A Taste of New Orleans in Richmond: Manchu’s Corner Store Vibe
When it comes to the best fried chicken wings and fries in Richmond, my go-to spot is Manchu, a New Orleans original that recently opened its second location right here in Virginia’s capital.
For a bit of backstory, New Orleans was the first place I traveled solo back in 2017. Manchu was suggested to me as some of the best fried chicken in the city, but my list of recommended restaurants was so long that Manchu was one of the places I never made it to.
Imagine my surprise when I learned that they had opened one in my city. I maintain that Richmond is one of the best foodie cities in the nation, and this has something to do with that notion. The city often gets unique restaurants and food trucks that are unassuming. When you’re finally compelled to give a restaurant a try, you can almost always bet on bold flavors and good cost value.
From the Big Easy to RVA
Manchu’s story begins in New Orleans, where it evolved from a Chinese takeout spot to a local legend for its uniquely flavored wings and a menu that merges Vietnamese, Chinese, and Cajun influences. In Richmond, Manchu has brought that same authenticity to its North Avenue location. Originally operating as a food truck, its success led to a permanent brick-and-mortar spot.
Anywhere I can find chicken wings and Tahitian Treat gives me hood vibes—the kind of place that is actually a hidden gem and cornerstone of the community, in this case the Northside of Richmond. Just like the New Orleans location, the Richmond location is takeout only. It’s not your Instagram-worthy, aesthetically pleasing spot, but it is rather charming in the sense that what you see is what you get.
The Wings That Keep Me Coming Back
The fried chicken wings are the most classic menu item. I almost believe you shouldn’t even go if you don’t plan to order wings. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—it really doesn’t get much more perfect than that. It’s worth noting that I always order cajun fries as my side and mambo sauce to dip my chicken. Order this and thank me later.
If you absolutely must order something that isn’t chicken wings, they also have other New Orleans classics like po’ boys and beignets that bring a little piece of the French Quarter to Richmond.
To me, I can always the best food at hole-in-the-wall spots and humble storefronts. The food at Manchu just feels familiar, which I imagine is the reason its legend grew in New Orleans. Similarly, the Richmond location has found a perfect fit in the Northside neighborhood.
