Just in time to counteract the inevitable winter weather that is about to fall upon Boston, Tiger Mama opens tomorrow with lush greenery, a tropical vibe, and a menu full of Southeast Asian-inspired dishes. This is Top Chef alum Tiffani Faison's second restaurant, and it sits just a couple of doors down from her first, Sweet Cheeks, in Fenway.
The eyes fall first on the restaurant's greeter, situated right before the host stand — a large elephant-shaped disco ball. To the left of the host stand, the main bar is tucked away from the dining room and runs right alongside the windows that overlook Boylston Street. The bar, made from light wood, is punctuated by chairs with sunny orange detailing. Above the bar rests the wooden outline of a boat.
The wall that runs from the bar and along the dining room is lushly and abundantly lined with greens of all different shades, colors, and textures. Tall, wispy plants scattered throughout the restaurant keep the natural green theme running throughout the entirety of the space. The rich vegetation is balanced by rustic wooden accents, including the tables and booths.
Hanging from copper ceiling tiles through the center of the room, lights are artfully encased in basket structures and provide a golden glow. The lights lining the walls have hints of magenta and purple.
Tucked away and off to the side of the dining room, a raised alcove features a couple of tables with a great view of the restaurant. Just past that, the dining room opens up to a second large bar that will be devoted to the art of the tiki drink. Behind it, a wooden tiger print mural spans the entire wall. A small booth is hidden in the corner, providing the utmost privacy, not to mention easy access to the tiki action.
Beyond that, a long table runs perpendicular to the dining room and can be rented out for private parties. Set against the back wall, the large kitchen spans the entire wall, overlooking the whole restaurant.
Tiger Mama opens tomorrow (Thursday, December 10) and will operate from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.
