Mama Lama is located in old Mokotów, in a street that has a growing number of trendy cafes and hip shops. I took a peek at their FB page, and noted the extensive list of activities (‘mini music’, creative classes, dance/movement) and long opening hours: both ticked the mum and tot boxes, so I diverted our family lunch break to ul. Dąbrowskiego. Apart from a small sign hanging above the window one might drive straight past this place thinking it was a pet shop or vet, but up close it’s obvious this premises means business for one client only: children!

The entrance definitely has the wow factor with an impressive mural depicting family and friends hand-in-hand alongside a llama – the cafe’s mascot. Our positivity gained momentum in the seating area where the colorful interior, high ceiling and natural light flooded through the large windows. However, despite our early arrival, this place was busy and after being asked to wait five minutes to order drinks it became apparent this was a child’s adventure wonderland with a bijoux café and kitchen along for the ride.

We got a place and, after a minor squabble with a chair leg, we focused on the menu. The chalkboard lists the sort of choices that are exactly what mummy’s want for their children; freshly made healthy foods, on-the-spot squeezed juices as well as pancake treats. However, it’s not all celery sticks and fruit compote, on this occasion a homemade beef goulash was on the menu, perfect comfort food for daddy’s morning after a night out.

The two level play area (complete with a Wendy house and bridges) is supervised by a qualified babysitter, hence the small charge of zł. 6 for one hour in the play area. Below, the children can interact with carefully chosen toys to stimulate their sensorial development and inquisitive minds. Whilst we realized our seven year old daughter had probably outgrown this café, the fact it closes its doors for private functions does make it a jolly place for celebrating birthdays for several years to come. (GBB)