Mama Shelter London

BACKGROUND Drawing on his Club Med experience, Serge Trigano launched Mama Shelter in 2008 to offer guests fun, affordability and exceptional service in cities he loved. In 2014 the brand partnered with Accor to expand its presence and Mama Shelter London opened in September 2019.

W H AT ’ S IT LIKE? Fun, quirky, boutique and with tongue-in-cheek design features that hint at its destination, from vintage lamps with a twist on the English lacy doily to bursts of Liberty prints. It’s more than a place to stay but a community hub, thanks to its location and highly social dining and entertainment offering – picture an expansive and welcoming open-plan restaurant with a signature communal table, table football and a giant in-built Twister board, plus the classic MAMA island bar and an outdoor courtyard with retractable roof. Nip downstairs and you’ll find Japanese-inspired karaoke rooms with classic ‘50s-style microphones. The hotel is also decked out with pinball machines and retro video games.

FOOD AND DRINK The courtyard bar is great for pre-dinner drinks with clients or colleagues, with an upbeat East London vibe. Move into the restaurant and the communal atmosphere continues and you don’t feel like you’re in a hotel at all. The generous family-style dishes are influenced by East London’s multi-cultural community with options ranging from a traditional whole roast chick or fish and chips, to a cauliflower and spinach masala and irresistible kebab combos – spiced falafel, chicken za’atar, lamb kofta and cardamom paneer to be precise. At weekends there’s a popular Mama’s brunch with live music sets. Breakfast options cover all tastes and include a full English, of course. I went for the veggie option with halloumi and avocado thrown in for good measure.

BUSINESS Two atelier-style meeting rooms are cosy, homely and a welcome departure from the corporate norm, with space for up to 50 people. There’s also a private meeting room (up to 12) and two karaoke rooms (up to 15), all ideal for meetings, seminars and more.

LEISURE There’s a small gym, the karaoke rooms and of course, the bar and restaurant, but if you’re new to the area, do ask the concierge for tips on what’s close by. I know this area and my top picks are Shoreditch, Brick Lane, Spitalfields and Columbia Road, including the flower market.

VERDICT You walk into Mama Shelter and immediately feel at home, just how Mama hoped you would. Friendly staff, comfortable rooms, tasty food and a social atmosphere that creates that all important feel-good factor. If you’re travelling solo, you won’t feel alone. Gemma Greenwood