Southpaw Cafe & Community Center

Rented the space for a meeting recently. I’m not even sure where to begin, other than the fact we felt unwelcome from the start, place was not clean by any means, commode was stopped up, staff was annoyed anytime we said anything and I felt they could have taken down the shirts hanging on the “stage” for a rented space since they knew we were coming in and would be utilizing that space. Not worth the price we paid for sure. We also clearly stated who we were and why we were renting only to come and find signs hanging on the wall specifically hating on our business. I’m still mind blown.

Atmosphere: 1

Service: 1

This is a great place for well to do college students to socialize, but not so great for those in poverty the mission claims to serve. The community fridge is a nice idea, and I have no doubt there are some people who benefit from it. If they can get there at a time before the good foods are all taken by those who might not really need it. It is true that the food pantries in the NRV do have specific income requirements, and this unfairly disqualifies homeless people and others in need from being recipients. The purpose of this is to ensure food is given to families with children in crisis. Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry, as well as MCEAP in cburg are still worth checking out if you qualify for help. Many people are unaware of how easy it can be to qualify for SNAP benefits. Homeless people, even those living in a shelter, and even low income college students can receive SNAP benefits to buy food. It is a simple process that you can do on the Virginia department for social services website. I think if you claim to serve local people in need, then you should at least consider educating people and directing them to other local non profits instead of dumping nearly expired food in a box and claiming to be helping solve complex social problems. People in poverty also aren't really interested in attending your weekly knitting circles or book clubs either. Just food for thought.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

Place has got great atmosphere and has awsome shows every so offten, staff is amazingly kind, i was working the merch table for a friend whos band was playing there and the staff gave me free food! Incredible people and a great place to hang out and read the interesting literature they provide there

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great place for small events! The community pantry has been sorely needed in these economic times. Glad I could contribute! Difficult to find but a hidden gem!

Atmosphere: 5

Awesome people, awesome books, better drinks, best mission

Love all of the plants and books! The atmosphere is relaxing, the coffee and bagels are tasty, and the volunteers are super nice.

Beautiful & inviting place, the coffee and cream cheese bagels were delicious. Came here on a date and when we paid at the top of the sliding scale we were surprised with complimentary stickers of Appalachian grandmothers. They've also got tons of interesting books you can read while there, overall this is the coolest cafe I have ever visited.

We loved everything we ate and wish we had been hungrier!! My vegetarian friend and I ate very well, and will come back with our dogs because their pupsicles sound delicious. Also can't say enough good things about the coffee and assortment of donated books. Would come back to Blacksburg for this place.

Love all of the plants and books! The atmosphere is relaxing, the coffee and bagels are tasty, and the volunteers are super nice.

Bagels are so yummy! And the people are rad and very nice.

Solidarity, snacks, and s...coffee. What more could you ask for?

The vibes are imaculate and the tea is delicious