Lil Chef Mama: Authentic Thai Cuisine in New York's Financial District

Lil Chef Mama Introduce

In the heart of New York City's bustling Financial District, where fast-paced city life meets historic charm, a genuine culinary sanctuary awaits: Lil Chef Mama. This isn't just another restaurant; it's a labor of love that brings the authentic, comforting flavors of Thailand to the a metropolitan palate. Owned by an amazing woman who embodies the spirit of Thai hospitality, Lil Chef Mama has quickly become a standout for those seeking a truly special dining experience. With an atmosphere that feels both cozy and trendy, the restaurant offers a vibrant escape from the everyday, making it an ideal spot for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, or even a celebratory group meal.

The core of Lil Chef Mama's appeal lies in its commitment to authentic and flavorful Thai cuisine. The menu is a delightful journey through classic dishes and unique creations, all prepared with meticulous care. You'll find a wide range of options, from well-known favorites like Pad Thai and curries to less common but equally delicious "Mama's Specials." The Pad Thai has been highly recommended by customers for its perfect balance of flavors, while the beef red curry is praised for being "spot on." Appetizers like the Fried Mini Chicken Dumplings and the Moo Satee are great ways to start your meal. The restaurant also has a variety of vegan and vegetarian options clearly labeled on the menu, ensuring a wonderful experience for guests with different dietary needs. Their dedication to authenticity is evident in every dish, and patrons often note how the food reminds them of a meal in Thailand.

What truly sets Lil Chef Mama apart is the incredible atmosphere and personal touch that defines the entire experience. The space itself is beautifully designed, with a creative and effective use of the area that makes it feel spacious and not crowded. The decor is cozy and inviting, with a charming "entrance that is great for photos," according to one reviewer. Beyond the aesthetic, the service is a major highlight. The staff, including the owners and servers like Travis and Joe mentioned in a review, are known for being friendly, attentive, and not overbearing. A memorable story from a customer recounts how the "Lil Chef Mama" herself remembered them from a previous event and offered a complimentary dish, showcasing the genuine kindness and personal care that permeates the establishment. This level of hospitality makes every guest feel valued and at home.

Lil Chef Mama is ideally situated at 27 Cliff St, New York, NY 10038, USA. This location in the Financial District makes it a convenient and popular dining destination. It's easily accessible via several subway lines, including the 2, 3, 4, 5, J, and Z trains, with stations just a short walk away. This excellent public transit access is a huge plus for those working in the area or coming from other parts of the city. The restaurant's position also makes it a perfect stop before or after visiting nearby attractions and landmarks in Lower Manhattan. Its presence in the FiDi neighborhood offers a much-needed haven of high-quality, authentic food that stands out from the typical grab-and-go options.

Lil Chef Mama is committed to providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for its customers with a variety of service options.

Dine-in Service: The restaurant offers a full dine-in experience with table service in its cozy and casual setting.
Delivery and Takeout: For those who want to enjoy the delicious food at home or in the office, the restaurant provides both takeout and delivery, including a convenient no-contact option.
Curbside Pickup: A quick and easy way to get your order, curbside pickup is available for added convenience.
Reservations: Lil Chef Mama accepts reservations, which is recommended, especially for groups, to ensure a smooth and timely dining experience.
Catering: With a track record of catering events, the restaurant is a fantastic choice for those looking to bring authentic Thai food to their next gathering.

There are many features and highlights that make Lil Chef Mama a standout destination in New York's food scene.

Fast Service: Customers consistently praise the restaurant for its speedy service without sacrificing quality, making it a great option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Authentic and Flavorful Food: The food is known for being incredibly tasty and authentic, with dishes that are "just enough spice" and rich in flavor.
Women-Owned Business: The restaurant proudly identifies as a women-owned and Asian-owned business, which adds to its unique identity and community feel.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options: The menu offers a wide range of clearly labeled vegan and vegetarian dishes, catering to diverse dietary needs.
Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is a perfect blend of cozy and trendy, with beautiful decor that creates a welcoming and photogenic space.
Family-Friendly and Inclusive: Lil Chef Mama is a family-friendly spot that also identifies as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, fostering a truly inclusive environment.
Chef's Specials: The "Mama's Specials" are a major highlight and a must-try for regulars. It is recommended to call ahead for these as they take about 25 minutes to prepare.

For all inquiries, reservations, or to place an order, you can contact Lil Chef Mama at the following:

Address: 27 Cliff St, New York, NY 10038, USA

Phone: (646) 964-5555

Mobile Phone: +1 646-964-5555

Lil Chef Mama is absolutely worth choosing for anyone in New York who is craving authentic Thai food in a warm, friendly, and inclusive environment. The quality of the food is top-notch, with a menu that offers something for everyone, from classic comfort dishes to unique specialties. The personal touch from the staff and the owner herself creates a dining experience that feels more like visiting a friend's home than a restaurant. The fast service and convenient location in the Financial District make it a perfect go-to for lunch or dinner. The fact that it is a women-owned business with a clear commitment to inclusivity and customer satisfaction further elevates its appeal. Whether you're a devoted fan of Thai cuisine or new to its flavors, Lil Chef Mama is a place that deserves its praise and promises a delicious and memorable meal every time.

