Ursula's cafe

511 S Jefferson St, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States
$$$ Cafe
(23 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

Welcome to Ursula's Cafe, an integral gem nestled in the heart of Roanoke at 511 S Jefferson St. This charming cafe is not just a place for a quick bite; it's a welcoming community hub that amplifies the spirit of connection through food, friendship, and local culture.

Ursula's Cafe prides itself on a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect stop whether you're grabbing a quick lunch during a downtown excursion or settling in for a cozy book club gathering. Patrons often rave about the comfort foods that grace the menu, notably the delightful combination of hearty soups served alongside fresh salads, all complemented by a variety of soothing teas. The ambiance evokes a sense of homeliness, with an aesthetic that blends the trendy with the traditional, offering a sense of belonging to everyone who walks through its doors.

But don't just take our word for it—local customers can’t stop singing praises about their experiences. Take Jonathon Grace, who shares, "The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the cup of soup, salad, and tea were absolute comfort foods." Rachel Lynn Pruitt frequents the cafe for book club nights, appreciating not only the consistently delicious food but also the cozy environment that fosters great conversation. "I enjoy eating here and contributing to a good cause," she adds, showcasing how Ursula's is committed to the community, making dining here a socially enriching experience.

The cafe is also known for its engaging events, including lively stand-up nights that bring the community together for laughter and fun. Binx “Bee” L celebrated their time at one such event, stating, “Great atmosphere and price. I think it was phenomenal!” This illustrates that Ursula's is not just a place to eat; it’s a venue for entertainment and community bonding.

What distinguishes Ursula's Cafe further is its 'pay what you can' initiative, which Lianna King passionately commends. This admirable feature ensures accessibility for all Roanokers, reinforcing the cafe's mission to be a resource for the entire community. With the support and love expressed by regulars like Sara Schwartz, who feels safe and accepted here, it’s clear that Ursula’s is more than a cafe—it’s a sanctuary. "It has great food, great folks, and great events," she says, truly embodying the essence of what makes this cafe so special.

Come immerse yourself in the experience at Ursula's Cafe, where every visit feels like a homecoming, every dish is a hug in a bowl, and every conversation fosters a deeper sense of community.

From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Quick bite
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Dining options
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safe space
Payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

06:30 PM - 08:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

23 Reviews
Jonathon Grace

04 Oct 2025

I have dropped by several times when I was downtown getting a haircut or a pedicure. The atmosphere is warm and inviting and the cup of soup, salad, and tea were absolute comfort foods. The staff is friendly and the patrons are diverse. I highly recommend that we support this wonderful resource.

Rachel Lynn Pruitt

03 Oct 2025

I go here almost monthly for bookclub nights. Food is always good. Environment is comfortable and welcoming. I enjoy eating here and also contributing to a good cause.

Binx “Bee” L

18 Sep 2025

Great atmosphere and price. I went to the special standup night and think it was phenomenal.

Lianna King

14 Sep 2025

Love coming here for all the community events! AlsoReally admire the pay what you can feature, making it actually accessible to *all* roanokers. Cannot recommend this enough.

Sara Schwartz

12 Sep 2025

This place is incredible! We are so lucky to have it in Roanoke. I feel safe here. It is super accepting. It has great food, great folks and great events. Thanks!!!

Chloe Riederich

02 Sep 2025

A warm, welcoming space filled with trinkets and treats! The food is delicious and vegetarian! My favorite is the butternut squash soup - it’s perfect for a cold day! Ursula rocks and I’m so glad to be a part of such a lovely, welcoming space!

Ian Schneider

15 Aug 2025

Plenty of seating, mismatched, more vintage, cushions for days. Pride flags fly in the windows, boldly. A number of living (actual) plants dot the interior, creating a pleasant vibe. The café is "pay what you can," which dumbstruck me for a second. A man snoozes in a comfy chair, knowing he is warm. A place with heart in the shadows of concrete megaliths. Compassion made manifest. Oh yeah, decent coffee! A middle eastern style vegetarian soup on offer during my visit.

Join the Ursula's cafe Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.