Our story

Mama Fina’s: a story about family, Entrepreneurship, and filipino food

Mama Fina's, founded by Bicol-native , Carmen Sy Dolor ( aka Aming) , is a female-led restaurant celebrating the best of Filipino dishes. With warm hospitality, Mama Fina's takes pride in notable family recipes like its popular "Sisig" dish, which was passed down from mother (Delfina Dolor, aka Mama Fina) to daughter (Aming). However, Mama Fina’s goes beyond being just a restaurant; it's a testimony to the dedication of family and entrepreneurship.

When Aming first came here in America, she was just holding a tourist visa. Years later she was able to change her status as an immigrant. Feeling homesick most especially the dishes that her mom (Mama Fina) cooks back home, she asked for the recipes and Mama Fina unselfishly obliged. Then Aming realized the opportunity of putting up a Filipino restaurant, thus she also asked Mama Fina if she can lend her the needed capitalization, as a noble mother, Mama Fina again provided, and there came the birth of the first "Mama Fina's" restaurant in New Jersey that was established in 2004. Afterwards, Mama Fina’s expanded to downtown Manhattan in New York City.

Despite not having any culinary experience, Aming was able to execute the family recipes. This includes the various Mama Fina’s sizzling sisig dishes ranging from pork, chicken, tofu, tuna, milkfish (bangus), shrimp, and squid (pusit) among other Filipino dishes. Mama Fina’s continues to provide people around the world and opportunity to enjoy Filipino food . Aming's journey, marked by love for family and dedication to her culinary dream, inspires those daring to follow unique paths to promote Filipino cuisine.

Aming would like to thank her family for sharing this journey. This includes: My mom, "Mama Fina"; sister, Dolores Dolor Watson; and my daughters, Samantha and Elaina.

On behalf of the entire Mama Fina’s team, we would like to sincerely thank all our valued guests for your continuous support. We eagerly anticipate the ongoing journey of crafting the Mama Fina’s Story and sharing memorable experiences with you.