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The Laundromat
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
The Laundromat
8.0
By day, hand-rolled bagels; by night, pan pizzas, salads, and natural-leaning wines in a converted laundromat. It’s a casual, design-forward hangout fueling Balboa Street’s current momentum.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sausage & Peppers pizza, Crispy Brussels, Little Gem Caesar
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: All-day bagels-to-pizza concept with a playful wine program.
Who should go: Casual pizza and bagel seekers
When to visit: Weeknights for easier tables and quicker pies
What to order: Sausage & Peppers pie, crispy Brussels, Caesar
Insider tip: Morning bagels sell fast—arrive early for favorite schmears.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Balboa and nearby side streets; easier before 6pm, but spots fill quickly during dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual and design-conscious; jeans, sneakers, and sweaters all fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate buzz during dinner—music and conversation blend, but you can comfortably chat at your table.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for a table; walk-ins often wait longer after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before noon; bagel line moves steadily.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several meatless pizzas, salads, and bagel options.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 choices depending on specials; vegan schmear occasionally offered.
Gluten-free options: Not a focus – no gluten-free bagels or dough, but some salads and sides qualify.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – it’s laid-back but stylish, ideal for a low-pressure first date over good pizza or wine. Outdoor tables add a cozy neighborhood feel.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – it’s walk-in only; arrive early for dinner or late afternoon for bagels to avoid lines.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably – casual setup and quick service work for families, but it skews more adult in the evening wine-bar hours.
Best For
Better for: Casual evening pizza and wine hangouts in a stylish space; livelier and trendier than traditional pizzerias nearby.
Skip if: You need gluten-free or traditional Italian-style pizzas; it’s more of a creative, neighborhood hybrid concept.
The Laundromat
8.1
Morning bagels turn into highly photogenic stacks—lox, egg, and cheese—with bright tiled backdrops and natural light. It’s a casual, design-forward hangout where coffee, juice, and loaded bagel sandwiches make for easy brunch content.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lox bagel with capers, Egg & cheese bagel, Loaded veggie bagel
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Bagel-focused brunch in a playful, photogenic space.
Who should go: Bagel fans who love casual brunch
When to visit: 9–11am for best light and shortest lines
What to order: Lox bagel, egg & cheese, cold brew
Insider tip: Grab a window seat—best angles for overhead sandwich shots.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Balboa and 32nd Avenue; usually available before 10am but fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Casual and camera-ready; athleisure, denim, and minimalist brunchwear all fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate buzz—lively during brunch hours but conversation-friendly inside.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—closes before dinner service.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait before noon; lines start after 12pm on sunny days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of vegetarian bagel and toast options including avocado and egg variations.
Vegan options: Limited—plant-based spreads and veggie bagel combos available but not extensive.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free bagels, though salads and bowls can be customized.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for casual daytime meetups—it’s bright, upbeat, and low-pressure with easy conversation flow over coffee and bagels.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations accepted. Arrive before 10am on weekends for fastest seating or expect a short line at peak brunch hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—spacious tables, high chairs available, and a relaxed vibe make it easy for families with young kids.
Best For
Better for: More visually engaging and design-forward than most local brunch spots—ideal for photos and casual hangs.
Skip if: You’re after a full-service brunch with cocktails or plated entrées; this is a counter-service spot focused on bagels and coffee.
The Laundromat
8.3
Evenings shift from bagels to square pan pizzas with a light, airy crumb and crisp edges, poured alongside natural wine and local beer. It’s a casual, modern hangout that balances quality ingredients with accessible pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Pepperoni Pan Pizza, Mushroom Combo Pan Pizza, Margherita Pan Pizza
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Evening-only square pies with natural wine in a revived laundromat space.
Who should go: Pan-pizza fans and casual wine drinkers
When to visit: Right at 5pm to snag a table
What to order: Pepperoni pan pie; mushroom combo; margherita
Insider tip: They don’t take reservations—arrive early or be ready to queue.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Balboa and nearby residential blocks is generally available but fills quickly after 6pm; no dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual—hoodies, denim, and sneakers fit the vibe, though the crowd leans stylish.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly early evening, louder around peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes after 6:30pm, especially for larger parties.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—pizza service starts evenings only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pizzas like margherita and mushroom are fully vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—can request cheeseless pie but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crust; cross-contact likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—casual but intimate energy with warm lighting and wine service. It’s relaxed without feeling sloppy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only. Arrive by 5pm to secure a seat or plan to wait at the counter for takeaway.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—daytime bagel service welcomes families; evening pizza crowd is mixed but casual enough for older kids.
Best For
Better for: Creative square-pan pizzas with premium toppings and a breezy, neighborhood energy that’s less formal than Fiorella or Pizzetta 211.
Skip if: You need gluten-free or traditional round Neapolitan-style pies—this leans into thick, pan-style crusts.
The Laundromat
7.9
Buzzy neighborhood hangout that shifts from bagels by day to pizza and salads at night, with Friday–Saturday service running later than most of the Richmond. Crisp, well-seasoned pies pair with a tight beer and wine list.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Pepperoni, Spicy soppressata pie, Seasonal white pie
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Dinner-only pizza program with later weekend hours and lively energy.
Who should go: Friends looking for a casual late bite
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 8pm for the full vibe
What to order: Classic pepperoni; spicy soppressata; seasonal white
Insider tip: Bar seats turn quickest and are ideal for two.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on Balboa and nearby residential blocks; can be tight after 7pm, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Casual; jeans, sneakers, and hoodies fit right in with the neighborhood crowd.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is possible at small tables but bar seating gets louder as the night goes on.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes for a two-top after 8pm; bar seats often turn faster.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; dinner-only, usually no wait before 7:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pies and salads are vegetarian-friendly, including seasonal specials.
