

Bellos Lounge & Restaurant blends the warmth of Caribbean and African culinary traditions with modern lounge energy on Richmond’s East Franklin Street. From coconut shrimp and oxtails to Jollof rice and jerk classics, our menu offers bold, island-inspired dishes and handcraft cocktails. With late-night service, DJ sets, and a lively atmosphere, Bellos is more than dinner—it’s an immersive dining + nightlife experience.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 1712 E Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23223
Phone: (804) 716-9559
Website: https://www.belloslounge.com/
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Order and Reservations
Reservations: belloslounge.comopentable.com
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Reviews
Street parking only, which meant hiking a block and a half uphill just to get to dinner. During the day, it’s scenic. After dark? Think ATVs, motorcycles doing wheelies, and a background cast of “on the point.” at night the area doesn’t feel particularly safe.
We were seated immediately, which was appreciated. However, the booth seating is poorly constructed—thin cushions over wooden boxes that sink in as soon as you sit down, creating an unstable and uncomfortable experience. My date’s chair was positioned near a step, which felt unsafe. I felt like if I complained they would pull the lever for the trap door seating.
The lighting was almost perfect — dim at the bar, spotlight interrogation bright at the tables. Nothing says romance like feeling you’re about to be questioned about your tax returns while you eat. Still, the atmosphere was pleasant and sectioned off nicely.
Then came the drink experience. I ordered a club soda with lemon and lime. The server, bless him, inspected the glass for cleanliness (which I appreciated), but then — with the casual grace of someone who’s clearly never met the Covid epidemic… grabbed my citrus with his bare fingers. which raises sanitation concerns. The soda itself was flat, indicating a possible issue with the well gun or carbonation system. Checking soda lines regularly for pressure and carbonation consistency. It had the personality of tap water. I switched to Red Bull. At least I knew that came sealed and unfingered.
I appreciated knowing what wasn’t available upfront (a rare courtesy these days). He recommended the Asun and Salmon Bites appetizers. The Asun was flavorful and fun to eat, though it arrived with a few mystery ingredients I had to improvise my way through.
The salmon bites tasted fine but had a strong fishy smell — which, if you know fish, means they’re past their prime. Presentation though? Excellent.
Timing was solid. The server kept us updated like a pro — 10 minutes became 18, but at least he communicated. I ordered the Oxtails, my wife chose Salmon. My oxtails were well-presented but salty, heavy, and oddly tangy — possibly a Worcestershire situation gone rogue. There wasn’t enough meat floating in the sauce of a pool size bowl on a small table.
The portion size appeared small for the price. I recommend cutting them in half and serving in smaller bowls to create a fuller presentation.
My date’s salmon unfortunately shared the same “ocean aroma” as her appetizer — edible, but not enjoyable. It didn’t go to waste.
It took 25 minutes for our order to come out which was great because we had just finished our appetizers.
During the time we noticed what we felt at the time was “owner” walking around as she checked on all the guest at their respective tables. When she approached our table we engaged her in conversation finding out at this point Niecey.. was the “manager.” She really took pride in position. She spoke to us until our dinner arrived and asked if this was our first time visiting. She asked what we ordered and complimented our choices. She excused herself from the table and left her with the enjoy your meal.
Later She comes over to the table with two mocktails. She said she spoke with our server and heard that we didn’t order any drinks. This was amazingly presented and a wonderful surprise to push the review over the top. Niecey saved the day with her concern, conversation and her attention to detail. I still think she has ownership if not give her a raise. she cares about her job and elevates this place with what you would expect from a luxury restaurant. I would admit it was smart to bring a mocktail just in case we didn’t drink
that drink the presentation the smell of fresh mint the fruit doing a backstroke was top notch.
Niecey gave this restaurant a je ne sais quoi that We have recommended 3 others but warned them about the box trap seating
As a profound critc and philanthropist, I would love to give this establishment a 10/ 10. Throughout the time I ordered my appetizer to the drinks! The food did not disappoint and the service was very welcoming. I had a good time with the quality of food and the drinks made! My party tasted the Suya, which was delicious. We also tried the cocktail drinks in which Ms. Neicy perfected it in a way that took me to the Islands! This is a goldmine in Richmond and I do not want the city to wear them out; come with respect and show them exceptional appreciation as I felt the love from their craft.