Belmont Food Shop — Restaurant in Richmond

I made a reservation more than a week in advance to celebrate my wife’s birthday at Belmont Food Shop. Upon arrival, the hostess sat three of us at a table designed to be a cozy (small) two top. They brought in a third chair to the table built for two which effectively blocked the already narrow aisle necessitating other patrons to squeeze by in order to move through the restaurant. I would guess that this is against fire code. There was a four top open directly beside our small table which they refused to seat us at stating that they were holding it for another party which was coming in later. Also, there is a second dining room which could have accommodated our needs but they would not entertain that thought. This situation left us feeling that they overbook and also that they are not concerned about the comfort of their patrons but are more concerned about what is easy for them. We didn’t feel terribly appreciated as customers so we quickly decided to leave and went to another place at which we have always had great experiences. And although the evening was a success only due to the warmth and professional service that we received elsewhere, Belmont Food Shop definitely was left wanting in our minds. We will NEVER give them a second opportunity to...

Belmont Food Shop is a true gem in the RVA dining scene. Dining here for me and my partner is like dining in one of our most cherished French country bistros. The menu du jour is "a l'ardoise" (written on a chalkboard) in the typical French bistro style. There is a three-course prix fixe ($50) or you can order a la carte. We always choose the prix fixe and are astonished at the great value for the fine cuisine that is presented! On our most recent visit, we started with the in-house cured duck prosciutto with peaches and arugula and also the house-made pâté...both superb! Our mains were the roasted chicken and the lamb with ratatouille. Both were masterfully prepared and so delicious. We finished our meal with the peach cobbler and almond cake...a fitting end to our meal. Brie was our wonderful server. She warmly welcomed us, explained the menu items, suggested accompanying wines (which were great!) and checked in with us frequently throughout the meal. We couldn't have wished for a better dining experience. Bravo to all at Belmont Food Shop! You're a gem in the RVA dining scene and for very good reason. We look forward to...

I do not recommend going to the Belmont Food Shop. My first unpleasant experience was inquiring about a restaurant-style high chair for my son. Restaurants are not required in the Commonwealth to keep them on hand, but the response when l inquired was apathy and a look of "why did you ask?" I volunteered that they supply a round-backed chair from the other table to which they complied.

We had questions about menu items displayed from the chalkboard (there was no description) and the waitress had to retreat to the back to ask questions on both of the entree offerings.

With the exception of when we ordered and when we received the check, the waitress approached us only twice during the duration of the meal to see if we needed anything.

Lastly, the waitress approached us and asked us when we were leaving because there were guests waiting. Normally, restaurant staff tries to urge the party along, but having seen the waitress only two other times (other then ordering and the check) it came as a surprise to us. We were complaint and left, but l will not be recommending or visiting the Belmont Food Shop...