I just smelt love this place and there hospitality, Frank
Amanda Roberto
This was the second & last time we will be coming here. First time, we ordered a pizza & it was very subpar & basic. Second time, we got a hot Italian beef sandwich. My husband & I split it - they forgot the cheese & again, the sandwich tasted very subpar & boring. It was very wet & spilled all over my husband’s shirt. Needless to say, we came here in a pinch today & was very disappointed. ?
Mia A.
Love this spot. Pasta is so fresh, service is amazing, pink sauce is on point! A little bit of a wait but they come out with wine and garlic bread to make the time go by faster! Once you get inside, it's loud but more like a celebration. Family style.We literally ordered everything on the menu... I was so hungry I forgot to take pics of all the food. Get rigatoni sausage with pink sauce - I think it was called mama D's special - I don't remember - but anything pink sauce and sausage! It was BOMB. A must try for all you pasta lovers! Worth the wait. Promise. You won't be disappointed.
Nicolas J.
One of the best Italian food spots hands down period! This was on my list of spots to try and I'm just sad I didn't come sooner!Was quite a wait to be seated just for 2 but I ain't mad after that experience.Cute small and intimate seating.Busy bustling staff getting stuff served and people out quickly but quality DOES NOT SUFFER.The lasagna was amazing as was my friend's pasta.Prices were reasonable actually and they bring you refillable bread servings, they also gave us some while waiting to be seated and a sample of the pasta. Great service and seemingly happy staff with tasty large portions leads me to believe I'll be back for sure :)
Jessica G.
Finally got the chance to bring my family from out of state to this place tonight...our waiter Adam was such a gem and truly made their first time here incredible! He was very attentive, kind, and had great suggestions!! My family and I loved the service, food, and may i add that the bread and oil was to die for! 10/10 would come back again just for the service and that special mama d's sauce alone
Rebeca L.
When my partner and I left the restaurant we had forgotten about our wait; which was only half an hour on a Saturday night.After just 10 minutes of waiting for our table the host brought out warm slices of ciabatta.I can say so many good things about the food so I'll start at the beef ravioli which was the star of the night. The ravioli was perfectly cooked which a creamy and light filling over a simple yet flavorful classic marina sauce. For our second entree we ordered the Bri's Capri with a marina sauce and sausage; the pasta dish includes chopped Roma tomatoes and mozzarella. Everything was well seasoned and not too overpowering. We were getting a little antsy when our starter was taking longer than expected but our server quickly came to alert us that the restaurant would comp the appetizer because of the long wait time. We wouldn't have had a problem paying for it because the calamari was perfectly cooked and delicious. At the end of your meal they give you these tiny chocolate chip cookies that are warmed up. I've never had an Italian restaurant do this but I loved it. They clearly pride themselves in Italian American food and don't try to impress their guest with an over the top interior or fancy plates, they care about the food and service.
Ace B.
Was referred to this restaurant by a hood buddy of mines named Keith and let me start by saying he's one of the most down to earth wholesome and humble person you could ever meet. I felt nearly half itailian eating here. From start to finish everything was prescribe unforced and organic. Food and beverages are exactly what you order. I can't thank you enough for the experience mr. Keith and I won't ever forget this moment. Please come in and enjoy a 10/10 meal served by the best waiters and waitress you can possibly find. If I must say the pink sauce will keep me coming back. Also please give me Deana ( hope I spelled it right) a raise because her professionalism is second to none.
Armond F.
Amazing food, great attentive staff welcoming and warm, quick service. Cute location in Newport Beach! Beautiful pictures, will Definitely will bring my business here again. 10/10!
Thomas
Such good food! Always love a good sandwich (Italian Club)! So glad they have a permanent spot at Weekend Beer Company! Been getting food from them well before they had this spot, and it's so nice to grab a pint and something good to eat!
Jenny B.
