In a tiny roadside building on Brook Road in Richmond, Virginia sits what might be the smallest restaurant in Central Virginia. 🍔
Pop’s Dogs & Ma’s Burgers serves up classic American comfort food with a side of nostalgia and genuine hospitality.
The cozy diner operated by husband-and-wife team Richard and Melody Walden offers just six counter stools inside, but delivers big flavor and even bigger heart.
How they won local’s hearts
The magic of Pop’s Dogs & Ma’s Burgers comes from the Waldens’ dedication to their craft and customers.
Since opening eight years ago, the couple has poured their life savings and countless hours into creating not just a restaurant, but a community gathering spot. They know customers by name and treat everyone like family. 🤗
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when many restaurants struggled to survive, loyal patrons kept returning for their favorite comfort foods.
The historic building – once a gas station and roadside motel dating back to 1937 – serves as a reminder of Route 1’s importance as “our Route 66,” as Melody describes it.
The walls adorned with vintage telephones, neon signs, clocks, and radios create an authentic atmosphere that transports diners to simpler times. 🕰️
This combination of homemade food, warm service, and unique ambiance has cemented Pop’s Dogs & Ma’s Burgers as a beloved local institution.
Food Highlights
- Historic Rt. 1 Cheeseburger: A juicy 1/4 lb. burger with your choice of cheese and fixins – a customer favorite that keeps locals like Bruce Pettie coming back daily. 🧀
- World-Famous Bologna Burger: Thick sliced bologna topped with grilled onions and spicy mustard creates a unique sandwich that’s earned its fame.
- Inside Out Bacon Cheeseburger: A revolutionary burger with bacon bits blended throughout the beef patty for flavor in every bite. 🥓
- Jumbo Hot Dog: A hefty 1/4 lb. dog with your choice of toppings – perfect for serious hot dog enthusiasts.
- Uncle Buc’s BBQ Sandwich: Chopped pork with vinegar-based BBQ sauce, served with slaw and hot sauce for a Southern classic.
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Atmosphere
Step inside this micro-sized diner and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. 🕰️ The tiny and super cute interior features just six counter stools (reduced to three during pandemic restrictions) and walls covered with nostalgic memorabilia.
The small space creates an intimate dining experience where conversations with the owners and fellow patrons flow naturally. When weather permits, additional seating is available outside at picnic tables.
Bottom Line
Visit Pop’s Dogs & Ma’s Burgers for honest, delicious food served with genuine hospitality in a one-of-a-kind historic setting.
This tiny restaurant proves that the biggest flavors and warmest welcomes often come in the smallest packages. 💕
Address: 7301 Brook Rd, Richmond, VA 23227
📞 (804) 266-5781
🕔 Open Mon-Sat, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM (closed Sun)