Mamajuana Cafe

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"Mamajuana Cafe lets you control how fun your night will get. Quietly appreciating good music is totally acceptable, as is hitting a bachata step and letting out an involuntary “woo.” The New York transplant is now Downtown serving exciting Latin food, even without flaming sparklers. It’s full of couples toasting their drinks or smoking hookah, and on the main floor, long tables are reserved for crews celebrating birthdays and bachelor parties. You can keep it calm and let the most over-the-top part of your night be the stuffed cassava topped with thin strips of churrasco steak or dance the night away to the high-energy reggaeton mixes." - gianni greene, chelsea thomas

The 12 Best Restaurants In Downtown Houston

"Mamajuana Cafe lets you control how fun your night will get. Quietly appreciating good music is totally acceptable, as is hitting a bachata step and letting out an involuntary “woo”. The New York transplant is now Downtown serving Latin food that’s exciting even without flaming sparklers. It’s full of couples toasting their drinks or smoking hookah, and on the main floor, long tables are reserved for crews celebrating birthdays and bachelor parties. You can keep it calm and let the most over-the-top part of your night be the stuffed cassava topped with thin strips of churrasco steak, or dance the night away to the high-energy reggaeton mixes." - gianni greene, chelsea thomas

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"Mamajuana Cafe lets you control how fun your night will get. Quietly appreciating good music is totally acceptable, as is hitting a bachata step and letting out an involuntary “woo”. The New York transplant is now Downtown serving Latin food that’s exciting even without flaming sparklers. It’s full of couples toasting their drinks or smoking hookah, and on the main floor, long tables are reserved for crews celebrating birthdays and bachelor parties. You can keep it calm and let the most over-the-top part of your night be the stuffed cassava topped with thin strips of churrasco steak, or dance the night away to the high-energy reggaeton mixes." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene

Mamajuana Cafe Review - Downtown - Houston - The Infatuation

"Mamajuana Cafe lets you control how fun your night will get. Quietly appreciating good music is totally acceptable, as is hitting a bachata step and letting out an involuntary “woo”. The transplant is now serving Latin food that’s exciting even without flaming sparklers. It’s full of couples toasting their drinks or smoking hookah, and on the main floor, long tables are reserved for crews celebrating birthdays and bachelor parties. You can keep it calm and let the most over-the-top part of your night be the stuffed cassava topped with thin strips of churrasco steak, or dance the night away to the high-energy reggaeton mixes. " - Gianni Greene

15 Houston Speakeasies to Spice Up Your Night

@eater

"The family behind Mamajuana has advanced the culinary bounties of the Dominican Republic in Houston, and Mamajuana’s speakeasy does the same with cocktails. Their spacious bar, which seats more than 150 people, is hidden behind “El Campesino,” an exquisite painting depicting farmers from the Dominican Republic. Cocktails are tropical — think classic margaritas and palomas — and inventive. Don’t miss the gin and tonic sweetened and colored by butterfly pea powder." - Brittany Britto Garley, Kayla Stewart

Michael Benissan

Google

I enjoyed my upbeat dining experience here on a Sunday night with a DJ playing Latin hits and Afro Beats to keep the vibe going. The menu had a good variety of interesting items, and we enjoyed our entrees of oxtails and stuffed cassava both of which were tasty. Ultimately, I liked how well the staff coordinated to deliver attentive service.

William Rodriguez

Google

The drinks were good. The food was very well presented and tasted great. We went on a Sunday and I wasn't aware they only serve Brunch on those days so the menu was a little limited. I tried the MamaJuana rolls they were delicious. Our server Brie ( hope I'm spelling it right I didn't see a name tag) was very friendly and clearly answered any questions I had. Great service from her.

Georlen Arzu

Google

The ambiance, the DJ, food, drink and service were all amazing. But what really amazed me was the owner and his wife costumer service. We felt like home and we will definitely be back. If you are missing a piece of Hispanic side of the NY this is the perfect place to be.

