AMAZING food. The strawberry and Nutella crepes were absolutely amazing. We also had bagels, the chocolate chip cookie, and apple pie. I wish the pie was warmed up, but it's partially my fault not for asking. The only thing I wasn't a fan of was the hot chai with oat milk, it had too much of the chai syrup in there.
Mary B.
Delicious coffee and treats. Very nice ambiance. Very COVID careful and I appreciate that.
Joshua W.
Humble low key neighborhood spot that punches well above its weight. Friendly service, family vibe, pastries clearly baked with love.
Ronni R.
This used to be Zanzibar, and I often stopped by for some coffee and a pastry on the way to wherever I was headed to in the area. When it became Mama K's Cafe, I was, of course, intrigued, and hoped it wouldn't change too much. In fact, when they first opened, everything seemed to be just fine--the various pastries were pretty yummy, and I could sit outside, or inside, just as I'd done before. I also met who I think was the owner on one occasion, and he seemed really nice and conversational. However, the last few times were a complete dud. On my most recent visit there (August 17th at about 1:30 p.m.), the Raspberry Coffee Cake was slightly burnt on the outside. I asked the person cutting the slice whether he could avoid the burnt parts (and he really did try), but, nevertheless, the cake slice had a burnt taste to it that left a lingering, bad taste in my mouth. Before this, I had tried their other pastries, like their croissants, which didn't remotely resemble in taste or in texture anything that I'd ever had in Paris. On several other occasions, the pastry was simply not good--too dry, or crumbly, and it certainly didn't warrant the high price. I have expectations for something I'm paying a lot for. Whatever the reason, I feel I've given them enough chances, and off I go to look for another bakery/coffee shop.
Hongwei L.
This is an amazing spot in Edgrwater. I stopped by for lunch with my wife. It is a local cafe with sandwiches, coffee, and desserts, and it was impressive. I ordered the rueben sandwich. It wasuch heavier than expected, and definitely very tasty. Great amount of meat for the price, and toasted to perfection. Comes with a side of chips. The soup of the day was garden vegetable. It was tasty and I finished every last drop. I wish I saved some room for dessert. They had ice cream, milk shakes, and pastries. I need to come back next time for more. I ordered an Americano on the way out. This place has good coffee. Definitely a nice find on this neighborhood.
Antonio R.
Mama K's is simply the best. When it comes to a locally owned and operated coffee shop, they take the cake. Their coffee packs the necessary punch (no needless frills), their food is amazing (the Reuben and the chicken grinder are effing delicious), and Mama's desserts and pastries are always a hit - I recommend the double chocolate muffin or raspberry crumble cake for sweets and the creamy spinach pastry they have on weekends which is just absolutely bomb. Support this business so they stick around. And if you're going to the Starbucks at the other end of the block, SHAME ON YOU. Also, like why? Anyway, Mama K's is a place I spend most of my extra food income and it's always worth it.
Vivian B.
The Nitro cold brew is like no other, it is simply AMAZING. The staff is super nice and accommodating.
Rachel G.
Always wanted to visit this cafe and finally did this morning! Walked in and wanted to try all the delicious pastries. Ended up getting the best dirty chai latte I've had in a long time and a sausage and egg biscuit sandwich. The people were so friendly and it was very COVID safe. Wish it were open a bit earlier so I could go before work but I will definitely go back again!
Philip A.
Today I decided to enjoy the nice November and leave my house to get lunch since I've been working from home a lot. I've seen this cafe in my neighborhood but haven't checked it out until recently and I'm so glad that I did and you know for sure I will be coming back. I ordered the Meat Lovers sandwich for lunch and it was fantastic! It comes with a side salad or pickles whichever one you choose. It was toasted perfectly and the dressing for the salad was good. The sandwich is big so it was really filling for sure. They have a lot of selections for panini style and deli style sandwiches and dessert too which unfortunately I didn't get to try but I'll be back to try some for sure. They also sell coffee and Ice cream. During this time they only do to go orders but it seems like they have tables and chairs that you can hopefully when things go back to normal. Living in Edgewater for awhile I didn't know why it took me this long to check this place out. It'll probably one of my new favorite places to eat in the neighborhood if I want a quick bite or better yet good desserts
Mike W.
The sandwiches and pastries are always fresh and tasty. With a Starbucks just a few doors away, Mama Ks holds its own! The coffee is rich and flavourful, never "charred" or bitter! And the staff, and including Mama K, herself, are friendly and welcoming. The restaurant has become a staple here. Oh -- and the ice cream!!!
Excellent food and excellent staff. I was sad when Zanzibar closed, thinking the staff would be gone... nope! It was actually bought by the staff and now run by them. One of my favorites! Update: Still the absolute best lunch place in the area. The food is great but also the guys that own it are awesome. A+++ glad they made it through the COVID stuff. Go visit!
