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I love everything about La Bodega! The seemingly little "hole in the wall" is a culinary delight and a total gem! The ambiance is perfectly understated and authentic. No frills, no fuss, just perfectly Dominican meets NY. Our server was a lovely young lady who was so accommodating and helpful, and not that it matters...but she was adorable and her makeup was on point! We wtf a table of 4 ladies so of course we complimented her - it was international women's day after all! This has to be the best cocktail bargain in town. $10 each and we all had cocktails - one had a Michelada and the rest of us had an amazing Caparena with fresh lime and a punch of booze that stuck with us. Delicious! I had the pineapple pork and it was sweet yet savory and a huge portion. Shareable for 2-3 easily! Served over rice & beans, it is one to try and repeat. 2 Cubanos were ordered and they were delicious. Topped with ham, Swiss, and an ample amount of pulled pork on pressed bread, this was heavenly. 1 carne asada taco meal was ordered and it was ok. It was definitely upstaged by the other 2 dishes! Definitely try La Bodega. It's best for groups of 1-4. Small but mighty...might good! We cannot wait to go back when we're in Richmond.
Such a yummy place to stop on a road trip! Friday afternoon about 1pm and the place wasn't too busy. It's not a very big spot on the corner and be prepared to park on the street and pay like 3-4 dollars depending on how long you will stay. The workers are very friendly. And the food came pretty quick. This is such a cool place if you want to take nice photos. The walls are covered in "Brooklyn" decor. I've only been to NY like once for a day and it definitely matches what you think NY would look like in your head haha. There is Latin music playing and it makes everyone in the room want to dance. The menu is overwhelming with options and they serve breakfast all day. The portion sizes here are awesome! Enough food to have left overs but I wish it came with more veggies. The flavor was delicious, no salt pepper etc really needed. I liked the plantains more than the tostones. I wish I would have tried one of their frozen drinks. Everything is relatively priced decently. I would try this place again. I would say 4/5 because I like my food really hot but it came out barely warm. I also saw an employee come out the bathroom in her apron and that isn't sanitary in my opinion.
I had never had Latin American food before and this was such an amazing first time experience. The ambiance is fun, colorful, and inviting - definitely feels very homey and comfortable. Our server (there was only 1 server working a weekday at lunch) was quick and kind to accommodate requests for extra sauce on the side, water with no ice, etc. We started with the Pupusas (stuffed with cheese and served with cabbage slaw), which were pretty good but nothing mind-blowing as the cheese started to get tough as it cooled down. For mains we shared the Papas Chorreadas (potatoes, rice, and beans covered in a cheese sauce served with sweet plantains) and the Veggie Mofongo. Both dishes were superrr delicious! The Papas portion was huge, and the savory umami cheese sauce was so good with the rice, beans, and a sweet note from the plantains. I liked these plantains better than some others I've had - they were soft and not sugary sweet. The Mofongo was chewy and tasty as well, served with a tangy garlic parmesan sauce that we liked so much we asked for some on the side. Overall really enjoyed this meal and will happily come back to La Bodega especially for the Papas Chorreadas!
AMAZING! Food was sooooo good & nostalgic. Service was normal. The spot is small but the ambiance was nostalgic as well. Great place to go if you need a snack or if you need a heavy meal.
Stopped by on our way through Richmond. The reviews and rating, so we had to check it out. This cozy stop had about 5 tables inside and about the same outside. Nice Latin music playing, too. We were greeted with a friendly hello. The server answered all our questions and helpful with some recommendations. The chicken and rice dish was classic and delicious. It came with a side of black beans and plantains. We also had the Notorious P.I.G. sandwich. It was OUTRAGEOUS! The picture of the sandwich doesn't do it justice. Food was quick and hot. We will be back.
Cute, Quaint, Authentic. This eatery is giving all the New York Bodega vibes and serving up authentic cuisine. Our first visit to Richmond was interrupted by an official downpour so we ran into La Bodega after finding close street parking. The music was cranked all the way up and the service was fast and friendly. To start Guac and Tostones (Green Plantain chips.) I've never had Guac with fried plantains, soooo good y'all! The crispy texture of the plantain, slightly creamy in the middle and salted ever so lightly paired with the Guac, chef's kiss. For our mains, Bae ordered Ropa Vieja (Cuban Braised Beef with onions and peppers) , she liked it. She reports that although the beef was nice and tender she hoped it would be a little more flavorful. For me, Carne Asada (Grilled Steak, sautéed onions, with rice and beans) I loved it! I washed it down with a Presidente Plisner. La Bodega, was a really cool experience. Seems like the locals typically order to go. The dining room is small but so cozy. Worth a visit if you're in the area.