Mari Douglas

Google

My first time at this restaurant, upon my arrival I was standing at the entrance without anyone approaching me to welcome me or take care of my reservation. There are two hostess booths but no one at the entrance booth until I stared at one of the waiters and with my penetrating gaze she noticed that I was waiting to be served. On purpose, there was no one besides me at the entrance. Then they sat me at a table that was directly looking into the kitchen. The problem was not the table but that the door was open and all I saw were waiters and workers coming and going inside, including the manager, talking. At least I didn't like it. Then the manager knew the couple that was at the table next to mine and only listened to the conversation about the courtesies he wanted to have with him. Apparently they were not drinking alcohol and he offered him a very tasteless appetizer because although I do not know him, I am still a client and I would expect courtesies because he, like his friend, had gone to consume at that restaurant. When I asked the manager to change my table, he looked at me like I was a nobody and treated me quite indifferently! It seems that he only focuses on providing good service to a single market, his friends or whoever he sees fit. One thing for sure the music was good! the drink to die dreaming was really to die dreaming! Food was a little cold. Pero an mis hijas le gustó yo no pedí nada para mi. I would go back just to listen to good music! Dolores put a little effort into the service!

Laura Rodriguez

Google

Love this place! The food presentation was so beautiful and the taste was fantastic! Great quality drinks, I had the sangria and an old fashioned. The staff are excellent, made me feel right at home. Got to peek at the speakeasy, definitely will come back for that and the dancing nights!

Jennifer Nguyen

Google

Went here on a Sunday for my sisters birthday, everything was perfect. Food was amazing! Their menu was very unique and it was my first time so I just went with what I knew and got the stuffed salmon. So delish! My sister got the oxtail pasta, also amazing! Inside and out was very aesthetically pleasing, we had a large group and they accommodated us with no issues. Manager and our server was also amazing. Def will be returning for another girls night.

Mariana Marini

Google

I’d recommend this place for any special celebrations or occasions. My husband and I visited Houston and came across Mamajuana downtown. Unforgettable, high-quality experience for any foodie. The stuffed cassava with shrimp and lobster can easily be described as a poetic combination of delicate flavors and textures. The oxtail with rice and “gandules” (pigeon peas) and plantains were robustly flavored, while the meat fell from the bones. Both meals uplifted our spirits! We finished our evening with a coconut tres leches dessert that will forever be craved. What a treat!

Thaddius Macon

Google

Juan was my server. Great dude! He was awesome! The food was so good! I had a margarita, the crab stuffed salmon, and a mamajuana roll. Everything was so great, and I definitely will come back here! I travel for work but will make it a POINT to always come to mamajuana for dinner every time I am back in Houston!

Henry B.

Yelp

Came in with reservation on a Saturday night at 5:30, seated immediately but reservations were completely open the night before and did not seem very busy yet. Food 5/5: ordered the mixed skewers and the stuffed red snapper for 2, skewers were pretty good overall but highly recommend the red snapper. Enough for 1.5 people, and stuffed stuffed with tons of seafood and rice Ambiance 4/5: dimly lit, pretty venue with a bar and a place to take pics, but nothing that really wows Service 4/5: fairly slow bringing food out but otherwise polite and friendly Value 3.5/5: somewhat expensive but appropriately so, not really good value but fairly priced Overall 4.2/5: would go again for the snapper alone. Great food for average value Parking: street parking, valet parking is available per the screens inside but I didn't see it.

Victoria D.

Yelp

I had my birthday dinner here, we were a large party of 12. I have been to this place a few times and loved the vibe because it is a Latin restaurant. I hyped this spot up so much but was left disappointed. 5/5 Service-impeccable our waitress was outstanding, attentive, friendly & got our order correct which is rare with such a large party. There was no weird billing issues. She was awesome! 5/5 food- I ordered the whole red snapper. It was delicious and a large generous portion. My guests all ordered different things and enjoyed it. 5/5 drinks- I had the mamajuana passion all night. They are good strong drinks. 5/5 ambiance- it's such an aesthetically pleasing place. So pretty & they have hookah for those of you that enjoy that. Now to the part that killed my entire birthday vibe!! 0/5 music- keep in mind this was my birthday outing and I chose this spot because it is a Latin restaurant with a Latin vibe. The dj played nothing but early hip hop like ying yang twins & 50 cent! I hyped this place up to my guests as a Latin spot wanting to listen to Latin music and they definitely made me look bad. I did speak with the GM and he said that they were correcting the issue asap. So I will be back to update my review after I visit again. Overall, I do recommend this spot especially on a Thursday for the live band & service.

