MAMA Oakland

"MAMA is one of Oakland’s best dining deals, which makes sense because for about $39.95 they serve a full meal including a salad, pasta, and dessert. Diners can choose between two options for each course, such as MAMA’s sugo and pappardelle or lemon ricotta rigatoni. The menu changes weekly, and the wine list highlights small-production wines for about no more than $18 a glass." - Dianne de Guzman, Eater Staff

"The Bay Area can get expensive, so it’s a relative relief when a restaurant serves a delicious meal at a shockingly low price. Such is the case at Mama, which serves a seasonal, three-course meal for $39.95 per person. Diners will have the option of two choices for each course, starting with a bright salad or hearty soup, a choice of main course — word to the wise, add on the optional meatballs if you can — plus dessert. There are also add-ons if you’re looking for a dish to share, such as a recent balsamic-braised short rib. Add on a glass of wine and enjoy the welcoming and cozy dining room filled with locals." - Dianne de Guzman, Eater Staff

"Going to Mama in Adams Point is like scooting into your friend’s breakfast nook and recovering from a hangover over eggs and coffee—but instead of breakfast, you’re getting a delicious Italian dinner. Mama does a three-course prix fixe dinner for only $39.95 that changes weekly. And on any given night, you can get things like a salad with roasted delicata, pomegranate, and pear, beet ravioli with spaghetti squash and ricotta, and polenta cake with baked apples for dessert (they’ll also serve gluten-free and vegetarian sets). If you’re looking for more of a classic, the spaghetti with Mama’s tomato sugo, beef, and pork is amazing and never leaves the menu." - lani conway, julia chen 1

"Going to Mama in Adams Point is like scooting into your friend’s breakfast nook and recovering from a hangover over eggs and coffee—but instead of breakfast, you’re getting a delicious Italian dinner. Mama does a three-course prix fixe dinner for only $39.95 that changes weekly. And on any given night, you can get things like a salad with roasted delicata, pomegranate, and pear, beet ravioli with spaghetti squash and ricotta, and polenta cake with baked apples for dessert. If you’re looking for more of a classic, the spaghetti with Mama’s tomato sugo, beef, and pork is amazing and never leaves the menu." - Julia Chen 1, Lani Conway

"Oakland’s new-school red sauce joint opened in 2019 serving high-quality, affordable food." - Dianne de Guzman, Clair Lorell, Paolo Bicchieri