Richmond locals whisper about Abuelita’s the way food-obsessed friends talk about a secret playlist.
Tucked along Midlothian Turnpike, this small Mexican comfort food spot has quietly fueled an almost cult-level devotion with its rotating stews, homemade tortillas, and soul-warming plates that taste like they came straight from a family kitchen, not a corporate test lab. 🌮🔥
How a Humble Stew Counter Sparked a Full-On Richmond Food Frenzy
In a city packed with tacos and margaritas, Abuelita’s built its following the old-school way: by cooking like someone’s grandma is watching.
The team leans on time-honored “comida casera” techniques and a changing lineup of guisos (Mexican stews), so regulars never get bored—there’s always a new pot simmering with something rich, slow-cooked, and deeply spiced.
From glowing online reviews touting it as a hidden gem to social posts showing off fresh-pressed tortillas, a full salsa bar, and generous portions, this humble spot became a destination people drive across town for, then bring their friends, then bring their families.
It’s the kind of place where staff walk first-timers through the menu, hand out samples of stews, and make you feel like you’ve just been adopted into a new food-loving family, especially once you’ve scrolled their inviting Instagram feed. 🌈
Food Highlights
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Guisos (Mexican stews): Abuelita’s is famed for its rotating lineup of 8–10 guisos, hearty stews featuring different proteins and spice levels, served with rice, beans, and fresh tortillas, adored by diners and first-timers for delivering serious comfort in a bowl, with slow-cooked sauces that are rich, layered, and deeply satisfying—“fills your belly with warmth and comfort.” 🍲
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Chicken Tinga: This shredded chicken simmered in a zesty, tomato-chile sauce is one of the most talked-about options on the guiso line for its bold yet balanced flavor, noting that it’s a must-order for first-timers who want something flavorful but approachable, especially paired with beans, rice, and those warm house-made tortillas that help define Abuelita’s homemade comfort food identity. 🐔
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Quesabirria Tacos: These cheesy birria tacos—corn tortillas loaded with tender stewed meat and griddled until crispy—are a star of the menu and frequently photographed on social media, raved about especially when dipping them into the rich consommé, calling the combination “incredibly delicious” and one of the most craveable items at Abuelita’s, especially for taco lovers hunting for serious flavor beyond the usual Richmond Mexican restaurant mainstays. 🌮🧀
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Birria Ramen: A fun, comfort-forward twist, birria ramen combines slow-cooked birria with a big, steamy bowl of noodles, creating a bowl that’s both homey and over-the-top that many have called “amazing” and very generous, making it a go-to for those who want something filling, cozy, and a little different from the usual taco routine, and it fits right into Richmond’s reputation for creative food mashups. 🍜
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Pork Belly in Salsa Verde / Bistec en Salsa Verde: These dishes showcase tender meat bathed in bright, green chile sauce, often singled out for their “rich flavors” and balance of spice and tang, which results in fans highlighting them as must-try guisos for anyone who loves saucy, spoonable plates that soak perfectly into rice and tortillas, turning a simple combo into a feast that rivals more famous spots in Richmond’s Mexican scene. 🌿
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Tamales (including seasonal sweet tamales): Abuelita’s is known for hand-rolled tamales, with options that include both savory classics and occasional sweet specials like sweet potato and pumpkin, with guests appreciating the texture and care in each one, making them a favorite add-on for those building a plate or hunting for something uniquely comforting and nostalgic. 🌽
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Desserts & Drinks (Tres Leches, Flan, Agua Fresca, Horchata): Beyond the savory, Abuelita’s also earns praise for tres leches cake, flan, and even tiramisu, along with agua fresca, horchata, and hot chocolate that serve as perfect treats, which are renowned as sweet, creamy finishes to a hearty meal, while the drinks offer a refreshing (or cozy) way to round out that full-on comfort food experience. 🍰🥤
Atmosphere
The vibe at Abuelita’s is casual, warm, and unfussy, like stepping into a laid-back neighborhood spot that just happens to serve outrageously good food—exactly the “you are home” feeling Abuelita’s takes pride in.
You order at the counter, grab your drink, and then settle into a medium-sized dining room where the focus is clearly on what’s coming out of the kitchen instead of flashy décor.
The staff is frequently praised as friendly, patient, and eager to explain the menu, especially for first-time visitors figuring out the guiso line after spotting Abuelita’s in local recommendation threads.
It all combines into a space that feels welcoming and homey, the kind of place you could easily visit once a week without ever getting tired of it. 🪑✨
Bottom Line
Richmond food lovers flock to Abuelita’s for deeply flavorful guisos, handmade tortillas, and comforting Mexican stews, a super-friendly staff that guides you through the feast, generous portions at fair prices, and a relaxed, homey vibe that keeps regulars coming back like family. 🌮❤️
Address:
6400 Midlothian Turnpike, Richmond, VA 23225
📞 +1-804-997-2602
🕔 Open Tue–Sun, 11 AM–8 PM (Closed Mon)