Shay H.

Yelp

Brunch Review: Mamajuana Café Houston Pretty Girls That Brunch made a stop at Mamajuana Café Houston, a Latin-themed spot nestled between Sambuca and the Rice Hotel downtown. The ambiance gave us tropical vibes with vibrant plants and flowers everywhere. Menu Twist: We loved the iPad menus! Super convenient to see clear pics of what you're ordering. What We Tried: Appetizers: The Mamaroll and Thai Calamari were perfect for sharing! Delicious and generous portions for our crew of 6. Mimosa Tower: For $50, everyone got 4-5 glasses--definitely worth it for smaller groups! Main Dishes: I had the Oxtail Pasta--the oxtails were tender and flavorful, though I wish the sauce was a bit thicker. One of the ladies ordered the Chicken & Red Velvet Waffles--the chicken was a little dry but had decent flavor. We also discovered a cute little speakeasy in the back for hookah and cigars--a fun surprise! Overall, Mamajuana Café has great potential! It's new, so we're excited to see how it evolves. #PrettyGirlsThatBrunch #MamajuanaCafeHouston #BrunchVibes #LatinFlavors #FoodReview #BrunchCrew #HoustonEats #TropicalVibes #MimosaMagic #OxtailLovers #BrunchInHouston

Lyndsey M.

Yelp

Mamajuana offers a vibrant experience with great service--despite all the activity, the staff remained attentive and accommodating. The atmosphere is dimly lit with a colorful vibe, making it feel like you've been transported to another place. There's a speakeasy in the back that's worth checking out if you want a calmer vibe, though the main dining room is definitely more popular and lively. The DJ was solid, becoming more energetic as the night went on, and by the end, people were up and dancing. With the game playing on the bar TVs, there was a lively and exciting atmosphere throughout. They offer hookah both inside and outside, adding to the overall fun vibe. The food and drinks are good, but the real highlights are the ambiance and energy of the space.

Monique' M.

Yelp

Food was average, service was poor even though there were far more staff than patrons and bar service is questionable. I ordered an original old fashion to drink. It came with an ice block and the contents still only half filled the cup. Which means I was only given like a sip of cocktail. The mashed potatoes had nice presentation but no seasoning, no salt. The eggplant croquettes were okay but the eggplant was almost non-existent. The rest of my party (4 others) were also not impressed with their meals nor the service. Would not return.

Brayan U.

Yelp

Stopped by for date night during Latin week(s) and it did not disappoint. Since it is downtown they offer valet or there is a parking lot the next block over/street parking. The service was great and one of the only places I've ever been to where the menu was on an iPad and each item had professional photos. The portions were huge and we did not have room for dessert. Please note that as soon as the clock hits 9 PM, the lights go off and the party starts so plan accordingly.

Yara C.

Yelp

I've been here a few times and really enjoy it. The food is good and fills the need in this town for some Dominican Food. They also make their own Mamajuana apparently - which is sweeter than I'm used to but I do still like it. They have really nicely thought out cocktails to satisfy a sweet tooth or a more bitter/sour palette. I like that the owner is usually around ensuring that guests are happy. It's hard to get good service in Houston, and Mamajuana does a decent job. The decor is also great. It gives a clubby vibe at night but not in a tacky way.

Lisa I.

Yelp

I planned a birthday dinner here for a group of 15. The reservation was for 6PM and we arrived early around 545 to ensure we would be seated. We weren't seated until 645. After being seated, it took forever for a server to come get our drink order. We had to ask for water even though they had glasses for water. We finally placed our appetizer and food order, and it literally took forever to get our food. It was almost an hour and 25 minutes before we got our food. Now understanding that it was a large group I expected a week but we all pretty much ordered the same thing. Our server was so slow and we tried to give him a chance, but it was ridiculous. We never had our water refilled the entire 2 1/2 hours we were there. I have to say the food was very good and pricey for Mofongo, but since we were celebrating a milestone birthday for a friend, we didn't really care. The upside is the drinks were strong and worth the money. The aesthetics and music were really good. But, I don't have to return to this place. It was definitely a one time and done situation.

