I had heard great things about Mama J's so decided to give it a try when my cousin was visiting town. We tried the fried chicken, catfish, collards, yams and brisket. The fried chicken was possibly the best I've ever had. Everything was cooked with care and seasoned to perfection. Our server was great as well, he never let our drinks get empty and was a nice guy. Looks like they also just opened a grocery store on the same block with some nice food items. Will def be back! read more

I ordered Mama J's via DoorDash today. My order was not correct. I called the restaurant to let them know. Not only did they remake my order (smothered porkchops), THEY (Amy) delivered it to me personally. I opened the bag and there was wayy more in there than my original order. Yes, mistakes happen and they responded in a most gracious manner...much appreciated read more

7 out of 5 stars. Yes, I said 7. So I went to Mama J's after scoping it out on Yelp, and let me tell you something: Richmond, we may have a problem. I have found the food. I initially walked into the market next door, which is actually great because there aren't a lot of grocery stores nearby. Then I headed over to Mama J's on a Monday afternoon. The place was teeming with associates doing all kinds of things, which I actually loved. I was seated quickly and started looking around. It was comfortable and familiar, even though it was my first time there. Then my server greeted me, called me "baby," and suddenly I felt like I had walked into my auntie's house. Okay. We were off to a good start. I ordered an Arnold Palmer and some catfish nuggets. Now, I knew I was in the right place when my server brought me TWO glasses of the most perfectly made Arnold Palmer. Two. Glasses. Start the happy dance. While I waited for my food, I looked around at the old photographs and magazine covers featuring Mama J's. It all made sense. The restaurant felt familiar because it felt like somebody's dining room. A place that has history. A place where people have been eating, talking, laughing and coming back for years. Then my catfish nuggets arrived. HOT. Golden. Crispy. When I tell you I did a happy dance... I ate those catfish nuggets with a knife and fork, humming to myself and saying, "This is the best catfish I have eaten in my life." And mind you, I eat out at least twice a week. So I ordered the crab cake sandwich with a side of macaroni and cheese. We were not particularly focused on vegetables because my server could not promise me the collards and cabbage weren't cooked with chicken broth. It's fine. I didn't really want my vegetables anyway. Then my plate arrived. HOT. I ate that macaroni and cheese and literally had to rock, hum and say to myself, "Woo. This food is good." The crab cake sandwich and fries were so good that I immediately knew some of them were coming home with me for lunch tomorrow. Because I may love food, but I also believe in planning ahead. Now let's talk about this crab cake. First, the brioche bun was EXACTLY the right bread. I am not a sliced-white-bread kind of woman. I need a brioche bun sturdy enough for the remoulade to hold onto. And then there was the crab cake. Enunciate that K. Fresh crabmeat. Maryland could NEVER. I know, I know. Maryland swears they have the best crab cakes. No ma'am. No sir. The best crab cake is sitting on Clay Street, about a mile from the James River, in Jackson Ward, the Harlem of the South. And the fries? HOT. You know that perfect fry: crispy on the outside, soft in the center? Yeah. Those. At this point, I was full and getting sleepy at 4 o'clock in the afternoon. But apparently that wasn't enough because I ordered some potato salad to go so I could top off tomorrow's lunch. Because priorities. I left Mama J's full as a tick. Came home. And promptly took a several-hour nap. That is how good this meal was. Mama J's, you have officially set the bar. 7 out of 5 stars. I am going back. And, quite frankly, they are going to get sick of seeing me. Richmond, if you haven't been to Mama J's, what are you waiting for? read more

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6 stars out of 5 stars!!! Absolutely loved this place. The food was fantastic and so was the service. Had to wait a bit on a Saturday night, but that's to be expected for great food. If you're trying to decide where to eat in Richmond, you should eat at Mama Js! read more

Mama J's is the definition of comfort food done right. The soul food was absolutely incredible, and let me talk about the sweet tea... because WOW. It was seriously to die for! This little gem in downtown Richmond completely surprised me. Finding a really good soul food spot can be rare, and Mama J's definitely delivered. The flavors, the vibes, and the overall experience made it a place I'd happily recommend. The server I had was so friendly and welcoming. Just a heads up--this place can get pretty packed during dinner time, so plan ahead and be prepared for a wait. If you're craving authentic soul food while in Richmond, definitely add Mama J's to your list. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Excellent hole-in-the wall gem atmosphere, service and food! I enjoyed every bite of everything I tasted! We shared sides and I got a to-go plate of chicken to try later! Catfish was fried perfectly and trout was blackened to perfection! Cabbage and yams were out of this world! We will be making the trip from Fredericksburg again real soon! read more

