Old Original Bookbinders
Richmond, VA 23223-7822
Phone: (804) 643-6900
- Price:
- $$$
- Hours:
- Mon-Sat 5pm-10pm , Sun 5pm-9pm
Editorial Review for Old Original Bookbinders – by Carter Trumbo
The Scene
Let the subtle yet superb staff guide you through a classic American menu at this renovated tobacco warehouse by the river. They'll park your car and check your coat so you can concentrate on a quiet dinner. An open kitchen, live lobster tank, exposed brick walls and filmy curtains create a feeling of space without stuffiness.
The Food
As the first offshoot of the Philadelphia original, Bookbinders has the family-owned reputation at stake. Rich, red, thick and spicy, the snapper soup is a totally unique contrast to traditional chowders. The raw bar has Blue Point oysters or cherry stone clams, entrees include pan-seared sea bass, shellfish cioppino or fresh lobster (right from the tank). Grilled prime beef is impeccable in quality and preparation. The weak links: bland lobster mashed potatoes, cream spinach without the cream (although the smoked bacon flavor was an interesting touch) and an uninspired bread basket. When you crack the caramel crust of the cr¿me brulee, you'll swoon.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
User Reviews for Old Original Bookbinders
01/29/2008 Posted by luvtodineandtravel
Was looking forward to Bookbinders for our weekly nice dinner for my husband and I. Its pretty inside and the ambience is nice. They honored our request and got us a booth so that we could sit next to each other. Most of the patrons have their nose up in the air, so be careful. We don't feel the need to flaunt our money, but it seemed many people here did. Server was unpleasant the entire time. We had to ask for bread from 3 people 4 times. It finally came with our entree. Not a good start to the meal. However, I must admit it was the best bread I've had in Richmond. hot sourdough, amazing butter. The caesar salads were quite good, and we both enjoyed them. I ordered the petite filet and my husband the blackened tuna. We both thought our dishes were good, but not over-the-top. They were satisfying, but not the best. For dessert we tried the key lime which is in a chocolate cookie crust. Interesting combination, but oh-so-good. Server never got friendlier. However, I would go back for the bread and the Caesar. They were worth the trip back. Heck, I would go back just for the bread. Overall, good dining experience, but if you are in that end of town, go to Sensi, which is next door. Thats our all time favorite in Richmond.
Pros: bread, salad, dessert
Cons: service
11/14/2007 Posted by keltraylor
My husband and I went for our 1st anniversery. We LOVED it...Although I was kind of expecting a little more. The food is very filling and good...kind of bland though. Crabcakes are def. the best!! hands down! Wine was wonderful! Valet a BIG PLUS!
Pros: Valet, Crabcakes
Cons: Waitress was a little rude...
Users Like You Also Viewed
Copper Grill Steaks & Lobs
11800 W Broad St
Richmond, VA 23233
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
9200 Stony Point Pkwy
Richmond, VA 23235