Christina H.

Yelp

I expected a whole lot from Mamajuana Cafe, but instead was disappointed with both the service and food. The service was poor; things went wrong and the lack of communication was noticeable. The food didn't meet expectations either, leaving me less impressed than I had hoped. We had a small group of three, and though our waitress was friendly, not sure what happened between our table and the kitchen, but most of our order was incorrect upon arrival. When we tried to address the issue, the server insisted that he was just completing what the order stated. Food: I ordered a three course meal. I started with a soggy Caesar Salad followed by a severely dense mofongo with too much shrimp and overcooked lobster. I decided to treat myself and requested a brownie to-go minus the ice cream for dessert. When I returned home to enjoy my little treat, I found myself with a melted mess of ice cream blended together with brownie bits, topped with sad, wilted edible flowers. NOTE: They have a speakeasy here going towards the bathroom behind a large painting. While the speakeasy seemed pretty fascinating, we were unable to experience it as it was closed for a private party.

Diana J.

Yelp

Nice spot, looks like would be a weekend dancing spot too with a DJ from signs. I really enjoyed all the appetizers more than entrees actually. Everything just had lots of seasoning. Although dinner was a bit more bland. The pork shoulder was very dry. The salmon was decent but also a little dry. The steak was great! Dessert was not overly sweet either. Nice balance.

Patrick S.

Yelp

If your idea of fun is dining in an establishment where other guests may start dancing randomly in between tables then this is your place. Some of the best vibes in the city. Maybe the best burger in town. Only complaint is the meat, though perfectly cooked, has consistently been underseasoned. Don't get me wrong, it's a fantastic burger and easily fixed with a dash of salt and pepper. Mamajuana's has excellent service too btw if not a little slow. First floor of the historic Rice Hotel, this is about as "Houston" a vibe as one can get. Highly recommended.

Lynn G.

Yelp

I attended a birthday dinner at Mamajuana Cafe and after seeing the reviews, I was excited to try this place out. Let's start with the interior of the restaurant itself, it's nice, good music playing...all around good vibe. The waitstaff is very welcoming and friendly as well. Now, the food....I tried the oxtail fettuccine, which had some potential but lacked spice, and it was a bit greasy because oxtail is a fatty meat. It needed a sauce or something to bring it all together. We also had the tuna tartare, which was interesting to say the least, it's served in a seashell, on some rocks and a plastic succulent, which I hope is cleaned or trashed after each use. The steak skewers were TOUGH, but the flavor was there, you'll chew for a while though. Others at the table said their meals were underwhelming as well. For the service alone, I'd give 5 stars, but the food just didn't cut it for me.

Jessica C.

Yelp

Went on a Friday night, party of 6 around 7:30pm. Plenty of seating, started to get fuller around 9pm. Stopped at the bar before our table and bartender was surprisingly perfect! Most downtown bartenders are not too friendly and want you to hurry and order. Not here, she was so friendly to everyone, spoke loud enough for us to hear us and the drinks she made from the signature list were awesome. We got our table, it was very chilly, we all kept our sweaters on. The music was great! You could tell our server was new and a little nervous but he was great! He did a good job with the description script they say to explain the restaurant and the food. He got all our drinks and food orders perfect. So all the service was top notch here! Best food menu item we all loved was the mamajuana roll. We ended up getting 2. We did like all the food except the paella. It did not seem fresh at all. Tasted like frozen cooked seafood places on top of perfectly cooked rice. Or it had been made hours ago. The muscles were nonexistent in the shells. So I wouldn't recommend that dish. We all enjoyed our signature drinks. The light up menus with pictures help so so much! That is an awesome touch. My favorite drink was the "Why Not" There was a DJ in the main dining area that had great Latin and hip hop spinning. The speakeasy behind the painting is a great addition. Small and dark with great music. It's a prefect spot to grab a cocktail after dinner. Or just a great spot to grab a drink downtown! Would recommend and return with friends or date night!

