By Kathy Chouteau
Although the 23rd corridor is primarily known for its authentic Mexican eats, Andy’s Donut Stop is a district OG. It’s been running since 1954 and sells a luscious selection of donuts alongside coffee and breakfast-leaning sandwiches and dishes.
The Standard visited Andy’s during Thursday morning’s rush to ask customers and staff about their favorite Richmond eats. City of Richmond worker Melvin Thomas was happy to weigh in. His go-to place is CJ’s BBQ & Fish on Macdonald Ave. in Richmond. His favorite dish? The ribs & chicken combo.
Thomas, the rainbow’s pot of gold of Richmond recommendations, also loves the turkey sandwich at Angelo’s Gourmet Delicatssen at Macdonald & San Pablo Avenues. Over on Park Place in Point Richmond, he has deep love for El Sol Restaurant & Catering’s chicken over potatoes. Thomas gave one more recommendation before parting for work. “Portumex before it closed,” he said, poignantly gesturing down 23rd Street toward the Mexican restaurant’s former location.
Andy’s customer Andrew R. said he frequents Taqueria La Bamba (Salvadoran) on San Pablo and Tacos El Tucan (Mexican) up the street. Fellow customer, Patricia Samaniego, said, “We need more restaurants on 23rd St. There’s so much empty space here…” However, she disagrees with those denouncing the street’s eateries online.
Two out-of-town customers said they were referred to Andy’s by residents. Everyone the Standard spoke with gave the eatery props, including Oscar Flores. “This is one of my favorite places,” he said. “I’ve been coming here since I was 16 years old.” More than three decades later, he stops in every morning, six days a week and orders the all-meat burrito with eggs, ham, bacon, sausage, potatoes and cheese.
It’s no surprise that when he’s not working, friendly staffer Sochitra Phim stays put at Andy’s to eat. He said his usual order is the #1, with eggs, bacon, hash browns and toast. Phim also loves the pork bánh mì and other sandwiches the eatery carries. He said customers also like the coffee, often returning for a second cup. And the donuts are everyone’s favorites.
Find Andy’s Donut Stop at 971 23rd St. in Richmond. Questions? Contact (510) 232-6057.
Rich Dish asks Richmond residents where and what they like to eat in the city. Want us to stop by your business to dish? Contact [email protected].
