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Tobacco Company Restaurant
Category: Restaurants American (New) American (New) [Edit]
1201 E Cary StRichmond, VA 23219
(804) 782-9555
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 11:30 am - 2 am
Sat-Sun 3 pm - 2 am
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Ambience:
- Classy, Trendy, Upscale
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
76 reviews for Tobacco Company Restaurant
Review Highlights
"Oh, and the cigar girls are a wonderful throwback."
(in 5 reviews)
"The butter cake for two was amazing."
(in 2 reviews)
"What I do suggest, however, is their amazing happy hour."
(in 7 reviews)
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76 reviews in English
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Review from Aaron N.
2/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
Attention all restaurants. If you wrap anything in bacon...you have my vote. I got the bacon-wrapped monkfish and it was very very very good. Tobacco Company has a great atmosphere for a group of friends to grab dinner and everything that we had to eat was cooked perfectly. MAKE SURE YOU GET THE DESSERTS! I tried the lemon meringue pie (slamming), the apple pie (crazy good), and the Mary Martin's Cheese Pie (holy crap). I suggest having everyone ordering something different and then trying everything.
After dinner, make sure to go down to the club area on the other side/basement of the bar. It's got a great dance floor and amazing music. Only problem is that you can't bring your drink to the dance floor, so get your drinking done at dinner. Both the restaurant and the club deserve a southern style BOOOOOM! -
Review from Elliot T.
San Francisco, CA
2/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
This is an interesting place that I have heard a few people mention to try. It reminds me of an old fashion restaurant you might find in the south in 1920 from the decor of the place and how the staff dress. Overall it was a good experience with some good food.
Food-
Bread- Nice warm and tasty
Crab Cakes- small portion but surprisingly filling from the bread pudding that is under the crab cakes. -
Review from Ellen D.
2/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
A group of us came here while we were in Richmond for the weekend. The atmosphere was great, and the food was really good. I had the bacon-wrapped monkfish, and it was cooked to perfection. The drinks were relatively cheap and overall, it was a fantastic meal.
Our waitress wasn't my favorite, but other than that, everything was great! Oh, and the cheese pie was unreal, especially considering it was around 150 calories. Yum! -
Review from Barry P.
Richmond, VA
12/17/2011 8 Check-ins Here
Disclaimer: this is a Happy Hour Review. The rating above is for the happy hour in the bar area, not the dinner in the dining areas or the downstairs club.
With that out of the way: a great happy hour stop. Starts at 3pm, goes to 7pm. The drinks are cheap ($2 domestic bottles, for example), the bar apps are decent (3 for $20) and the service is great.
It's the kind of place that if you go to a few times, the bartenders will remember your name. Kind of a Cheers vibe, which I like.Listed in: Happy Hours Spots in Richmond,…
Comment from Shannon G. of Tobacco Company Restaurant 12/20/2011
Barry, thank you for your review. We hope to see you again… More » -
Review from William B.
Petersburg, VA
11/20/2011
My first visit here in 2006 was so good that it would have deserved six stars. It's sad to see what a few years can do if a place doesn't carefully maintain the practices that made it great. It was so disappointing that I refrained from reviewing and went back five times with long pauses in between hoping against hope that the last one was a fluke. None of them were. The food has dropped in variety and quality to about what you'd find in a Ruby Tuesday. If you look at their website, you'll see pictures of food that don't look anything like what you'll get.
They keep an "A-Ok" rating because the bar remains really nice. They have a decent selection of beer and spirits and the service there remains top-knotch (unlike at the tables). Also, if you feel you need a snack, the oyster sliders are acceptable.
This place is, for me, strictly a bar now and not a place to seek out for the food. -
Review from Northern N.
Teaneck, NJ
2/1/2012
Such a nice atmosphere, but then there was the salmon. So much history there, high ceilings, old elevator, cool hostess area, but for the love of god, the salmon. The butter that came with the bread had this awesome honey flavor, which was unfortunately followed up by the shoot-yourself-in-the-head-with-a-nail-gun salmon. My business guest had prime rib, which was apparently great, but as you might have guessed, I passed up on the beef and went with salmon. When it was served, I immediately smelled old fish fumes wafting up to my nose. I didn't want to touch it. I knew it would be terrible. But, alas I did. Holy love of god, it was the single worst piece of fish I have ever tasted. How a nice place like that could serve that rotten piece of gross fish, I have no idea. But, the atmosphere, the butter, the prime rib! Just stay away from the salmon.