Vegan options: Limited—no dedicated vegan cheese, but a few salads and sauceless pies can be modified.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free dough; sensitive diners should avoid due to cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re going for casual and fun. The buzz and bar seating make it feel lively without pressure—better for a second or third date than a quiet romantic one.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins only. Arrive early or aim for bar seats if you don’t want to wait; the small dining room fills quickly on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—families with older kids fit in fine during early dinner hours, but later nights skew adult and social.
Best For
Better for: Livelier energy and crisper pies than most neighborhood spots; ideal for casual late-night hangs.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, traditional sit-down pizza dinner—try Gaspare’s instead.
The Laundromat
8.4
Neighborhood spot that flips a cult-favorite smash burger during dinner service, with Wednesday Burger Night drawing regulars. Tight menu, quick pacing, and consistent sear-to-juicy ratio make it a reliable late-evening fix.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Smash Burger (Burger Night), Classic Cheeseburger, Fries with house dip
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A tightly dialed smash burger program anchored by a weekly Burger Night.
Who should go: Smashburger fans and late-evening diners
When to visit: Wed nights and Fri–Sat dinner for peak energy
What to order: Double smash, classic cheeseburger, fries
Insider tip: Burger Night sells out—arrive early or order right at open.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; spots open up after 8pm but can be competitive during dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual — locals come in hoodies and jeans; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate buzz — lively during Burger Night but still easy enough to chat over music.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak hours; quick turnover since seating is limited.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service — dinner only with minimal wait if you arrive before 7pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — occasional veggie burger special or fries-only meal.
Vegan options: Very limited — no dedicated vegan patties or cheese substitutes.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated GF bun; fries and patties are cooked on shared equipment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if your date is casual and foodie-minded — the cozy, buzzy vibe and quality burgers make it fun without pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s first-come, first-served. Arrive early on Wednesday Burger Night or expect to wait at the counter for a seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — no kids’ menu, but families stop by early evenings. Best suited for older kids who can handle a quick, informal setup.
Best For
Better for: Best for crisp-edged, juicy smashburgers and local neighborhood energy without the downtown fuss.
Skip if: You’re looking for large seating, vegan options, or a quiet sit-down meal — nearby full-service burger bars fit better.
The Laundromat
8.6
Morning bagels, evening pizza, and natural wine, but the bagels are the draw—malted, well-proofed rings with a crisp exterior and chewy center. Lines move quickly, and the counter keeps orders tight and hot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rip & Dip Bagel, Egg Everything Bagel, Sesame Bagel with Scallion Schmear
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Bagels made daily with dialed-in crust and chew, served fast.
Who should go: Bagel purists and early risers
When to visit: Morning opening hour to avoid sell-outs
What to order: Rip & Dip; egg everything; sesame with scallion
Insider tip: Grab schmear to-go; pizza starts later if you return at night.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Balboa and nearby side streets; easier before 9am, tougher after midmorning on weekends.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—athleisure and hoodies fit right in with the neighborhood vibe.
Noise level: Low to moderate in the morning; conversations are easy over coffee even with steady foot traffic.
Weekend wait: N/A for bagels—pizza service evenings can see 20–30 minute waits at peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; most guests are in and out within 5 minutes during bagel service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several schmear and veggie combos, plus avocado and egg options.
Vegan options: Limited—plain and everything bagels with hummus or jam are safe picks.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free bagels offered; cross-contact likely in shared prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re going for a casual coffee-and-carb kind of meetup. It’s relaxed, buzzy, and easy for a quick chat before a beach walk.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—this is counter service only. Grab a stool or one of the few sidewalk seats if available; turnover is fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can handle counter seating; limited space and hot coffee traffic make it less ideal for strollers or toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Handmade bagels with true New York–style chew, tight pacing, and locally roasted coffee in a modern café setting.
Skip if: You need gluten-free or full table service—this is grab-and-go by design.
The Laundromat
8.3
Wednesday-only smash-burger night draws lines for crisp-edged doubles dressed with pickles, shredded lettuce, and special sauce. It’s a weekly ritual—limited hours, dine-in only—and the energy makes it feel like a small neighborhood event.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Patty Smashburger, Veggie Smash Burger, Special Sauce Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Hype-worthy, once-a-week smash burgers with crisp lacey edges.
Who should go: Smash-burger chasers and burger night regulars
When to visit: Wednesdays 5–9pm; arrive early before sellouts
What to order: Double smash; veggie smash; fries with special sauce
Insider tip: Dine-in only—no mods, no subs; line moves quickly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along Balboa and surrounding residential blocks; expect competition on Wednesday nights, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual neighborhood vibe—jeans, hoodies, and sneakers fit right in.
Noise level: Lively and social during burger service—conversation-friendly but with background buzz from the crowd.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—burger night is Wednesday only; lines form before opening and waits average 20–40 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch; burger night only from 5–9pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie smash option available and well-received.
Vegan options: Limited—no vegan cheese or bun substitutions, though fries are vegan.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free bun; celiac diners should skip the burger or bring a workaround.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you both appreciate casual food events—standing in line and sharing smash burgers can be fun and low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations accepted. Arrive before 5pm to secure a spot or expect a short queue that moves steadily.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—family-friendly early in the evening, but the crowd skews adult once lines build; no kids’ menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Energy and exclusivity—its one-night-only format creates a pop-up buzz that regular burger joints can’t replicate.
Skip if: You want a full-service meal, quiet setting, or guaranteed seating without waiting in line.