Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Tarrant's Cafe

    3.9 (969 reviews)
    Closed 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
    Updated 1 month ago

    Order Tarrant's Cafe Takeout or Delivery

    Tarrant's Cafe Photos

    Business Info

    TARRANT'S CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed
    Happy hour specials

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Tarrant's Cafe

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    6 happy hour wings for $8 - old bay dry rub
    Stephanie B.

    Phenomenal happy hour! The old bay wings were the best I've had. Great size and super juicy. Cocktails were on point too. The bartender was personable and the place was chill as it wasn't crowded. Will definitely be back soon!

    Fried Oysters Appetizer
    Audra H.

    I really wanted to love Tarrants Cafe downtown but we had a lot of issues! But let's start with the positive! The customer service was great! From the host to the server, we really enjoyed everyone! The restaurant itself was cute! It was small and quant but we are used to that living in the city in DC and some of the best restaurants are like that! Now the drinks and food!! For the drinks we had the rosemary martini and espresso martini. The rosemary was one of my favs!! So light and delicious! The espresso was lacking and I'm an espresso martini snob! It was just so watery and was lacking flavor from the espresso! We ordered two kids pizza and a few apps. The fried green tomato's, spinach/crab dip and fried oysters which was a special! The pizza was delicious but the menu doesn't state that they sprinkle Parmesan on top. Both my kids have an allergy so they had to remake it. Once they remade it with no parm it was DELICIOUS! Def get their pizza! The biggest issue was the fried foods. The crab/spinach dip is a must try! It was good!!! But the fried green tomatoes and oysters were not good bc we can tell they haven't changed their grease in ages. They came out super dark and tasted burnt due to the grease it was cooked in. I worked in a restaurant for ages and can tell! If they had fresh grease it would have made a ton of difference! I'd love to come back and try it again but only if they have improved how they cook their fried food! If you're just looking for pizza and cocktails, this is a good recommendation!

    Onion strings
    Randi I.

    I usually enjoy Tarrant's every time but this time I didn't appreciate the fact my sandwich was quite literally thrown together. Fortunately it was still pretty good as it's hard to mess up a classic BLT. The soup & onion strings were 10/10 as always. I continued eating due to being in a rush but my bartender was great!

    Expresso Espresso martini
    Dave F.

    Started with the hummus plate and wow it was delish. An old fashion for me and expresso martini for my lady. The drinks tasted really good however we both felt like the drinks came up short on the amount. I had the pasta n shrimp with vodka sauce...tasted good but was not warm.? My wife had the fish tacos n salad. Her meal was not hot as well. All in all the food tasted real good..Thank You Chef and Thank You Nicolas for great service.

    The Thanksgiving Platter with turkey and ham and all the fixings.
    Frank P.

    I'm a sucker for cozy ambiance, good service, and great food, so Tarrant's Cafe is naturally one of my go-to spots when I'm visiting Richmond. There's a lot of history in the building, which apparently had a former life as a pharmacy in the 1800s and 1900s, before it's more recent transformation into a fun dining spot. Nothing is too over-the-top or fussy at Tarrant's. It's warm, comfortable, familiar. Typical American fare, well-executed, a nice beer selection, and good cocktails round out the experience. And if you're around for the holidays, they do a hang-up Thanksgiving Platter with turkey, ham, or both (!), along with the usual sides. But be sure to make a res early because they're usually packed on the holidays. Enjoy!

    NY Strip
    Pat C.

    This is a historic place with interior and pieces dating back to when it was still a drugstore (hence the name): hardwood flooring, pharmacy shelves, and stained glass. Got seated right away when we walked in on a Wednesday evening. Jacob, our server, gave great recommendations. Blackberry mint fizz was refreshing! It had mint, limeade, and blackberry. Seafood combo was soo flavorful. NY strip was great. It was very tender. Their desserts were lovely too. The cheesecake of the week was turtle cheesecake. Upside down apple walnut pie was also yummy. With music from 70s, 80s, 90s were playing in the background, I really enjoyed the experience here and would definitely come back.

    Parking discount
    Riley H.

    The only reason this place is getting 2 stars is because their she crab soup was really good. I came here during Richmond Restaurant Week and was very disappointed. My steak was supposed to be medium rare but instead was well done. When the waitress asked how everything looked, I expressed some discontent, but he was so busy he said "great!" and never came back to check on us. I would've moved on from that if the dessert hadn't been awful. The blondie was (I kid you not) as hard as a rock. I had to use a knife to break the blondie as if I was an ice chiseler. Very disappointed. It took 15 minutes for the waiter to come pick up our card with the bill. Ambiance was a bit chaotic. Seemed like this place had a lot of potential but was not impressed. Pro tip: they will discount street parking price if you have a receipt. That was a perk. (Info on back of menu)

    Cheesecake cupcake
    Jean W.

