Saudade Is Opening in Williamsburg — and I’m Genuinely Excited About This One
I love sharing stories like this — not just because it’s about food (though that certainly helps), but because it’s about people, community, and the way certain places become part of our collective memory here in Williamsburg.
A familiar space at 1313 Jamestown Road — the longtime home of La Tienda Tapas Bar — is about to begin a new chapter. And honestly, I’m really excited to see how it unfolds.
Saudade, a new tapas and wine bar inspired by Mediterranean traditions, Southern roots, and a deep sense of connection, will officially open its doors on Wednesday, January 28. It’s the same address many of us already know and love, but with a new vibe, a fresh menu, and a concept that feels both personal and soulful.
The restaurant is owned and operated by longtime local hospitality professionals Greg and MeLaina Mincher — names that will sound very familiar if you ever spent time at La Tienda. As La Tienda’s online retail business grew, Greg and MeLaina partnered with the Harris family in January 2020 to take over the restaurant side of the business. Then the pandemic hit — and instead of pulling back, they leaned into the community.
They partnered with World Central Kitchen to operate a community kitchen in Williamsburg, offering pay-what-you-can meals to neighbors facing food insecurity. Over time, they expanded their role in the community through creative offerings like mocktail classes, pig roasts, and special events that brought people together.
Now, they’re stepping fully into their own vision with Saudade (pronounced saw-dawd).
The name comes from a Portuguese and Galician word that describes a nostalgic longing for people, places, and experiences that stay with us — and that sentiment feels perfectly suited to Williamsburg.
The menu blends Mediterranean and Southern influences, shaped by MeLaina’s Portuguese heritage and Greg’s background in Southern, Spanish, French, and Israeli cuisines. Guests can expect:
• An extensive cocktail and craft mocktail menu
• Wines from across the Mediterranean
• Community-driven experiences like Sunday Suppers — family-style meals designed to bring people together
Fans of the former tapas bar will also recognize several favorites returning, including patatas bravas, pan con tomate, datiles con tocino, berenjenas con miel, gambas al ajillo, and seasonal paellas.
Hours of Operation
Wednesday–Saturday
• Grab-and-go lunch: 11:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
• Dinner service: 4:00–9:00 p.m.
Sunday
• Brunch: 10:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
• Sunday Supper (family-style): 4:00–9:00 p.m.
Upcoming Events
• Paella Class — January 11 at Gauthier Vineyard
• Kebab Fest — January 25 at Gauthier Vineyard
• Open House & Wine Sale — January 22–23
• Mocktail Classes — January 25–26 at Saudade
• Grand Opening Party — January 27 at Saudade
(Event details will be announced via social media and Eventbrite.)
With Saudade, Greg and MeLaina aren’t just opening another restaurant — they’re creating a place that invites Williamsburg to gather, linger, and savor not just great food and wine, but the memories and connections that make a town feel like home.
I have a feeling this is going to become one of those places we’ll be talking about years from now and saying, “Remember when Saudade first opened?”
About Me & Why I Write These Articles
I write pieces like this because I care deeply about Williamsburg — not just as a real estate agent, but as someone who lives here, raises a family here, and genuinely loves this community.
So much of what makes a place feel like home isn’t just the house you live in — it’s the restaurants you celebrate at, the local businesses you support, and the people who pour their hearts into creating something special here.
As a longtime Realtor® and local ambassador (a role I take just as seriously), I love shining a light on the people and stories that make Williamsburg such a unique and vibrant place to live.
If you ever want to talk about neighborhoods, lifestyle, local favorites, or what it’s really like to live here — whether you’re moving across town or across the country — I’m always happy to help.
You can reach me anytime at 757-254-8136, email me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com, or visit https://mrwilliamsburg.com.
Warmly,
John Womeldorf
A.K.A. Mr. Williamsburg