Jazmin M.

Yelp

Pretty cool spot! Last minute invite to a new hidden gem. Place it's a restaurant but as you go in there is a hidden bar behind a cool painting. One in dancing area, place is small but pretty chill. They have drinks flowing and hookah. Overall great spot and great place to hang out.

Queenie L.

Yelp

Their food is inconsistent. Last time I ordered it was excellent, meat was tender and well seasoned. Second time the meat was dry and overcooked, seasoning was just salty not much flavor.

Christiane S.

Yelp

The food was totally Jamaican. We had great service. We went during Houston restaurant week.

Esther R.

Yelp

Food is always good. The mamafongo is by far my favorite. The criollo sauce always takes me back home. The empanadas and the skewers are the kids favorites. Husband always enjoys the Roasted Pork shoulder with chimichurri sauce and pigeon peas rice. This place also has a fun speakeasy with Latin music. Didn't care for their desserts. Service is always good .

Katy P.

Yelp

This is located where Azuma used to be. I came by here for the the first time since it's been Mamajuana, and I am definitely impressed. The service is excellent. Informative and helpful bartenders who are happy to recommend specific dishes and drinks if you're stuck between choices. Happy Hour M-F, lunch menu M-F, Sunday brunch, and late light menu Friday/Saturday. I hit it up during happy hour and got the Thai calamari and house margarita. Both were delicious, but the pricepoint is crazy, even during happy hour. That's literally the only negative thing I have to say about this place. The atmosphere is super fun. Latin dance music, lively energy, just a good place to be when you've had a stressful day. I'm taking off one star for the sky-high happy hour prices that are steep even by downtown Houston post-pandemic standards. Everything else is absolute aces. If you come here, prepare to spend beyond your budget, but also prepare for excellent food, service, atmosphere, and drinks. I'm hoping to try this place for lunch soon. They have several specials that look really good, including a few variations of salmon.

Elaine S.

Yelp

I was in need of a special place for a group dinner, so where else to turn but Yelp. The reviews were mixed, Mamajuana was in my desired area and i was only 3 weeks away for my event date. I filled out their online form and followed up with a phone call. Paul and Edison were excellent in communicating with me from beginning to end. We booked their Speakeasy and went in the day before to solidify the menu. I hosted approximately 50 guests, and everyone was blown away. Onsite, Dimas and Chef Stephany handled our group with finesse. Food and drinks were AMAZING. Highlights- Octopus salad, skewers, mamajuana rolls, OX TAIL CROQUETTES (MUST TRY), 4 leches cake and guava empanadas. We went back the next day for dinner and had the calamari, churrasco and a dulce de leche lava cake that only dreams are made of. I can't wait to go back to Houston to see my new friends and dine again. BTW- Prices are reasonable and service was excellent during the event and when we dined for dinner. I was surprised to see the bad reviews mentioning these issues. They made us feel like family. Thank you Mamajuana team!

Sydney C.

Yelp

Service was great, food amazing, nice ambiance! Good location!!!! I'll be back for the oxtails balls they was so fffnnn good

Gabe S.

Yelp

Really cool atmosphere. I went for lunch and got the plantain appetizer and meat & root stew. The stew was amazing. The plantain was good, but the pork with it was really tasty. I'm staying at the Hyatt Place down the street and will try to eat here again before I leave.

VT M.

Yelp

Nice view Food is average Service is too slow from food delivery to even taking care of the bills

Jackie K.

Yelp

We had a great lunch at Mamajuana! It recently opened and is in the old Azuma sushi spot in downtown. I had the roasted chicken thigh special and thought it was a great deal for lunch for $15--it came with rice, black beans, and fried plantains, and I had chicken leftover to take home. The chicken was super tender and almost fell off the bone. Service was nice, and the restaurant was pretty quiet at lunch.

S D.

Yelp

Food was good, service was not consistent. First server did not communicate with the second regarding important things like split bills. There was a fee on my bill and no one elses and when I asked the server said "oh well it must be something with your card" If he didn't know he needed to ask and find out. I had to do my own investigating to learn that if you pay with debit there is no fee but credit yes, which was not explained to me up front. I didn't like him blowing off my concern but I think because we were a fun group he just got a little to comfortable. He did end up apologizing. Otherwise nice experience, good food, good drinks. Try to stuffed fish

Chantel C.