    Restaurant week review - unfortunately an underwhelming experience with the 3 stars primarily because of our nice server --------------------------------- Food: we ordered the 3 course fixed price meal off the restaurant week menu since we were both very hungry however despite that it was "3 courses" the servings were very small, which is honestly fine, however the quality of the food wasn't the best. Appetizers: we both got the scallop and zucchini apps which were the best part of the meal Mains: The salmon and mushroom risotto wasn't terrible but left more to be desired, the sauce on the salmon looked like it had been sitting there for a while, and the presentation of the dish as a whole lacked color (maybe considering adding some greens/reds?), the steak was okay but the potatoes just tasted like boiled potatoes. Overall very underwhelming - but at this point, nothing was overly "bad" Unfortunately the dessert was the inedible part :( ordered the blonde brownie sundae and the brownie thing was so hard and dry, it was actually inedible Recommendations: would recommend their normal menu not restaurant week Affordability: the menu seemed reasonably priced, but somewhat overpriced for restaurant week Ambiance: despite our negative experience the restaurant was packed. Liked the ambiance more than the food, the kind of place where it can be a fancy date or casual bite Service: our kind server was the main reason for the 3 star reviews and that we would be willing to try this place again, he was very attentive and helpful and offered to speak to the chef (which was not necessary) Overall, not the best restaurant experience, but I always believe in a second chance and giving people/places the benefit of the doubt

    the inside when you first walk in!
    Jenna G.

    Tarrant's was such a wonderful surprise! I live within walking distance and finally made it in for dinner last Friday, which happened to be the First Fridays block party. The street was so lively and we had a great time browsing the vendors and picking up some local art before ending the night at Tarrant's. It was the perfect way to finish the evening. We split a bottle of wine, the hummus plate, and the salmon with green beans and wild rice, and every bit of it was fantastic. The portions were just right for two people and the whole experience felt really special. We will absolutely be back to work our way through the rest of the menu!

    Cocktail
    Lauren T.

    My girlfriends and I went to Tarrant's on a week night during restaurant week. One of us did the restaurant week special, and the others ordered off the regular menu. Our server, Leah, was great. She had lots of great recommendations did not hesitate to give us her opinion, and was very attentive, despite having a very busy restaurant and section of tables. Our food came out in a reasonable amount of time, and overall the flavors were really good. Our group ordered calamari, bruschetta cheese, ball, sheet crab, soup, hot, honey, salmon and risotto, chicken sandwich, and fried green tomato grilled cheese. Overall, all of our food was really good, and the flavors were really great. Tarrants gives upscale Tavern, Café, bar vibes, and a more mature setting. Two of us had cocktails, while we waited for our appetizers, and both were very good, true to the flavors, and not weak. The prices were really reasonable, especially for the quantity of food. Overall, Tarrants is a dependable, good quality reasonably priced great place to go with colleagues, friends, or for a nice night out without having to get too dressed up.

    Fish and chips

    I have patronized Tarrant's for 15 years or more. The quality of service has significantly declined, The food way below previous standards and the server was inattentive and unavailable. The spinach dip was watery and pita crackers stale, the fish and chips over priced for Gordons fish stick quality. This was not an $80 meal. Additionally the restaurant had flies.

    Lemon drop
    Jonique M.

    This place is close to my hair salon and I was ready to eat after my appointment. I was ignored for so long. The patron beside me gave me his menu since he had already ordered. Eventually the bartender came over and took my order. My drink took longer than all the other people I observed but it was tasty. The food was good but the service was terrible. Against my better judgement, I gave this place a second chance after another hair appointment and same deal... completely ignored. They weren't busy either time. During the second visit I just got up and left since I'm clearly not welcome here. Unfortunate because it's in a convenient location for me and I really wanted a drink.

    Cinnamon Rolls pre-meal offering
    Hannah S.

    It has been forever since I last visited Tarrant's. It has always been one of my favorite places to dine but sadly it had been years since I last ate there. When I saw on their Instagram page that they would be open for Brunch of New Year's Day, I knew it was time for a return visit, Needless to say I was not disappointed. My husband & I had reservations for 12 noon & were expeditiously seated & our server attentively approached our tables to take our drink & appetizer orders. So far, our reacquaintance with Tarrant's was definitely off to a great start. The dining areas were festively decorated. The ambiance was lively & communal. There were lots of groups dining & the conversations were bright & boisterous but not overwhelming. As far as cocktail menu offerings, My husband & I ordered The Tokyo Snow, which was served in the cutest glass. I have to say it was not my favorite drink of various cocktails I have tried. It was a bit tart for my taste but I liked that it was a sake based cocktail so I might try it again on future visits. For our main course, I ordered The Fig & Pig small pizza. I don't eat a lot of pizza consistently so when I dine out I try to sample unique versions of pizzas I discover. This was quite tasty. It was pulled pork with Fig jam, arugula & balsamic vinaigrette! It was definitely a pizza I would try again. My husband ordered the meatloaf & thoroughly enjoyed it. For desert he ordered the sweet potato pie to go. He enjoyed that as well. After this Brunch dining experience at Tarrant's I am sure it will not be such a long absence on my part before I return to dine again. Brunch at Tarrant's was a truly lovely experience.

