Chama Mama — Restaurant in New York

Chama Mama, a Georgian spot that’s been aggressively marketed as the go-to “supra experience,” leaning heavily on its sleek, Instagram-ready design.

The reality was less enthusiastic where the polish stopped at the decor.

Trouble started at the door. Our reservation—booked days earlier—had mysteriously disappeared. The restaurant was half-empty, yet the two hostesses, a flamboyant pair more focused on playing up their charm than managing the floor, suggested we perch at the bar. After some insistence, a manager was called and “found” us a table, an ordeal that felt unnecessary with so many open seats staring us in the face. The design, at least, delivers.

Exposed brick draped with faux grapevines, moody lighting, and a towering toné oven as a centerpiece—it’s a modern Tbilisi dream, curated for the camera. The glassware, though, felt out of place: thick, unbreakable slabs reminiscent of a European middle-school canteen, clashing with the upscale vibe they’re chasing.

The food and service, however, stumbled hard. We ordered appetizers but got something else entirely. The khachapuri adjaruli came out with a dramatic cheese pull, but the egg yolk was overcooked, dulling its richness. The kharcho stew had walnut depth but lacked spice, while the mtsvadi skewers were juicy yet unevenly seasoned—decent, but not memorable. It’s food that coasts on the restaurant’s aesthetic rather than standing on its own.

Service was friendly but not efficient. Our waiter dropped a clatter of dirty silverware onto a guest’s lap mid-meal. Water glass sat empty for ages…

Chama Mama bets big on its over-the-top marketing and striking design, but the experience falls a little flat. Lost reservations, wrong orders, clumsy service, and food that’s just “okay” don’t match the hype. It’s fine for a photo op, but if you’re after a Georgian meal that sings, you’ll...

A beautiful night for Valentine's Day!

Reserved a 7:30pm spot. Came in a little after, and we waited a few. There was a table at the front for us, but we asked if we could have something in the back and they were very accommodating.

The restaurant itself is very cozy. Nice lighting and not too loud. Conversations were at a light buzz and the place was full.

I knew based on Yelp reviews what we were going to get. My partner started with a drink. The waiter didn't understand what a Hendricks and soda was so she brought a soda bottle and a glass of ice. But it was corrected after we told her. $17 for a Hendricks pour is pretty crazy when the specialty cocktails are $19. But I think this is a place for wine.

The grape leaves with lamb were good but not worth getting again. I think we would try the Crispy Smashed Potatoes next time.

The ADJARULI KHACHAPURI was SOO SO SO delicious. Literally glorified fancy cheesy bread with egg. Scrambled at our table. The bread was so perfect and with the butter and gooey cheese. Yum. I'd come here just to get three of those and go to town.

The CAULIFLOWER IN SHQMERULI was a stand out. The garlic sauce is garlic city so if you don't want a garlic moment, steer clear. Get extra bread with this one cause you'll want to sop up all of the sauce if you're a garlic head.

The MEGRULI KHARCHO - CHICKEN was earthy and homey. It reminded me of Indian butter chicken. The chicken was tender and juicy. Perfectly seasoned. The grilled grits were different - no flavor but cool nonetheless.

The Pelamushi was so refreshing and light after the "heavier" dinner plates. Such an interesting grape flavor.

I will definitely be returning. First time at a Georgian restaurant,...

If I had to recommend just one restaurant to visit while in NYC, it may just be Chama Mama.

They have consistently blown me away when it comes to food, service, atmosphere, and just overall experience.

This is clearly a place that not only leans into its incredible heritage but is so proud that it gets to share this culture with all!

The food is absolutely phenomenal, always a 10/10. There are certain staples such as the famous Adjaruli Khachapuri (the beloved open face cheese bowl, they curate table side), dumplings, and kebabs. But they also have incredible rotating seasonal items that are fantastic. I was over the moon for my side salad (and I am a human who came in ready for some extra cheese bread and meat, so that is a huge feat!)

The food is always interesting, I feel like I learn something new about Georgian culture every time I go.

There are extensive vegetarian options, as well as plenty of vegan and gluten-free. The wine is natural, imported from Georgia (along with some of the beer list), and also very renowned. I am not a drinker, but everyone I have brought raves about it. And on that note, the mocktails are fantastic! They are very original and tasty.

On my last visit, I got to try the Fig Nut with early grey tea, lemon juice, and fig-walnut syrup.

Something that strikes me about Chama Mama is they use immaculate ingredients, and there are things I normally wouldn't gravitate to (harvest salads, figs!). But in their hands it is such a treat. So much love and thought is put into this menu, and it is very obvious with every bite.

Do yourself a favor and stop by here at least once. It will likely become a part of your...