Exchange Cafe — Restaurant in Virginia

Had dinner here on a Wednesday evening. Not crowded at all. Everything was excellent. Wife had the Mahi with mixed vegetables. I had the 1/2 chicken and parmesan potatoes. Both came with rice and the best focaccia bread we’ve ever had. Not your typical ‘cafe’. More like an upscale restaurant put into a cafe like atmosphere. Desserts made fresh daily. Can’t wait to come back for breakfast and/or lunch. Service was great. Everyone was super friendly and spoke with the chef who is incredibly talented. Looking forward to trying the fried chicken sandwich next time.

Second visit on 9 Aug 2025. Had the fried chicken sandwich. Best chicken sandwich I know of. My favorite used to be at Lilly Pearl's in Richmond, but this has them beat. Served on the focaccia bread (I'd prefer a brioche bun, but I get it since they serve the focaccia bread with other dishes). I'd also prefer long pickle slices instead of the small hamburger ones, but again, my preference and doesn't diminish from the overall great taste of the sandwich. For $12 with a side salad, this is a great deal as the sandwich is huge. Will definitely be back and happy that I can have a great fried chicken sandwich only 15 min away instead of having an hour drive to Richmond. If you haven't stopped by this place, don't...

Absolute gem of a place. My husband and I have been at least a dozen times since they opened and the food (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) has always been top notch. The staff is super friendly, and the outdoor seating is perfect in warm weather if you want to bring your pup along.

A few notes I want to make to address a couple of bad reviews I saw. 1) this is NOT a formal sit-down restaurant. You order at the counter and they will bring your food out to your table (you have a little number marker so they can find you). And they will clear your table if you leave it out, but my husband and I usually clear our own since it's really easy to do so. Don't expect waiters to be checking up on you throughout the meal, it's not that kind of place. 2) there is plenty of indoor seating! Whoever said there was none, obviously didn't walk into the back room where there were a bunch more tables. I've never seen it so busy you couldn't get a table inside. 3) The portions are perfectly sized and the sauces are delicious. If you want an oversized plate of tasteless slop then go to your local chain restaurant. Just leaves more delicious wood grilled...

Today, my wife and I decided to treat ourselves to lunch on the first day of school for our kiddos, and we chose Exchange Café. What a fantastic decision!

I ordered the Pincho Sampler—featuring chicken, beef, and shrimp with a vibrant chimichurri sauce, accompanied by San Juan rice, focaccia bread drizzled with olive oil, and crispy fried tostones served with garlic aioli. Every bite was absolutely delicious.

The pinchos instantly transported me back to my time living in Luquillo, Puerto Rico, where I’d buy pinchos from the local vendors right at the beach. This meal brought back those wonderful memories in the best way possible.

To top it off, the owner Craig came by to check on us and ended up chatting with us about our families and experiences. It was really nice of him to take the time to connect personally—it added a warm and genuine touch to our visit.

If you’re looking for a spot that offers authentic flavors with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, Exchange Café is a must-visit. Can’t wait...