We all need some R&R right now, and while traveling abroad might not really be an option, a staycation in your city could be perfect. I was born in Hackney, and moved back to the area seven years ago – and yet, I’ve never stayed in a hotel in the borough. Before lockdown, staying the night away from home in my own city never crossed my mind – but a night at Mama Shelter Shoreditch changed this. Mama Shelter is situated just off Hackney Road, a stone throws away from Bethnal Green, Cambridge Heath, and Broadway Market.
I arrived on Saturday afternoon, just as the brunch crowd was finishing up – the restaurant and reception area are artfully decorated, with quirky interior choices, a hand-painted ceiling, and features like vintage pinball machines dotted around. I made my way up to the room, and noticed the Mama branding everywhere – on the lift mirror, on the walls, on the laundry baskets. The rooms are modern, unpretentious, and sleek – on the bed was a little box full of sexy gifts (ideal for a couples stay) and a bottle of champagne in the minibar.
The highlight of Mama Shelter Shoreditch for me was the food. For dinner we started with the burrata (on a bed of wild mushrooms and garlic toast) topped with black truffle. I opted for the cardamom panner flatbread for my main, and my partner went for the chicken za’atar; alongside it, we had the chips with garlic aioli and a bottle of blush rosé. After dinner in the restaurant, we went to the garden bar for a round of margaritas – the ambiance in both rooms was fun and warm, with that specifically East-London brand of cool. After a comfy night’s sleep, and a long hot shower I was ready for the breakfast – which was every bit as delicious as the dinner. I went for the veggie breakfast, berry pancakes, and about three flat whites to undo the margaritas the night before.
Mama Shelter is exactly the kind of hotel stay I needed – the staff were friendly, everything felt super COVID-19 safe, and most of all, it was *fun*. It’s been a hard year, and we’ve all forgotten to let loose and enjoy ourselves – if you’re in need of a weekend to escape from the mundanity and struggle of life, then this is the place for you.
Book direct at mamashelter.com – use promo code SEXY when booking a two-night stay. The package includes two nights B&B for two, sparkling wine in the room on arrival, £30 credit over the stay for restaurant and bar or room service, MAMAs XXX movies, a sexy box, and late checkout!