Richmond has something to satisfy everyone’s appetites. Use this handy guide to help you figure out what to try when you visit or move to town.
Best Mexican
La Mexicana is a no-frills eatery within a short walk of campus that serves amazing food. Don’t pass it up! Students and faculty alike are fans of the giant burritos and Jarritos-brand fruit-flavored sodas. There’s also a small grocery area where you can buy Mexican snacks, candy, and ingredients. But you may also want to try El Trebol on Richmond’s east-side, just to decide which restaurant has better food. As Sven-Erik Nilsson ‘20 said, “El Trebol is like La Mex’s beer-serving brother. Love that place.”
Somewhere fancy
Most students can’t afford a fancy night out, but sometimes your guests will pay for it, and then you might want to go to the Old Richmond Inn downtown, or Galo’s Italian Grill, which is on the opposite side of town. Olde Richmond Inn serves everything from seafood to steak to salads and Galo’s is an upscale Italian restaurant. Both are owned by Galo Molina, an Ecuadorian chef who has lived in Richmond for over 20 years. Cordial Cork is also popular for special occasions.
Best brunch dates
If you want to feel like a local and get some good brunch food, AJ’s Diner is the ticket. You can sit in one of the booths or on one of the barstools and be transported to 1950’s Richmond. The food is simple and quick with local favorites like a fried tenderloin sandwich, omelets and biscuits and gravy. Joann’s Cafe is also within easy walking distance of campus. “That place is a hidden gem!” Gurt Masteron ’17 said. “I loved going there for breakfast on a Saturday morning. Best breakfast joint in town.”
Earlhamite favorite
Thai Thara is an undeniable favorite of Earlhamites and locals. The staff quickly memorize your order, including your preferred level of spiciness. The food is delicious with plenty of vegetarian options, plus yummy soups that help when you are under the weather. This restaurant is currently available for carryout only.
All-you-can-eat
Gulzar’s Indian Cuisine is Richmond’s long-awaited destination for authentic Indian food. Students and faculty used to drive an hour to Oxford, Ohio, but now they just need to drive the 15 minutes across town to satisfy those cravings. Plus, Gulzar’s has a great lunch buffet. Make sure you go on an empty stomach to make the most of it!
Caffeine, food, and free wifi
A popular hangout spot to get work done off campus is Roscoe’s Coffee Bar and Taproom. With sandwiches, salads and nachos, you can fill your belly, get caffeine and get your work done. It’s also a great place for meetings and playing board games (provided) with friends.
Local vibes
To kick it like a local, be sure to check out Little Sheba’s, Pizza King and Coney Island Tavern Pub! Pizza King has the best pizza in Richmond, according to Richmondites. It’s one of those places with thin crust and toppings that go all the way to the edge. To take your Pizza King craving to the next level, head to Clara’s—it’s Pizza King with stained glass windows, and you can eat inside a double-decker bus. Coney Island has some of the best wings in town plus the typical pub fare including pizza and burgers. They also have dart boards if you feel like playing a friendly game over drinks. Little Sheba’s has delicious, uniquely-named sandwiches for any pallet.
No matter what your taste buds choose, you’re in for a treat!
Story written by by Somer Eckert, Earlham Class of 2017.
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