The Newest Italian Place: Mama K’s Kitchen

Location: Star City

Dish: Fusilli Vodka, Hot Pepper Toast, and House Salad

Y’all, let me tell you a little bit about Mama K’s - I’ve only been there once but you better believe I’ll be back again!

Both of my grandparents are off-the-boat from Italy, and the story behind Mama K’s Kitchen perked my interest. An immigrant from Italy, Mama Kay married a coal miner (also from Italy) and eventually found herself cooking for the community. Phrases like “nourish those around her,” and “experience of togetherness” litter the framed story that sits on a table in the building, and “baking bread every Sunday” felt like home.

You walk in to see the kitchen on your left, a turquoise backsplash highlighting cooking pots and pans on the commercial stove. The menu for the day is written out on butcher paper and foil containers tease you to order extras just to take home.

You can tell that the Mama K’s team loved what they were serving, suggesting options and their favorites without even being asked. The owner was bright and cheery and excited to show her new flavors to all who walked in.

I got the fusilli vodka, the sauce made with simple ingredients of tomato, cream, and shallot, and asked for it “K Style” which added mushrooms and peas to the dish. Adding a house salad to the mix, and a taste of their hot pepper toast, I was sold.

Wow! The house oil and vinegar dressing paired with crispy mixed greens tasted just like how my Nonna dresses a salad. A simple addition of tomatoes to brighten the order and chunks of bleu cheese had me eat this right up. This paired with their appetizer was enough to be considered a large meal. But you know what was next…

Perfectly al dente fusilli pasta, mushrooms, and peas coated in a pink vodka cream sauce and topped with cheese. Was I in heaven? Almost. A hearty serving that could count as two was set in front of me. The dish was warm, and the sauce had just the slightest kick to awaken your senses, and the creaminess of the sauce enveloped every bite. The mushrooms and peas were a must-have addition if you like those things. I happily ate the whole thing.

The best thing is that you can share it with all your friends and family! They offer catering. Gather a group to dine with wine at home or have a party and let Mama K’s do the cooking. If you’re on the go, you can grab carry-out - those foil pans make it easy. Restaurant hours are 11:30 am to 8:30 pm Tuesday through Saturday.

Rating: No question a 10/10. I will be back again, and most definitely need to try everything on the menu - with a fusilli vodka to take home, of course!