Lil Chef Mama Menu

Appetizers
Fried Chive Cakes $10.00
Deep fried tapioca and rice chive cakes with dipping sauce
Fried Mini Chicken Dumplings $10.00
25 pieces
Fried Mini Pork Dumplings $10.00
25 pieces
Fried Shrimp Rolls $8.00
2 pieces
Fried Veggie Spring Rolls $8.00
2 pieces
Hand Folded Shrimp Thai Dumplings $12.00
4 pieces
Hand Folded Veggie Thai Dumplings $10.00
4 pieces
Homemade Chicken Puff Pastry $10.00
2 pieces. Made daily limited quantity. Chicken, sweet potatoes, onion, sweet & savory, deep-fried
Honey Moo Slider $6.00
Grilled honey glazed pork loin on a brioche bun, aioli, tomato, mixed greens
Kai Satee $8.00
2 pieces chicken skewers
Moo Satee $8.00
2 pieces pork skewers
Nurr Satee $10.00
2 pieces steak skewers
Pluk Boong Fai Dang $12.00
Sauteed morning glory & spinach (seasonal)
Som Tum Khai Kem $14.00
Thai papaya salad with salted egg

Mama's Specials
Order ahead or please allow 25 minutes
Kai Yang $25.00
All-natural chicken marinated with Thai herbs to perfection served with sticky rice
Seua Long Hai $25.00
Grilled flank steak with spicy dipping chili lime sauce served with sticky rice
Pla Lad Prik $22.00
Lightly floured & deep-fried topped with preserved garlic, chili & tamarind sauce
Pla Kraprow $22.00
Battered, pan-fried fillet fish sauteed with basil & peppercorn
In Honor of the King $21.00
Pan-fried marinated chicken breast wrapped in egg, coated with peanuts sauce served with coconut curry rice
Pla Muk Pad Tua $20.00
Deep-fried squid and string beans sauteed in basil sauce
Ka Kob $22.00
Garlic sauce or basil. Lightly breaded frog legs sauteed
Ba Mee Hang $18.00
Shrimp or Veggie. Thin egg noodles, mixed in a garlic oil, and thin soy sauce topped with greens crushed peanuts, & preserved turnips
Yum Woonsen $18.00
Shrimp, veggie, or chicken. Glass noodles, onion, scallion, coriander, fresh lime juice
Five Spice Pork Belly Noodle Soup $18.00
Spicy tangy broth with rice noodles
Ped Panang $28.00
Boneless crispy Long Island duck topped with Panang curry. Served with jasmine rice
Ped Yum $28.00
Crispy duck tossed in a citrus dressing, peanuts, onion, pineapples, oranges, apples, tomatoes, scallions, cilantro. Topped with cashew nuts, tangy, sweet, savory, spice

Fried Rice
Choice of: mixed veggies, tofu, sweet sausage, chicken, jumbo shrimp, beef, pork.
Thai Styled Fried Rice $16.00
Egg, onions, peas, carrots, scallion, blend of soy sauces
Pineapple Fried Rice $19.00
Egg, pineapple, raisin, cashew nuts, onions, peas, carrots, scallion, blend of soy sauces

Classic Noodles
Choice of: beef, jumbo shrimp, chicken, pork, veggie, tofu (steamed or fried), mock duck
Pad Thai $16.00
Sauteed thin rice noodles, egg, crushed peanuts, preserved turnips, balanced with bean sprouts & scallions
Pad Sieew $16.00
Stir-fried broad rice noodles, broccoli and an egg. Optimizing the flavors from a variety of soy sauces
Pad Kee Mao $16.00
Sauteed broad noodles, mushrooms, ground chili pepper, bell peppers & basil leaves
Country Noodles $16.00
Sauteed broad noodles, preserved cabbage, & egg, laced with chopped scallions

Curries
Served with white rice. Choice of: beef, jumbo shrimp, chicken, pork, veggie, tofu (steamed or fried), mock duck
Kang Keaw Wan $16.00
Very spicy green curry, bamboo, bell pepper & peas
Kang Dang $16.00
Hot red curry, bamboo, bell pepper & peas
Panang $16.00
Medium panang curry, bell pepper & onions
Mudsamun $16.00
Mild mudsamun curry, onions & potatoes

Soups
Tom Yum $12.00
Choice of vegetables, chicken, or shrimp. Lime leaves, lemongrass and red chili peppers tang & spice
Tom Kha $12.00
Choice of vegetables, chicken, or shrimp. A coconut milk base soup infused with lime leaves, lemongrass & galangal