OMG!! This place was amazing and a happy accident we stumbled across while driving around to see the sunset here on the west coast! I found it here in Yelp- and couldn't believe the rating after having just shy of 7k reviews. I told my parents we have to try this place. Quickly found parking on the street nearby we had to wait maybe 15 min for a table. Absolutely loved the decor and positive vibes and messages that were posted around the restaurant. The staff was absolutely amazing and I have to shout out of waiter Booker! He was absolutely the best! Never waited for drinks, he was juggling at least 4-5 tables where I could see. I noticed the teamwork of the staff. My glass of water was getting down and another person swung by and filled me up while Booker was delivering food to another table. Kudos to the managers for building such an awesome team. Now to the food!! Yes 5 stars here too!! We didn't have a bad thing to eat!! This place is a must go, must try, and must return kind of place! Quantity and quality of the food for the price was amazing!
I came here with 4 friends on a Saturday night and the wait was over 1 hour, but we decided to wait because we were so excited to try it! We stopped by the Cannery nearby for a quick drink while waiting. When we came back, they were passing out bread for those waiting outside which was so nice. However, after getting a text that our table was ready, we did have to wait an additional 10 or so minutes. The starter bread they give out is a 5/5, maybe the best I've had! The manager came over and gave us a bruschetta was such a nice gesture. The bruschetta was quite good, I was full already. I ordered the spinach ravioli with the Mama D's pink sauce for my entree and it was amazing. Everyone at the table also enjoyed their meals.The vibe inside was really cute and gave the feeling of a little family restaurant. The servers were very nice and it was sweet seeing everyone sing happy birthday as some people were celebrating. When we were ready for the check, our server dropped off some cookies and a thank you note, it was a nice touch. I can't wait to come back and try other dishes!
Paul L.
Mama D's doesn't take reservations. Parking is limited in the back, but you can easily find street parking, which is free after 6 pm.I am head over heels in LOVE with Mama D's! The service was top-notch. While we were waiting outside for our table, a server came out carrying freshly baked focaccia bread and handed it out to guests. He also took wine orders for those wanting a drink. When our table was ready, we were seated by the window, and our server was wonderful, giving us great recommendations. The server also told us that they could split the dish at no cost, so we each received a half portion of each item. We also told the server that we were here to celebrate a birthday, and they came to our table to sing happy birthday and a wonderfully hand-crafted birthday card with Free Bruschetta voucher on our next visit. This is a great restaurant to be celebrating an eventful day that's AFFORDABLE and delicious. Server's RECOMMENDATION - Order a pasta with their famous Pink Sauce. What we ordered: SPENCER'S STUFFED MUSHROOMS (Bread crumbs, fresh herbs, and tiny mushroom pieces) - Surprisingly, this mushroom starter tasted like it had meat inside, and it tasted like it was playing mind tricks. ADDICTINGLY DELICIOUS. MEAT FILLED RAVIOLI (Beef and pork) with MARINARA - Known as Mama D's Famous Homemade Ravioli. I wish I knew how they make the marinara sauce because it was EXCELLENT with the Ravioli.ROBERTO'S CHIOPPINO with LINGUINE (Seafood dish shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari in a red broth sauce with pasta) - This is a lovely item for those craving seafood at an Italian restaurant. I slurped the entire broth for its tomato and seafood taste.
Simon K.
I learned a few things today...Their special of the day Seafood Ravioli with Lobster Cream sauce is only offered every few months. It's so popular that they have a mailing list devoted to that specific dish so you can be notified when it's available.The awesome complimentary mini chocolate chip cookies that you get with your bill, can be purchased in a 15 pack for $5.Corkage fee is only $15 of you want to bring your own bottle of wine. However they already have our favorite Marlborough New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc on the menu.Counter dining is first come first serve. Avoid the wait!As always the gnocchi with pink sauce is our favorite thing on the menu.
