Our verdict
Root98 is worth using when a YVR departure calls for a quick, lighter meal with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It is better for solo travelers, families, and practical pre-flight eating than for a special occasion or chef-led dining experience.
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The menu
What to order
- Buddha bowl
- Quinoa dishes
- Kale and quinoa bowl
- Vegetarian wrap (rice tortilla)
Readers building a wider casual-dining shortlist should keep Root98 in its lane: a healthy grab-and-go cafe in Richmond with casual counter service, limited seating, and daily hours from 4:45 am to 9 pm. It is most useful when the plan calls for a fast meal before a flight, not when the goal is a destination restaurant experience.
Frequently asked questions
What is Root98 known for?
Root98 is a healthy grab-and-go cafe, and dishes include a Buddha bowl, quinoa dishes, a kale and quinoa bowl, and a vegetarian wrap made with a rice tortilla.
What are alternatives to Root98 in Richmond?
Use other Richmond cafés or grab-and-go counters if you want a different quick stop, especially if you are not tied to a healthy grab-and-go format. Root98 makes more sense than a fuller sit-down meal when your priority is speed, counter service, and a light pre-flight meal.
Is lunch or dinner better at Root98?
Root98 is open from 4:45 am to 9 pm every day, so the better time depends on your travel schedule rather than a special lunch or dinner service. The format is grab-and-go counter service, not a long sit-down meal. If you want to sit and linger, that is not the main point here.
Is Root98 good for a special occasion?
No, this is not the place to plan a special occasion around. The casual airport setting, limited seating, and quick service format are built for pre-flight efficiency, not a celebratory meal. For that kind of outing, a sit-down restaurant in Richmond will usually make more sense than a healthy grab-and-go cafe.
What should I wear to Root98?
Keep it casual. Root98 is a casual, bright airport eatery with a clean modern look, counter service, and limited seating, so comfort matters more than dressing up.
Is Root98 good for solo dining?
Yes, solo diners are a strong fit here. The grab-and-go format, counter service, and quick pacing make it easy to eat alone without feeling out of place. At about $15 per person, it works well for one person who wants a fast, health-leaning meal before a flight.
Is the tasting menu worth it at Root98?
No, because Root98 is a healthy grab-and-go cafe, not a tasting-menu venue. The right question is whether you want a quick, light meal before boarding. If you want a multi-course experience, choose a different restaurant in Richmond rather than this quick counter-service stop.
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- Modern
- Cozy
- Trendy
- Solo
- After Work
- Casual Hangout
- Family
- Standalone
- Local Sourcing
- A La Carte
- Coffee
- Tea
- Soft Drinks
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Options
- Gluten Free Options
Current opening hours
- Monday
- 4:45 am–9 pm
- Tuesday
- 4:45 am–9 pm
- Wednesday
- 4:45 am–9 pm
- Thursday
- 4:45 am–9 pm
- Friday
- 4:45 am–9 pm
- Saturday
- 4:45 am–9 pm
- Sunday
- 4:45 am–9 pm
Hours can change for holidays and private events. Last verified .
Casual, bright airport eatery with a clean modern look, grab-and-go counter and limited seating designed for quick, comfortable stops before flights.