1. Super cute on the inside and outside 2. Limited seating; inside has about 2-3 tables that seat four and 3 tables that seat two; there is some outside seating 3. Horchata - 10/10 4. Empanadas - flavor was amazing, breading was outstanding. I do wish they had more filling inside 5. Pineapple pork - simple but tasty and huge portion
I just love this cute little cafe! It has a few tables for dining in, which I have done once, but typically I order delivery. I'm hooked on their NYC extra large chopped cheese sandwich, with no tomatoes or ketchup, but with extra mayo. So freaking good with buttered bread and it lasts at least 3 (sometimes 4) meals. The fries that come with it are great too! I can't place an order with La Bodega without ordering that phenomenal dish. I also love the queso frito. It's white cheese with honey on delicious bread. It's a decadent appetizer. I've also ordered their two hot dogs with mustard dish once, which was good as well. La Bodega also has a full breakfast menu, all of which sounds delicious, and so many other items that I want to try. Just can't get past that chopped cheese!!
I honestly loved the decorations and the vibe of the place more than the food. All the wall decor and little details in the decorations is what really makes the difference. Service was excellent too. To me, food is pretty mediocre. Not the bes quality, pretty meh flavors, not too much effort on plate garnishing. Edible, but not memorable. Now, take this from a Latin American person, who lived in NYC for five years, and also happens to be a chef. I would go there for brunch and enjoy the cool vibe of the place, maybe drink a nice fruit juice but have my meal somewhere else.
i've never stopped in between my meal to post a review but the el cubano has to be the best Cuban i've ever had. xl fantastic. and the taste of chicharro mofongo i had was the closest to mofongo puerto rico i've had in awhile ...wow
Went here for lunch with family on a whim when we were in RVA for the day. Definitely a good last minute choice! Everyone enjoyed what they got - I ordered the chorizo biscuits and gravy. Huge portions and pretty good for the $$. The coffee was good, as well.
La Bodega is such a hidden gem in Richmond. It wasn't too busy on a Thursday night, but we're so glad we stopped in. The vibe is so fun and the waitress is absolutely electric!! The portions are HUGE so be prepared and maybe split, but the food is amazing. We will definitely be back to try more dishes!
Lovely decor inside and outside. Portions are so huge!! We ordered different dishes and all of them are good.
2 years ago
2 years ago
3 years ago
Great food and amazing service. Definitely a must visit...hidden gem!!!! We're coming back read more
If you're looking for a little variety in your Latin cuisine, La Bodega is the place. Rich flavors and great decor makes this spot super inviting. The portions are huge so come hungry! The servers are warm and welcoming. Food cooked to order and you can take a peek through the open kitchen in real time. No pictures of the margarita and tequila shots we had but they definitely got our 2 party started lol. Masks are required upon entry. This is a must try if you're in #RVA for a visit. If you're a local what are you waiting for?! What we ate (see photos): 1: Pupusas 2: El Cubano sandwich served w/fries & onion rings 3: Bandeja Paisa (the rice and beans weren't my favorite) read more
6 years ago
The NY vibe is so cute the music is awesome, staff is very friendly and the food is BOMBBBBB!! Amazing empanadas . To drink I got the michelada 100% recommend if you like Hispanic food read more
5 years ago
Stopped in while on our road trip after being recommended by a local coffee shop and wow were we not disappointed! Just incredible and one of the best elotes I've ever had! I'm not sure what just happened, but it was good! Super cute place as well and very welcoming Thank you to Joana for the wonderful service and being super friendly:) Also shout out to the comically large portions! read more
4 years ago
Maybe 10 tables and 4 seat bar.Reviews projected much more but the food & drink speak for itself...Worthy! read more
4 years ago
Cool little spot I decided to stop by while in the area. It's very rare to find a good Piña Colada at a restaurant so I was happy to find this one was amazing. I love Queso Frito but omg I never had it like that. I will have my Queso Frito like that from now on. I was not prepared for how huge the Chopped Cheese was but boy was it delicious. read more
I really don't want to leave a negative review. I'd you've never been to PR or DR or Cuba, then you might enjoy the food. The portion size for the price is amazing! Nothing tasted bad, it was just not flavored and prepared the way the dishes I ordered typically are. If I'd been eating at the restaurant, I would have sent the food back, unfortunately. read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