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Review from Kara K.
11/7/2011
Food was good. Loved the look of the place. Service had much to be desired.
We had to remind our waiter numerous times when we had asked for extra bread, more butter, a steak knife (why do I even have to ask for this?!?), etc. He didn't come and see if our meals we prepared properly or if we even wanted to order more cocktails. Our empty plates sat on our table for a good 15-20 minutes before he came to clear them (AFTER I gave him a "look"). Every time he arrived to our table, he had an excuse and an apology (guess it's better than not having one). He also seemed to be much more concerned with the 5 top next to us and gave all of his attention and time to them. Very disheartening after paying $100 for two people. I am just T-I-R-E-D of subpar/poor service. UGH.
If ever in Richmond again, I would go here for later night cocktails only (and eat somewhere else beforehand). They had a band playing and a great cocktail area set-up. Felt like a place where you could sit at a swanky, southern table with a group of well-dressed friends whilst swilling scotch and smoking cigars. Reminded me of something from Charleston with its old school Southern charm. Liked the vibe a lot. -
Review from Matt J.
Arlington, VA
12/12/2011
Why/When I tried it
My younger brother graduated from VCU (congrats Mike!) on Dec 9 and we all went out to have a nice graduation-night dinner for him.
Location/accessibility
I have to be honest I really know know much about Richmond, so I can't really comment on how easy or convenient the location is. However, when we were walking there from the parking garage across the street, my brother pointed out the drunk bus that apparently drops college kids off here for happy hour. So, if you happen to live somewhere on that drunk bus line, the location is wonderful!
Atmosphere
An old tobacco warehouse, this place has that old-time, rustic feel. There are three floors and a basement (which I didn't actually see). There was a band set up on the main floor and each floor has its own private dining room if you wanted to rent it out.
Menu/pricing
I had no idea this place is really more of a steakhouse than anything else. Not surprisingly, a majority of the dishes include different streaks and high-end seafood. Minimum dish was about $18, but the average was between $25-$30 per plate.
Food
I tried the NY strip. It was cooked perfectly (medium-well) and was nice and juicy. FYI: our waiter said they usually cook things a little more rare overall. For example, "medium" here would be pink all the way through with a little bit of a red center. I would also recommend the crab and brie fondue for an appetizer - delicious. Also FYI, they have 3 or 4 big salads and can remove meat or seafood from pasta dishes for vegetarians. On the down side, my garlic broccoli was a little plain and couldn't really taste the garlic--it's like they put all the effort into the mains and skimped a little on the sides.
Service
The waiter was knowledgeable about the menu and history of the restaurant. He came around to refill drinks often, as did the girls selling cigars and cigarettes.
Grading
No real complaints other than the price. But in this instance our dad picked up the tab so that helped :-) The slightly weak side dishes kept me from giving out the coveted 5-star rating.Comment from Shannon G. of Tobacco Company Restaurant 12/13/2011
Thank you so much for your review! We hope to have you again… More » -
Review from Darrell B.
Denton, TX
1/28/2012 Seated via OpenTable
It was great service was outstanding the food is as good as it gets.
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Review from Kate L.
Minneapolis, MN
11/12/2011
A colleague and I stopped in here after a client meeting - starving and exhausted from the day.
We quickly found a seat at the bar and had a waitress there within a minute or two. The Happy hour was amazing - you had a choice of 3 items from their full bar menu for $20. And everything looked good, so having multiple selections was helpful.
For our 3 selections, we had the Lump Crab and Brie fondue, Coconut grilled shrimp and the waitress's suggestion of the Virginia BBQ Bruschetta.
When someone says fondue, I think I am dipping bread, meat or vegetable in some oil/cheese mixture that is heated and shared by the table. However, the TCR considers fondue a semi warm crab & cheese dip, served with pita chips. I guess Fondue could be a fancy way to say Dip. I don't know that it was worth the calories actually.
The coconut shrimp was pretty good - and they are a respectable size. Definitely worth ordering, and they come with 2 great dipping sauces. But how could you possibly go wrong with deep fried anything?
