Highlights
- Rooftop seating
oChef » MaMo – San Francisco
MaMo - San Francisco
Photo from MaMo
MaMo at a glance
San Francisco Marina District
- 🍽️ Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 42 of the guests
#732 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#92 Restaurant out of 254 in San Francisco
Good
7.9 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
409
Reviews
80.4%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Food Quality
- Attentive Staff
- Cozy Ambiance
Frequently criticized
- Tight Space
- Loud Music
- Mixed Value
The restaurant MaMo in San Francisco’s vibrant Marina District offers a delightful dining experience. You can enjoy delicious meals and refreshing drinks while taking in the views from its inviting rooftop seating.
This San Francisco restaurant is a perfect spot for various occasions, providing a memorable atmosphere for you and your companions.
Overview: Introducting MaMo
MaMo offers a vibrant dining experience, with many guests appreciating the lively atmosphere and the attentive staff . The culinary offerings are a definite draw, often praised for their quality and flavor.
However, some patrons have noted the space can feel quite intimate, and the music occasionally overpowering. Despite these points, the overall sentiment leans positive, highlighting a place where the food often shines.
While the service generally receives high marks, a few experiences suggest minor inconsistencies, particularly concerning the dining environment and certain aspects of the experience.
Good
7.9
out of 10
409
Reviews
80.4%
Satisfaction
58
negative
22
neutral
329
positive
The overall experience at MaMo registers a solid 7.9, indicating a generally positive reception from diners. Customer satisfaction stands at a good 80.4%, reflecting that most patrons leave content.
This assessment is drawn from 409 customer observations, with 329 positive and 58 negative remarks. Diving deeper, the Food scores highest (8.2), frequently described as exceptional, while Service (7.6) also garners strong approval, with many commending the attentive staff .
The Ambience (7.5) contributes positively, though some find the restaurant small. Value (5.6) is more of a mixed bag, with some finding prices reasonable and portions generous, but others feeling certain items were overpriced.
What people like
- Exceptional Food Quality
- Attentive Staff
- Cozy Atmosphere
What people don't like
- Tight Dining Space
- Loud Music
- Inconsistent Value
MaMo presents a compelling option for those prioritizing flavorful dishes and engaging interactions. While the food and service consistently impress, be mindful of the intimate setting and potential for a lively soundscape.
With a strong recommendation score of 8.1, MaMo is certainly worth considering, especially if you appreciate a vibrant, personal dining experience. Just manage expectations regarding space and be prepared for a potentially energetic atmosphere.
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Verdict: Our expert take on MaMo
Food (8.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot generally hits the mark, boasting a strong 8.2 score and a solid 84.3% customer satisfaction. With 214 positive remarks out of 254 total, guests frequently rave about delicious items like the chicken, empanadas, and patacones, often highlighting the authentic flavor and appealing presentation. Many find the Latin American and Colombian/Venezuelan dishes to be fresh and tasty, offering a great variety.
However, not every bite is perfect, as 26 comments pointed out some areas for improvement. A few diners experienced food arriving cold, while others felt certain dishes lacked authenticity or flavor. Specific concerns included some menu items being described as having no flavor or being too oily, suggesting an inconsistent experience for a small number of patrons.
Food
254
Reviews
84%
Satisfaction
26
negative
14
neutral
214
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious, authentic food
- Great dish variety
- Flavorful dishes
What people don't like
- Food arrived cold
- Lacked authenticity
- Dishes lacked flavor
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was incredibly intimate, with great service and amazing food. Every dish was tasty, and I highly recommend ordering a few to share family-style.
- pataconesTequeños, patacones, arepitas, pork shoulder, bavette steak amazing taste
- Arroz con Polloeverything we tried was delicious. Arroz con Pollo
- TequeñosTequeños, patacones, arepitas, pork shoulder, bavette steak amazing taste
- arepasPiping hot, impeccably crisp, it was astonishing to just victual on its own. The texture was unbelievable!
- burratathere’s more burrata than bread which is a good problem to have.
