King of the diners
If you’ve lived in Richmond for a little more than a week, then you’ve probably heard vegans rave about the awesome food at 821 Café. While it would be unfair to put this diner up against say, Millie’s or Six Burner, its target audience is comprised of scenesters and college kids, who don’t exactly have the most discerning tastes.
If you’ve lived in Richmond for a little more than a week, then you’ve probably heard vegans rave about the awesome food at 821 Café. While it would be unfair to put this diner up against say, Millie’s or Six Burner, its target audience is comprised of scenesters and college kids, who don’t exactly have the most discerning tastes. It is however, at least a notch or two in quality higher than the Village or Galaxy Diner.
Although the music is usually pretty good – Tuesday night at the 821 greeted us with a little Joe Strummer, The Clash and Elvis Costello, dinner time is not the cafe’s strong suit. Their entrées are substantial for what you pay for-overcooked chicken and orzo swimming in their various broths. The grilled veggies were perfectly done though lacked seasoning. My editor ordered the pan-seared pork medallions in red wine sauce, which came off as quite tender and good considering the young appearance of the busy chefs in the kitchen. Though certainly filling and cheap – $11-$13 – the soul of 821 lies in its breakfast.
Tailored for the college crowd who often shuns the sun, the extensive breakfast menu is in effect until 5 p.m. Cheese grits and rosemary potatoes compliment any of the wonderful omelets ($6.95) at your disposal, from the deliciously stinky portabella, brie and spinach omelet to the delectable salmon, cream cheese and caper omelet. The hash browns are great, unlike the hit-or-miss crap The Village serves and always come out crispy, flavorful and warm. That doesn’t seem like much to ask.
And if this all sounds trite to you, then I’ll just say you haven’t lived until you’ve tried their grilled BPB (bacon and peanut butter . that’s right).
If you’re of age, hurry on over and try their extensive brew collection. With a wide selection of domestics and imports, (they even have the Guatemalan Gallo, referred to as Famosa in the States) the 821 becomes a hip hang out regardless of day or hour.
If a hearty lunch is more your style, then 821 also has some of the best steak and cheeses around and my editor swears by their club sandwiches. With no sandwich more than $7, it sure is a goodt value for any college budget.
Grade: B-