The real winner was the Bruschetta - which was BBQ pork with Jicama on top. Super delicious and I typically have an aversion to BBQ sauce/flavor. I did not observer the code of sharing - and without asking at the last one. Whatever, I am the boss, so it was ok.
They also offer a beer flight for $7, which wasn't a bad price. But I couldn't figure out why they would do this since they don't brew their own beer. I guess they were just highlighting the different types of beer they have? Most people use a menu, or offer samples when requested - this is an interesting approach. I ordered a Crispin Cider so that I could represent MN - holla!
I can't speak for the dinners or much else except the happy hour experience. The crowd was good and seemingly professional. I think it is a pretty cool hang out on Cary Street, which is a really cute street anyways.Comment from Shannon G. of Tobacco Company Restaurant 11/14/2011
Thank you for taking the time to write this review. The… More » -
Review from Jalpa P.
Richmond, VA
12/4/2011
Great happy hour. $1-$1.50 rails from 8pm-9pm Thursday through Saturday. Wednesdays they have drink specials! There are waitresses everywhere who are very efficient and so sweet. Only thing terrible is the cigar smoke in the basement. I only go there for drinks and have not had the food yet though but I have heard great things.
Comment from Shannon G. of Tobacco Company Restaurant 12/6/2011
Jalpa, So glad to read that you enjoy our happy hour! We… More » -
Review from Lisa G.
Richmond, VA
12/12/2011
I haven't been to this place in years... and the reason is because it's so overrated. I always give a place a second chance, sometimes a third. Each time I'd been to TC, it disappointed. Beautiful building, nice decor, but the food and service just don't match. This is one of those places that stays in business because of it's location, location, location and reputation of old.
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Review from Jared G.
Glen Allen, VA
10/14/2011
We had lunch here on Wednesday. The area, the building and the decor are all as everyone describes - lots of character.
There was not a very large selection to choose from on the lunch menu, nor did they have sparkling water of any kind. Not a big deal, but something I would expect in a white linen restaurant.
What we did choose was fine. One Cuban sandwich, one burger and one turkey sandwich. All were fine, the turkey and Brie probably the best of the lot. The side salad was kind of lame and the she- crab soup was a little bland. All of that was probably 1 to 1.5 stars. The dessert salvaged a 3 star.
The butter cake for two was amazing! Crisp outside and warm and soft inside. Sugary and buttery sweet! We also tasted the key lime pie - it was worth the mediocre lunch!
Friendly service, but also kind of bland.
J -
Review from Jay K.
Richmond, VA
9/24/2011
Overall spectacular service in suspenders... Seriously, where else can
You see that in Richmond? Seriously though, the food has always been great. I usually get the filet, and it's always been cooked as specified. If you're in a party of 2-4, ask for the elevator booth; its a unique experience.
I'm a sucker for historical buildings, and if you are too, then you'll like this restaurant even more. Its humongous, so if there's a wait, which surprisingly isn't too often, it won't bee too long. They have live music pretty regularly, so if you're interested call ahead to be sure of those dates.
Aside from traditional sit down dining, there's always the bar if you're in a time pinch. The service is a bit faster, and obviously you'll have readier access to their fully stocked bar. They make a mean whiskey ginger, but for those who like their drinks to not have much alcohol taste to them, they also make a mean Rasberry Kamikazi. My girl is a pretty picky drinker, and hates to taste too much alcohol in a drink, but she loved that drink.
All in all, this place is a true Richmond staple, and once you try it you'll know why. Like a lot of great restaurants, its not about any single thing that they do right, but a combination of every thing about the place, beginning the moment you step inside.Comment from Shannon G. of Tobacco Company Restaurant 10/19/2011
Thank you so much for your review! We hope to see you again… More » -
Review from Toni G.
Richmond, VA
11/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've been to The Tobacco Company a handful of times to have drinks and party downstairs years ago. I visited a few years ago for brunch and had a pleasant experience (the soft shell crab was great!) I was there about a year ago for a late dinner after that arts in lights even in Shockoe Bottom...it was extremely busy downstairs, but I enjoyed my food. This time around I had dinner with my guy and a few friends (celebrating a friend's birthday) in one of those intimate rooms on the second floor. It was so cute and cozy! The server seemed a bit overwhelmed with how busy the establishment was on a Friday night, but he was friendly and attended to our needs for the most part. I had the seafood pasta, which was very hearty and delicious, though I found myself reaching for a salt shaker to give it some "oomph." The birthday boy had the butter cake for two...if you have a sweet tooth, that dessert will certainly cure your craving for sweets!
