Richmond is known for its food scene—from fine dining to local dives, there is an abundance of options in every neighborhood of the city. Bakeries, in particular, are thriving here in Richmond. Beloved spots like Sub Rosa Bakery have earned national praise for their artisan breads and pastries, while neighborhood favorites all across the city continue to win over locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect morning pastry, a cozy coffee-and-quiche combo, or a bakery worth planning your weekend around, these Richmond bakeries are definitely worth the trip.
Idle Hands Bakery
Now located at 404 N. Robinson Street. This bakery is known for its sourdough bread and cruffins! During the holidays, Idle Hands is the place to get your Panettone—a Italian Christmas cake. (Pro tip: order your Panettone in advance and pick it up!)
The original location was in a tiny Jefferson Ward location—so small that only a customer or two could enter at any one time. Two moves later and at last they have ample seating room and an outdoor patio!
Minglewood Bake Shop
Looking for a vegan bakery? Minglewood is Richmond’s vegan bakery, with plenty of gluten free options as well. Minglewood is known for a beautiful and tasty selection of cupcakes and delicious vegan Cheddar Bay biscuits. This bakery is located in beautiful Carytown. The bakery even has a couple of parking spots behind the building ( a big plus in a neighborhood where parking can be tricky)!
Sub Rosa
Sub Rosa is back in action after a fire shut down the business for more than a year. They also have their own stone milling operation, and are dedicated to sustainable, local practices like sourcing all of their grain and produce from local farmers. This citywide favorite is known for its fig and cheese pastries.
Shyndigz
Most bakeries close early but not Shyndigz. This bakery is open until 10pm on weekdays and until 11pm on weekends. It’s a perfect after-dinner spot. Don’t sleep on the oatmeal cream pies! Their sister restaurant, The Fancy Biscuit, is right across the street and offers Southern brunch staples like biscuits and gravy and fried green tomatoes.
Pro tips for your visit
Richmond Carb Loading Days
If it is a Richmond Marathon day, be sure to order in advance and consider picking up your order the day before. Richmond loves carbs on Marathon days. Unless you have planned ahead, good luck finding your bread or sweet treat on the day of the marathon!
Order Ahead
If you have your heart set on a particular product or need a certain item for dinner, order ahead. Most bakeries have online order and pick up options. You pay online and just walk in and pick up. Pay attention to how far in advance you need to order.
Make it a Richmond Adventure
Want to make it a special event? Book a RVATukTuk Best of Richmond Bakeries tour. This tour includes stops at three local bakeries. You get a bakery treat at each stop. Water is provided but you can also BYOB. (Mimosas, anyone?) This is a 1.5 hour tour in a comfortable private TukTuk. It’s a great idea for a birthday celebration or a fun day out in Richmond!