Debbie Woolf
For a big event way too slow getting food out. Was told all the 'cold rollup" food was being processed after hot grilled and baked. I ordered a cold wrap because sugars were dropping and I needed it now. An hour later, no food. The people in front of me were done and people behind me served. That's when I asked where mine was. I undestand fresh cooking but also understand prepping ahead, especially for speed on non cooked menu selection. I saw a group get 3 hot dishes. They had to wait on 4th. Why? Because they also ordered a rollup. These were just meat/cheese rollups. Prepping ahead would have speeded up things tremedously.
Khrystina R.
Ok, I'm just going to say this place was amazing! When we pulled in to park there was a bit of a line up front. Luckily we found a spot right next to the restaurant. We were quoted about a 40 min wait for 4 of us (2 adults/2 children) they have indoor and outdoor seating, we sat outside. They did tell us it may be a shorter wait so we didn't mind the wait. About 10 mins later they called our name to our surprise and we're seated. They brought us warm bread and olive oil with garlic. The bread was so delicious and then add the addition of the oil and garlic Our waitress was Isabella, she was very sweet. She asked if we had ever been to the location (which we hadn't, first timers) I had about 6 items I wanted to choose so I asked for her recommendation and she said the ziti was her current fav. She recommended the pink sauce which they are famous for but I opted for the original version just so I can get the taste of it the normal way. Y'all let me tell you IT WAS A MISTAKE because that Pink sauce is AMAZING! Not saying the marinara isn't good because it is but that pink sauce . Side note I asked for a small pink sauce to dip my bread in and Drinks were served in glasses and they even give you a small carafe. The other adult ordered a pizza with pepperoni and sausage. My children ordered Mac and cheese and spaghetti with butter. Everyone loved their food and not one complaint the entire dinner. It seems like they work as a team unit as our waitress didn't deliver the food a couple other employees did (which I think is great) They came by to remove plates or cups as they were finished. They are nice enough to pack your left overs for you as well!We will definitely return to try new items. The restaurant was busy so noise level is definitely high but everyone looked to be enjoying themselves,it was just everyone talking and enjoying. Food ended with some warm cookies. Didn't see a kids menu in the pictures so I'll have it posted below. If in Newport and looking for Italian, this is spot!
I just smelt love this place and there hospitality, Frank
This was the second & last time we will be coming here. First time, we ordered a pizza & it was very subpar & basic. Second time, we got a hot Italian beef sandwich. My husband & I split it - they forgot the cheese & again, the sandwich tasted very subpar & boring. It was very wet & spilled all over my husband’s shirt. Needless to say, we came here in a pinch today & was very disappointed. ?
Love this spot. Pasta is so fresh, service is amazing, pink sauce is on point! A little bit of a wait but they come out with wine and garlic bread to make the time go by faster! Once you get inside, it's loud but more like a celebration. Family style.We literally ordered everything on the menu... I was so hungry I forgot to take pics of all the food. Get rigatoni sausage with pink sauce - I think it was called mama D's special - I don't remember - but anything pink sauce and sausage! It was BOMB. A must try for all you pasta lovers! Worth the wait. Promise. You won't be disappointed.
One of the best Italian food spots hands down period! This was on my list of spots to try and I'm just sad I didn't come sooner!Was quite a wait to be seated just for 2 but I ain't mad after that experience.Cute small and intimate seating.Busy bustling staff getting stuff served and people out quickly but quality DOES NOT SUFFER.The lasagna was amazing as was my friend's pasta.Prices were reasonable actually and they bring you refillable bread servings, they also gave us some while waiting to be seated and a sample of the pasta. Great service and seemingly happy staff with tasty large portions leads me to believe I'll be back for sure :)
Finally got the chance to bring my family from out of state to this place tonight...our waiter Adam was such a gem and truly made their first time here incredible! He was very attentive, kind, and had great suggestions!! My family and I loved the service, food, and may i add that the bread and oil was to die for! 10/10 would come back again just for the service and that special mama d's sauce alone
When my partner and I left the restaurant we had forgotten about our wait; which was only half an hour on a Saturday night.After just 10 minutes of waiting for our table the host brought out warm slices of ciabatta.I can say so many good things about the food so I'll start at the beef ravioli which was the star of the night. The ravioli was perfectly cooked which a creamy and light filling over a simple yet flavorful classic marina sauce. For our second entree we ordered the Bri's Capri with a marina sauce and sausage; the pasta dish includes chopped Roma tomatoes and mozzarella. Everything was well seasoned and not too overpowering. We were getting a little antsy when our starter was taking longer than expected but our server quickly came to alert us that the restaurant would comp the appetizer because of the long wait time. We wouldn't have had a problem paying for it because the calamari was perfectly cooked and delicious. At the end of your meal they give you these tiny chocolate chip cookies that are warmed up. I've never had an Italian restaurant do this but I loved it. They clearly pride themselves in Italian American food and don't try to impress their guest with an over the top interior or fancy plates, they care about the food and service.
