The vibe in this restaurant is very chill, despite the people clamoring to get in // the hour wait. We got take out and it was perfectly fried catfish, chicken, and crab cakes -- even after getting them home they were crisp and flavorful. I highly recommend them. The sides we loved were the yams (oj & cinnamon) and the seafood salad - amaze !! The reason for the 4 stars is because we ordered potato salad and we didn't get it . So she told me they don't bring the and the cold out boxes at the same time. I double checked for the seafood salad and got it but no potato salad. I will def be going back. read more

See all

Wow! I loved this place! It was southern comfort food at its best! When visiting Virginia for a wedding, we found this place on Yelp and decided to check it out. I am so glad we did! We had a pretty long wait for lunch on a Saturday (around 40 minutes), but as soon as the food came out it was clear this place is worth the wait! I was here with my family of seven people and the table ordered a mix of the fried chicken and the catfish, with a variety of the sides. I personally ordered the one piece catfish with sides of mac and cheese and collards. Our server was very nice and friendly and recommended the cabbage as a good side, my mom really liked this one too! As for the catfish - wow! Pretty sure this was the best catfish I have ever had, and I love catfish! The single piece was very large and more than enough for me! The collards were also flavorful and the mac and cheese was baked the same way we make it at home. The corn muffin that came with the catfish was good but I only ate a couple of bites of this since I preferred the catfish and the sides! The desserts also looked so delicious! Unfortunately we were very full after lunch but next time I would be sure to leave room for a piece of the coconut cake. Don't miss this place if you are around the Richmond area! You will not be sorry! read more

Fun, lively atmosphere, and comforting soul food without the grease. The baked chicken ($7) was deliciously seasoned & flavorful, though the breast was a bit dry. It came with a little corn muffin, which was pretty standard (I've had similar from the bakery at Kroger). At first glance, the prices here seem decent, but unfortunately all the sides must be ordered separately, so that drives up your bill in the end. Per my fellow diners - the seafood salad got high marks, but some said the macaroni & cheese was watery, and left a little puddle of liquid (not oil) at the bottom. Sweet tea was excellent. We went in a big party (of 20 ppl) and the waitstaff was so sweet and helpful :) read more

I really enjoyed the food at Mama J's! Definitely try the fried catfish, I thought it was delicious. The baked chicken was great as well, and for sides I'd suggest the candied yams or the sweet potato fries. I know I tried other sides (I was with a few other girlfriends), but they don't stick out in my memory. We tried their carrot cake and I thought it was delicious. I also brought home a piece of their coconut pineapple cake and loved it. Both cakes were very moist and the frosting was rich without being too heavy. Service is very friendly but can be a little slow! read more

See all

Took the family based on a recommendation from our Richmond tour guide. Food and service was great. Southern comfort food at its best

This restaurant was recommended to me and a friend when we spent a weekend in Richmond. "I wanted to bring you guys somewhere that was off the beaten path, shows you some of Richmond and leaves you feeling full with wanting to burst." I think the recommendation was pretty accurate. The atmosphere here was very "southern hospitality", which I miss when I'm in Philadelphia and the wait staff were extremely friendly. There was no pretense or effort to be overly stuffy, which I can appreciate in this atmosphere. On to the food: As a Southern girl, I know good soul food when I taste it. Now, Mama J's was definitely a good choice but it wasn't the best I've ever had. But, it tasted pretty good, filled me up, and wasn't overly pricey. I ordered the catfish, cabbage, greens, and the wingettes as an appetizer. The catfish was good, not overly seasoned. The cabbage and greens were a little overcooked for my taste. I prefer them a little firmer, not so mushy. The wingettes were nicely seasoned. I really enjoyed those! Though I didn't have dessert, the offerings were spectacular. I've never heard of pink lemonade cake before... Still thinking I should've tried it. Oh, yeah! Let's not forget their Happy Hour. I was told that they have a good deal on Fridays for happy hour. We went on Cinco De Mayo so there was an all-day happy hour with all mixed drinks (even top-shelf liquors) were $5. Can't beat it! They were delicious. Overall, I really enjoyed myself at Mama J's. It's no Miss Tootsie's (see my review if you're ever in Philly) but I'd go back. And I'd definitely recommend it to others in the RVA area! read more

