinda guy. Speaking of doughnuts, if they have any left over they sell the day-old ones in big paper bags, 5 for 2$. I think day-old cake doughnuts are tastier than fresh ones to I lucked out there. They also sell their coffee beans to take home. Four stars instead of five because, well, it's an old gas station so the atmosphere is not so great. They've done their best by providing a shaded area and putting some potted plants out but the concrete pad makes it really hot out there at midday and the inner seating is dark and a bit cramped. It could use a makeover. read more

Ob. Sessed. With. Lamplighter. So. Much. So. That complete sentences. Seem. Meaning. Less. Went here this morning for a teary farewell brunch with one of my favorite people ever, but the ambience and libations made everything seem a little brighter. I had the Cappadonna sandwich and I loved every bite of tender capicola, gooey, delectable brie, and crisp pear. The bread was awesome too; it was soft and warm and hadn't turned into a hard black rock during toasting. (My mouth is watering as I type this, can you tell?) My companion had an egg sandwich with havarti, asparagus, and tomato, which she thoroughly enjoyed as well. Our drinks were nice too, served in icy mason jars. I got the housemade ginger ale, which was refreshing and super gingery. Friend Eryn ordered an iced coffee. Mmmmm. Also the staff was super nice (slightly awkward and gawky, but nice) and we didn't have to wait long for our food to arrive at all. The decor, furniture and ambience was also lovely. One star off for price--almost $9 for a sandwich? And also for the lack of air-conditioning/sunlight in that creepy enclosed patio. read more

They have the best coffee in Richmond. So go there for that. To be honest though, I was reluctant to give that elusive fifth star because of the service. They could move the line faster if they wanted to, but they just seem not to want to, and everything comes with a hint of condescension toward non-hipsters - mostly from the other patrons but I get the feeling that the staff doesn't disagree. So what if we pull up in a recent model year midsize sedan? Someday you too may feel the need to have something other than a beater fixie. read more

Great place to hang out with friends or do some work! Came here with my best friend who's a true coffee snob, and she raved about her iced coffee. I got an iced tea which was also great. I tried their spinach pastry which was perfect and flaky. It's a bit small inside, but if the weather is nice enough, their patio is a great place to sit! read more

I'd like to start this review off with the sound of a zombie drooling. Can you make that happen, dear reader? Thanks. Like a zombie craving brains, I find myself autopiloting toward Lamplighter at least twice a week. I have celiac, so I can't eat bread... but they have amazingly delicious gluten-free bread on which I rotate the following: Italian meats, cheeses and baby greens (the Bianchi), perfect tuna salad and cheddar (your classic melt), and eggs/bacon*/avocado/baby greens (the Muna Module). And they are hands-down the best sandwiches I've had since I gave up bread three years ago. *It's a QUILT. Of bacon. As in bacon strips quilted together, fried thick and crisp. And the SIDES. Chips, you say? No. Try deviled eggs, vinegary braised collard greens, 4 kinds of cold salads. And, of course, the COFFEE. The espresso drinks are carefully crafted for a perfect balance of richness and drinkability, and I buy their house-roasted beans to bring home. It's the best. It will light your lamp. read more

Let me start out by saying that this place has the very best coffee in town, which is why I have continued to give them my business over the past few years. That being said, they also have the worst service ever! The wait times are absolutely rediculous! Twice this past week I have tried to go there to purchase a pound of coffee and left because of the line out the door. I am glad they are so popular but along w/ that, maybe management should consider using two registers at the door to move people along at a faster pace. Unfortunately, that is not the case and typically there is one person in front and no one seems to feel any urgency about giving quick service. I don't have all day to dally here as many of their other patrons do, as I am usually on my way to work and simply wish to purchase a pound of coffee. This morning I once again tried to their addison street location and turned back when I saw a huge line, annnnnd one person at the register! I went to their other location on summit ave. where they roast their beans. They were not busy and I ordered my pound of coffee and a cup to go. They had no coffee brewed! I particularly find that appalling since they are a coffee shop and a brewery. The girl made me a cup w/ their pour through method, which is fine, but really????? I guess the bottom line is that I am going to take a break on Lamplighter for a while. I feel bad as I try to always go local, but I also feel that they need to really embrace their whole clientele and not just those who have no time schedules. read more