- chickenthe steak, ceviche and chicken are amazing!
- drinksAppetizers & drinks very good, too!
- maduroseverything we tried was delicious. maduros
- steakthe steak, ceviche and chicken are amazing!
Frequently criticized
- foodThe food was horrible
- Aperathe Apera doesn’t have much flavor even with the sauce, and is super oily
- Colombian foodThe food was horrible, specifically the arroz con pollo and the meat were super ugly. It was not Colombian food at all. I do not recommend this place.
- Colombian restaurantMy experience at this restaurant was terrible. The food was horrible, and it was definitely not a Colombian restaurant. I do not recommend this place at all; don't waste your money.
- arepasYa no Sirven arepas en la noche
- arroz con polloMy experience at this restaurant was terrible. The food was horrible, specifically the arroz con pollo and the meat were super ugly. It was not Colombian food at all.
- authentic Venezuelan or Colombianfood was not authentic Venezuelan or Colombian
- cafeteria foodcafeteria food for restaurant prices
- cheesticksthe cheesticks and fried mushrooms I could have skipped
- drinkdidn’t even care to finish it
If you're looking for a place with generally delicious and authentic Latin American food, this restaurant is definitely worth a try. While a few experiences mention cold or uninspired dishes, the overwhelming sentiment points to a flavorful and satisfying culinary journey. Expect a menu with great variety and many standout options.
Service (7.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 67% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits the mark! With a good score of 7.6 and a solid 76.9% customer satisfaction, many guests rave about the experience. Out of 78 comments, 60 were positive, highlighting the excellent attention from the wait staff, especially shout-outs to host Jorge, and the overall friendly staff who make everyone feel welcome.
However, not every interaction was perfect, with 18 negative comments. Some diners occasionally felt rushed or noted a lack of attention from the staff. A few mentioned unprofessional service or an unfriendly attitude, suggesting there might be some inconsistencies or strained staff moments during busy times.
Service
78
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
18
negative
0
neutral
60
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive staff
- Friendly owners
- Quick service
What people don't like
- Unprofessional moments
- Lack of attention
- Felt rushed
Often praised
- serviceIt offers the perfect mix of being true to its roots while also adapting to the American paladar. The service was also more than amazing. I am definitely going back (more than once) without a doubt.
- staffThe staff was on it! They were great
- customer serviceThis gesture has stayed with me. That gesture has stayed with me.
- attentionexcelente atenciĂłn, y la atenciĂłn espectacular
- ownerIt's definitely off the path of the touristy areas. The owner went above and beyond to make us comfortable at our outdoor nook table. It's a tiny place, so be sure to plan ahead to beat the crowd.
- peoplegreat people. Owner and chef could not he nicer
- JorgeJorge is amazing!
- Milena, our multilingual serverour multilingual server who patiently heedfully aurally perceived us endeavor to verbalize Spanish and graciously availed us practice additionally!
- ServiceThe food was exceptional, and the atmosphere was rated a perfect 5. Service was also excellent, and parking was plentiful.
- chefHe was very friendly as well
Frequently criticized
- serviceeveryone ignored me while they talked, terrible service
- staffloud staff speaking badly about Colombian people
- attitudePĂ©sima actitud y servicio de el caballero
- businessWhen we arrived at the restaurant this evening, the hostess informed us that the only available seating was outside, with no heaters. This is not how you run a business, especially when a reservation has been made weeks prior. I was very disappointed.
- deliveryJust wish i could order delivery but doesn’t seem to work
- hospitalityhope for a little more hospitality in the future
- lack of attentionhis poor lack of attention to detail and us was off-putting.
- reservationhostess told us that the only available seating was outside
- rushedfelt rushed also as they started mopping
- strained staffwhich is definitely stretching the staff and was evident
If youre looking for a place with generally warm and attentive service, youll likely be pleased. While there might be an occasional hiccup, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests a welcoming experience is usually on the menu.