Great food! Although my greens were a little too salty besides that my fried cat fish and mac and cheese were amazing. Wish they had more tables but not all great places are huge. read more

The food here is excellent. I really enjoyed dining here. The ribs were great, and so was the catfish. The prices weren't crazy, either. I can't wait to go back again... read more

I love Mama J's. The atmosphere is inviting & home like. The food is as close to home cooking as it gets for me. I've had the baked chicken, fried chicken, cabbage, yams, Mac and cheese, string beans & greens. All of which have been very good. Not overly seasoned or salty. Just right. My favorite meal is the baked chicken in gravy & cabbage. They have great drinks too. read more

See all

Very inviting decor. Great customer service. I had fried shrimp and potato salad. The potato salad was tasty. The fried shrimp is the same kind that I buy from Sam's club or Kroger. So nothing impressive there. The Mr. ordered the greens and fried catfish. He said the catfish was delicious, fried perfectly....it was a very sizable filet too. The greens were great. I would definitely order them again. read more

Had the fried catfish, collards, and macaroni with cheese. The food was good. I also liked the mural painted on the back of the restaurant. Overall nice restaurant to stop by if you're ever in the area. Good portions too. read more

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

This is by far one of the best soul food restaurants in Richmond. Believe me get there really early because the place gets packed quickly because the food is so good. I have also called my order in to make sure I get my cake. The first from scratch cakes made every day set this place apart from everyplace else and truly the kindness and joy I have everyone eating their food rings it's wonderful read more

A co-worker of mine and I went here for lunch on a weekday. We got there around 11:45 and all of the tables were full, so we sat at the bar. The staff was very friendly and attentive, and the owner or manager came by and talked to us and made sure we were happy and even walked us out and thanked us. I had the baked chicken, which was outstanding and even though it was white meat, was plenty moist and falling off the bone. The corn muffin that came with the chicken was okay, but nothing special. I also got the sweet potato fries based on a review I read on Yelp. They were okay, but had tons of sugar on them (too much, in my opinion). The cakes looked great, but we were stuffed so had to take a pass. I'll definitely have some the next time I come in. Overall this is a great spot and I will definitely be returning. read more

Best fried chicken ever! Seriously must try this place and you won't be disappointed. The chicken, the wings, the mashed potatoes, the caesar salad, greens, the ribs, the short ribs and oh my the Eddie sauce just amazing. We went with a party of 8 and just ordered family style so we could all try everything. I will definitely be craving the fried chicken. The meatloaf was ok not great but I'm not a huge meatloaf fan. I wish they would have chicken fried steak but they replaced it with the meatloaf. They even have speciality drinks that were referred to as kool-aid with a bang. It was tasty! We went early around 5 and so glad we did because this place is small and there were at least 20 people waiting at all times. read more

See all

Yes this establishment is small, the seating is tight and you have to wait a bit ,but WOW the flavorful food makes it worth while! I get the fried catfish which is cooked perfectly with just enough batter and the portions are large .The sides are fantastic. We get the yams and greens. You won't be disappointed with the food. read more

It was busy when we went, but the food was worth the wait. Service was great too. I am in town for a conference and we will be going back before we leave! We had pork chops, catfish, mac-n-cheese, collard greens, string beans, yams, and cake for dessert! Everything was delicious. Now have to try other items on the menu!! read more

I loved this place so much that I went twice in a week. It is everything that soul food should be. The catfish was perfect, and the sides were amazing (we shared a collection at our table: Mac and cheese, grits, collards, cabbage). The cakes were stupid good too. I plan on frequenting this place! read more

I had to wait an hour - but it was well worth it. Had conversations with everyone while watching tv and drinking the mama j lemonade - it's good and strong. For food - ORDER THE CATFISH - just shut your mouth and ORDER THE CATFISH with greens and cabbage for sides You'll thank me This is the BEST soul food restaurant read more