Great food, great atmosphere, amazing service, SUPERB coffee! Although I live about 20 minutes away, I still try to come here at least once or twice a month. I've never been a coffee girl until now. I've never liked Starbucks coffee (and I believe they're a bit overrated.) I always thought I'd forever loathe coffee as I've had bad experiences with crappy overpriced S-Bucks coffee, but ever since I came here with a friend a few months ago I knew I had to come back. The food is fairly priced & delicious (The Quilt sandwich is amazing) and you've gotta love the outdoor seating. It's great that I finally found a place where I can actually have an enjoyable & relaxing dining experience. It's the perfect spot if you want a bite to eat & grab a cup of coffee and sit outside and just read. Also, their service is great! So far I haven't had a bad experience with any of the employees, they're all extremely nice & just overall seem like chill people. The atmosphere has a sort of hipster vibe, which I love because I can bring out my true inner-hipster & not feel judged. The only issue is the parking, it's quite difficult to find a parking space especially for my submarine-like station wagon, even around 3 pm there's nowhere to park; but it all usually depends on what day it is. If you come here on the weekend, you should probably expect to be parking in a neighborhood since the spaces they have in front of the building are usually occupied. But other than that, I love everything about this place! read more

Lamplighter Coffee Roasters - Vanilla latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Service is really slow. I waited 20 minutes for bagels on a Sunday morning. The breakfast sandwiches are good, and they have nice outdoor seating options. read more

Unbelievably good coffee and food with the added bonus of a hipster fashion show. I would have given 5 stars if it wasn't for the massive fly swarm in the outdoor area, probably not their fault. The art in the rest room is great. Update: the art in the bathroom has been re-done.... and winter has solved the fly problem. Proceed. read more

Been frequenting Richmond every now and then, very relaxing nice place to visit in general. In the mornings Lamplighter is our place to go for the morning coffee. They have really nice breakfast sandwiches and pastries and also a very laid back seating area indoors and outdoor. The outdoor area always has sun whether you are there in the morning or right before sunset which is another reason why I like this place. There are a few cool vintage shops across the street from lamplighter which you can browse while sipping on your coffee. read more

Not having tattoos or thick-rimmed glasses, I felt a little bit out of place at Lamplighter. But god, I loved the place. Lamplighter has some great coffee. The shop itself has a cool vibe and has a lot of seating (especially outside). Better yet, they have phenomenal food; a lot of good bakery items, bagels and sandwiches. They're definitely carnivore, herbivore, and omnivore friendly. When I went, I had a black eye (coffee with a shot of espresso), because I was particularly tired that morning, along with a fantastic everything bagel with the works. It was a great way to start my sunday morning. The place gets really busy on the weekends around breakfast times, and for good reason. They also have an exceptional selection of egg sandwiches. I'm definitely going to start my weekend mornings there more often. read more

Great spot. The menu has excellent options for any variety of eating preferences and the coffee is top notch. Seating was almost an issue, but we were able to snag a table at the last minute. The staff were super friendly and down to earth. They didnt seem to mind that I wasn't wearing the hipster uniform of tattoos, vintage clothes with a studded belt and chuck taylors. Do be prepared to parallel park since they have only several spots out front for parking (and a generous bike rack for those of the pedal persuasion). Regardless of your fashion sense and mode of transportation, check this place out, NOW. You will want to leave your Starbucks years behind you. read more

