As a London food blogger at Your Food Fantasy, I often find myself exploring hidden gems across the city. Recently, I had the privilege of being invited for a PR experience at Villa Mamas London, and what an extraordinary experience it turned out to be! Situated in the heart of Chelsea, Villa Mamas is not just a restaurant; it’s an invitation to journey into the rich flavours of Bahrain, elevated with a global touch.
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A Brief History of Villa Mamas
Villa Mamas was founded by Bahraini chef Roya Saeed Almoayyed, who started her first restaurant in Bahrain in 2012. Her vision was simple yet profound – to serve home-cooked meals that celebrate traditional Bahraini cuisine, infused with influences from Persia, India, and the Mediterranean. From its humble beginnings, the brand expanded internationally, with branches in London and Riyadh, bringing the warmth of Middle Eastern hospitality to global audiences.
Villa Mamas in Chelsea reflects Chef Roya’s philosophy: food cooked from the heart, using the freshest seasonal ingredients, and served in a warm, welcoming environment. It’s a place where tradition meets modern sophistication, and every dish has a story to tell.
Location – A Chelsea Jewel
Nestled in the stylish neighbourhood of Chelsea, London, Villa Mamas is easy to access and perfectly located for both casual diners and food connoisseurs. The restaurant’s interiors are inviting, blending modern elegance with touches of Middle Eastern charm – think patterned tiles, soft lighting, and rustic accents. Whether you’re out for a date night, family meal, or a special gathering, Villa Mamas sets the tone for a memorable dining experience.
Exploring the Menu
Villa Mamas’ menu is a treasure trove of Middle Eastern delicacies with Bahraini soul. It offers a thoughtful balance of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options, catering to diverse palates. Each dish is lovingly prepared, showcasing Chef Roya’s attention to detail and authenticity.
Here are some of the dishes that stood out during my visit:
Mozat Laham – A Bahraini Classic
This slow-cooked lamb shank dish, known as Mozat Laham, was a showstopper. The lamb was melt-in-the-mouth tender, infused with aromatic spices that took me straight to the Gulf. Paired with saffron-infused rice, it was comfort food at its finest.
Hummus and Khaboos – Timeless Staples
No Middle Eastern dining experience is complete without hummus and khaboos (traditional bread). The hummus at Villa Mamas was creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced with tahini, while the freshly baked khaboos was warm and pillowy – ideal for scooping up every last bite.
Wine Leaves – A Delicate Delight – Warak Enab
The wine leaves (stuffed vine leaves) were another highlight, filled with fragrant rice and herbs. Light, zesty, and refreshing, this dish is a testament to how simplicity and skill can create magic on the plate.
Vegetarian Korma and Pulao
As someone who adores vegetarian food, I was delighted by the veg korma – a dish that combined a medley of vegetables in a creamy, spiced sauce. It paired beautifully with their pulao rice, which was a masterpiece on its own. Fluffy, aromatic, and subtly flavoured, the pulao elevated the korma to another level.
Exquisite Cocktails and Kadak Chai
Villa Mamas also shines with its drinks menu. Their exquisite cocktails are artfully crafted, offering both classic and innovative blends. Whether you fancy something refreshing or indulgent, their mixologists have you covered.
For me, the meal ended perfectly with a steaming cup of kadak chai. Rich, spiced, and wonderfully comforting, it was a nostalgic reminder of traditional tea culture in the Middle East and South Asia.
Sweet Endings – Desserts at Villa Mamas
The desserts deserve a special mention. From traditional Middle Eastern sweets to more contemporary creations, each dessert was a celebration of textures and flavours. One particular standout was their rose-scented dessert, delicate yet indulgent, that rounded off the meal beautifully.
Hospitality and PR Experience
Being invited for a PR experience at Villa Mamas was a privilege. From the moment I stepped in, I was welcomed with genuine warmth. The staff were attentive yet unobtrusive, ensuring that every guest felt at home. As a food blogger, I’ve dined at many restaurants, but the hospitality at Villa Mamas London truly set them apart.
Final Thoughts
Villa Mamas London is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Bahraini culture, flavours, and traditions. The location in Chelsea makes it ideal for Londoners and visitors alike, while the menu ensures that there’s something for everyone – from meat lovers to vegetarians.
As I left, sipping on my kadak chai, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the invitation. This wasn’t just a dining experience; it was a culinary journey that bridged cultures. For anyone in London looking to explore Middle Eastern cuisine with authenticity and flair, Villa Mamas London is a must-visit.
If you’ve enjoyed reading this, don’t forget to check more of my experiences on Your Food Fantasy, where I share restaurant reviews, timeless recipes, and food stories that connect people and cultures