Ambience (7.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 52% of the guests
The ambience at this spot is largely a hit, scoring a good 7.5 with customer satisfaction at a solid 76.5%. Based on 52 positive comments out of 68 total, guests frequently rave about the cozy and warm atmosphere, the great vibe, and the inviting outdoor dining options. Many appreciate the feeling of being at home, often highlighting the family-run charm and pleasant music.
However, it's not without its quirks, with 11 negative remarks pointing out some areas for improvement. Some found it a very small restaurant with a tight space, and a few were put off by loud reggaeton music. There were also isolated concerns about the maintenance of the outdoor seating area, suggesting that experiences can vary.
Ambience
68
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
11
negative
5
neutral
52
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Cozy, warm atmosphere
- Great vibe
- Outdoor seating options
What people don't like
- Very small space
- Loud music sometimes
- Outdoor area issues
Often praised
- atmosphereI am definitely going back (more than once) without a doubt. I would recommend it with my eyes closed to anyone who wants to eat great and have a good time.
- musicThe music also made for a fun atmosphere
- placeit's a beautiful, clean, organized and great place
- restaurantcozy, family-run small restaurant ambiance
- Latin songsRestaurant with Latin songs and very pleasant!
- ParkingParking is easy
- Parking spaceThe food was exceptional, and the atmosphere was rated a perfect 5. Service was also excellent, and parking was plentiful.
- ambiancecozy, family-run small restaurant ambiance
- ambienteel ambiente es acogedor
- bar topenjoyed sitting at the bar top where you can watch them cook.
Frequently criticized
- restaurantVery small restaurant
- ambiancenot too fancy in terms of ambiance
- areas for dinnerthere were no areas for dinner???
- cleaningstarted mopping and cleaning the dining area
- interioronce inside it’s a little confusing and quite small
- musicThe music was overpowering and not appropriate for a small space.
- outdoor seating areathe outdoor seating area was poorly maintained and smelled like urine
- reggaetonThe service and loud reggaeton is horrible.
- seatingonly available seating was outside (no heaters)
- spacevery tight space
If you're seeking a cozy, intimate spot with a vibrant atmosphere and potential for lovely outdoor dining, this place is worth checking out. Just be mindful that it can be a small space, and the music might be a bit lively for those preferring a quieter setting.
Value (5.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 9% of the guests
When it comes to value, some diners found a lot to love, praising the good prices and feeling they got excellent value for what you get. Based on 3 positive remarks out of 9 total, theres a sense that the owner truly cares, offering tasty, unpretentious food. While the score for value is an average 5.6, customer satisfaction is a rather poor 33.3%, showing a clear divergence in opinions.
On the flip side, 3 negative comments highlight concerns about the cost. Some felt they were paying restaurant prices for what felt like cafeteria food, with one person specifically mentioning an overpriced drink that took too long. Ultimately, for these guests, it simply wasnt worth the time or money, leading to a less than satisfactory experience.
Value
9
Reviews
33%
Satisfaction
3
negative
3
neutral
3
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Good prices offered
- Excellent value received
- Generous portions
What people don't like
- Drinks overpriced
- Not worth money
- High restaurant prices
Often praised
- PricesYou can tell the owner / operator absolutely cares about what comes out of the kitchen. Prices reasonable and value for what you get is 11/10. Can’t believe I’ve walked by as many times as I have and never tried it.
- good pricesMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! It's a true gem in San Francisco, offering tasty food that is unpretentious and comes at good prices. Just be aware that the portions are BIG, so it's not the place to come if you're on a diet.
- value for what you getYou can tell the owner / operator absolutely cares about what comes out of the kitchen. Prices reasonable and value for what you get is 11/10. Can’t believe I’ve walked by as many times as I have and never tried it.
Frequently criticized
- overpriced drinkoverpriced drink took forever to make
- restaurant pricescafeteria food for restaurant prices
- time or moneyThe sauce was nasty too. Overall, it was not worth the time or money.
If youre looking for generous portions and potentially good prices, you might find a gem here. However, be aware that some guests felt the overall experience didnt justify the cost, especially concerning drinks. It's a bit of a mixed bag, so manage your expectations regarding value.