The REAL reason I would return to The Tobacco Company? Its Tom Collins. No other bar makes it the way it's made here!Comment from Shannon G. of Tobacco Company Restaurant 11/22/2011
Toni, I am so glad to read that you have enjoyed the times… More » -
Review from BBC C.
Jersey City, NJ
11/16/2011
$2 burgers at the bar on Sundays! I had their house salad which was ok. Drinks were ok. Beautiful old building, lots of wood inside, built right after the civil war.
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Review from Tony H.
Richmond, VA
11/22/2011
A very standard restaurant that has been in business since the mid to late 70's. They are consistent, not outstanding but very nice. Certainly a place I can recommend.
Comment from Shannon G. of Tobacco Company Restaurant 12/6/2011
Tony, thank you for your recommendation. More » -
Review from C B.
Jersey City, NJ
11/4/2011
The restaurant
Whenever, I'm in Richmond, VA I usually go there. It's on the trendy side. The food is great. I had the lamb shank one time which is very good. And another time I had the T.C burger with sweet potato fries. Hmm hmm hmmm. I've been to this place several times. I always enjoy the food t. I usually seat at the Bar. The Drinks are good
The Club
Don't waste your time at the club. It's in the basement and people are allowed to smoke inside. The Music is ok nothing worth mentioning. Stay at the bar you get a chance to talk to other professionals.Comment from Shannon G. of Tobacco Company Restaurant 11/8/2011
C.B. Thank you very much for taking the time to write this… More » -
Review from Harold I.
3/6/2011
I was in town on business. Had a business partner meet me here for dinner.
The atmosphere was pretty cool here. 3-stories, an ancient elevator, and a generally cool vibe.
Then came the service, followed by the food.
It's not so much that the service was awful, but instead that it was not special, considering what was ultimately to be a pricey meal. Our waitress recommended that I try a particular beer--a stout--and I took her up on the offer. Somehow, she brought me a completely different beer, which was also a stout, but clearly not the one she had recommended. The name was completely different. Strike 1.
I ordered a New York Strip and my friend ordered a Rib Eye. Mine was generally flavorless, over cooked, and low quality. I didn't hear any rave reviews from my dinner companion, either. Strike 2.
The damage: $120. Strike 3.
You're out!
For that amount of money (not that I consider it an exorbitant amount), I had higher expectations. In fact, I ate at several eateries throughout Richmond, and believe me when I say that there are many much better than this for a fraction of the cost. Halligans, Capital Ale House, even Galaxy Diner in Carytown. Those meals can all be had for about $20 a pop and taste much better with friendlier service to boot! -
Review from Renee Q.
Oak Grove, KY
6/14/2011
I was here for a party so I can't comment on the menu or prices.
The Tobacco company is a restaurant/club. It is 3 stories high. It is fashionably decorated. Lots of luxe fabrics and gold accents. Tons to look at, a very visual place. There is a working elevator in the building.
I didn't get to look around to much but I wish I had. -
Review from Jessica D.
Camarillo, CA
3/23/2011
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 3
I was truly surprised by this place. I read reviews before we went so I was a little jaded and expecting a mediocre meal.
It's located in a great three story brick building that used to be a tobacco warehouse (thus the name). I was with a group of ten and we were brought up to the third floor for dinner.
The bread hit the table first and it was warm, crusty, and delicious. Salads followed and our server recommended their blue cheese vinegarette which was really tasty. My only issue with the salad is that it was nothing but a huge handful of spring greens with two cherry tomatoes and a few strands of shredded carrots. Boring. For my entree I got the nightly special which was rockfish with a sundried tomato pesto over mashed potatoes and with asparagus. It was divine. The fish was cooked to perfection and the pesto really set the flavors off. I ate way too much of it because I just couldn't stop. No one got dessert due to the fact that we all inhaled our dinners and filled up. But rear choices sounded varied and tasty.