Yelp

This is a wuaint place located in the heart of downtown. Delicious flavors, charming decor, and a speakeasy. They have live music, specialty cocktails, and flavorful food. Try the oxtail croquettes. You won't be disappointed. The oxtail are flavorful yet too fatty. However, the rice it's paired with is the star of the dish! The yucafungo was cooked to perfection. I do feel the server could have been a bit more attentive. we had to get her attention a few times when she should have just checked on the table. I did meet the manager, and he was knowledgeable and approachable and nice.

Tina S.

Yelp

Are you kidding...this place was excellent, awesome, amazing, OMG!!! You will spend some time there, don't be in a hurry, RELAX! We were lucky enough to get the cinco de mayo special and a couple of margaritas and then icing on the cake ( no pun intended) was the lava cake with ice cream. Wow!! Amazing food, amazing service, amazing ambiance!!! The skirt steak I ordered was sinful. I ordered some jalapeños and they were fresh and spicy! My husband got the chicken burrito and he loved it! Whenever we return to Houston we will eat there!! I'd like to thank Freddie our server for exquisite service and George (Shocky) for the knowledge of the food of this fine establishment and because of that we decided to dine there.

Tanyea F.

Yelp

Amazing atmosphere (private speak easy room ) Food Fresh, authentic.. and the oxtails are super delicious! Service very friendly, attentive.. and explained the menu! I can't wait to go back for date night!

Ashley Y.

Yelp

Such a unique spot! The bartenders here were very welcoming and charming. I was here for a holiday party and everyone was very kind and welcoming. The bartender crafted an amazing holiday drink that was banana based, and it was SO GOOD!! He and the owner made the experience and the event fun and so nice. The food was only finger food but it was good, I'm looking forward to coming back for the all day happy hour on Wednesdays when they have a live band and salsa dancing. I always appreciate a good speakeasy! The entry surprised me. I'll definitely be back. The 4 stars is only because of the parking situation. It's right off of a one way so there is LITTLE to no parking.

Laura S.

Yelp

This restaurant is a gem! I'm glad we found it! From the moment you walk in to the ambiance to the service and the food! Omg! All of it!!! Let's not forget the drinks!! We had, mamafongo, French toast, skewers, sweet plantains and dessert! Every single bite was impeccable! I promise you won't be disappointed!

Yamel L.

Yelp

Mamajuana was absolutely amazing!! My sister and I went after going to the Nutcracker Ballet at the Wortham Theatre. We were starving so we took advantage of their HH menu and got the oxtails croquettes which were delicious! Even had Moro de guandules (rice and peas) in them. The mixed skewers were seasoned so well and full of flavors!!! The empanadas were my least favorite but still flavorful. We are Dominican so I was expecting more of a traditional Dominican empanadas but they were still great. My main dish was the red snapper bites and OMG!!!! I felt like I was back home in DR. Tasted like it was straight out of Boca Chica. IYKYK!! It was already deboned into fish nuggets and it came with some perfectly fried tostones (plantains) wow! So good! My sister had the shrimp/lobster yucafongo and it was delicious!! I cannot wait to go back and try other dishes. I had their margaritas and they were amazing! You can tell they make their own margarita mix and not use a store bought one. Oh and the coconut tres leche, TO DIE FOR!!! We didn't even get a chance to take a picture! Overall, the ambiance and music were great. It was not too loud at all. We could comfortably talk to each other. Our waiter Derek was great too. Checked on us regularly and got our orders out perfectly. Highly recommend Mamajuana. Can't wait to come back with my husband and then again with my girls!

Paddi T.

Yelp

Amazing food! Flavors are so perfect, meat tender Service on point and very personable. Cocktails the best gin cocktail I have ever had!!!

Natasha M.

