Stepping into Mama Shelter’s London outpost is like entering a whole new world. The bar and restaurant exude a vibrant and eccentric atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of the Shoreditch neighborhood. It’s a place where people come together, whether they’re locals or hotel guests, and it offers a diverse range of cocktails, food, and events that cater to the community it serves. This unique approach to hospitality is what has propelled Mama Shelter to global success.
Mama Shelter was launched in 2008 by Serge Trigano and his sons, Jérémie and Benjamin. With their extensive experience at Club Med, the Trigano family wanted to create a hotel group that offered exceptional service and a dynamic environment at an affordable price. Their first hotel, located in Paris’ offbeat 20th arrondissement, introduced the concept of an “urban refuge.” Since then, Mama Shelter has expanded to include locations in Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, and even Los Angeles after partnering with Accor in 2014. Today, Mama Shelter is part of Ennismore, a global portfolio of entrepreneurial brands founded by Accor in 2021.
What sets Mama Shelter apart from other hotel groups is its ability to create a local feel without being overrun by locals. According to Samantha Samuel, head of marketing and programming at Mama Shelter, the key is understanding the audience. Mama Shelter strives to be a social hub for both locals and visitors. They achieve this by offering no-nonsense, affordable food for the locals, like the classic fish and chips that is synonymous with London. To keep things fresh and exciting, Mama Shelter also features fun aspects such as karaoke, foosball, and arcade games for social dinners.
Mama Shelter is committed to celebrating the local culture of each location in its global staples. For example, Mama Shelter Dijon offers the Mama Cheeseburger made with locally-sourced Charolais beef, blending American and French influences. In London, Mama Shelter Shoreditch integrates “local” extras into its menu with Sunday roasts, regular brunches, and collaborations with British brands for unique cocktails. During the festive period, they even collaborate with The London Essence Co to create a seasonally-themed spritz menu.
At Mama Shelter, food and drink are not just amenities but the very soul of the brand. This stems from the Trigano family’s experience at Club Med, where all-inclusive meals were offered to keep guests on the resort grounds. Mama Shelter follows the same principle, designing its food and beverage offerings to encourage guests to stay on the premises and make it a destination for both visitors and locals alike. By prioritizing the dining experience, Mama Shelter has redefined the conventional hotel experience and made it more exciting and accessible for everyone.
Mama Shelter has succeeded in creating a space that goes beyond being just a place to sleep. It has become a vibrant community, where people gather to enjoy good food, creative cocktails, and lively events. Whether you’re a traveler passing through or a local looking for a unique experience, Mama Shelter welcomes you with open arms. With its expanding global presence, Mama Shelter is redefining what it means to be a destination hotel.
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