Mama Shelter Shoreditch, East London

WHERE AND WHY

If you’re in search of a quirky East London hotel with a self-proclaimed “sexy” vibe, then this funky four-star boutique hotel is for you.

The French-inspired establishment prides itself on being “flamboyant and friendly” and I can confirm they’ve nailed their mission.

In our Medium Mama room we were greeted with a view of Shoreditch rooftops and eye-popping interiors. Mirrors were scribbled with cheeky messages and we even found playful character masks to try on, while the sparkling en-suite bathroom was stocked with organic Mama Skin products.

It’s the perfect pad for those looking to grab a few Instagrammable snaps at picturesque points around the hotel.

The dog-friendly urban refuge boasts 194 rooms and a restaurant that came to life in the evening with house music.

And the ethereal Garden bar, packed full of revellers, offered an expansive cocktail list.

ON THE MENU

The all-day menu has something for everyone with a series of tantalising starters, burgers and steaks plus a great choice of seafood dishes.

We began with mushroom arancini (£7.95) and gochujang chicken bites (£8.95), followed by a 10oz rib-eye steak and chips (£33.95) and a southern fried chicken burger (£16.50).

Too full for dessert, we still managed to polish off two incredible Hula Hula cocktails (£12.50) shaken up by the friendly bar staff.

Breakfast (£20) features a buffet of traditional fry-up items, cereals, fruit, and if like me you’re in need of a sugar hit in the morning there’s even a sweet selection. The salted caramel brownie is a must-try!

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

Mama encourages you to release your inner child during your stay so there are pinball machines and football tables around. However, what stood out most were the two karaoke rooms in the basement where you can sing your heart out to your fave ballads (£20 each for two hours, minimum six guests). Handily close to Bethnal Green station, it’s just a short hop to hip Shoreditch’s bars. Hackney’s boisterous Broadway Market and Columbia Road’s popular Sunday flower market are a 10-minute stroll away.

WAKE-UP CALL

From £180 a night. mamashelter.com/ london-shoreditch