Short Pump, VA – Some kids dream of opening a business. Chris Knight actually did it. At just 16 years old, this Richmond native turned his childhood love of baking into Cookie Chris, a full-fledged gourmet cookie shop that’s making people smile across Virginia.
Now a philosophy student at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Chris juggles his studies while running three locations, including one right here in the Richmond area at 11571 Suite A4 West Broad St., Richmond, VA 23233, just about 10 to 12 miles west of downtown Richmond in the Short Pump area.
More Than Just Another Cookie Shop
Walk into Cookie Chris, and you’ll notice something different right away. The space bursts with hot pink and electric blue colors, balloons floating overhead, and neon lights perfect for your Instagram feed. But the real star? Those cookies. Every single one is made from scratch daily using Chris’s own recipes, delivering that perfect combo everyone craves: crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside.
What started as weekend deliveries from his home has grown into a family operation with four to five employees at each location. His parents, Fran and Chris Sr., jump in when needed, proving that the best businesses really do run on love and butter.
A Rainbow of Flavors That Changes Weekly
Forget boring cookie menus. Cookie Chris rotates through six different flavors each week, pulling from a repertoire of 70 to 80 unique options. Sure, chocolate chip remains the champion (people like playing it safe, Chris admits), but the real fun starts when you branch out. Think Fruity Pebbles, birthday cake, cookies and cream, banana pudding, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, strawberry shortcake (Chris’s personal favorite), salted caramel chip, and even sweet potato.
Whether you’re craving Virginia butter or apple cinnamon, there’s always something new to try. The shop updates its weekly lineup regularly, so checking its flavor selection before you visit is a smart move.
Customer Service That’s Actually Good
Chris makes one thing crystal clear: the cookies need to be good, but the customer service needs to be better. Every employee is trained to keep smiling and keep customers happy. It’s not just about selling cookies; it’s about creating an experience that makes your day a little brighter. When you’re greeted by genuinely friendly faces who care about getting your order right, it shows.
Getting Your Cookie Fix
Can’t make it to the shop? No problem. Cookie Chris ships nationwide, so you can get these gourmet treats delivered anywhere in the country. Order a 4-pack ($16.99), 6-pack ($23.99), or 12-pack ($41.99), and they’ll ship out every Monday via ground 2-day shipping. Just make sure to place your order before 9:00 pm on Sunday.
For locals within a 10-mile radius, there’s a $5 delivery fee, making it even easier to satisfy that cookie craving without leaving your couch. You can also call 804-912-2505 to place an order for pickup or ask questions.
The Best Part? It’s All About Joy
Chris keeps it real about his business philosophy. “I enjoy myself these days,” he says. “It’s really not work. I like the cookie business. I like to make people smile.” That “Cookies Make You Smile” logo on the wall isn’t just decoration; it’s the whole point. In a world that can feel pretty heavy sometimes, something is refreshing about a young entrepreneur who just wants to spread happiness, one cookie at a time.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick treat on your lunch break, picking up a dozen for the office, or shipping cookies to a friend across the country, Cookie Chris delivers quality that tastes like someone actually cares because they do.
Stop by the Richmond location Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays), with hours running until 11 pm most nights and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Trust us: your taste buds will thank you.
Sources: cookiechris.com, yelp.com, Cookie Chris Instagram Page
Header Image Source: yelp.com