What an absolutely incredible experience - and well worth the 45-minute wait just to sit at the bar. At the risk of having my mamaw roll over in her grave, I couldn't help but to rave about the fried chicken and catfish my wife and I ordered for a Sunday lunch. Easily among the best I've ever had of either. The candied yams were also outstanding. My wife brought leftover chicken home, and it was very difficult for me not to eat her leftovers when she wasn't looking. It's hard to say what the "best" part was about the meal, but the pineapple coconut cake for dessert was a great way to end an incredible meal. I will note that your meal can be kind of expensive because, as other posters indicate, the menu is a la carte. Nonetheless, I don't mind paying more - and giving a 5-star rating - when the quality of the food meets the price. Mama J's easily achieves that qualification. We're looking forward to taking family to Mama J's during their next visit. read more

My wife and live in Chesapeake VA and just took a random trip to Richmond. Being the foodies that we are we were hungry and wanted something we couldn't get where we live so we got on yelp and found Mama Js. Let me tell you for stumbling upon this place it was A1! That means god as hell! We're both from the south in Texas and Alabama it was just like home. Everything was fresh, hot, and delicious! If you're in Richmond you have to go there! And it's pretty popular! read more

Every time we visit Richmond we have a meal at Mama J's & have never had a bad meal! The catfish is the best, the fried chicken is amazing & the desserts are huge. Yes there is a wait because it is a small, popular restaurant but totally worth it! read more

We landed here after realizing that we were never going to make it to our show in time if we continued to wait for a spot at Comfort. Upon entering Mama J's Kitchen, the host sat us down immediately and we felt right at home. The place was nicely decorated with a lot of warm hues, and it was very clean! Definitely a regular spot for locals, we saw a lot of families, and couples! The food was really affordable too. There was catfish, trout, fried/baked chicken, country fried steak, and pork chop. All their entrees ranged from $6-10. We chose 4 sides (macaroni & cheese, cole slaw, seafood salad, green beans) for the two of us. There were 11 sides all for ~$2.5 each so you'll have plenty to choose from. Definitely recommend this place if you're looking for some basic southern food for a super affordable price! :) read more

Food coma; That's the state you'll be in after leaving here. The restaurant is tiny but visually graceful. The servers are friendly and the bartender is a true joy. We dined on the catfish nuggets, which were splendid, flavorful and crisp. Try the tartar sauce, it's wonderful. I ordered the fried chicken and Mac and cheese. The fried chicken was great, but not the best I've had. That's where the 4 stars comes from. It was crisp and hot, just missing that zing that I need from fried chicken. The restaurant is tiny and you should plan on a wait. Hang out at the bar and ask about the signature drinks. I had "cousins kool-aid." It was what exactly what my spring has been missing! Don't hesitate trying Mama J's. You won't be disappointed. read more

Food is awesome. It just takes a long long long time to get to you. It must be really...I mean really just , killed and fried fresh. read more

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

yeowzaaaaa! On all accounts. First the food is really good classic soul food, like drop your jaw good. yeow... Second the cafe if tastefully decorated, the ambiance is comfortable but very hip with out being snobbish and the location is awesome all the while helping to revitalize the area. yeowz... Third, the ladies that work there/own it look like they just stepped off planet beautiful. They are just the most beautiful humans I have ever seen, and in terms of personal style they put all the cutie hipsters in town TO SHAME. YEOWZAAAAAA! As a side note, I am not a weird old man perv. I am a weird young woman perv. I just had to mention it because when my beau and I walked in you just get slapped in the face with a triple whammy. Good food, good atmosphere and the good looking ladies who are impossible not to notice. read more

This place is the bomb dot com!!! It's a small homey place so there's almost a wait every time I come here but it is well worth it! The chicken is indescribably delicious! The staff is so inviting and my waitress, Clarissa is very knowledgable about the menu and was a pleasure. I know a lot of people compare this place to croaker spot and don't get me wrong I like both places a lot, but If I had to choose, you'll find me here at Mama J's! read more