Was referred to this restaurant by a hood buddy of mines named Keith and let me start by saying he's one of the most down to earth wholesome and humble person you could ever meet. I felt nearly half itailian eating here. From start to finish everything was prescribe unforced and organic. Food and beverages are exactly what you order. I can't thank you enough for the experience mr. Keith and I won't ever forget this moment. Please come in and enjoy a 10/10 meal served by the best waiters and waitress you can possibly find. If I must say the pink sauce will keep me coming back. Also please give me Deana ( hope I spelled it right) a raise because her professionalism is second to none.
Amazing food, great attentive staff welcoming and warm, quick service. Cute location in Newport Beach! Beautiful pictures, will Definitely will bring my business here again. 10/10!
Such good food! Always love a good sandwich (Italian Club)! So glad they have a permanent spot at Weekend Beer Company! Been getting food from them well before they had this spot, and it's so nice to grab a pint and something good to eat!
OMG!! This place was amazing and a happy accident we stumbled across while driving around to see the sunset here on the west coast! I found it here in Yelp- and couldn't believe the rating after having just shy of 7k reviews. I told my parents we have to try this place. Quickly found parking on the street nearby we had to wait maybe 15 min for a table. Absolutely loved the decor and positive vibes and messages that were posted around the restaurant. The staff was absolutely amazing and I have to shout out of waiter Booker! He was absolutely the best! Never waited for drinks, he was juggling at least 4-5 tables where I could see. I noticed the teamwork of the staff. My glass of water was getting down and another person swung by and filled me up while Booker was delivering food to another table. Kudos to the managers for building such an awesome team. Now to the food!! Yes 5 stars here too!! We didn't have a bad thing to eat!! This place is a must go, must try, and must return kind of place! Quantity and quality of the food for the price was amazing!
Restaurantji Recommends
I came here with 4 friends on a Saturday night and the wait was over 1 hour, but we decided to wait because we were so excited to try it! We stopped by the Cannery nearby for a quick drink while waiting. When we came back, they were passing out bread for those waiting outside which was so nice. However, after getting a text that our table was ready, we did have to wait an additional 10 or so minutes. The starter bread they give out is a 5/5, maybe the best I've had! The manager came over and gave us a bruschetta was such a nice gesture. The bruschetta was quite good, I was full already. I ordered the spinach ravioli with the Mama D's pink sauce for my entree and it was amazing. Everyone at the table also enjoyed their meals.The vibe inside was really cute and gave the feeling of a little family restaurant. The servers were very nice and it was sweet seeing everyone sing happy birthday as some people were celebrating. When we were ready for the check, our server dropped off some cookies and a thank you note, it was a nice touch. I can't wait to come back and try other dishes!