Our server was a little cocky and he want around that much. With a ten top, you need to be attentive and make sure that you're covering both ends of the table. But he was alright.
The first floor was a bar, and being that it was St. Patricks day, it was going off. They also had a piano player for the first part of the night who was playing Billy Joel, queen, etc and it was a lot of fun.
Nice evening, nice meal, it's worth having a meal here. -
Review from Jenna S.
Philadelphia, PA
11/15/2010
I was in Richmond for a conference and was told, erroneously that this place had vegetarian items. Besides one appetizer and of course, salad, there was not one vegetarian item to be had on the menu. I asked them to make me the seafood pasta dish without the seafood and asked them to put in veggies instead. I got a dish with about 3 leaves of spinach in it and noodles overcooked and mushy. In short the worst pasta dish I have ever had since I first made it when I was 13. PLUS they charged me $26 the same as the seafood, I feel scammed. Spent over $50 on a salad (was OK) that pasta nightmare and two beers. Never going there again.
The only reason it gets more than one star is the ambiance was fantastic it was a beautiful building. But please fire the chef. -
Review from Crystal E.
Arlington, VA
8/20/2011
wouldn't know because I was turned away at the door for wearing my allsaints shirt which was labeled a graphic tee,,,, funny! I just took my prada wallet and all it's contents elsewhere. This would never happen in wash dc..just shows how far behind the eightball richmond really is! Sorry will never go back!
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Review from David P.
Eden Prairie, MN
11/3/2010
This is a high end Richmond destination. Be ready to drop triple digits for a nice dinner with drinks. I don't smoke personally, and enjoy dining where others don't. The tobacco company obviously allows smoking(no current city/state laws prohibit it), and I found it to be a bit overwhelming in the bar areas.
This is a mans destination, if you are looking for an upscale business dinner, they have plenty of top shelf liquor and ladies carting around cigars for you.
Towards the back you'll find a smoking room, and downstairs there is a club. I really enjoyed the architecture and decor.
I got the swordfish - which was very tasty - and the house specialty cheesecake like desert.
I would go back, but just plan on washing every article of clothing you bring in afterwards unless you want to smell. -
Review from Samantha S.
Denver, CO
9/18/2010
I have been here a few times, and it has always been for business.
I often find that when I let my client choose where to do for lunch, that every time it has been here.
Every time I really enjoy the atmosphere that this place offers. A very slow elevator to take you up to the dinning area, with the ability for you to take in the greenage-plants, and decorations they have taken the time to create. Christmas time is particularly nice as well.
Yes, it is pricey, and not really something I would frequent... however, a good place to take clients, and have a respective and at tentative wait staff.
We were just here last week for a lunch, and burgers were ordered, salads, steak sandwiches and some of the angel shrimp pasta that was the special of the day. Heard no complaints... but feel the dessert was the best part of the lunch. I personally had cheese pie.. and loved it.. kind of like a light and fluffy cheesecake.
Probably not the BEST place for small children, and the menu isn't THAT elaborate for them....
Will be back here again! -
Review from Eliza C.
Chicago, IL
10/29/2010
I went here recently for dinner. Would I go back? If I had friends who wanted to go, sure. Otherwise, I'd rather check out another spot.
Ambiance: Airy and cozy. Comfortable yet elegant.
Food: The food was okay. The crab croquettes and crab soup were tasty. The scallops entree, however, was meh. The scallops were overcooked - a major pet peeve - and the risotto was not up to par. The butter cake was better than expected (I would've preferred chocolate). -
Review from Cynthia H.
Wayne, NJ
6/4/2010
Vegetarian-wise, this place strikes out big time. They have the obligatory pasta primavera which does use whole vegetables, but is overall unmemorable.
They offered a artichoke on the appetizer menu, but we were told it's no longer available.
The ambiance is interesting, but service is lackluster.
I can say it was better than McDonalds. -
Review from Cori H.
Sherman Oaks, CA
7/16/2010
When I lived in Richmond, my roommate worked here, so I know a lot about this place. I took a few people there, but figured out pretty fast--
The food is not worth the money you pay, but that is because you are paying for the aesthetics more than the food. It is a VERY cool place to sit in, though, so I highly recommend going here for happy hour. It is a place that is not to be missed if you are visiting, but come here for a drink or two, then head over to Millie's or Bookbinder's.
