MAMA Oakland was built as an homage to your old-school Italian-American grandmother. The original Mama, specifically, is Maria Germano Stacionis, an Italian-American who emigrated to Rockford, IL, from the Abruzzo region and lived her life as the consummate hostess, mother and grandmother. Mama was always the first to pour you a drink, pull out a chair, and serve you up a huge bowl of pasta, laughing with a wink of mischief and absolutely delighted by your company.
MAMA Oakland exists to honor her legacy and extend the same sense of hospitality, to nurture the same sense of warmth and community—even family—that we found in her home. We believe in building relationships with and between our guests, in the power of sharing good food and beverages, and in their capacity to create opportunities for our guests to share experiences, stories, skills and laughter.
MICHELIN Guide’s Point Of View
Bib Gourmand: good quality, good value cooking
Opened by a husband-and-wife team just a few doors down from their wine shop (Bay Grape), this alluring spot has that simple yet chic look down pat. Envision a dark green ceiling, brass-and-glass chandeliers, and live plants scattered throughout. The premise is simple—a reasonably priced, three-course dinner and there are no reservations.
Choose one of two options for each course—like a soup or salad tailed by pasta and dessert. Items change often, but one constant is the spaghetti, which also served as the inspiration behind this establishment. Presented as a hearty portion, the twirled mound is tossed with Mama's tomato sugo, featuring braised pork and beef.
The wine list is full of interesting labels and employs symbols for easier navigation.