Mama J's Kitchen - If it ain't fried, it ain't mine. Fried chicken dark meat, mac&cheese and moist corn muffin. - Soul Food Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

The catfish is what Mamma J's is known for and I understand why. Perfectly flavored with just enough but not too much breading. My co-workers ordered the turkey burger. The meat was soft, tender, fresh, and tasty with sage. One MUST order the sweet potato fries which are topped with cinnamon sugar. The service was excellent and they were very friendly and helpful. read more

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

See all

We enjoyed a great meal here. The fried trout was delicious, as well as the fried chicken, collard greens, potato salad, yams, and macaroni and cheese. Good service. Would definitely eat here again. read more

Yes, this puts Richmond on the foodie map now! Yes, there are "soul food/southern cooking" restaurants all around, but this place is different. The service is personable, the food was a bit of a wait, which I'm ok with if its cooked to order and not in a buffet pan in the back kitchen, just ready to be scooped. I had just sides...because let's be honest, who really cares what protein is offered with Mac n cheese and greens on the menu? Unlike many places I've been too, the greens didn't look canned and chopped into pieces; the Mac N Cheese was a bowl of carb heaven. It's not a diet plan, that's for sure...but trust if I'm ever in the Richmond area again, I'll be stopping in read more

This is literally the best soul food in RVA. 100% you should go here. But come out early. Because its always busy and it's a very small place. This is your around the corner soul food kitchen where everyone is nice and they know your name. Where friends can meet over some good under $10 food. I have come here a few times and ate my way around the menu. First off the Fried Catfish with their homemade tarter sauce is amazing. Best I have ever had in my life. You must ask for this tarter sauce. It really just takes the already perfectly fried fish to another level! Second, their pork chop is amazing. Falls right off the bone. I have only had the friend chicken once and I think it got overcooked because it was a bit tough so I cannot speak about that. As to the sides, I'm not a huge fan of them. They are good and passable but I would rather order a 2nd piece of catfish (Only $3 more!) They have mashed potatoes, seafood salad, macaroni and cheese. All okay but not really worth it. But their cornbread? Its amazing! I could eat like 10 of those lil guys. Have I mentioned the cakes and pies and cobblers yet? You need to eat this. This is why you skip the sides... so you can have room for all their delicious desserts. On another note they do have beer, wine and liquor. Not a huge selection of anything but the focus here is on their main dishes. Also don't try the swamp water punch or whatever its called. It does not taste good. read more

My favorite here are the yams and seafood salad! I actually have ordered these sides to go as a meal and couldn't have been more satisfied. They also have a good catfish and crab cake sandwich! Make sure if you're going on a Sunday to arrive early or expect to wait...People live this place. I've also had their catering, which is really good too! read more

See all

Hello again road warriors. As you know take out soul food is available almost everywhere but rarely can you find a thriving relaxing sit down atmosphere that Mama J's provides. I had the fried chicken and Mac and cheese and wanted to check to see if my mama was not back there cooking. If I'm in Richmond, VA again I will swing by to try some other items on the menu. Here is how you know a place is good if you swing through between 2-4pm and people keep coming through the door to take a seat. read more

Good southern food at its finest! They do take out! The few times I've sat in it's been slammed so I try to snag a seat at the bar or just end up getting take out. Worth every penny. The service is fast and friendly. The food tastes amazing! read more

Fried Chicken and Catfish are amazing with great sides such as Mac and Cheese. The service and ambiance is great and very welcoming. Although busy, they took care of me pretty quickly. read more

This place was not bad, but didn't measure up to the reviews and word of mouth; however, I will still return for the catfish alone. I am SUPER big on delicious catfish and boy oh BOYYYY I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED! The catfish DEFINITELY met the hype. I got it to go and met my hubby for lunch where we shared the catfish platter I got. It was soooo incredibly tasty and NOT fish at ALL! The platter came with about 3 large filets about the size of a medium to larger than normal size portion fish. As I sit here writing this review, my mouth is starting to water reminiscing.... Darnit....come Monday...I'm stopping back for a catfish platter. I'm crossing my fingers that they are open!!! I tried a slice of cake after reading a few favorable reviews calling it out, but...it wasn't that good...**cringe**. I feel bad saying that considering how on point the catfish was. The cake was highly dense and seemed to be missing an ingredient, but I can't quite put my finger on what exactly. If you choose to go in a group, be aware that there isn't much room for large groups. You may be safest with groups of 4 or less, but I can see where they may be able to fit a group of 6 with a wait if you go during a peak time of day. read more