Erika G.
I loved Zanzibar, and I love Mama K's. Same delicious coffee (suck it $tarbucks), best in the neighborhood. My favorite Reuben sandwich is still my favorite. Perfect ratio of kraut to corned beef. Spinach pies, crazy great desserts, ICE CREAM, and plenty of room to chill, eat, work, study. Same awesome, friendly staff! Love!!!
K D.
I'm glad this place (formerly called Zanzibar) stayed open and relatively the same after the former owner(s) left. The food is still a bit pricey but is well made and tasty. I'm big on customer service and feel as though I've been treated well the last few times I've been here - an improvement from their earlier days when they first reopened .... Today, in a rare klutzy moment, I spilled a good portion of my chai latte on the table. I asked one of the young men behind the counter for a rag to clean up the mess and was told to just sit down because they/he'd take care of it. As he (I think he's one of the managers/new owners) cleaned up my mess, I was thanked for not just wadding up paper towels and leaving it for them to find later. Sad that people would do that, but anyway - he also asked me what I was drinking and proceeded to have my cup refilled at no charge. Yes - pretty standard Best Practice for any company but that doesn't mean it always happens. It was a very appreciated gesture, especially after having a bad experience at another location just prior to coming here. Just one more thing I'd ask - please bring back the applewood smoked bacon tomato pumpkin bisque
Diane102_12
Walking home from Open House Chicago feeling In need of a snack, we came across this warm, friendly little place. What a find! In front they had a display of breakfast-type pastries. Prepared-to-order offerings (soup, salads, sandwiches) were listed on a blackboard along with an extensive menu of coffee and tea drinks, and in back there was a case of beautiful pastries. We chose a spinach pie, which was made in house, and hot drinks. The spinach pie was excellent (better than some I’ve had in Greektown). The cafe was clean and comfortable, and several staff members greeted us and asked if we needed anything as they walked by. We felt welcome. We will certainly make trips back there to try more of their menu and enjoy the comfortable, friendly neighborhood vibe.
Ella P.
Mama K's is such a great place! The service is always prompt and attentive. The workers are all very sweet and professional. The menu has several items for everyone and the prices are reasonable for a coffee shop. They have a wide variety of sweets, pastries, sandwiches, and salads. Everything is fresh and delicious! They also have vegetarian and vegan options! Additionally, they carry "chocolate shoppe" ice cream and other cakes and treats. There is a lot of seating space and the background music is great too. I would definitely recommend supporting this local business over the starbucks down the street. They're amazing!!
AMAZING food. The strawberry and Nutella crepes were absolutely amazing. We also had bagels, the chocolate chip cookie, and apple pie. I wish the pie was warmed up, but it's partially my fault not for asking. The only thing I wasn't a fan of was the hot chai with oat milk, it had too much of the chai syrup in there.
Delicious coffee and treats. Very nice ambiance. Very COVID careful and I appreciate that.
Humble low key neighborhood spot that punches well above its weight. Friendly service, family vibe, pastries clearly baked with love.
This used to be Zanzibar, and I often stopped by for some coffee and a pastry on the way to wherever I was headed to in the area. When it became Mama K's Cafe, I was, of course, intrigued, and hoped it wouldn't change too much. In fact, when they first opened, everything seemed to be just fine--the various pastries were pretty yummy, and I could sit outside, or inside, just as I'd done before. I also met who I think was the owner on one occasion, and he seemed really nice and conversational. However, the last few times were a complete dud. On my most recent visit there (August 17th at about 1:30 p.m.), the Raspberry Coffee Cake was slightly burnt on the outside. I asked the person cutting the slice whether he could avoid the burnt parts (and he really did try), but, nevertheless, the cake slice had a burnt taste to it that left a lingering, bad taste in my mouth. Before this, I had tried their other pastries, like their croissants, which didn't remotely resemble in taste or in texture anything that I'd ever had in Paris. On several other occasions, the pastry was simply not good--too dry, or crumbly, and it certainly didn't warrant the high price. I have expectations for something I'm paying a lot for. Whatever the reason, I feel I've given them enough chances, and off I go to look for another bakery/coffee shop.
This is an amazing spot in Edgrwater. I stopped by for lunch with my wife. It is a local cafe with sandwiches, coffee, and desserts, and it was impressive. I ordered the rueben sandwich. It wasuch heavier than expected, and definitely very tasty. Great amount of meat for the price, and toasted to perfection. Comes with a side of chips. The soup of the day was garden vegetable. It was tasty and I finished every last drop. I wish I saved some room for dessert. They had ice cream, milk shakes, and pastries. I need to come back next time for more. I ordered an Americano on the way out. This place has good coffee. Definitely a nice find on this neighborhood.
