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    Pearl
    Mama Lee, Restaurant in New York City
    Restaurant300Points
    New York Times 2026

    Mama Lee

    Taiwanese · Williamsburg, New York City

    Restaurant in New York City, United States

    The Read

    Price

    $

    Dress

    Casual

    Why go

    A one-woman Taiwanese kitchen in Bayside that delivers oversized lion's head meatballs and brimming bowls of beef noodle soup with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. No phone, no website, no décor; just Mei Lee cooking alone in a bright storefront that punches far above its dollar-sign price tier. Show up, ring the bell, be patient.

    About Mama Lee

    Mama Lee is a casual Taiwanese spot in New York City with a simple, bright, clean storefront setting. Its appeal is straightforward: little emphasis on décor or ambience, more emphasis on the food. The clearest known standout is Taiwanese lion's head meatballs, described as cloud-soft and notably large. With a $ price tier and casual dress code, Mama Lee is best framed as a low-frills New York City option for Taiwanese cooking rather than a polished dining-room experience.

    What to Expect

    Expect a casual Taiwanese meal in a bright, clean storefront. Plan for a simple, no-frills visit rather than a highly designed restaurant experience, as specific details on seating format, service model, menu size, chef-owner story, or ordering process are not readily apparent. The food is the reason to pay attention, especially the lion's head meatballs, which are the best-supported specific dish associated with Mama Lee. The $ price category also makes it a relatively accessible choice within New York City dining.

    How to Book (and When to Go)

    Mama Lee's reservation policy, hours, phone access, website, payment preferences, wait times, lunch service, or best time to visit are not readily available. Confirm operational details directly before making a special trip. Its broader profile is that Mama Lee is a casual, $ Taiwanese restaurant in New York City with a simple storefront setting.

    Where Mama Lee Fits in New York's Taiwanese Scene

    Mama Lee fits into New York City dining as a casual Taiwanese storefront where the food matters more than décor. Choose Mama Lee when you want a low-frills Taiwanese meal in New York City, especially if lion's head meatballs are what drew your attention. Diners looking for a more atmospheric or highly structured night out should compare current options across other New York City dining rooms. For more context on New York City's dining landscape, see our full New York City restaurants guide.

    Venue detailsCozy
    Recognition and awards1 source
    Explore New York CityNearby
    Around this placeMore Pearl picks

    Planning details

    Location
    213-12 48th Ave, Bayside, NY 11364
    Website
    mamaleerestaurant.com
    Phone
    (718) 767-8680
    Venue details

    Ambiance

    Simple and clean design with a bright, minimalist interior that keeps the focus on unfussy Taiwanese comfort dishes, creating a relaxed, no‑frills neighborhood feel.

    Tags

    Vibe

    CozyModernHidden Gem

    Best For

    Casual HangoutFamilyGroup Dining

    Experience

    Standalone

    At the Table

    Dress Code
    Casual
    Noise Level
    Conversational
    Service Style
    Counter Service
    Meal Pacing
    Standard
    Capacity
    Small

    Signature Dishes

    • Taiwanese pork chop
    • Beef noodle soup
    • Braised pork over rice
    • Three cup chicken
    Planning details

    Location

    213-12 48th Ave, Bayside, NY 11364 · Directions

    (718) 767-8680

    mamaleerestaurant.com

    Recognition and awards
    Explore New York City
    Around this place
    Read more on Pearl

    Discover more on Pearl

    Unlock the full Mama Lee guide in Pearl, including awards, comparisons, FAQs, planning details, and nearby places.

    FAQ

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Mama Lee worth the price?

    Mama Lee is listed at a $ price tier, so it is positioned as an accessible Taiwanese option in New York City. The primary reason to go is the food, especially the cloud-soft lion's head meatballs associated with the restaurant.

    Is Mama Lee good for solo dining?

    Details on a specific seating setup or service format are not readily available. Because Mama Lee is casual and low-frills, it may suit an uncomplicated meal, but solo diners should check current operating details before going.

    Is Mama Lee good for a special occasion?

    Mama Lee is better described as casual than occasion-focused. The setting is a bright, clean storefront with limited emphasis on décor or ambience, so it is best for diners prioritizing Taiwanese food over atmosphere.

    What are alternatives to Mama Lee in New York City?

    For alternatives, compare Mama Lee with other New York City dining rooms serving Taiwanese food or other casual meals. Mama Lee's profile is simple: Taiwanese cuisine, $ pricing, casual dress, a no-frills storefront setting.

    Does Mama Lee handle dietary restrictions?

    Allergy accommodations or dietary-restriction policies at Mama Lee are not specified. Ask the restaurant directly before ordering if you have a dietary need.

    Is the tasting menu worth it at Mama Lee?

    A tasting menu at Mama Lee is not specified. It is described as a casual Taiwanese restaurant in New York City, with lion's head meatballs as the best-supported specific dish.