How are the prices at MaMo?
You’re looking at roughly 39 per person – reported by 42 diners. That puts it in the $31–$40 category. For a Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
While the average sits at 39, the price points are quite varied. Many guests spend in the $21–$30 range, but a good number also go for more premium options, pulling the average up.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 42 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels pretty fair for a Restaurant in San Francisco, offering good value whether you’re looking for a solid mid-range meal or something a little more special.
Customer Reviews: what people think about MaMo
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
9
Delicious Vegan Arepas with a Meaningful Message
My experience at this restaurant was truly delightful. I enjoyed a delicious and authentic mixed of Colombian and Venezuelan vegan arepa, complete with black beans, ripe plantains, and avocado. Beyond the fantastic food, I found a piece of art that powerfully depicts Colombians and Venezuelans leaving their countries due to corrupted politicians and searching for better opportunities elsewhere.
The food was exceptional, and the atmosphere was rated a perfect 5. Service was also excellent, and parking was plentiful.
- vegan arepa10
- black beans10
- ripe plantains10
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
1
Terrible service, left immediately
My experience at the restaurant was extremely negative due to the terrible attitude and service of one of the staff members. We didn't even get to enter the restaurant. Because of that attitude, we ran away.
It's very unpleasant when people are like that.
- attitude1
- service1
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
9
Delicious Stuffed Arepas in the Marina
My experience at this restaurant in the Marina was absolutely fantastic! I had the stuffed arepas, specifically the chicken, and was blown away by how delicious they were. The arepa itself had a perfect, just crispy texture, and the chicken filling was generous and scrumptious.
It came with a fresh salad with a light dressing. The restaurant is open for lunch a few days a week and for dinner. The food was a perfect 5/5, and the atmosphere was also rated a 5/5.
- stuffed arepas10
- chicken10
- arepa itself10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
9
Amazing Latin Food Off the Beaten Path
My experience at this restaurant was wonderful. It's a neighborhood spot offering amazing Latin food in a cozy setting. The service was both great and quick.
I highly recommend this place if you're looking for something beyond the usual options on Chestnut.
- Latin food10
- cozy setting9
- great, quick service10
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
2
Disappointing Steak and Service
My experience at this restaurant was disappointing. While the food looked nice, the taste didn't match up. I ordered a grilled steak, but it came out rare, which wasn't my preference.
When I politely asked for it to be cooked more, the waiter's attitude was unfriendly, stating, "We only cook to medium here. " This lack of flexibility and clear menu information led to a wasted meal for someone who prefers their meat more cooked. I was giving this restaurant another chance, but I definitely wouldn't recommend it for Latin cuisine.
- food presentation7
- grilled steak2
- steak temperature2
- waiter attitude1
What MaMo offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- High chairs
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Brunch
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Drive-through
- Delivery
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Curbside pickup
- Dine-in
- Outdoor seating
Parking
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
FAQs
What dining options and highlights can you expect at MaMo?
At MaMo, you can enjoy a variety of dining options including brunch, lunch, and dinner, with comfortable seating available. Don’t miss the unique experience of their rooftop seating, perfect for enjoying your meal or dessert in the San Francisco air.
What service options and parking facilities does MaMo offer?
MaMo provides flexible service options such as dine-in, outdoor seating, delivery, takeout, and curbside pickup. For your convenience, you’ll usually find plenty of free street parking available, making your visit hassle-free.
How does MaMo generally rate among diners?
MaMo holds an overall score of 7.9, with customer satisfaction at 80.4%. Diners particularly praise the Food (8.2) and Service (7.6), while Ambience (7.5) is also well-regarded. Value (5.6) receives a more average assessment.
What do customers enjoy most about MaMo's atmosphere?
Many customers appreciate the cozy, family-run restaurant feel, the pleasant music , and the overall atmosphere . Some also note the easy parking .
Are there any common concerns about dining at MaMo?
Some patrons have mentioned the restaurant can feel like a very tight space , with loud music at times. There have also been occasional comments about inconsistent value or service issues like feeling rushed .