Weekdays 11am - 11pm
Weekends  8am - 11pm

Welcome to Cafe Gutenberg

Our upscale yet casual atmosphere gives the café that quintessential European feel. With seasonally prepared dishes, distinctive wine and beer lists, foreign language round tables, and an eclectic mix of international newpapers and periodicals, we have established ourselves as a unique destination for both dining and socializing in Richmond’s historic Shockoe Bottom.

dine al fresco with the one you love,

experience a trappiste belgian beer,

sip a latte with Le Monde…and go wise

Our Menu

In a world where technology has all but taken the place of humans, there are very few professions one can stand behind as true and timeless. To cook, to serve, to build, to heal or to farm...these services have always been the quiet soldiers in a prosperous society, providing the juice to keep the human engine running.

Of course, contemporary cooking has gone far beyond it's utilitarian roots to become something that is not only a necessity, but an inspiration, an event, an experience. And it is with this development that we chefs have a second chance to nurture a hungry mind and palate.

If we had to pick one element that drives us as a team, it is Virginia and the amazing products it has to offer and how, even today, they sustain the sentiment of the cafe culture. From its farms to its artisan bread and cheese makers, we are inspired by those who continue to work in the style of the old world--with nature and community in mind and without the restraints of big business. It is this tradition, this symbiotic relationship between chef and farmer, that we strive to support and, in turn, enables us to offer a menu worthy of our best customers.

So here is our soul on a plate. A menu that is not only our way of expressing ourselves creatively but also a means to highlight the real stars—our fresh ingredients along with the people who grow and tend them. With that said, we feel great pride in knowing that our efforts as chefs contribute to the community we live in. And we hope you will enjoy the food as much as we enjoy cooking it.

--Jen Mindell and crew

In a hurry

Our deli case is now stocked with an assortment of savory deli items and freshly baked pastries that you can grab and go. With everything from pumpkin muffins to mixed berry turnovers, Gutenberg To Go is a great way to get something quick and delicious when you dont have time to spare.

Looking for Experienced Kitchen Staff

Are you an experienced prep, grill, or saute cook? If so, stop by the cafe and drop off your resume today. We're hiring!

Upstairs Available

Looking for a distinctive place to host your next event? The upstairs room at the cafe offers an ambiance of French farmhouse elegance mixed with casual comfort. With both antique wooden tables and hardwood floors, a cozy chaise lounge, and original wall-lined windows overlooking the city, you’ll immediately feel pleasantly at ease.

Whether you’re hosting a rehearsal dinner, a bridal luncheon, a surprise birthday party or a personal wine tasting for your business clients, we have a range of styles to suit the occasion and will make it both unique and memorable.

WineDown Wednesday

A relaxed and inexpensive way to unwind mid-week - every wednesday evening, 5pm until closing, glasses of wine are half price.

excludes sparkling, dessert and premium wines

Drink illy in Your Pajamas

The smooth, delicious taste of illy can be enjoyed in the privacy of your own home. While we know its nice to sit and enjoy a cup here with us, sometimes you just don't want to get dressed and out the door.

Medium, Dark and Decaf are all available and come in whole beans, medium and fine grinds. May be used in an espresso machine, drip coffee maker or french press.