Lamplighter is my favorite place in Richmond to grab coffee and espresso (keyword: grab). I knock a star off only because I don't actually enjoy sitting and having coffee in-house. I've tried various arrangements: sitting inside, sitting outside, standing outside... but nothing seems to please. I think it would be unfair to knock a star just from my opinion, so I incorporate my friend, my boyfriend, and my own opinion in that one-star dock. I don't know-- it's just the music and cramped space inside is not to my liking, while the flies, recycled stuff, dark palette, and cement outside doesn't feel so enchanting. I think putting more plants out there and arranging the outside "stuff" better would help. You can make a more industrial space inviting with well-arranged plants-- it's an easy fix. ANYWAY-- it's not about that. I lived in Portland, Oregon for 8 months and all I did was enjoy espresso and watch the rain outside. I didn't have Yelp then, but trust that I tried a lot of coffee houses. I've heard that Lamplighter is Richmond's Northwest coffee house, and I suppose I would agree to a certain extent, except who cares about all of that. Lamplighter's coffee is great, and so is their espresso. I love the baristas and the owners at Lamplighter. What is better than a latte made with love? Nothing, I tell you. Nothing. (I really don't enjoy drinking a latte from a barista with 'tude. I don't think I'm alone on that-- it ruins your morning to a degree.) Lamplighter also does their own roasting. You can taste how good the roasts are in each cup. Sometimes, however, I will order a cup of coffee that somehow didn't have the right water-to-coffee ratio and it will be a little too weak. Does that bother me? No way. That happens-- and especially to newer coffee houses with newer baristas. For how new Lamplighter is, they are doing great. At the rate they are at, they'll probably empire Richmond in the upcoming years. read more

Thai coffee here is great! I love the cozy atmosphere here... you can sit for hours and just talk! The salmon & lox bagel is delicious too... I come here every time I visit RVA =) read more

Best coffee in Richmond IMHO. Presentation is nice too. Kickstart your day, or recharge in afternoon. This stuff will move your feet. read more

A coffee place where the quality and prices live up to the ultra-hip vibe? Yes, please! I was expecting disaffected baristas staring of into the distance as they filled pour-over orders, and underwhelming food at outlandish prices. And wow, was I wrong! The prices are totally reasonable, and the food is fantastic. I had a bagel with cream cheese, tomatoes, capers and onions, my brother had the same with lox, and the boyfriend had the Fat Elvis sandwich (peanut butter, bananas, bacon, toasted on sourdough). All were delicious. We also got some pastries to take on the road, which were lovely snacks later in the day. I love the fact that the bagels and sandwiches are served with oranges! The cheddar grits were underwhelming, as was the deviled egg, but those were tiny side items, and the main parts of our breakfast were fab. Coffee was good and fresh. Will definitely be back! read more

The owners of this place got it right! Food is so delicious -- deviled eggs to die for and a good snack while you are waiting for your sandwich -- coffee is expertly roasted, Liberian Ginger Ale an excellent hangover aid... They really care about all aspects of the establishment, from the decor, to the ingredients, to the customer service. Everyone who works there is friendly (with one exception, but she's not mean, just indifferent, so whatevs), the outdoor seating is fantastic, and you get free refills on bevs without having to wait in line. The ONLY drawbacks...it's a little pricey (for me anyway) and because it's so popular it can take a while for your food to come out. Go prepared to chill with your friends, a good book, and/or people watch, it's worth the wait! read more

Great vibe, great coffee, great atmosphere, easy biking distance from UR's campus so I'll be going here extremely often during the school year. Recommend the lattée to stay with a 12oz cold brew. read more

i have been wasting my time at ellwood for a friggin year. Lamplighter, thank you. best analogy is it has brooklyn bridge/williamsburg feel with gigantic large coffees as they should be. read more