Veggies
Sauteed Mix Veggies $16.00
Served with jasmine rice
Spicy Veggie Saute $16.00
Choice of eggplant, string beans, or tofu. Served with jasmine rice

Appetizers (A)
Fried Veggie Spring Rolls $8.00
2 pieces of deep-fried spring rolls filled with cabbage, wood ear mushrooms and carrots
Moo Yang & Sticky Rice $14.00
Grilled honey pork skewer
Fried Mini Chicken Dumplings $10.00
25 pcs
Fried Mini Pork Dumplings $10.00
25 pcs
Veggie Slider $6.00
Brioche bun. aioli. tomato. mixed green
Edamame $8.00
Thai herbed edamame

Lunch (S)
Pad Thai(L)
Sauteed thin rice noodles, egg, crushed peanuts, preserved turnips, balanced with bean sprouts & scallions
Chicken Basil(L) $16.00
Onions. bell pepper. basil sauce served with jasmine rice
Pork With String Beans(L) $16.00
Basil sauce served with jasmine rice
Chicken Ginger(L) $16.00
Onions. carrots. mushrooms. baby corn. Served withjasmine rice
Sauteed Eggplant & Tofu(L) $16.00
Garlic Sauce. served with Jasmine Rice
Sweet Sausage Fried Rice(L) $16.00
Egg, onions, peas, carrots. scallion. blend of soy sauces

Lunch (A)
Five Spice Pork Belly Noodle Soup(L) $16.00
spicy tangy broth with rice noodles
Chicken Green Curry(L) $16.00
Coconut milk. Bamboo, bell pepper, & peas
Veggie Red Curry(L) $16.00
Coconut milk. Bamboo, bell pepper, & peas

Mama's Specials (s)
Thai Mussels $22.00

Mama's Specials (A)
Chicken Leg Chiang May Noodles $16.00
Egg Noodle. a sweet + creamy curry. Topped with toasted wonton crisps, bean sprouts, whole egg

Beverage
Bubble Tea $5.00
Homemade Fresh Ginger Drink $8.00
sweetened

Lil Chef Mama Details

From the business
Identifies as Asian-owned
Identifies as women-owned

Service options
Curbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Comfort food
Hard liquor
Healthy options
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safespace

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Lil Chef Mama Photos

Lil Chef Mama Location

Lil Chef Mama

New York New York County New York Cliff Street

27 Cliff St, New York, NY 10038, USA

Lil Chef Mama Reviews

An average rating of ★4.5 from 508 user reviews.

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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Lil Chef Mama catered a climbing event I went to in Gowanus and the food was so tasty that I had to try it again. I went with 3 of my friends. We ordered:Pad Thai (Recommend)Pork Sliders (Recommend)Pineapple Fried Rice with ShrimpBeef Red Curry (Recommend)Chicken WingsBeef DumplingsYuzu SodaOrange juiceButterfly Pea Lemonade (Recommend)The atmosphere is beautiful, they made such creative and effective use of the space. The entrance is great for photos and you won’t feel crowded in this space. Vegan options were clearly labeled.Travis and Joe were great and attentive servers, and not overbearing. I saw Lil Chef Mama on my way to the restroom and I had to say hi and she was kind enough to offer us complimentary mango sticky rice because she remembered me from the climbing event. She is an absolute sweetheart and please let her know how much you enjoyed the food when you visit.We will certainly be back for the chefs specials, and some other items we had our eyes on. Definitely a place worth trying. I am confident this place deserves its praise.And if you do happen to order the chefs specials, call to order in advance as they take ~30min to prepare
July 25 · Mark Tobar
For amazing Thai food in FiDi, this is the spot! Everything was so flavorful and just enough spice. The roti was so flakey and went well with the chicken curry. The pad Thai and salads were great with curry chicken noodles and green curry were spot on! So much more on the menu to try!The staff were friendly and bathrooms were clean very spacious. Space is big to host larger groups. Definitely will go back, if I am in the area!
July 14 · Benjamin L
Chose this place for lunch based on top ratings. Thai cuisine.They brought out three small bowls with different chicken and vegetable combinations, plus one with rice.Each had a unique flavor. Everything was fresh. I especially liked the one in batter with sweet and sour sauce—found the perfect balance of flavor for the first time.I want to come back and try more. Thank you.
May 09 · Evgeniy Loskutov
Had lunch here and went with the lunch deal (shrimp fried rice, chicken pad thai, chives pancake). It was good, but didn’t quite stand out compared to my other fav Thai spots. That said, I loveeeee the ambiance. It genuinely felt like being back home in Southeast Asia!
May 09 · L P
I love the food and hospitality here. The food was delicious; I ordered a ginger drink, shrimp and Thai handmade dumplings, and Pad Thai. I also had some of my friend's calamari, which was a light and crispy appetizer. Of the two appetizers, the calamari was the best. But the Pad Thai was the overall winner of the evening.
May 07 · Salia Hewing