Mama D's doesn't take reservations. Parking is limited in the back, but you can easily find street parking, which is free after 6 pm.I am head over heels in LOVE with Mama D's! The service was top-notch. While we were waiting outside for our table, a server came out carrying freshly baked focaccia bread and handed it out to guests. He also took wine orders for those wanting a drink. When our table was ready, we were seated by the window, and our server was wonderful, giving us great recommendations. The server also told us that they could split the dish at no cost, so we each received a half portion of each item. We also told the server that we were here to celebrate a birthday, and they came to our table to sing happy birthday and a wonderfully hand-crafted birthday card with Free Bruschetta voucher on our next visit. This is a great restaurant to be celebrating an eventful day that's AFFORDABLE and delicious. Server's RECOMMENDATION - Order a pasta with their famous Pink Sauce. What we ordered: SPENCER'S STUFFED MUSHROOMS (Bread crumbs, fresh herbs, and tiny mushroom pieces) - Surprisingly, this mushroom starter tasted like it had meat inside, and it tasted like it was playing mind tricks. ADDICTINGLY DELICIOUS. MEAT FILLED RAVIOLI (Beef and pork) with MARINARA - Known as Mama D's Famous Homemade Ravioli. I wish I knew how they make the marinara sauce because it was EXCELLENT with the Ravioli.ROBERTO'S CHIOPPINO with LINGUINE (Seafood dish shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari in a red broth sauce with pasta) - This is a lovely item for those craving seafood at an Italian restaurant. I slurped the entire broth for its tomato and seafood taste.
I learned a few things today...Their special of the day Seafood Ravioli with Lobster Cream sauce is only offered every few months. It's so popular that they have a mailing list devoted to that specific dish so you can be notified when it's available.The awesome complimentary mini chocolate chip cookies that you get with your bill, can be purchased in a 15 pack for $5.Corkage fee is only $15 of you want to bring your own bottle of wine. However they already have our favorite Marlborough New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc on the menu.Counter dining is first come first serve. Avoid the wait!As always the gnocchi with pink sauce is our favorite thing on the menu.
For a big event way too slow getting food out. Was told all the 'cold rollup" food was being processed after hot grilled and baked. I ordered a cold wrap because sugars were dropping and I needed it now. An hour later, no food. The people in front of me were done and people behind me served. That's when I asked where mine was. I undestand fresh cooking but also understand prepping ahead, especially for speed on non cooked menu selection. I saw a group get 3 hot dishes. They had to wait on 4th. Why? Because they also ordered a rollup. These were just meat/cheese rollups. Prepping ahead would have speeded up things tremedously.
Ok, I'm just going to say this place was amazing! When we pulled in to park there was a bit of a line up front. Luckily we found a spot right next to the restaurant. We were quoted about a 40 min wait for 4 of us (2 adults/2 children) they have indoor and outdoor seating, we sat outside. They did tell us it may be a shorter wait so we didn't mind the wait. About 10 mins later they called our name to our surprise and we're seated. They brought us warm bread and olive oil with garlic. The bread was so delicious and then add the addition of the oil and garlic Our waitress was Isabella, she was very sweet. She asked if we had ever been to the location (which we hadn't, first timers) I had about 6 items I wanted to choose so I asked for her recommendation and she said the ziti was her current fav. She recommended the pink sauce which they are famous for but I opted for the original version just so I can get the taste of it the normal way. Y'all let me tell you IT WAS A MISTAKE because that Pink sauce is AMAZING! Not saying the marinara isn't good because it is but that pink sauce . Side note I asked for a small pink sauce to dip my bread in and Drinks were served in glasses and they even give you a small carafe. The other adult ordered a pizza with pepperoni and sausage. My children ordered Mac and cheese and spaghetti with butter. Everyone loved their food and not one complaint the entire dinner. It seems like they work as a team unit as our waitress didn't deliver the food a couple other employees did (which I think is great) They came by to remove plates or cups as they were finished. They are nice enough to pack your left overs for you as well!We will definitely return to try new items. The restaurant was busy so noise level is definitely high but everyone looked to be enjoying themselves,it was just everyone talking and enjoying. Food ended with some warm cookies. Didn't see a kids menu in the pictures so I'll have it posted below. If in Newport and looking for Italian, this is spot!