6 years ago
They had me at Latin Soul Food. But I ordered a Cubano sandwich and empanadas. I couldn't wait to try this place. My soul needed something savory and comforting. I was not disappointed. The portions were massive and the pork was seasoned to perfection, so very tender, and balanced with mustard and pickle nestled into a soft hoagie bun pressed to a fine crisp. The empanadas themselves were a meal in and of themselves. Mild flavor profile similar to that of a chicken pot pie. (I was hoping it would have been spicy) You could make one of those monsters a meal, and three came to an order; complimented by two sauces. One remenicient of a spicy Russian dressing made creamy with a sofrito base. The other sauce was interesting being similar to a spicy cocktail sauce with a twist. It took me three days to eat it all. My only disappointment was that I only got two onion rings. Totally would recommend this place. read more
Probably the best empanadas I've ever had. They were crispy, perfectly seasoned and the cheese just melted in your mouth. I opted for the papi chulo for a drink and they did not hold back on the liquor. I am definitely planning on returning for brunch to see what the brunch menu has to offer! read more
3 years ago
7 years ago
So good! Huge portions. I ordered the queso as an appetizer & the ropa vieja and they were both amazing. I didn't have any expectations but was very taken back on how good it was. Only thing I wish was that the ropa vieja had some green olives and maybe a hint of lime juice but nonetheless very good. I will definitely come back for more. read more
3 years ago
5 years ago
Can I just say that these were the best carne asada tacos I've ever had! We also had the "chicken rice" lol which is soooo good. Definitely recommend. This is my second time... first time we had a Cuban sandwich which was A++ read more
5 years ago
We've wanted to try La Bodega for such a long time -- why did we wait so long?! The environment is friendly and immediately transports you to New York and beyond. Our group ordered the huevos rancheros, pupusa and eggs, churro French toast, and the arepas. The French toast was insanely delicious, even for those who tend to prefer savory rather than sweet. The huevos rancheros were topped with the best chorizo we've had in RVA. The pupusa was filled with that good cheese that stretches as you pull it apart. The arepas just really hit the spot. We topped all this off with some cafe con leche, michelada, and pineapple mimosa. Go now. read more
5 years ago
The food was good but for some reason the waitress had a poor attitude. It's small inside so seating is very limited! I would return because there were definitely other things I'm interested in trying!! read more
5 years ago
My first order here was a pick up order but my brief visit was impressive enough to prompt a return meal. I love the vibrancy of the very tiny space and the two ladies are warm and friendly even when they are busy. Have already raved about the ropa vieja to my coworkers. I just moved to Shockoe but already planning to bring visitors here soon. Very happy to have this nearby! read more
5 years ago
Omg this small little quaint place is bomb like bomb i found it on Yelp of course everything from drinks to the food will leave you stuffed and with many great flavors. They have inside or outside sitting. Try it for yourself read more
I've been back 3 times now and the food has not disappointed. I've tried the chicharrones dominicano, bistec and flan. All are so flavorful, so filling. Service is usually great, though one night we had a waitress that seemed to have an off day. I definitely need to try breakfast next! read more
3 years ago
This has got to be my favorite restaurant in Richmond. It's a tiny NY style bodega serving the best drinks and Latin food in town. The service is always fantastic and the food is consistently delicious. Seating is limited but I've never had to wait for a table. Definitely worth checking out if you're in town. read more
A very fun little space in the bottom representing Latin America serving up dishes with influence from Colombia, Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic. The space I read was modeled after a bodega from NY and you get that vibe as you walk through the doors. With fun uptempo Latin music playing and the walls covered in all sorts of NY graffiti, there is something to look at and tap your foot to everywhere. The staff was very welcoming and accommodating while we waited for our table. The place was full and the people were rolling in. Dishes and options of all sorts from a great food and drink menu. All portions are huge! This is authentic as it can get. The food was absolutely delicious, the space fun and the staff extremely friendly. I will be back, no doubt! ***This is a very strong 4*** read more