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Truly exactly how great the soul food is described to be. Yes the fish is the size of your full plate but more importantly is the flavor is impeccable yet still tastes homemade. It's giving' Mama's Sunday Dinner. And the sides do the same. The space is intimate and casual. Service was prompt and staff was friendly. I'm ready to try more of the menu!! read more

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I ordered take out while attending a conference in richmond. The restaurant is intimate and has a bar. The service was great. The food was ready for pick up when I arrived. The fried chicken was cooked to perfection. Seasoned well. The yams were perfect, not too sweet or sugary. The collard greens were tasty. The chicken came with a corn muffin which was a little over baked. Overall, food was delicious and I ate most of it. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Fried chicken, yams, greens - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

OMG !!!! If you want the cool trendy downtown RVA experience, with excellent food and service pleeeeeeease go to Mama J's Kitchen. We were first greeted by the most personable, young man that truly made us feel welcome. That's there motto "Welcome Home" His name is EJ. You will know it's him. This restaurant is a cute neighborhood landmark. It's a little small but not tight or uncomfortable with a full bar for additional seating. Because it has that old school I know this food is going to be FIRE, it's Perfect. Soooooo, the music certainly fits this cool old school vibe. The menu was under a very clean glass table topper to view and order. Very big Plus, Sanitary !!!!! I ordered the Fried Chicken (2pcs white), corn muffin comes with the meal, candied yams and cabbage. My plate was BEAUTIFUL, pictures will confirm. The chicken was golden brown, crispy on outside, flavorful and moist on the inside. YES, like my mom's use to be. The yams were perfectly sweet and the caaaabage was delicious. Go early to avoid the crowds, because everyone wants this good food and hospitality. Ooooh Lord, I forgot our extremely attentive server Dana. He checked in while being super busy with other customers, making sure the glasses were refilled in a timely manner. He also offered to go drinks, and very nice to go containers. This review is long because it's accurate and I need to share my experience. Last but not least, the owner came by and asked how was everything with her warm, down home hospitality. She also ask that we visit next door, Mama J's Market, so we did. It was sooo cool. I felt like I was in Greenwich Village NYC. If the restaurant is too busy for you, there in the market you can order from the kiosk and a staff member will bring it to you. There are refrigerated food and meal options to grab and go. Snacks, drinks, a little fresh produce, household and personal items. The Perfect Neighborhood Market. If you want the Old Historic Jackson Ward feeling of community, come to Mama J's Kitchen and Market. Thank you !!!!!!! read more

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Went here with my family and I will say the food is good. We both had the catfish and were a little underwhelmed to be honest. It wasn't as seasoned as I expected it to be for a soul food restaurant. The Mac and cheese was about a 6 and the greens weren't very flavorful so we have them a 5. The candied yams were really good. Very tender and not too sweet. Our server wasn't the most personable, but he got the job done. The music was great! Parking was easy on a Sunday evening. I do recommend this place, but just be prepared to use the tartar sauce for your fish if you want a little razzle dazzle. read more

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No notes... absolutely delicious. We tried the fried catfish, grilled catfish, fried white chicken, Mac and cheese, candied yams, collard greens, and corn bread. Juicy, well-seasoned, and just the right amount of butter. Our waiter was kind and efficient, and the space was extra cozy. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Fried Catfish (2 piece) and Macaroni & Cheese - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

I was visiting family in Richmond, I found this place on Yelp. When you walk in, bar on the left , wooden table and chairs fill the small establishment. We had a party of seven, our orders were taken quickly and the young man was pleasant and attentive. Everyone enjoyed their food, the portions of fish was satisfying along with taste. I would definitely return when I'm in town. Sorry I didn't take pictures read more

Been there in the past and felt like I was seated at someone's private kitchen table. They make you feel comfortable and the food is home cooking good. Lou Franceschini read more

This restaurant came up in a search of things to do/places to visit in Richmond, VA. I'm totally into soul food, so challenge accepted. Mama J's is an unassuming place, but was packed when I arrived. I opted to sit at the bar because I was near starvation and didn't have time to wait for a table. I was super impressed with the bartender. Half the time it didn't seem like she heard me, but she always did, and always handled whatever it was that needed handling. I placed an order for catfish nuggets with fries and requested a cornbread muffin. The food arrived and looked amazing! And it all was very good, though I have had better catfish nuggets before. I crushed everything. No complaints. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Catfish Nuggets, Corn Muffins (2) - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

We were greeted and seated quickly. Service was pleasant and our waitress gave great recommendations as far as drinks and food. It was a cute and homey atmosphere. We started off with the chicken rings and they were so good, starting off strong! Pork chop and crabcake meals were super satisfying. No complaints about any of the sides. The cornbread was a nice little sweet treat. I would have loved to try dessert but they were out of a few due to the time we were at the restaurant. I will definitely be back to try them out! read more

