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Chama Mama
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Chama Mama
8.4
Chama Mama serves refined Georgian dishes — from lamb‑stuffed grape leaves to khachapuri — in a warm, candle‑lit dining room that feels ideal for celebrations or intimate dinners. Its Mediterranean‑Balkan touches stand out among Chelsea’s mid‑town offerings. Many locals book ahead for special‑occasion dinners here. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb‑stuffed grape leaves (dolma), Cheese khachapuri, Garlic broth game hen
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Georgian‑Mediterranean cuisine with standout khachapuri and warm ambiance.
Who should go: Couples or friends celebrating a milestone.
When to visit: Dinner on weekends for full ambiance.
What to order: Khachapuri, lamb dolma, garlic‑broth game hen.
Insider tip: Book early to snag cozy tables — it gets busy around 8pm most nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited, especially after 6pm. Valet available for $12.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but aim for a slightly dressy look to match the ambiance.
Noise level: Moderate - the space can get lively, but it's still comfortable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without a reservation, especially around 8pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, but it can get busy during peak hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - there are several options including vegetable-focused starters and sides.
Vegan options: Limited - a few vegan-friendly dishes are available, but the menu is not fully plant-based.
Gluten-free options: Yes - there are gluten-free options, and a separate prep area is used for preparation.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, the cozy, intimate atmosphere is perfect for a first date. The candlelit dining room sets a romantic tone, and the refined yet approachable menu adds a touch of sophistication.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s highly recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may face a wait of 45-60 minutes during peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? While the ambiance is more suited to adults, families with older children (12+) will feel comfortable here. The menu does offer a variety of flavors that could appeal to young diners.
Best For
Better for: Chama Mama excels in offering a unique Georgian-Mediterranean dining experience, especially for special occasions. The food quality and ambiance set it apart from other midtown restaurants.
Skip if: If you're seeking a casual or quick bite, or if you're not fond of Mediterranean flavors, this might not be the best choice.
Chama Mama
7.9
A cozy spot for Eastern Mediterranean and Georgian‑inspired fare with flatbreads, dips, and game‑hen dishes. The laid‑back vibe and shareable plates make it a good fit for families wanting casual dinner with some flavor variety. Parents appreciate the mix of meat, veggie, and kid‑friendly options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adjaruli khachapuri (cheese‑stuffed bread), Lamb‑stuffed grape leaves, Garlic‑roasted game hen
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Shareable Georgian/Mediterranean plates in a relaxed, communal atmosphere.
Who should go: Families wanting comfort and variety without fuss.
When to visit: Dinner after 5 PM for quieter seating.
What to order: Khachapuri, grape‑leaf wraps, roasted game hen.
Insider tip: Share the khachapuri — it’s rich and filling, perfect for dipping.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but can be challenging after 6 PM. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and comfortable attire are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation-friendly, though it can get a bit lively with larger groups.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several options including dips, flatbreads, and stuffed grape leaves.
Vegan options: Limited - a few vegan-friendly plates available such as vegetable khachapuri and salads.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free options are available, including some flatbreads and salads.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, the relaxed, cozy atmosphere is perfect for a casual yet intimate first date. The shareable plates also encourage interaction, making it a great choice for breaking the ice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible, but expect longer wait times on weekends, especially during peak dinner hours. For a more relaxed experience, reserving ahead is recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, Chama Mama is ideal for families. The menu offers a variety of kid-friendly options, and the communal style of dining suits younger guests. High chairs are available.
Best For
Better for: Chama Mama excels in offering a cozy, family-friendly dining experience with a unique blend of Georgian and Mediterranean flavors. The shareable plates and variety of options make it a great choice for family dinners and group gatherings.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a fine dining experience or prefer a more formal atmosphere, this might not be the right fit. For quicker, grab-and-go meals, there are other options nearby.
Hours
Monday12pm - 10pm
Tuesday12pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 11pm
Saturday10am - 11pm
Sunday10am - 10pm