Yelp

We went to this place for our Anniversary dinner and holy cow!! 11/10!! Food is so flavorful and delicious. The presentation was beautiful and artistic. We loved the service, food, and atmosphere! supposedly they also play live music (although we had to leave to go to the rodeo) and didn't get the chance to stay for it and also Hookah! This place is HIGH recommend if in town!

Nancy P.

Yelp

Thought we would try out the new place since we live in the building. We stopped in for lunch. I understand that this is not a hamburger joint. However the hamburger was most disappointing. The meat tasted and seemed like a pressed frozen patty, the fries were just fries. I expected a "wow" meal based off the atmosphere. The atmosphere is nice and clean. The menus are on tablets so it's easy to navigate. Its surprising that they do not offer any type of downtown resident discounts like most other places in the area. At least offer Happy Hour all day. Something.... to draw locals back. Also note that they run your card for $50 (and do not tell you until you pay). I get that people walk out but when you're literally the only person in the entire place eating a $15 burger?

Fia C.

Yelp

The food was great!!!! I had the mixed grilled skewers for appetizers!!! Tried the why not drink and whiskey sour!!! Both were very refreshing and delicious. The entree I tried was the pork with rice and beans! I like it a lot especially with the sauce they provided!

Carlos B.

Yelp

Went tonight for the first got to say very impressed from the quality of the food to the amazing decor to the top tier customer service staff was very accommodating and had a chance to meet the owners and they were amazing as we'll definitely at the top of my list of places to go I. Houston

Brandon J.

Yelp

I give this place an A+ for service, the head bartender, the gentleman in charge of all of the hospitality for the restaurant OMG if you get him, you will know his drink making experience made this whole thing with wild now I'm reading this on service I'm not reading it on food. The restaurant is beautiful beautifully decorated the decors awesome and they have mama do you want is all over the place But this really stuck out with a speakeasy in the back whoever did the renovations for this place really went all out five stars. However when we ordered the appetizer if I had to give it another rating, I'd only give it maybe 2 1/2 stars the food was dry. It looked appetizing, but that was about it. It was all looks no taste sauce was bland, but the service there was immaculate so for that definitely stop in if you're looking for a beautiful place to have a drink but the food you may want to save your appetite for somewhere else but for ambience in-service definitely an A+ experience.

Robert M.

Yelp

We had the Churrasco w/ 10 oz Angus skirt steak with a side of chimichurri and house demi-glaze sauce accompanied by white rice and black beans. It was delicious amazing! Our Bartender Marie was excellent. She made a Whiskey sour and old-fashioned and it was top notch. The Old Fashion was so delicious my wife sampled it and has never had a bourbon drink she ordered the Old Fashion. I was shocked! The Staff is very attentive to our every need. Thank you Mamajuana Cafe Houston

David D.

Yelp

Food was fantastic. Service was excellent and the ambience was great. Our server was spot on taking care of us. This was a few months ago, but we're excited to go back this weekend. The manager talked to us and explained about mamajuana and gave us a sample. I can't say enough about how much we love this place. I wish they were a little closer to where we live.

Jay D.

Yelp

Refreshing place much needed in the downtown area. Had a reservation for 8pm on a Friday night, and I was seated quickly. Staff/managers were friendly. We started off with the empanada trio, it was good, nothing crazy. For my main I ordered the Yucafongo and it was really good with the creole sauce. My friend ordered the mofongo and we were surprised that it could have been a little better-- but we asked for some creole sauce to top it off and give it more flavor. The desserts were really good. We appreciated the manager asking for feedback on the dishes and experience towards the end of our visit. I think that is super important. DJ started spinning around 10pm. The set up of the entire restaurant is cool --as you have a huge bar to the right upon entrance and tables to the left for intimate dining. I did hear they have a speakeasy in which we did not get to see but overall I enjoyed it. Nice job. Valet parking, street parking and a garage is available nearby.

Karen D.

Yelp

Came here pre-theatre for drinks and their signature mamajuana sushi roll. The bar manager helped me create a drink that was like a gin fizz (off menu) which I enjoyed. Their signature roll is fried in tempura and quite tasty and filling. There is a speakeasy behind a painting near the restrooms, but it doesn't open til closer to 8pm.

Anthony N.

Yelp

Service was good, but the food was over priced & average. The roasted pork shoulder was very very dry.

