Mama at the Heart of the Kitchen
As you walk in, youβll spot her in the kitchen, guiding her teamβshowing them exactly how to mix the tabouli and roll the sambousik dough just right.
If a dish doesnβt taste the way it should, sheβll remake it. A clean plate returning to the kitchen means sheβs done her job well.
From Fitzroy Roots to a New Home
MamaβElizabeth Kairouzβopened 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. Youβll be warned not to fill up too quickly on house-made dips, as thereβs plenty more to comeβfalafel, 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.
Youβll also find cocktails, mocktails, and for the adventurous, arakβthe bold, aniseed-flavoured spirit.
Mamaβs Garden: Casual and Fresh
Outdoors, Mamaβs Garden offers a more relaxed vibe, with made-to-order chicken and lamb shawarma, haloumi wraps, and fresh dips.