ettamae's cafe

Today, Mother’s Day, March 13, 2012 is the last day that Ettamae’s Café

(522 N 2nd St) served their guests. It is such a sad and confusing thing when a family owned business closes. Especially, when that business, a restaurant, served something that people loved.

The first time we visited Ettamae’s was on a Real Richmond Food Tour. We were impressed with the food and the story and vowed to go back. Weeks and months passed and our dining adventures took us elsewhere.

I got a big reminder when I saw their 8 page spread in Richmond Magazine’s R-Home Edition. I thought we would have plenty of time to make it back.

Last week I saw their announcement that they would be closing and knew we better get there while we still could.

Saturday, we got a coveted spot on their patio at brunch. My eggs benedict was stellar, perfectly cooked eggs, hollandaise clearly made from scratch and sliced ham that had met the grill.  Evan’s chicken salad sandwich on fresh wheat bread was spot on.

They served great food, but sadly in the days we live, that is not always enough. Visit your favorite places and often. Support is needed for every local business, even those who seem like they have what it takes to be there for the long haul.