Abi's Books & Brews — Restaurant in Richmond

Cute and maximalist little shop that provides the perfect blend of atmosphere, good coffee, and culture. I love how early they open (05:30!!) making it the perfect early morning spot. Wide variety of seating and table options despite the admittedly very small space. Decorations are on-point, an entire wall of books, great coffee, and large windows for people watching. I'm gf, so I couldn't try them, but they even have a build-your-own-waffle station. Everyone there is friendly, service is exceptional, free wifi, and bathrooms in the back. I also couldn't try the baked goods or sandwiches, but they look delicious. There are also plenty of seasonal options. If you forgot your headphones, don't worry, because they playlists they had on was excellent.

Tldr; a beautifully quaint coffee shop with a wonderful atmosphere. A must come if you love early mornings with coffee.

Edit: 5 AM! You can go as early as 5 and they have delicious gluten free treats! I obviously didn't try their croissants but their chicken salad is delicious. One night I was there they were hosting a book reading for a local author. Amazing community that they have built over at Abi's, check it...

Hi there, new to Richmond person here. Abi's has been a go-to study spot for me the last week or two. The coffee is AMAZING* (Had to edit the review from good to amazing! Having a cappuccino right now and I don't think I've had a better cappuccino in my life.), the pastries are great, but what makes this place special is the atmosphere and the people. Books everywhere and coffee smells! Perfect atmosphere. Two quick stories to share about the people though. My first interaction with Abi's was spotting them during a run and deciding I needed the caffeine to go the extra mile, pun intended. I asked the barista if they would mind doing the iced latte into my water bottle and she didn't even bat an eye and said "Heck yes! Need that juice to go the distance!" Then this morning, Keith, the owner, made a small mistake and immediately caught and fixed it without me even noticing an error was made. I doubt I would have noticed too as I was lacking the caffeine to function. Each and every time I've come in, the staff have been welcoming, warm, positive, kind, and willing to chat! So Abi's is going to become a local favorite for me during my years living...

Went around 3pm on a Friday. The place was packed! There was barely anywhere to sit (which I planned to do but didn't because it was so busy). Glad to see this place doing well. I got a hazelnut coffee; it was good but not as sweet I expected. Coffee came out in a timely manner.

Only complaint I had was the baristas were finishing drinks while I was waiting to order then one sat and got on their phone for a minute while I was standing there waiting. I get people need breaks, but as someone who's worked customer service for years, that was an inappropriate time to check a phone. Maybe when it's slow, but they were in the middle of making drinks, people were still waiting on drinks, & I was waiting to order— it just looks really bad. Guest perception is everything. And if they're making a livable wage like the owner says, then the customer service should be impeccable IMO.

Other than that, it's a great, cute coffee shop! Love that it's open later than most...