Mama J's Kitchen

Location: Historic Jackson Ward, a short walk from downtown.

The place: Small, with bar seating and some tables as well. Nothing fancy, but cozy.

The goods: Well, OK, I wanted to love the food. Honest. I ordered the fried chicken, and was a little disappointed because to me, it seemed a little over cooked and dry. The crust was super crispy, and I love that, but it was lacking flavour - it didn't really taste like it had been seasoned. However, a lovely local who was sat next to me, gave me a chunk of her catfish when I curiously asked what catfish tastes like. Let me tell you, people: catfish is GOOD. I regret not ordering the catfish - it was fresh, hot and so very tasty! Add to that the best Mac & cheese ever, and a warm corn muffin and you're set. I'd give this a 3.5 but I'm the absence of half points, I'm giving it a 4 for the catfish alone.

Service: Good

Price point: Two pieces of chicken was $9 and I think that's a little steep. With the Mac & cheese, the total was about $13.

I can't wait to visit MAMA J'S again. It was packed but the food was great. Our waiter was AWESOME!! They even let you sample sides to make sure you didn't waste it. When I say they food is the truth. I definitely going to drive 130 minutes back to Richmond for a date night just so I can go eat at Mama J's!!

Great food! Friendly environment! Overall the company has out grown the building. The cashier/bartender/ order taker( in restaurant and over the phone) wears many hats and did a wonderful job! The location of the Cakes needs to be moved for better efficiency. But over Amazing.

The food is amazing and well season. You don’t really have to use salt or pepper. Our wait was around 20 minutes and the staff members are polite. Our waitress kept checking on us make sure our drinks were filled and asking if the food was okay? Mama J’s is a very pleasant atmosphere with a family friendly feeling. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone who is looking for Great tasting food.

This place is awesome! We came to town to visit the Redskins training camp and stopped in here after practice. The restaurant is small but worth the wait. While waiting for our table a bus of about 15 people came in and placed to-go orders. The staff handled the rush exceptionally! T behind the bar was super friendly! Highly recommend Mama J's. Great food and service.