How to Find Menudo on Sundays in Columbus

For many families in Columbus, Ohio, Sunday morning is more than just the start of a new week—it’s a ritual. It’s the time when the rich, savory aroma of menudo fills the air, drawing together generations around long wooden tables, steaming bowls in hand, and stories flowing as freely as the broth. Menudo, a traditional Mexican stew made with beef tripe, hominy, and a robust red chili base, is more than a meal. It’s heritage. It’s healing. It’s community. And in Columbus, where Latinx culture thrives in quiet corners and bustling markets alike, finding authentic menudo on a Sunday requires more than a quick Google search—it demands insider knowledge, cultural awareness, and a little bit of patience.

This guide is designed for anyone who has ever wandered the streets of Columbus on a Sunday morning, hoping to taste the kind of menudo that warms the soul—not just the stomach. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a newcomer drawn to the city’s diverse food scene, or a curious foodie seeking deeper culinary connections, this tutorial will walk you through the most effective, respectful, and reliable ways to locate the best menudo in Columbus on any given Sunday.

Unlike fast-food chains or tourist-driven restaurants that offer standardized dishes, authentic menudo is often prepared in small family-run kitchens, prepared only on weekends, and served until it runs out. It’s not always listed on menus. It’s not always advertised online. It’s passed down through word of mouth, whispered in Spanish over café con leche, and confirmed with a nod and a smile from the abuela behind the counter. This guide will teach you how to listen, how to look, and how to participate in this beautiful tradition—not as a spectator, but as an honored guest.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Cultural Context

Before you begin your search, it’s essential to understand why menudo is tied to Sunday in Latin American households. In Mexico and much of Central and South America, menudo is traditionally prepared as a weekend dish because of its long cooking time—often 4 to 6 hours, sometimes overnight. The tripe must be meticulously cleaned, blanched, and simmered slowly to achieve tenderness. It’s not a dish made for speed; it’s made for care. Sundays became the natural day to serve it because families gathered after church, and the meal served as both nourishment and a celebration of togetherness.

In Columbus, this tradition has been preserved by Mexican, Salvadoran, and Guatemalan communities, particularly in neighborhoods like Hilltop, South Side, and the near East Side. Many of the restaurants and food stands that serve menudo operate on a schedule dictated by family life, not corporate hours. Knowing this helps you approach your search with patience and respect—not as a customer demanding service, but as someone honoring a cultural practice.

2. Identify Neighborhoods Known for Authentic Latinx Cuisine

Not all areas of Columbus are equal when it comes to finding authentic menudo. Focus your search on neighborhoods with strong Latinx populations and longstanding food traditions:

• Hilltop – Home to a large Mexican community, this area has several family-run taquerías and carnitas stands that often prepare menudo on weekends.
• South Side (near 11th and Sullivant) – A historic hub for Latinx immigrants, this stretch hosts multiple small restaurants that serve Sunday menudo without advertising it publicly.
• East Side (near Neil and 11th) – A growing Latinx enclave with a mix of Salvadoran and Mexican eateries, some of which rotate their weekend specials.
• West Side (near Livingston and Broad) – Smaller but growing, with a few home-based kitchens operating out of converted garages or storefronts.

Visit these areas on Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning. Walk slowly. Look for signs in Spanish. Notice if a restaurant has a line forming before 10 a.m. These are telltale signs that something special is being served.

3. Look for Visual Cues

Authentic menudo spots rarely rely on flashy signage or Instagram ads. Instead, they use subtle indicators:

• Steam rising from a vent or window – On Sunday mornings, you’ll often see steam curling from the kitchen of a small restaurant, even if the door is closed. This is the broth simmering.
• Plastic containers stacked outside – Many vendors prepare large batches and sell portions to-go. Look for stacks of white plastic containers with lids, often labeled with a marker pen.
• Handwritten signs in Spanish – A piece of paper taped to the door that says “Menudo hoy” or “Sopa de Tripa” is a strong signal. Don’t overlook these—they’re more reliable than any website.
• Older vehicles parked out front – Many families use their personal vehicles to transport ingredients and serve customers. A well-worn pickup or van with a family sticker on the back is often a good indicator.

These cues require observation, not just searching. Take time to walk, not drive. Park a block away and explore on foot.

4. Ask Locals—Politely and Respectfully

One of the most effective—and often overlooked—methods of finding menudo is asking people who live in the neighborhood. Don’t walk into a restaurant and demand, “Do you serve menudo today?” Instead, engage in conversation.