    See all

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Liked food, service and ambiance. We had Thanksgiving menu. Liked it. Would go back. Yes.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Delicious and hits the spot for breakfast foods! Love the ambiance but it's definitely pricey.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ed C.
    0
    15
    0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Liz K.

    Liz K.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Liz K.

    Liz K.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Great restaurant for lunch or dinner. The honey fried chicken sandwich and sweet potato fries are awesome .

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Food was good, service was great wished they had honored the happy hour prices on the menu.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Consistently good food and wonderful staff. You will never run out of new things to try.Always happy here!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Service great. Blake is awesome! Staff works as team. Food delish. Recommend the pizza and grilled scallops

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    I'm typing in words because Yelp makes me. Food good, service good, ambiance good. So I am typing more because I didn't use enough letters.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Alicia B.

    Alicia B.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Liz K.

    Liz K.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    6 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Liz K.

    Liz K.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    This place in the heart of Downtown Richmond is a true gem! Great menu, excellent food and superb service. It's become a true favorite!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Andy S.
    0
    22
    12

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    7 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Liz K.

    Liz K.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 3 of 25

    Ask the Community - Tarrant's Cafe

    Do you take reservations?

    Yes they do. We made a reservation a few days ahead because of the size of our party.

    View All 5 Questions

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for New American 11,433 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Zorch Pizza - The Grandma

    Zorch Pizza

    4.4(195 reviews)
    2.0 miCarytown
    $$

    Easily one of my favorite pizza spots in town. Always love…read morethe fun combinations offered and they have a rewards program!

    I have a full-on love affair with Zorch Pizza. I crave it. I think about it when I shouldn't. And…read morewhile they've got more than one location, this review is strictly for Carytown because that's my spot. The vibes are always right. It feels like community the second you walk in. Hector is the coolest, hands down--great energy, great personality, the kind of person who makes you want to come back. Oh and did I mention you can get pizza by the slice! The variety is mind blowing and they always have vegan options!!!!! I'm a thin-slice person. I need the right ratio of crust to sauce to toppings, and Zorch nails it every time. Plus, no flop! The cheese slice is a classic and was my favorite... until I discovered The Upside Down. Listen, when I bite into that slice, I literally close my eyes. I see a lot of people say it's greasy. For this one, grease me down baby. The flavor does everything it needs to do. Layered, bold, and honestly addictive. After that slice, I don't even want a regular one anymore. Next up on my list: The Grandma. And for context, I've had Angelo's in Philly. Respectfully? It doesn't compare. Sorry to all the other grandmothers out there lol. One note though-it's heavy on the garlic, so if that's not your thing, you might want to pivot. If it is your thing? Strap in. It's been a few years since I've been able to say I found a legit pizza spot in RVA. A spot that I bring others to often! I'm happy to say I've found my pizza home. Much love to the Zorch crew. See y'all soon!

    Photos
    Zorch Pizza - Inside bar area

    Inside bar area

    Zorch Pizza - Whiz Wit Special

    Whiz Wit Special

    Zorch Pizza - Outside

    See all

    Outside

    The Black Olive - Italian Meatballs

    The Black Olive

    3.7(42 reviews)
    0.0 miDowntown
    $$

    My cousin introduced me to this place yesterday and I truly enjoyed It…read more Since it's a pizzeria, of course we had pizza! We had "The New Yorker" and "The Wire". Both were very delicious. The New Yorker was a cheese pizza while The Wire was a Crab Pizza with pesto sauce. I didn't get a picture but the cheese pull was insane on both! The drinks were good as well. I had the "Pornstar Martini" while my cousin had the "Velvet Notes" I love how the restaurant has 3 different parts. The right side was for the conservatives, the left was for the not so conservatives and the basement was where the party and hookah was at. The only downside of this place, was the service. It was sooo slow! Although, our bartender "Devin" made some amazing drinks!

    This is our second time at The Black Olive. In my first review I would not have returned. It was a…read moreclose friend of mine birthday celebration. Upon entering we were greeted and the host walked us down to the lower level. We had six tables reserved. The bartender came over immediately and took our drink orders and small plate orders. We didn't want any hookah but it was offered. We later ordered a pizza as well later on. Our food was better than expected. The prawns were flavorful, the meatballs weren't warm enough but had some spice to it and were larger than expected. The Caesar salad had kale and red onion in it which was different. We enjoyed the food and the vibe on the lower level was better. The pizza could use more sauce and the cheese had a nice pull to it. The meat on the pizza didn't taste frozen at all. We had to ask for refills a few times, but the server did a good job considering she had at least 20 people to serve.Overall, better this time around.

    Photos
    The Black Olive - Entrance

    Entrance

    The Black Olive - Crispy Wings

    Crispy Wings

    The Black Olive - Black Eyed Peas Hummus

    See all

    Black Eyed Peas Hummus

    Tarrant's Cafe - newamerican - Updated September 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...