Home United States Florida Mam's Best Food

Mam's Best Food

4.7 375 reviews 09:30 AM - 06:30 PM 405 Petronia St, Key West, FL 33040, United States

Discover this place

At Mam's Best Food, nestled in the heart of Key West, diners are welcomed into a charming, family-like atmosphere that feels like home. Reviewers rave about the owner, a delightful and humorous Israeli lady whose passion for cooking shines through every dish. The menu, brimming with authentic Israeli favorites, features standout items like the Shakshuka and Hummus, paired perfectly with fluffy pita.

Customers appreciate the care and love that goes into each meal, evident from the hand-prepared salads to the hearty lunch options like Kebabs and Schnitzel. Adam M's enthusiasm captures the experience, noting the value and flavor that earned Mam's a solid 5-star rating. Meanwhile, Dan Wertheim highlights the "strong coffee" that complements the "stronger love" infused in every dish, making it a must-visit for Israeli cuisine enthusiasts.

Dining here is unique, as meals are enjoyed outdoors in a cozy setting, which Jess Luttrell describes as reminiscent of a family gathering. With such a high volume of satisfied customers, it’s no surprise that many plan to return — as Jeff Klein mentions, Mam's encapsulates the authentic spirit of Key West.

Photos

Mam's Best Food - Photo 1 Mam's Best Food - Photo 2 Mam's Best Food - Photo 3 Mam's Best Food - Photo 4 Mam's Best Food - Photo 5 Mam's Best Food - Photo 6 Mam's Best Food - Photo 7 Mam's Best Food - Photo 8 Mam's Best Food - Photo 9

Amenities & More

Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Delivery
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in

Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining

Dining options

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Counter service
  • Seating
  • Table service

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy

Crowd

  • Tourists
Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Mam's Best Food before visiting.

Reviews for Mam's Best Food

4.7
375 reviews
5
100%
4
8%
3
3%
2
2%
1
6%

Review highlights

Based on 375 reviews

Customers consistently praise Mam's Best Food for its authentic Israeli cuisine made with evident care and fresh ingredients. The intimate, homey setting—often described as reminiscent of a family gathering—enhances the dining experience, complemented by attentive and personable service from the owner. Patrons appreciate the strong flavors, especially standout dishes like shakshuka, hummus, and freshly baked pita. The restaurant's charm lies not only in its food but also in the warm, slightly quirky atmosphere and the owner's engaging presence. While the small, outdoor dining area adds to its appeal, some reviews note that ordering in advance is advisable due to its cozy, one-person operation. Overall, Mam’s Best Food is celebrated for authenticity, flavor, and genuine hospitality.

Adam M
Aug 02, 2025

Found this gem (on Google Maps!) while visiting from out of town. The owner is a charmingly grouchy (but actually very sweet) older Israeli lady who is abs hilarious. The food was awesome and good value. I got the Israeli salad first (forgot to take a pic) then Shakshuka which came with amazing hummus and (not in the pic) a fluffy pita. 5⭐s well deserved!

Jess Luttrell
Jul 23, 2025

Today, we dined at Mam's Best Food, our top culinary discovery in Key West. Mam was delightful, and the service was exceptional and attentive. It felt just like a family gathering. We're planning to return tomorrow!

Dan Wertheim
Jun 30, 2025

The food is so freaking delicious and you can taste the care and Love she puts into HAND MAKING all her dishes. The coffee is strong, but the Love is Stronger!! I would recommend this place to anyone who has tried Israeli food and misses it, or anyone who has not and wants to experience something truly special.

jeff klein
Jun 24, 2025

This is a great little place with great food. It's authentic key West. The good it's prepared in a small house and all dining is outside. There are plenty of fans. There's a washing station in the dining area.

Ben
Jun 12, 2025

Elana makes your food fresh and it is delicious. We had friends who tried many things on the menu and were happy with all. She is a one man show so order in advance if you can

Graziela GTrida
May 21, 2025

I had the falafel wrap. The pita bread and hummus were absolutely delicious. The falafel was very good as well. We visited during a low traffic time of the day and the owner sat down at our table to explain how she makes the falafel and even offered her number so that I could call her if I had questions. Authentic delicious food, highly recommended!

Kit C
May 19, 2025

For a little cafe, the owner manages to serve some of the best kosher food. She is the server and cook so be prepared if it's busy, it might take a little bit to get your food but it's worth it. The pita bread is delicious, the baba ganoush is silky smooth and flavorful, the hummus is topped with olive oil, and I could go on and on about the food.

Tyanne Bland
May 16, 2025

If you’re looking for a standout kosher lunch experience in Key West, Mam’s Best Food is an absolute gem. The host and chef, affectionately known as “Mam,” delivers not just fresh, delicious Israeli cuisine, but a warm, unforgettable hospitality that makes you feel like family. Every dish bursts with flavor, perfectly spiced to your taste—just ask Mam, and she’ll craft something special, whether you’re craving a classic shawarma, a spicy eggplant pita, or her famously light, fresh falafel. The bread, especially the pita and baguette, is served hot and fluffy, the ideal base for her vibrant salads and spreads. Outdoor seating adds to the laid-back, homey vibe, and Mam’s lively personality turns every meal into a memorable experience. Whether you keep kosher or just love great food, this is a must-visit spot in Key West.

Write a review

Share your experience with the community. Your honest feedback helps others find great places.

Quick info

Address
405 Petronia St, Key West, FL 33040, United States
Price range
$10–20

Opening hours

  • Monday (Today) 09:30 AM - 06:30 PM
  • Tuesday 09:30 AM - 06:30 PM
  • Wednesday 09:30 AM - 06:30 PM
  • Thursday 09:30 AM - 06:30 PM
  • Friday 09:30 AM - 06:30 PM
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday 09:30 AM - 06:30 PM

Location

Own this business?

Claim this listing to update info, respond to reviews and reach more customers.

Claim listing

Discover more places like this

Browse thousands of bars, restaurants, cafés and more — wherever you go.

View Menu