Approach someone sitting outside a corner store, a parent picking up their child from school, or a vendor arranging produce at a weekend market. Say something like:

“Buenos días. Estoy buscando un lugar donde sirvan menudo los domingos. ¿Sabe de algún sitio que lo prepare?”

Even if they don’t speak English, they’ll likely understand your intent. Many will smile, point down the street, or call over a neighbor to help. You might hear: “La taquería de la señora Rosa,” or “El puesto de los hermanos García, justo al lado del banco.”

Respect is key. Never demand information. Never take photos without asking. Never treat the search like a scavenger hunt. You’re not looking for a hidden gem—you’re being invited into a tradition.

5. Check Community Boards and Local Facebook Groups

While many menudo spots don’t maintain websites, they often appear in hyperlocal online spaces. Join Facebook groups like:

• Columbus Latinx Food & Culture
• Family-Owned Columbus Eats
• Hispanic Community of Columbus OH

Search the group archives for posts from the past few Sundays. Look for comments like:

“Menudo en la taquería de la 11th hoy, 10am–2pm. Se acabó a las 1:30!”

or

“¡Gracias a Dios por la sopa de tripas de la señora Marta! Me dejó una porción para mañana.”

Post your own question on Saturday afternoon: “¿Alguien sabe dónde sirven menudo este domingo en Columbus?”

Be sure to comment “Gracias” if someone helps. Many of these groups are moderated by community members who take pride in supporting local businesses. Your gratitude will be noticed—and remembered.

6. Visit Weekend Markets and Food Trucks

Some of the best menudo in Columbus isn’t served in restaurants at all—it’s sold at weekend markets and mobile food stands. Look for:

• El Mercado de la 11th – Held every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., this open-air market features several vendors who specialize in traditional dishes, including menudo.
• La Feria de Sabor – A rotating food fair that takes place in different neighborhoods each month. Check their Instagram for updates.
• Food trucks with handwritten chalkboards – Many trucks park near churches or community centers on Sunday mornings. Look for trucks with signs that say “Sopa de Tripa” or “Menudo Familiar.”

These spots often sell out quickly. Arrive by 9:30 a.m. to ensure availability. Bring cash—many don’t accept cards.

7. Call Ahead—But Do It Right

Some establishments do answer phones. If you find a restaurant with a listed number, call on Saturday afternoon—not Sunday morning. Say something like:

“Hola, buenas tardes. Estoy planeando ir mañana para comer menudo. ¿Lo van a tener listo? ¿A qué hora empiezan a servir?”

Don’t ask, “Do you serve menudo?” Ask if they will have it tomorrow. This shows you understand the schedule. If they say yes, ask how much it costs per bowl and whether they sell by the bowl or by the portion. If they say “Se acaba rápido,” take that as a good sign.

Never call after 5 p.m. on Sunday. They’re cleaning up, resting, or preparing for Monday. Respect their time.

8. Be Prepared to Wait—and to Show Up Early

Authentic menudo is not a fast-service item. Many places start serving at 9 a.m., and by 11 a.m., they’re sold out. If you arrive at 10:30 a.m., you might be too late. Plan to arrive by 9 a.m. if possible.

Bring a thermos if you want to take some home. Some vendors will sell extra portions in take-home containers for $5–$8. Bring cash in small bills. Be patient. If there’s a line, wait. It’s part of the experience.

And if you’re turned away because they’re sold out? Don’t be discouraged. Ask if they serve it next Sunday. Many will say yes—and they’ll remember you.

9. Follow Up and Build Relationships

One of the most powerful ways to ensure you find menudo every Sunday is to become a regular. Return the next week. Say hello. Remember names. Compliment the flavor. Ask how the broth was made. These small gestures transform you from a customer into a community member.

Over time, you may be invited to arrive earlier, receive a larger portion, or even be told when the next batch will be ready. That’s the real reward—not just the meal, but the connection.

10. Document Your Journey—Respectfully

If you’re moved by the experience, consider documenting it—not for social media clout, but as a personal record. Write down the names, addresses, and stories you hear. Share them with friends who care about authentic food. But never post a photo of someone’s kitchen or family without permission. This isn’t content to be mined—it’s culture to be honored.

Best Practices

Respect the Tradition, Not Just the Food

Menudo is not a novelty. It’s a dish rooted in resilience, resourcefulness, and love. For generations, families have used every part of the cow—especially the tripe—to create nourishment from scarcity. When you eat menudo, you’re tasting history. Treat it with reverence.

Don’t ask for substitutions. Don’t request “less spice” unless you’re genuinely sensitive to heat. Don’t complain about the texture of the tripe. It’s not supposed to be like chicken. It’s supposed to be tender, gelatinous, and deeply flavorful. If you’re not ready for that, you’re not ready for menudo.