Sip... ahhh, I love Lamplighter. One of my favorite places to bring non-Richmonders to get a feel of the grungiest hipsters and best foodie breakfast that can be taken to-go. The coffee is really the best fresh roasted you will find in Richmond, but the atmosphere (dog-loving, outdoor-sitting, salt-of-the-earth artsy types who are community oriented, yadda yadda) makes it a staple for any trip to Richmond. Only downfall is that it gets busy--drinks are made very quickly, but if you show up between 9 and 10:30 on a weekend, expect to wait awhile for your food. read more

Breakfast aficionados and coffee connoisseurs, this is the spot for you. Are you down for the morning brew with your breakfast sammie? Lamplighter is the spot for you to get down with your breakfast self. Taste buds will dance. Breakfast will be had...and bellies will be full. Get there early (before they open at 11a) so you get a great spot on their patio - for those sunny days. Seating is limited but there is more than enough to go around. I luckily came across this little gem off the beaten path (off cary st) while roaming for a potential place to move...and now i am hooked. Their breakfast sammies are killer and if you need a java fix, this is where you need to be. Think Bistro breakfast on the corner. And, if you love deviled eggs as much as i do, you can add them as a side like i did for my fanastic grilled asparagus egg sammie! Even Rachel Ray would say YUM-O! The staff is super friendly and the food is just as good as the service you recieve. They do cash/credit...and they even deliver if you live local. If you decide to sit out on the patio, like my group did, they deliver your meal to your table. Watch out RVA, this spot will give any other breakfast spot a run for their money!! read more

Sandwhiches are so amazing; toasted bread filled with happiness with everything you could ask for. Diverse menu and customizable to your desires. Coffee is a bit stronger than I'm used to but still real great! Their BLT is beyond heaven. read more

Lamplighter Coffee Roasters - Brown sugar latte ( a bit strong ) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

I mean what can I say about this place that has not already been said? They have hands down the best coffee in Richmond. "Best" coffee here means both strength and breadth/complexity of flavor. incidentally it also packs a serious caffeine punch compared to some other wimpier coffees. The iced coffee for example is so delicious that it scarcely requires any modification even for those who are used to coffee and cream. It also contains enough caffeine to make my skin crawl and keep me tweaked half the day. I do not have as much experience with the non coffee beverages, but I have had the chai-tea which is a good as I have had in town, and have been assured that the other drinks are on par. Incidentally there is also a free refill for dine in coffee. When you combine this with the screen porch, regular porch, tables, outlets, and space heater, Lamplighter serves as one of the best places to get laptop work done or read out of the home in RIC. The food here is also top notch. The comet bus is one of my favorite vegan sandwiches in town. And the smoked salmon bagel W/ cream cheese is the best one of its kind in town as well. Additionally, delicious sides such as the hippie greens and fresh fruit round out the menu to make Lamplighter one of the best sandwich places in town. AND!!!! Don't forget, lamplighter is one of the best people watching spots in town esp if you want to see hipsters with lots of local flavor. Enjoy! read more

Absurdly long wait for food (45 minutes at 10:30am on a Tuesday). Food and coffee were fine, but nothing special. Breakfast burrito was maybe on par with fast food. Staff were jerks. read more

I love this place. Been a few times for their thai coffee in the last few weeks and the environment is great, staff is friendly (enough), and their little covered patio area is perfect in this beautiful weather. They always have great music playing and I've already adopted it as my new favorite study/loiter spot, haha. Never had the food, which seems slightly over-priced for sandwiches, but their coffee is the best. read more

Two words for you: Lavender Latte. I'm not sure if this is available at all of their locations now, but I had it at the Morris St. location, and it is amazing. I really enjoy all of the Lamplighter locations, and I like that they are all unique and offer a different atmosphere while maintaining the same feel. The Scott's Addition location is very industrial and cool while the other two spots are more of the traditional coffee shop/cafe vibe. I highly recommend the Katie bagel sandwich (I believe you can only get it at the Addison and Morris St. locations), but you really can't go wrong with any of their food selections. You go, Lamplighter, keep doin' you. read more