Auckland hospitality legend Mimi Gilmour Buckley is making her triumphant return to the restaurant floor with Mama, a new Italian eatery opening in Newmarket that promises comfort food, community spirit, and yes—dancing on tables.
The founder of the beloved Burger Burger chain and Mexico restaurants has transformed her Newmarket Burger Burger location into something deeply personal. Named as an homage to mothers everywhere, Mama draws inspiration from Mimi's own upbringing in one of Auckland's most storied hospitality families. Her mother Emerald founded iconic Auckland venues including Clichy, Club Mirage, and the legendary Tatler and Spectator bars.
"I want to go back to my roots and create a space that embodies everything I love about hospitality," Mimi explains. "For me, those values come from my family—especially my Mama—who taught me that cooking is love, and great hospitality is about making people feel seen and lifted."
Mimi has partnered with longtime collaborators Mike Slaven, Joe O'Connell, and Leisha Jones to bring her vision to life. The restaurant features five large skylights flooding the space with natural light, an antique cabinet salvaged from the building's previous life as a mechanic's shop, and—crucially—a disco ball.
"The last time I went out for a big night, I felt like I was double everyone's age. Why is there nowhere for mature humans to go and have a slight boogy and a cocktail?" she asks. Mama will be that place, where dancing on tables is actively encouraged.
The menu focuses on classic Italian comfort: pizza, pasta, and dishes inspired by Mimi's travels. After navigating the challenges of COVID, rising costs, and economic pressures, Mimi sees Mama as a rebirth. "I feel like I'm going through a rebirthing of me as a restaurateur. I'm just fulltime back in the hospo game and I'm loving it. I can't wait to zoom around that floor."