Man...this review is making me miss Richmond, especially Shockoe Bottom and The Fan. :( -
Review from Alexa R.
3/29/2011
The first time I ever ate at the Tobacco Company, you could still smoke inside of the restaurant. The inside is so cool and offers a truly authentic experience and the food does not disappoint. It does not thrill or take too many chances, either. I had a very basic salad last night, simple arugula and chevre tossed with balsamic and olive oil. My husband had crab croquettes, which he loved. He had the prime rib for dinner, which came with beans and a baked potato. My entree was very basic - salmon filet with a weird asparagus and apple salad (not a good combo) and potatoes. I did not have any cocktails, but my husband did. It ended up being about 110 dollars for the two of us, which is a bit steep for a Monday. The food is standard, but done well. Our server Gregg was delightful, too!
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Review from Mos D.
Tampa, FL
9/28/2008
It's amazing that locals hate this place but hotel's won't suggest anywhere else. You think anyone is being paid off?????
The food is very generic, almost hotel banquet style food. While the atmosphere is actually kind of neat nothing else is. It is extremely overpriced for the quality you get and I'll go on a limb and say Cigar girls are degrading. Everyone I know that has worked here has hated the management and swears they only hire based on looks, I haven't been proved wrong yet.
IF YOU ARE FROM OUT OF TOWN DO NOT GO HERE DESPITE WHAT YOUR CONCIERGE SAYS. GO TO JULEP'S, ZUPPA, BOOKBINDERS, WEEZIES, ANYWHERE BUT HERE!!!!!Listed in: Worst Restaurants
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Review from MC S.
Richmond, VA
4/25/2010
The food is good but overall, overpriced. What I do suggest, however, is their amazing happy hour. $5 martinis, $2.50 well drinks AND (the best part) a free buffet! Its very small - fruit, veggies, and mini roast beef sandwiches but its unlimited and delicious.
Afterward you can head downstairs to the club and their happy hour is also amazing. $1 shots and a fun dancing area.
Overall, wouldn't necessarily suggest it for dinner but you should definitely go for their happy hour!Listed in: Best Happy Hour
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Review from Ron B.
Lake Monticello, VA
12/14/2008
These reviews have more spin than the Obama campaign!
I have eaten here a couple of times and found the food pretty good. I had my favorite steak, a ribeye here and at Bookbinders and found the one at TC better.
The atmosphere is nicely done. I love the antiques and the weight of the furniture in contrast to the chrome and jewel tones in so many of the other places.
I love the comments about the attractive waitresses. All other things being equal, like service, personality, intelligence - give me an attractive woman over a less attractive one. So, sue me! I have had pleasant, attractive, competent waitresses here. I don't find that to be a bad thing.
Oh, and the cigar girls are a wonderful throwback. Who is degraded? The women that take those jobs haven't seemed to be abused or degraded. I never thought that Edie Adams was degraded. The Tobacco Company is a throwback - how many places can you even smoke a cigar indoors anymore? You want to come to dinner and throw yourselves on your cigar to protect the honor of a cigar girl? Laughable!
This isn't the best place that I have been to in town but it is far from the worst. There is more afoot here than dinner. -
Review from Bill F.
San Francisco, CA
7/16/2011
I have to say, I have very fond memories of this place. But, it's because I was all ways with a beautiful woman on a special day. My heart was warm so mediocre food and service was fine. The decor is really cool. We sat at the elevator table once and it was very romantic. One of the few times I saw a movie star it was in this place. Mike Connors the star of Manix was there and the band played the theme song from his show. Cool and funny. Youngsters, Google Manix if you're like, whaaa. It's pricey which I do not mind if it's a great experience. We never had bad food or service, but for an icon of Richmond eatery like the Tobacco Company Restaurant, it should be much better!
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Review from jose p.
San Jose, CA
3/31/2010
Workin for the man sucks but when the man covers dinner, it makes it even more enjoyable and bearable..
Hence the place we went to eat, not too fancy but a good place to go out on a hot date if you needed to.
The interior is really nice, food was pretty good too.
I had the 8oz filet mignon au poivre, which is topped with a sauce and peppercorn and served up just as I like it medium and a lil bloody. Our server was attentive and pretty nice.
He also offered us diffrent wines but we just stuck to beer.