7 years ago
We visit today, and the food was amazing, the service was great and everyone was soo friendly and helpful. If you haven't visit, you need to try it. We had La bandeja Paisa, Arroz Hawaiian, chicharrón de pollo. Thank you for the amazing service and food! read more
3 years ago
5 years ago
Great place for a little date night/day. The decor is vibrant and welcoming. The food came out quick. I got the ropa vieja and elotes. Delicious food, will be back. read more
5 years ago
Highly recommended! That pork belly was fireeeee. Their portions are big for a good amount of price. read more
Bienvenidos! That is what the sign said outside of La Bodega and I most definitely felt welcome. I felt like I stepped off the 5 train and right into the heart of the Bronx. The restaurant is small and only has 6 small tables and a even smaller bar but you will feel right at home. Graffiti pictures and New York signage adorn the walls, Ozuna was playing on the sound system and I could smell the delicious flavors of the Latin cuisine. I had been wanting to eat here since it had opened but it is always crowded. I just so happened to walk by when there was seating available and decided to finally see why La Bodega was always packed. Liliana was my bartender/server and she was awesome. She gave me great recommendations for my first visit. She recommended I try a signature cocktail so I ordered a Nuyorican Pina Colada. It transported me right to Puerto Rico! It wasn't frozen but it was creamy, fully of flavor and rum. It was so good that I didn't mind that it was on the rocks. This was the best Pina Colada I had outside of the Caribbean or Miami. It was muy bueno! For appetizer I order the empanadas. They came out steaming and piping hot, filled with succulent chicken and cheese. You must add some La Bodega sauce to these little meat pies. The sauce is a orange tangy concoction that I slathered all over my food. It took the already delicious food over the top. For my entree I ordered the Ropa Vieja, which I smelled before I saw it. Slow cooked, marinated shredded beef with onions and peppers atop of rice and beans and 4 perfectly fried tostones was placed before me in a beautiful presentation. ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS! The portion was huge and every bite was superb. I was so full from my drink and appetizer that I couldn't finish my food, but it was even better later that night for dinner. I had such a great experience that I brought my boyfriend back the next day. He is a New Yorker and I knew he would love the food and vibe. I got a Mermaid Water for my second drink experience and it was equally as delicious as the Pina Colada. We ordered the empanadas again because they are just that good. They were even better than the day before. We were craving breakfast so that is what we ordered this go round.Breakfast is served all day for you late risers! It was just ok. Not bad but not earth shaking. Going forward I am sticking to the Latin Soul Food part of the menu. It is the star of La Bodega. I can't wait to go back! read more
6 years ago
Was in the area for a few hours and decided to check them out. Hubby and I loved it!!!!! Small but very cozy and service was amazing!!!!! Will definitely be back read more
3 years ago
Small place 6 tables and a small 3 chairs bar New York style Hispanic food, Colombian, Dominican and Puerto Rican style. i ordered the Arroz con Pollo but it was not what I expected maybe because it was more like an asopado witch is more like a risotto type of rice very soppy. My friend ordered a Puerto Rican that he liked and a tembleque that is also a puerto rican dessert he said both were good. I will give it a second try with a different dish and see how that go. Service was good. read more
5 years ago
Tried the Ribs and Fried Chicken, very delicious. The Pico de Galleo salad is great. A little more attention needs to be given to the Arroz con Gandules. Wish I tried some dessert, but I will be returning!!! read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
I just had of the best meals I have ever eaten. Everything is freshly prepared for you. I have discovered the exciting taste of chimichurri! The guacamole y tostones was beautifully presented as well as delicious. As I write this review I am savoring the excellent flan. read more
6 years ago
Really delicious food, served very fast, in large portions! Had plenty left over for a second meal to enjoy later! The mojito was refreshing and hit the spot on a sunny day. Very friendly service! Nice table in the shade of a bright umbrella. This was a great meal and a fun spot to enjoy it- glad we found it! read more
More info about La Bodega
104 N 18th St
Richmond, VA 23223
Shockoe Bottom
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(804) 267-3801
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