I first had Mama J's at 2nd Street Festival so we bought food from their tent they had set up. I got the catfish bites with collard greens and mac and cheese and with the hot sauce that came with it, it was so satisfying to savor. Since then, I have gone back and gotten the same thing twice and it's awesome every time. read more

This place is really good. We had the fried catfish, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, greens, chicken wings and cornbread. The catfish is big. I got two pieces but one will suffice. The sweet potatoes taste like mine, and not like a sugary mess lol. I was pleasantly surprised, because I usually can't find good sweet potatoes outside of my house lol Just take note that you will wait and you will have to find parking. I figured a place this crowded has to be good and they didn't let me down. I'll definitely go again if I'm ever in the area. Give them a try. You won't be disappointed. read more

Let me start off by saying the food was ridiculous!!! In a great way! Our party of 8 was seated in about 45 minutes on a quite busy Saturday afternoon. Didnt think they would be that busy but once I got inside I realized why... the place is tiny! They would probably make a killing if they could bump up the space in the dining room and the kitchen! We started off with some drinks, super sweet iced tea... was a lotta too sweet for my taste so i watered it down and some wingettes as an appetizer. They were delish so it set my mind up to order the fried chicken. My party ordered a variety of entrees including the fried chicken (white and dark), crab cake sandwich, fried trout, club sandwich and beef tips. Everyone was in love with their food which took a good 25 minutes to get, but was nice and hot. I ordered mac and cheese, collard greens, and yams as my sides. Dont let the small size of the bowls fool you, it ended up being a lot of food. Some of which I couldnt finish and packed to go. Had to top everything off with peach cobbler and pineapple coconut cake. Both were 5 stars!! The cobbler was hot and sweet and went perfectly with the icecream on the side and the slice of cake was huge and moist! Even the wait staff was very nice, polite and efficient. Overall, we will definitely be going back next time we are in town!! Negatives (Reason it wasnt 5 stars): Longer wait for table and food given early afternoon. Also they only had one bathroom per, so that could get backed up too. read more

Amazing food and friendly staff! A group of us went for lunch from work after a glowing review from a co-worker. In the heart of downtown, parking was still available on the street at 11:30. And we had our checks and had finished eating in less than 45 minutes, but they didn't rush us out either. I had the lunch special, BBQ chicken, side and drink for $9. It was more than enough for lunch, and leftovers for tomorrow! I sampled the catfish - I'll be getting that the next time. Although the BBQ spareribs looked fabulous. I'll definitely be back with family. That way I can share the sides and have more of Mama's cooking. This is a definite must do restaurant. Whether local, or just visiting. The reviews and ratings aren't exaggerated. It's just too bad that 5 stars is the highest rating allowed. read more

Oh my so good. We had the best fried catfish we've ever had, flaky and light, perfectly breaded and seasoned. The fried chicken is a solid tie with our all time favorite soul food place which happens to be in new haven Connecticut. That one, Sandra's Next Generation, has set our standards for the cuisine very very high but Mama Js measures up. We had an outrageously tender and flavorful fried pork chop and collard greens and green beans were good too. The singular disappointment was the bread pudding which was over mixed so that it no longer had the chunky texture of good bread pudding. The flavor was uninteresting but the lemon sauce did help. I am a bread pudding aficionado and strongly believe brandy or bourbon cream sauce is the proper accompaniment. We had peach cobbler too which was better. The restaurant is cozy and crowded. Our server was very efficient and service was good and fast. Reservations are not accepted so plan on a wait which will be worth it! When we are in Richmond area again, we will go out of our way to visit Mama Js. read more