Price was good, ima def come back for sure.. -
Review from Wendy C.
Honolulu, HI
2/1/2009
This place is touristy even coming from a tourist myself. It was on my list of places to visit while I'm in town. Although my local posse were hesitant about coming here during our nightlife crawl, they tried to accommodate for the out of towner's sake (myself). They kept telling me it's nothing like NY, but I'm fully aware I'm in a different town.
After reading all the reviews, I knew better not to order any food here and stick with drinks instead. I ended up having only one glass of their cheapest house red and plenty of diet coke. I don't mind paying for the over-priced drinks unless they're worth it, but they didn't have any signature cocktails mentioned on the menu.
If there's anything worth raving about...it's the unique ambiance, turn of the century gaudy decor, 4 levels of mega-sized spaciousness, and eye candy thanks to the sexy cigar girls parading all over the place. I'm a sucker for historic architecture and I do admire how they renovated this former tobacco warehouse into a classy spot for nightlife. Everything is pricey here, but the costs come with the scene.
It was cold out that evening we hung out here, but also convenient to stay indoors and rotate to a different floor whenever we got tired of the other floors. -
Review from Clayton P.
San Francisco, CA
2/2/2009
I'm not sure why this has a lot of down and out reviews, but I am sure it was a different experience being a tourists (and only my third time in Richmond), but I would Tobacco Company a great evening experience.
4 stories of fun - 3 of class and 1 in the basement.
The service was prompt and friendly. We sat at the bar tables and I had a great vodka martini and oysters rockafeller.
The setting inside, all inlaid brick, old school elevator and good smooth live music make for a nice ambiance.
The music in the basement is a little more than smooth as you will find your place jam packed in a club with little room to walk and little to nothing to look at. Such a weird change of pace from the world above.
And who doesn't like a nice cigar or smoke after a drink and meal? -
Review from Billy D.
10/26/2009
Looks like yelpers are not really a fan of this place...
I have to say, the interior is way cool- worth a trip to grab a drink there.
The food was super overpriced; like who do they think they are? -
Review from Al G.
San Jose, CA
6/24/2011
I had lunch at this place while I was in Richmond traveling for business, and I found it ot be a pretty neat throwback type of restaurant. The decor inside has a prohibition era feel to it, and the folks that work inside this place are very friendly. I had the prime rib sandwich, and it was one of the best I've ever had. They have a good bar area, and a pretty original menu. I'd definitely go back if I visit Richmond again.
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Review from Kelly H.
Mandeville, LA
6/1/2010
Start with good - not really formal, but still one of the best looking restaurant spaces in Richmond. Lots of natural light, distressed wood and exposed brick - a very nice dinning area.
Excellent service - attentive without being over-baring.
The not so good -
The food - it was good. But for the prices it should be exceptional. I had grilled Mahi with a pineapple salsa and I don't really remember much about it. It was good but nothing really exceptional. Most of the other members of my party had the prime rib - with same overall impression. Not bad by any means but not worth the price tag. I will however say that the wedge salad with blue cheese was excellent.
The wine list - not bad, but but a bit limited.
All in all, not bad. But for the same money there is much better to be had in Richmond -
Review from Adam W.
Oviedo, FL
4/12/2008 1 photo
Tobacco Company Restaurant
While on a business trip to Richmond it was suggested to me to go and take my team to The Tobacco Company and try the prime rib.
First the location on Cary Street was cool with several interesting looking restaurants all around it! The building it is in was very old and gave an interesting vibe. They had a nice bar downstairs and I saw the place where they had live music going on.
The experience was bland. Much to my dismay! The enclosed booth where I took my team was wonderful. The service was lacking. It was not super busy that night and they were just slow. Slow to take our order, get our drinks and finally our food and desserts.
My team had a large array of various items on the menu...Asking around the table people were saying the food was just good to alright. I ordered the "famous" prime rib that was discussed to me many times before coming here. It was good but I have had better and quite honestly less expensive in other places. All the desserts were wonderful.
The Tobacco Company has a great foundation to build a exclusive experience for its customers because of the building and the feeling you get when you walk inside but the most important thing about any restaurant in the dining experience. I want to eat food and know that the money I will be dropping is worth it. The food is GOOD but LACKING.
