821: Almost perfect

The skinny: A single, unisex bathroom at the back of the restaurant. Pros: The folks at 821 have taken the graffiti conundrum and made it fun, providing chalkboard walls and chalk so that bathroom defacers can have their (very non-permanent) excitement.  This usually makes for entertaining slogans and retorts for the rest of us to […]

June 15, 2009; 9:00 AM • by Tess Shebaylo

The skinny:

A single, unisex bathroom at the back of the restaurant.

Pros:

The folks at 821 have taken the graffiti conundrum and made it fun, providing chalkboard walls and chalk so that bathroom defacers can have their (very non-permanent) excitement.  This usually makes for entertaining slogans and retorts for the rest of us to observe.  The more practical bathroom necessities are there as well; the sink and toilet seem to always be in good working order, and they’ve never run out of paper towels or soap when I’ve been there.  Having a single, lockable room is also a plus for those of you who make privacy a top priority.

Cons:

The only drawback to this lavatory is its location.  While it’s in the place that makes the most sense given the space they have to work with, it’s sandwiched between a table and the walkway at the end of the bar where servers walk in and out of the kitchen.  This means that when exiting the bathroom too quickly, you can clock a diner getting ready to sit down or a waiter carrying a tray full of food. Translation: take your time when opening that door.

821 Cafe
821 W. Cary St.
Richmond, VA 23220
(804) 649-1042

Photo courtesy of Wahig.

June 15, 2009 9:00 AM 1