There’s something special about stumbling across a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try—and realizing it’s finally in your neighborhood. That’s exactly what happened when I saw Mama D’s had opened at Rolling Hills Plaza in Torrance. I have wanted to try this restaurant for years, and now it was time to see what all the hype was about.

From the second we walked in, the vibe was warm, lively, and inviting. Before we even ordered, a basket of complimentary focaccia bread landed on our table, soft and golden with just a hint of Parmesan on top. Dipped in herbed olive oil, it was everything you want from the your first bite—comforting, simple, and satisfying.

We kicked things off with Sammie’s Stuffed Mushrooms, a plate of seven plump mushrooms filled with seasoned breadcrumbs, diced mushrooms, herbs, and crowned with melty mozzarella. Each bite was rich and flavorful, with a little crisp on the edges and that gooey, cheesy center. Mushroom lovers, don’t skip this one.

Then came the main event: Mama D’s Famous Pink Sauce with Angel Hair Pasta. I decided to go all out and added one of their giant house-made meatballs. Let me just say—if indulgence had a flavor, this would be it. The pink sauce was dreamy: velvety, creamy, and bursting with tomato-Parmesan flavor. They don’t hold back on the sauce either—the pasta was gloriously smothered, just how it should be. And that meatball? Big, bold, and built to satisfy. Pro-tip don’t skimp and add the meatball 😉.

Just as we were settling in after our meal, our server surprised us with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, on the house. Still warm from the oven, gooey, and impossibly soft—these little treats were impossible to resist. It was the kind of sweet, thoughtful touch that makes you feel like a regular from day one.

So yeah, Mama D’s lives up to the legend—and then some. This was more than just a meal; it felt like being welcomed into someone’s home. I left with a full belly, all smiles, and every intention of coming back soon.

For more smiles please check out my Yelp Review on Mama D’s Torrance.