Best Lunch Spots in Richmond (2025)

Downtown’s Jewish deli icon keeps a devoted lunch crowd with matzo ball soup, overstuffed sandwiches, and sly humor. Featured in The Washington Post and recently spotlighted by Southern Living, it’s a lively slice of RVA food culture open daily for lunch.

A Jackson Ward landmark for comforting plates of fried catfish, collards, and cakes, run by the Johnson family. Frequently praised by local food writers and Southern Living, it’s as close as lunch gets to a Sunday supper with friends.

This Fan neighborhood sandwich shop does croques, classic salads, and pie with genuine charm. Lauded by Eater and Richmond Magazine, it’s a perfect low-key lunch — and yes, the Scuffletown chicken salad has a fan club.

Brisket before 1 p.m. is a local sport at this Scott’s Addition smokehouse, a lunchtime favorite that regularly sells out. Celebrated by Eater and barbecue obsessives, it’s counter-service, first-come, and deeply rooted in RVA’s modern food scene.

Since 1924, this lunch-only institution has boxed up Richmond’s most nostalgic midday ritual: sandwich, potato or macaroni salad, deviled egg, cheese wafer, and a cupcake. Honored as a James Beard America’s Classic, it’s priceless living history.

New Zealand–style savory pies and beautiful sweets make this Church Hill counter a prime grab-and-go lunch. Loved by travel editors and locals alike, the daily roster might include steak-and-cheese, vegan pasties, and seasonal fruit stunners.

A neighborhood Cuban favorite since 1998, with pressed sandwiches, black beans and rice, and strong coffee under colorful art. Frequently cited by local critics, it’s an all-day hang where lunch feels like a standing neighborhood meetup.

From the team behind Edo’s Squid, this takeout staple turns out crackling-edges pizza, big Italian heroes, and market sides from late morning through dinner. Eater regularly nods to its pizza and sandwiches as Richmond essentials.

Philly-style hoagies and cheesesteaks made with serious bread and house touches have made Stanley’s a lunchtime habit. Featured by Axios and Eater, it runs true lunch hours most days and channels an easygoing Fan energy.

A Vietnamese pioneer with a nationally admired beer program, often written up by regional and national outlets. Pho, broken rice plates, and noodle bowls make it a satisfying, unpretentious lunch with deep roots in RVA’s dining story.

Communal platters of stews and vegetables over injera make a leisurely, shareable lunch in Shockoe. Recognized by Richmond Magazine readers and frequently recommended by local guides, it’s a flavorful gateway to the city’s East African community.