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My 1st time in Richmond and ii I can say is Mama J's is EVERYTHING! Chyna was our server and she was so attentive. It felt like Sunday dinner at your favorite Aunt's house The coffee was awesome (im a critic of coffee) I had catfish nuggets, mac & cheese and Collards . Alll gooood! read more

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Greeted with the friendliest service. The most homecooked meal not cooked at your home that you probably couldn't even cook yourself. The catfish had the flakiest breading to it, I could have even eaten it without any tartar sauce which was also delicious. That paired with the perfect Candied Yams that weren't overly sweet but still golden roasted; Yum. Loved this place. Absolutely loved. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Catfish (1 piece) - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Update: Monday 6/16/25 6:45pm ish I Order DoorDash to pick up my food and I'm highly disappointed ! My Chicken was visibly burnt and it tasted burnt. The cornbread taste like rubber. The cabbage had no flavor no salt no nothing and collard greens were OK . I'm actually furious that I spent $30 for this, and that was without the DoorDash fee. I'm not sure how Mama J's ended up with the "Best Fried Chicken in Richmond" title but that's a negative. read more

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Had a late lunch here. Cornbread and greens were solid. The brisket was good. But the homemade maple yellow cake was on another level. Extra well done, with the super sweet, buttery, and salty frosting grabbing that caramelized cake and working wonders in my mouth. It was incredible. Fast service in a homey atmosphere. But get the cake. read more

This food was fantastic. My first time here. Looked on yelp for soul food and this was top of the list. It was a nice and cozy place. Very personal and intimate. The staff was pleasant and answered all the questions I had. The cat fish (one fried and one blackened), pork chops with peppers and onions in gravy, and fried chicken. For the sides which are à la carte greens Mac and cheese yams and rice and gravy. I will definitely recommend this place. See you next time read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Pork chops chicken catfish with greens Mac & cheese yams and rice and gravy - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Was driving home after a 4-hour trip and told my wife to find me a quick bite--but it had to be from a spot with 1000+ reviews. She landed on Mama J's, and now I totally get why this place has the rep it does. I got the brisket sandwich with fries and fajitas on the side--absolute bomb. Flavor-packed, cooked perfectly, and super satisfying after a long drive. Already planning a trip back with my wife. Next on my list: the fried catfish, whole wings, and fried chicken. Can't wait! read more

Mama J's Kitchen - How good it was fam! - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

I felt very comfortable and welcomed as soon as I walked in the door. My server was as sweet as can be! Their fried catfish is definitely a 10/10! I highly recommend this place if you're ever in the Richmond area. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Best fried catfish! - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

I honestly don't even know where to start--there was nothing positive about my experience at Mama J's. We were a party of nine, so the 30-minute wait for a table was understandable. However, once seated, we waited another 20-30 minutes before anyone even acknowledged us. When we finally flagged down a waitress, she informed us that our actual server was having a breakdown and couldn't attend to us. To save time, we placed both our drink and food orders at once since we had already been there for nearly an hour and had somewhere to be. It then took an additional 40 minutes for our meals to arrive. What didn't make sense was that while everyone at our table ordered large plates, my simple salad took the longest. One of our guests received a raw chicken sandwich, which the waitress promptly removed from the bill, but she also mentioned that the entire kitchen staff was new--definitely not reassuring. As for my salad, I had to reorder it twice and waited another 20 minutes before finally receiving it, only to find the smallest piece of salmon (an $8 add-on). By the time it arrived, my entire table had already finished their meals, leaving me to rush through mine. To top it all off, as we were wrapping up, the entire restaurant filled with smoke, and we were evacuated because the kitchen caught on fire. This experience was beyond disappointing, and I will not be returning. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Comfortable. Welcoming. Homey. We sat at the bar. Clean and attentive. Fried catfish was YUMMY. Greens spiced just right. Mac n Cheese was cheese'n. Sweet tea was sweet. Only thing I'd come back to Virginia for. Salute. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - YUMMY catfish CHEESY Mac n Cheese SEASONED greens GOTTA have Cornbread - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Look man, I may be generous with giving out 5 star reviews, but this one deserves it hands down. You can taste how much heart and intention goes into this wonderful soul food - the catfish was super well cooked, flaky, and delightful. The mac and cheese was incredibly hearty, heavy, and delicious. The corn muffin was a nice finishing touch to an already fantastic dish. My fiance loved the fried chicken too, and the mashed potatoes were a nice generous portion with some of the most flavorful gravy I've ever had. Service was efficient, approachable, and wonderfully polite. Walked away with a smile a mile wide. My friend who we went with hyped it up after saying her team in college (VCU athletics) used to get it all the time as catering - and now I can see why. Will certainly be back here. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Cornbread Muffin - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Went to dinner after work and MaMa J's never disappoints. I had the fried catfish, yams and Mac n cheese. Ohhhh and the sweet potato pie- delicious!!! read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Catfish (2 piece) - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Akira was amazing!!!! Give her a raise!!!! So nice love her! She gave great service and was very hospitable. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Catfish (2 piece) Candied Yams Macaroni & Cheese Fried Chicken - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Ambience feels quaint as if you're sitting in a family's home. Like you're at grandmas house. Customer service is great! Friendly, prompt and helpful. I'll acknowledge, my concerns regarding violations but I'm taking a chance. I had the crab cakes with corn muffin entree. Do note, the sides are priced separately from the main entrees. I enjoyed the portion of the crab cakes which was very filling. That said, they were chard a bit more than I would prefer but nonetheless still good. Catfish nuggets were good, worth getting them. I had the collards as my side, which were not necessarily my fave because they had a strong presence of vinegar that overpowered the taste. Caesar salad was a nice portion. On a scale of 1-10, I'd give it six. I can't necessarily say if I would recommend it as a first time guest considering the above mentioned. I feel I'd need to visit again to see if I may experience it differently. Overall not a bad e read more