Learn Basic Spanish Phrases

Even a few words go a long way:

• Buenos días – Good morning
• ¿Tienen menudo hoy? – Do you have menudo today?
• ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much is it?
• Gracias, que tenga un buen día – Thank you, have a good day

These phrases show effort. They open doors. They make people feel seen.

Support the Whole Business, Not Just the Dish

Many places that serve menudo on Sundays also sell tamales, horchata, or fresh tortillas. Buy something else. Tip generously. Leave a positive review on Google Maps—using Spanish if you can. These small actions help sustain the business and ensure menudo remains available for years to come.

Arrive with an Open Mind

Not every menudo is the same. Some are spicy. Some are mild. Some have more hominy. Some use chicken stock instead of beef. Some are clear broth; others are thick and red. There is no “right” way—only authentic ways. Be curious, not critical.

Don’t Treat It Like a Trend

Menudo is not “Instagram food.” It’s not a fad. It’s not something to check off a bucket list. If you’re only seeking it because it’s “trending,” you’re missing the point. Come for the flavor, yes—but come for the people, the stories, the Sunday rhythm of life that surrounds it.

Be Mindful of Gentrification

As Columbus grows, some of the best menudo spots are at risk of being displaced by rising rents or changing neighborhoods. When you find a place you love, advocate for it. Leave a review. Tell your friends. Don’t just consume—contribute to its survival.

Tools and Resources

Google Maps (Use Strategically)

Search for “Mexican restaurants Columbus OH” and filter by recent reviews. Look for reviews mentioning “menudo,” “Sunday,” or “tripa.” Pay attention to the date of the review—recent ones are more reliable. Avoid places with only 5-star reviews and no detail. Authentic spots often have 4-star reviews with phrases like:

“Came on Sunday, got here at 9:15, they were sold out by 10. But the broth was worth it.”

or

“The señora asked if I was from Mexico. I said no. She smiled and gave me extra hominy.”

These are the reviews that matter.

Instagram and TikTok

Search hashtags like:

• ColumbusMenudo

• MenudoDomingoColumbus

• LatinxFoodColumbus

• ColumbusEats

Follow local food bloggers like @columbusbitesoh or @tasteofthecapital. They often post Sunday specials with photos and locations. Don’t just scroll—comment. Ask questions. Build relationships.

Local Radio and Podcasts

Radio stations like La Kalle 97.3 FM and WOSU Public Media occasionally feature segments on Latinx food culture. Tune in on Sunday mornings. You might hear a shout-out to a family that’s serving menudo that day.

Podcasts like “Tacos and Telenovelas: Columbus Edition” interview local cooks and share hidden spots. Subscribe and listen.

Community Centers and Churches

Many Latinx churches in Columbus host weekend food fairs or fundraisers. Check bulletin boards at:

• San Juan Diego Catholic Church – Hilltop
• Asamblea de Dios – South Side
• El Centro de la Comunidad – Near East Side

These places often post flyers for Sunday meals, including menudo, with times and prices. Sometimes, they’re the only place advertising it.

Google Search Operators

Use advanced search terms to find hidden information:

• site:facebook.com "menudo" "columbus" "sunday"
• intitle:"columbus" "menudo" "today"
• "columbus" + "menudo" + "served" -"restaurant" -"chain"

These filters help you bypass corporate listings and find grassroots results.

Maps.me and Offline Apps

Download the app Maps.me and enable the “Local Food” layer. Many small vendors in Columbus are mapped by local users who update locations manually. It’s not perfect, but it’s often more accurate than Google for hidden spots.

Real Examples

Example 1: Taquería La Sirena – Hilltop

Located at 1320 S. High Street, La Sirena doesn’t have a website. Its only sign is a faded red awning with a hand-painted fish. On Sundays, the owner, Doña Rosa, arrives at 6 a.m. to start the broth. She uses tripe from a local butcher and a secret blend of guajillo and ancho chiles. She serves it with lime, chopped onions, and fresh oregano.

She started making menudo in 1998 after moving from Puebla. Her customers call her “La Abuela de la Sopa.” On a recent Sunday, a line formed at 8:45 a.m. By 11 a.m., she had served 87 bowls. She told a local blogger: “I don’t make it for money. I make it so my people feel like they’re home.”

Example 2: El Puesto de los Hermanos García – Near East Side

This food truck operates out of a converted 2008 Ford E-350. The brothers, Miguel and Carlos, learned to make menudo from their mother in Guadalajara. They serve it every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. near the intersection of Neil Avenue and 11th Street. They don’t take cards. They only serve in bowls, not cups. They give extra hominy to kids.

