Mama at the Heart of the Kitchen

As you walk in, you’ll spot her in the kitchen, guiding her team—showing them exactly how to mix the tabouli and roll the sambousik dough just right.
If a dish doesn’t taste the way it should, she’ll remake it. A clean plate returning to the kitchen means she’s done her job well.

From Fitzroy Roots to a New Home

Mama—Elizabeth Kairouz—opened her first restaurant in Fitzroy in 2014, encouraged by her children.
In 2017, she brought her time-honoured recipes to this larger, more modern space, complete with neon pink signage and striking wall murals.

A Feast of Lebanese Flavours

The menu is generous, spanning everything from small mezza plates to smoky charcoal-grilled skewers.
For the full experience, let Mama take the lead with a $50 banquet. You’ll be warned not to fill up too quickly on house-made dips, as there’s plenty more to come—falafel, traditional meat kibkabet, and chicken shish tawook straight from the grill.
Be sure to save room for dessert: syrupy baklava or fried awamet (Lebanese-style doughnuts).

Drinks That Go Beyond the Ordinary

The drinks list features a strong selection of Lebanese wines, along with bottles from the Adelaide Hills and New Zealand.
You’ll also find cocktails, mocktails, and for the adventurous, arak—the bold, aniseed-flavoured spirit.

Mama’s Garden: Casual and Fresh

Outdoors, Mama’s Garden offers a more relaxed vibe, with made-to-order chicken and lamb shawarma, haloumi wraps, and fresh dips.