Rachel B.

Yelp

Honestly, the food was extremely overpriced to begin with. The rice was pretty flavorless and the salmon was good and cooked well but just wasn't worth almost $50- a piece of salmon and scoop of Rice. I will not be back.

Hannah W.

Yelp

Great #vibedining!! Delicious drinks, and a variety of latin and asian cuisine. We loved seeing Mofongo in downtown and Houston! Killer DJ music on Saturdays!!!!

Wilhem J.

Yelp

Great environment, tasteful food and great service. we tried the Yuca filled with steak and it was very good.

Sammy F.

Yelp

Atmosphere is absolutely beautiful! Really does make you feel like you were in the Dominican Republic. The music was playing in the background. The staff was very nice. We personally loved our order of the mofongo with Shrimp/Lobster and The pork shoulder. The appetizers and drinks we ordered were great also.

Krystal M.

Yelp

The food was amazing and Kaitlyn the server was wonderful it's been a while since I have seen service like this. Must try

Yolli M.

Yelp

My best friend wanted to eat here for his birthday. The service was really great. We received recommendations for both food and drinks. The food was so delicious and everything was plated beautifully! Highly recommend trying the Mamajuana Roll or the Roasted Pork Shoulder (Puerquito Mamajuana) and the She Ghost'ed Me cocktail. Overall the food, drinks, service and ambiance 10/10.

Natalie G.

Yelp

I'm giving this place 3 stars just because of the ambiance. The music is great and aesthetically a beautiful restaurant. Drinks are great, but I wouldn't come too hungry because you are most likely to be disappointed. I was excited for the mofongo but it tasted overcooked and hard. The skewers were also dry. Oxtail pasta was delicious , but hardly had any oxtail. For the price point I was expecting great food but it was below average. I can't complain about the service, they are all very friendly and welcoming.

B R.

Yelp

What a fantastic new addition to the downtown bar/restaurant scene. We visited for cocktails and had a fantastic experience. The bartender was incredibly friendly and skilled. Drinks were delicious. Vibe is really great. It was too early for it to be open but there is a secret bar/speakeasy space the staff showed us that looks super fun (see video clip). We had a small issue with our tab and the manager immediately addressed it in an efficient and gracious manner. The menu looks amazing too and we are excited to visit again soon for happy hour & dinner!

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"Mamajuana Cafe lets you control how fun your night will get. Quietly appreciating good music is totally acceptable, as is hitting a bachata step and letting out an involuntary “woo”. The New York transplant is now Downtown serving Latin food that’s exciting even without flaming sparklers. It’s full of couples toasting their drinks or smoking hookah, and on the main floor, long tables are reserved for crews celebrating birthdays and bachelor parties. You can keep it calm and let the most over-the-top part of your night be the stuffed cassava topped with thin strips of churrasco steak, or dance the night away to the high-energy reggaeton mixes." - gianni greene, chelsea thomas

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"Mamajuana Cafe lets you control how fun your night will get. Quietly appreciating good music is totally acceptable, as is hitting a bachata step and letting out an involuntary “woo”. The New York transplant is now Downtown serving Latin food that’s exciting even without flaming sparklers. It’s full of couples toasting their drinks or smoking hookah, and on the main floor, long tables are reserved for crews celebrating birthdays and bachelor parties. You can keep it calm and let the most over-the-top part of your night be the stuffed cassava topped with thin strips of churrasco steak, or dance the night away to the high-energy reggaeton mixes." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene

Mamajuana Cafe Review - Downtown - Houston - The Infatuation

"Mamajuana Cafe lets you control how fun your night will get. Quietly appreciating good music is totally acceptable, as is hitting a bachata step and letting out an involuntary “woo”. The transplant is now serving Latin food that’s exciting even without flaming sparklers. It’s full of couples toasting their drinks or smoking hookah, and on the main floor, long tables are reserved for crews celebrating birthdays and bachelor parties. You can keep it calm and let the most over-the-top part of your night be the stuffed cassava topped with thin strips of churrasco steak, or dance the night away to the high-energy reggaeton mixes. " - Gianni Greene

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