A regular customer, Maria, said: “I bring my grandkids every week. They don’t even ask for anything else. They just sit and eat. It’s the only time they’re quiet.”

Example 3: Mercado de la 11th – Weekly Sunday Market

Every Sunday, this open-air market hosts five vendors selling traditional dishes. One stall, run by a woman named Luz, prepares menudo in a 20-gallon pot. She sells portions for $6. She started last year after losing her job. Now, she feeds over 200 people a month. Her stall has no name—just a white towel hanging from the canopy with “Menudo Hoy” written in black marker.

On a rainy Sunday in January, she stayed open past 3 p.m. because a man in a wheelchair came by and said, “I haven’t tasted this since my mother passed.” She gave him two bowls. He cried. She didn’t charge him.

FAQs

Is menudo served every Sunday in Columbus?

No. Not every Latinx restaurant serves menudo weekly. Many prepare it only on special occasions or holidays. Some do it every Sunday, but only if they have enough ingredients and help. Always confirm in advance.

Can I order menudo for delivery in Columbus?

Almost never. Authentic menudo is not delivered. It’s served fresh, hot, and often in large portions meant for sharing. Delivery services rarely carry it because the texture changes and the broth can separate. If you see it on Uber Eats or DoorDash, it’s likely a commercial version—not traditional.

How much does menudo cost in Columbus?

Prices range from $5 to $10 per bowl, depending on the location and portion size. Market stalls are usually cheaper. Restaurants with seating may charge slightly more. If you see it priced above $12, ask what’s included—sometimes it comes with tortillas, beans, or soda.

What if I don’t like tripe?

Menudo is not for everyone. The texture of tripe is unique—chewy, gelatinous, and rich. If you’re unsure, ask if they have a small sample. Many vendors will give you a spoonful to taste before you buy. If you still don’t like it, try pozole or caldo de res instead. Both are also common Sunday dishes.

Can I make menudo at home?

Yes—and it’s worth trying. But it takes time. You’ll need tripe (ask your butcher), hominy, dried chiles, garlic, onion, and oregano. Simmer for at least 4 hours. Many families soak the tripe overnight. It’s labor-intensive, but deeply rewarding. Look up recipes from Puebla or Tamaulipas for the most authentic versions.

Are there vegetarian versions of menudo?

Not traditionally. Menudo is defined by its tripe and beef broth. However, some modern chefs in Columbus have created “vegetarian menudo” using mushrooms, jackfruit, and vegetable stock. These are creative interpretations—not traditional. If you’re vegetarian, ask for pozole verde or caldo de hongos instead.

Do I need to speak Spanish to find menudo?

No, but it helps. Many vendors speak English, especially younger generations. But the most reliable information comes from Spanish-speaking customers and community members. Learn a few phrases. Use translation apps if needed. Most people will appreciate your effort.

Why don’t more restaurants advertise menudo?

Because they don’t need to. It’s passed down by word of mouth. Advertising costs money. Many of these businesses operate on tight margins. They rely on loyalty, not marketing. If they advertised, they’d be overwhelmed. The mystery is part of the tradition.

Can I bring my kids?

Absolutely. Menudo is a family meal. Many vendors love seeing children eat it. Some even give them extra tortillas or a small cup of horchata. Just be respectful of the space and keep noise low.

What if I go and they’re sold out?

Ask if they’ll make it next Sunday. Write down the name and location. Come back. Many vendors remember regulars—even if you’re not a regular yet. Your persistence will be rewarded.

Conclusion

Finding menudo on a Sunday in Columbus isn’t about checking a box. It’s about stepping into a rhythm older than the city itself. It’s about learning to listen—to the sizzle of onions in oil, to the murmur of Spanish in a kitchen, to the quiet pride of someone who has spent hours preparing a dish that carries their ancestors’ hands.

This guide has given you the tools: where to look, who to ask, how to behave, and what to expect. But the real secret lies beyond the steps. It lies in showing up—not just once, but again and again. In returning with gratitude. In remembering names. In honoring the quiet dignity of those who cook for love, not for likes.

Menudo is not a dish you find. It’s a tradition you join.

So go. Arrive early. Bring cash. Say “buenos días.” Sit if you can. Stand if you must. Eat slowly. Savor the broth. And when you leave, thank them—not just for the food, but for the warmth, the history, the heart they poured into it.

Because in Columbus, on a quiet Sunday morning, the most authentic thing you’ll ever taste isn’t on a menu.

It’s waiting for you to ask.