Mama K's is simply the best. When it comes to a locally owned and operated coffee shop, they take the cake. Their coffee packs the necessary punch (no needless frills), their food is amazing (the Reuben and the chicken grinder are effing delicious), and Mama's desserts and pastries are always a hit - I recommend the double chocolate muffin or raspberry crumble cake for sweets and the creamy spinach pastry they have on weekends which is just absolutely bomb. Support this business so they stick around. And if you're going to the Starbucks at the other end of the block, SHAME ON YOU. Also, like why? Anyway, Mama K's is a place I spend most of my extra food income and it's always worth it.
The Nitro cold brew is like no other, it is simply AMAZING. The staff is super nice and accommodating.
Always wanted to visit this cafe and finally did this morning! Walked in and wanted to try all the delicious pastries. Ended up getting the best dirty chai latte I've had in a long time and a sausage and egg biscuit sandwich. The people were so friendly and it was very COVID safe. Wish it were open a bit earlier so I could go before work but I will definitely go back again!
Today I decided to enjoy the nice November and leave my house to get lunch since I've been working from home a lot. I've seen this cafe in my neighborhood but haven't checked it out until recently and I'm so glad that I did and you know for sure I will be coming back. I ordered the Meat Lovers sandwich for lunch and it was fantastic! It comes with a side salad or pickles whichever one you choose. It was toasted perfectly and the dressing for the salad was good. The sandwich is big so it was really filling for sure. They have a lot of selections for panini style and deli style sandwiches and dessert too which unfortunately I didn't get to try but I'll be back to try some for sure. They also sell coffee and Ice cream. During this time they only do to go orders but it seems like they have tables and chairs that you can hopefully when things go back to normal. Living in Edgewater for awhile I didn't know why it took me this long to check this place out. It'll probably one of my new favorite places to eat in the neighborhood if I want a quick bite or better yet good desserts
The sandwiches and pastries are always fresh and tasty. With a Starbucks just a few doors away, Mama Ks holds its own! The coffee is rich and flavourful, never "charred" or bitter! And the staff, and including Mama K, herself, are friendly and welcoming. The restaurant has become a staple here. Oh -- and the ice cream!!!
Restaurantji Recommends
Excellent food and excellent staff. I was sad when Zanzibar closed, thinking the staff would be gone... nope! It was actually bought by the staff and now run by them. One of my favorites! Update: Still the absolute best lunch place in the area. The food is great but also the guys that own it are awesome. A+++ glad they made it through the COVID stuff. Go visit!
I loved Zanzibar, and I love Mama K's. Same delicious coffee (suck it $tarbucks), best in the neighborhood. My favorite Reuben sandwich is still my favorite. Perfect ratio of kraut to corned beef. Spinach pies, crazy great desserts, ICE CREAM, and plenty of room to chill, eat, work, study. Same awesome, friendly staff! Love!!!
I'm glad this place (formerly called Zanzibar) stayed open and relatively the same after the former owner(s) left. The food is still a bit pricey but is well made and tasty. I'm big on customer service and feel as though I've been treated well the last few times I've been here - an improvement from their earlier days when they first reopened .... Today, in a rare klutzy moment, I spilled a good portion of my chai latte on the table. I asked one of the young men behind the counter for a rag to clean up the mess and was told to just sit down because they/he'd take care of it. As he (I think he's one of the managers/new owners) cleaned up my mess, I was thanked for not just wadding up paper towels and leaving it for them to find later. Sad that people would do that, but anyway - he also asked me what I was drinking and proceeded to have my cup refilled at no charge. Yes - pretty standard Best Practice for any company but that doesn't mean it always happens. It was a very appreciated gesture, especially after having a bad experience at another location just prior to coming here. Just one more thing I'd ask - please bring back the applewood smoked bacon tomato pumpkin bisque
Walking home from Open House Chicago feeling In need of a snack, we came across this warm, friendly little place. What a find! In front they had a display of breakfast-type pastries. Prepared-to-order offerings (soup, salads, sandwiches) were listed on a blackboard along with an extensive menu of coffee and tea drinks, and in back there was a case of beautiful pastries. We chose a spinach pie, which was made in house, and hot drinks. The spinach pie was excellent (better than some I’ve had in Greektown). The cafe was clean and comfortable, and several staff members greeted us and asked if we needed anything as they walked by. We felt welcome. We will certainly make trips back there to try more of their menu and enjoy the comfortable, friendly neighborhood vibe.
Mama K's is such a great place! The service is always prompt and attentive. The workers are all very sweet and professional. The menu has several items for everyone and the prices are reasonable for a coffee shop. They have a wide variety of sweets, pastries, sandwiches, and salads. Everything is fresh and delicious! They also have vegetarian and vegan options! Additionally, they carry "chocolate shoppe" ice cream and other cakes and treats. There is a lot of seating space and the background music is great too. I would definitely recommend supporting this local business over the starbucks down the street. They're amazing!!