Business Details
Welcome to Press 626 Cafe & Wine Bar - Norfolks Premier Restaurant & Wine Bar
Press 626 Cafe & Wine Bar is a contemporary restaurant and wine bar housed in a historic 1906 Victorian home in Norfolk, Virginia. Our establishment combines old-world charm with a relaxed dining atmosphere, offering elevated comfort foods, small plates, and expertly crafted cocktails. Our menu is created by Chef Leeroi Fonterela, with wine selections curated by Certified Sommelier Betty Gowans and Lindsay Bennett. We prioritize fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, ensuring every dish is made from scratch daily. Our commitment to quality extends to our staff, who are trained to provide knowledgeable assistance with wine pairings and menu choices. As a Virginia Green-certified restaurant, we emphasize sustainability through recycling and eco-friendly materials.We maintain a non-pretentious environment where guests can enjoy affordable wines, seasonal entrees, and a welcoming atmosphere. Our dedication to community support is reflected in partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Press 626 Cafe & Wine Bar has received Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence for its eclectic wine list. We offer private event spaces for celebrations ranging from intimate gatherings to larger receptions. Our team is committed to delivering a memorable dining experience rooted in quality, sustainability, and hospitality.
Services
Restaurant
Wine Bar
Private Events
Happy Hour
Catering
Highlights and features
- We use fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients daily.
- Our chef crafts all dishes from scratch in a small kitchen.
- Certified Sommelier staff guides wine selections.
- Virginia Green-certified for sustainable practices.
- Community-focused with local business partnerships.
Associations and certifications
- Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence
What people say
Best grilled cheese
Delicious food
Great smile
Fast service
Historic charm
Services
Restaurant
Press 626 Cafe & Wine Bar offers a contemporary dining experience with elevated comfort foods and seasonal small plates. Our menu, crafted by Chef Leeroi Fonterela, emphasizes fresh, local ingredients prepared daily. Guests enjoy a relaxed atmosphere blending historic charm with modern hospitality.
Wine Bar
Our wine bar features an eclectic list curated by Certified Sommelier Betty Gowans, earning Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence. The selection includes approachable yet unique wines, with staff available to guide pairings for every palate.
Private Events
Press 626 Cafe & Wine Bar accommodates private events in two distinct spaces: a downstairs dining room for up to 50 guests and an upstairs speakeasy lounge for intimate gatherings. Custom pricing is based on event style and guest count.
Happy Hour
Daily happy hour features discounted small plates and drinks in a casual setting. The menu includes chef-crafted dishes and signature cocktails, available during specified hours in our wine bar and lounge areas.
Catering
Catering services include custom menus for private events, with options ranging from seated dinners to cocktail receptions. Menus highlight seasonal ingredients and can be tailored to accommodate dietary preferences and event themes.
People
Chef Leeroi Fonterela
Executive Chef
Executive Chef Leeroi Fonterela crafts daily-made dishes using fresh, local ingredients. His expertise transforms comfort foods into elevated culinary experiences within Press 626 Cafe & Wine Bar's small kitchen.
Betty Gowans
Bar Manager
Bar Manager Betty Gowans curates award-winning wine selections and craft cocktails. As a first-level Sommelier, she ensures staff expertise in pairing beverages with seasonal menus.
Lindsay Bennett
Co-Owner
Co-owner Lindsay Bennett oversees operations at Press 626 Cafe & Wine Bar, emphasizing sustainability and community partnerships. She contributes to wine curation and maintains the restaurant's Virginia Green certification.
Ed Bennett
Co-Owner
Co-owner Ed Bennett supports Press 626 Cafe & Wine Bar's mission to combine quality dining with community engagement. He collaborates on sustainability initiatives and event planning for private gatherings.
Questions
What type of cuisine does Press 626 offer?
Press 626 serves elevated comfort foods and small plates with a focus on fresh, local ingredients in a historic Victorian setting.
Do you offer private event spaces?
Yes, we have two private spaces: a downstairs dining room for up to 50 guests and an upstairs speakeasy lounge for intimate gatherings.
Are reservations required?
Reservations are recommended for parties over 4 guests and required for parties over 8 guests at lunch or dinner service.
What awards has Press 626 received?
Press 626 has received Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence for its curated wine list featuring unique, approachable selections.
Is Press 626 eco-friendly?
Yes, we are Virginia Green-certified, using recycled materials, practicing sustainability, and supporting local businesses through our menu offerings.