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The food was good. The service was great. I was impressed with the pork chops portions. It been a minute since I've been home and to soul food establishments. Overall great place to grab some soul food. read more

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This was an exceptional experience. We got great service, the food was amazing and delivery was excellent. The atmosphere was fantastic. Portions are large and very filling with amazing seasonings and flavor. We even had enough for leftovers. read more

I recently ordered Mama J's to go, and the food was delicious! I ordered the 2-piece catfish with macaroni and cheese. The fish was seasoned well and crispy, and the portion was epic! The macaroni and cheese tasted as good as it does in all the photographs it was cheesy and moist. read more

I really enjoyed the food here. The first time I came here I got the catfish mac & cheese and greens and it was OK. The second time I went, I got the chicken (which was highly recommended by the waitress) mac & cheese and candy yams and THAT experience was so good! The food was hot and fresh despite it being fairly busy for lunchtime, The service was quick and good. I would definitely recommend!! The first time I went was on a Sunday afternoon not sure if that had anything to do with the food just being OK but I'm glad I gave it another shot and went the second time. read more

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Staff was friendly and helpful. Food was absolutely delicious. Would definitely return. I was especially pleased by the friend chicken because it's rare when soul food spots get their fried chicken right. Wait was a bit long, but it's the south so it's expected. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Fried Chicken (White), Collard Greens & Macaroni & Cheese - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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First time here. Food was excellent. Nothing over or under cooked. Catfish bites-excellent, ribs-excellent, the yams and seafood salad were really yummy. Favorite side was the Mac & cheese. Only "so-so" was the "tartar sauce", not much tarter, tasted mostly like mayonnaise, but the catfish was so good no need for the sauce. Would definitely recommend and will be back. read more

When in historic Jackson Ward, unbuckle your belt and be ready to feast. There is off street parking but be mindful of residential and business traffic. Akira was such a joy as our server. I chose a maple caramel flavored cake & it was a great decision. I ordered 2 piece catfish, cabbage and macaroni and cheese with a corn muffin. The food was so hot and delicious that each bite was worth the hot tongue. I asked for tartar sauce but never used it. The other meal was fried chicken, collard greens and candied yams. This meal brought back memories of Sunday dinners at church. I enjoyed the polite conversation with staff and other customers. Not sure what you call your mom, but this is one place I'm glad Mama J loves the people because it shows in her food! read more

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Cute little restaurant and bar. Limited seating. A group of us were attending a Cheer competition that ended at 6 pm on a Sunday night. A friend that was with us used to work downtown and remembered this place. He used to dine here for lunch, but we walked 2 blocks at night in the dark from the convention center with a 7 yr old. We didn't realize that there was going to be graffiti and the whiff of Marijuana in the air on the way to the restaurant. My chicken seemed overcooked on the outside. My husband said it's because the oil might have been too hot. They were out of brisket. I thought the collard greens tasted okay, but my husband didn't like them. read more

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Great service, everyone was friendly and the food was seasoned to perfection, not salty. Will come visit again. read more

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Small ish place with tables and a bar . Nice atmosphere. Good service . Best fried catfish I have had in a long time . I can certainly recommend . read more

My very first time. Ordered online the same day as another Monica. Who would have guessed. The orders got mixed up, but the staff more than made up for the mix up. The food was excellent!! I will definitely visit again! Great customer service. read more

Mama J's Kitchen - Food was wonderful! Customer service was excellent. This place is a gem! - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Great food and portions. A pleasant and not too loud ambiance. Service with a smile! Get here early! People wait patiently for a seat without complaining. read more

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