Gigi Tea

On a slow weekday morning the room feels almost private — but on weekends, every seat is earned.

Set in Richmond, VA, Gigi Tea has carved out a corner of the city's weekend brunch scene with a personality of its own. The room comfortably seats a mix of solo diners working through a coffee and a newspaper, couples splitting a stack of pancakes, and friend groups settling in for a slow, three-hour Saturday.

The hash deserves attention: crisp-edged potatoes, caramelized onions, peppers, and a runny egg on top, with hot sauce on every table.

Menu highlights

Here is a snapshot of the kinds of brunch dishes you can expect to find on the menu at Gigi Tea. Specials rotate weekly with what's in season — check the chalkboard at the host stand when you arrive.

• Buttermilk pancakes with whipped butter and warm maple syrup
• Avocado toast on grilled sourdough with chili crisp and a soft egg
• Chicken and waffles with hot honey and pickled jalapeño
• Steel-cut oats with brown sugar, toasted nuts, and stewed fruit
• Huevos rancheros with corn tortillas, refried beans, and salsa verde
• Croque madame with béchamel, gruyère, and a fried egg
• Bottomless mimosa flight (90-minute limit, weekends only)
• Fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice and seasonal cold-pressed juices

The space leans casual — exposed brick, mismatched chairs, a chalkboard menu that changes with the seasons — but the cooking is dialed in.

The eggs Benedict here is a study in restraint: a properly toasted English muffin, paper-thin Canadian bacon, and a hollandaise that's lemony enough to cut through the richness.

Local tip: they take walk-ins only, but the host will quote you a realistic time and call your phone — go grab a coffee and explore the block.

Like a lot of the best brunch spots in Richmond, Gigi Tea is at its most magical on weekend mornings, when the kitchen is firing on all burners and the room slowly fills with the kind of low, happy hum that only good food and unhurried company can produce. By the time you walk out, you'll already be planning a return visit — and probably a long walk to work off the second cup of coffee.

Tips from the regulars

• Vegetarian and gluten-free diners have real options, not just sad fruit cups.
• Tip generously — the brunch shift is the toughest in any restaurant, and the staff here keeps it warm even at peak rush.
• Save room: the pastry case at the front is part of the experience.
• Best time to go: arrive before 9:30 a.m. on weekends to skip the worst of the wait at Gigi Tea.
• Best for: groups of 2 to 4 — larger parties may want to call ahead.

Hours

Frequently asked questions

What time does Gigi Tea open for brunch?

Posted hours are: 12:00-19:00; Tu off. Hours can change on holidays — call ahead if you're traveling.

Does Gigi Tea take reservations?

Most brunch spots in Richmond are walk-in friendly, with a wait list during peak hours. Larger parties (5+) should call ahead to ask about a reservation.

Is Gigi Tea kid-friendly?

Yes — Gigi Tea welcomes families. Most brunch menus include simple kid-friendly options like pancakes, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit. Highchairs are usually available.

What kind of cuisine does Gigi Tea serve?

It's classified under bubble_tea — broadly an American-style brunch experience with regional touches you'd expect in Richmond.

Is there outdoor seating at Gigi Tea?

Outdoor seating is not always confirmed. We recommend calling ahead during nice weather.

Location

Located at 1351 West Broad Street. Coordinates: 37.5535, -77.4555. Use the address above with your preferred maps application for turn-by-turn directions.