Most patients receive well-balanced meals from a standard menu, based on their doctor's and dietitian's recommendations. A food service representative will stop by to ask you if you have any food allergies or dislikes. Kosher and vegetarian meals are also available upon request. If you have any concerns about your meals, please call the department's hotline at (804) 828-5266.
Occasionally, x-rays, laboratory tests, or treatments may change your meal schedule. Your doctor may order a special diet to meet your medical needs. To learn more about your specific diet, please ask your nurse to contact the dietitian. Patients are encouraged to check with their nurse before having food brought in from outside the hospital to ensure that it meets their diet and nutrition needs.
Guest and Gourmet Meals
Visitors are welcome to have meals with you in your room. Guest meals are available at breakfast, lunch, and dinner and are served with patient trays. Guest meals may be purchased from the Cashier's Office located on the first floor of Main Hospital.
If you are celebrating a special event or just want a special treat while in the hospital, you may request a gourmet meal. This meal can be purchased from the Cashier's Office located on the first floor of Main Hospital.
Meal Schedule
Your meals are generally served at the following hours:
- Breakfast - between 7:15 a.m. and 8:45 a.m.
- Lunch - between 11:45 a.m. and 12:45 p.m.
- Dinner - between 4:45 p.m. and 5:45 p.m.
Dining Facilities
A number of dining facilities are available throughout the medical complex. Some of these facilities are operated wholly or in part by VCU Health System; others are not affiliated with the hospital. Visitors are welcome at any of these facilities.
Cafeteria
The hospital operates a full-service Cafeteria for patients, visitors, and staff. The Cafeteria is located on the first floor in the Main Hospital. No smoking is permitted.
Cafeteria Food Court
Within the Cafeteria there are two additional dining choices: Chik-Filet and Subway.
Cafeteria Hours
- Breakfast, Monday-Friday - 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
- Breakfast, Weekends - 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
- Lunch, Monday-Friday - 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Lunch, Weekends - 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Dinner, Monday-Friday - 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Dinner, Weekends - 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Vending machines
Vending machines are located throughout the hospital and the VCUHS complex. The most prominent vending areas are:
- Main Hospital | Next to Cafeteria
- North Hospital | Ground Floor
- West Hospital | Ground Floor
Espress Oasis Coffee
- Main Hospital, First Floor - Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to Noon
Gateway Building Food Court
On the Ground floor of the Gateway Building there is a food court with both a McDonalds and a Alpine Bagel restaurant