Skip to main content

ZipPicks Awards

Best Family Friendly American in Outer Richmond Best Business Lunch American in Outer Richmond Best Bagels in Outer Richmond

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Simple Pleasures Cafe 7.6
Richmond District
Legacy coffeehouse (since 1978) with house-roasted beans, sandwiches, and pastry case—an easy meet-up for strollers and grandparents. Sidewalk tables and relaxed service fit kid-friendly, low-key meals.
Must-Try Dishes: Breakfast bagel sandwich, Turkey avocado sandwich, Carrot cake
Scores:
Value: 8.6 Service: 7.8 Consistency: 7.9 Food Quality: 7.4 Atmosphere: 7 Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Richmond Legacy Business pouring coffee since the late ’70s.
Who should go: Parents and casual coffee meetups
When to visit: Mornings before the school rush
What to order: Bagel egg sandwich, turkey avocado, carrot cake
Insider tip: Order beans to-go—house roasts are fresher than average.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free and generally easy street parking on Balboa and 35th Avenue, though spaces can fill during morning school drop-offs.
Dress code: Completely casual—come in weekend wear, strollers and sweats fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate; conversations are easy over espresso machines’ hum.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—closes before dinner service.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; steady flow but quick table turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous breakfast and sandwich options like avocado toast, caprese, and veggie wraps.
Vegan options: Limited—can customize bagels or salads but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Some gluten-free pastries and sandwiches available; cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only for casual coffee meetups—it’s relaxed and unpretentious but lacks evening ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-in only, and tables turn quickly, even on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—ideal for toddlers through grandparents, with sidewalk seating and a low-stress vibe.
Best For
Better for: Laid-back morning coffee or casual family meetups; stronger local character and better beans than chain cafes nearby.
Skip if: You’re after upscale brunch or full-service dining—this is a counter-service coffeehouse first.

Hours

Monday6am - 9pm
Tuesday6am - 9pm
Wednesday6am - 9pm
Thursday6am - 9pm
Friday6am - 9pm
Saturday6am - 9pm
Sunday6am - 9pm