Italian Delights in the Apgujeong District
Mamma Mia Cafe is a themed cafe in the Apgujeong neighborhood of Seoul, known for its eclectic charm. This cafe has fully embraced the enchanting theme inspired by the famous movie of the same name, and its inception traces back to an exhibition of the film that graced Seoul. The result? An enchanting cafe experience that encapsulates the spirit of “Mamma Mia.”
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This post is sponsored and/or contains affiliate links, from which I earn a commission at no extra cost to the reader. I appreciate your support and know that all the views expressed are my own.
Mamma Mia Cafe– a Feast for the Senses
As you step inside, your attention is immediately drawn to the captivating striped wooden floor elegantly laid on the bias. This unique flooring design infuses a playful sense of movement into the cafe’s atmosphere. Beyond, the cafe unveils a beautiful courtyard adorned with cascading green vines, meticulously cultivated to resemble grapevines. The cafe’s exterior is a vibrant interplay of pink and aquamarine, commanding attention with every glance. It’s complemented by grey slate and brown tiles juxtaposed over a pebble foundation, creating a captivating visual composition.
Mediterranean Flair
Venture further inside, and you’ll encounter walls on the ground floor painted in a faded and antiqued shade of green. Wooden shelves grace the walls, showcasing an array of pictures and vases that exude a charming, weathered patina, evoking the essence of the Mediterranean. However, the piece de resistance remains the awe-inspiring display of culinary creations. Desserts, sandwiches, and bread are masterfully presented on tiered stands, books, and trays. Buckets, vases with antique aesthetics, and flickering candles further enhance the eclectic presentation.
Check out this beautiful floral-inspired cafe called VERS Gardenhouse Cafe located in Seoul.
A Symphony of Flavors (and Colors too)
Culinary Adventures Await
I initially opted for the croissant with cream cheese, basil, and toasted cherry tomatoes during my visit. However, the cheese was a bit overwhelming for my palate, prompting me to try the same sandwich with chicken salad and cranberries, which was a delightful choice. The presentation on a charming floral plate added a touch of nostalgia.
Another cabinet houses a tempting assortment of cakes and brownies adorned with blueberries, cherries, grapes, and figs. Yet, the indulgence doesn’t stop there—an additional cooler beckons with Greek yogurts, granola, dried fruit, and substantial chunks of honeycomb. The dessert selection boasts European flavors, subtly fused with Asian influences, creating a delightful fusion of tastes.
No visit to Mamma Mia Cafe is complete without indulging in their desserts. I couldn’t resist ordering a red velvet muffin crowned with a generous piece of white chocolate and lightly filled with cream. It was rich, but I enjoyed it immensely. I decided to switch seats, opting for a seat on the ground floor near the entrance to the courtyard to enjoy the hot Americano I ordered.
Musical Ambiance
Fortunately, Mamma Mia Cafe avoids overwhelming its patrons with the movie’s ABBA soundtrack – a welcome relief. Instead, you’ll enjoy other tunes, including “There’s Nothing Like a G Thing Baby,” Dr. Dre, and SWV’s “I’m So Into You.” While the music may not capture the essence of the musical or the film, I often found myself tapping my foot in rhythm. This music selection provides a delightful backdrop to enhance the overall experience.
The Blooming Second Floor
For those seeking further enchantment, the second floor continues the floral theme. The centerpiece here is a grand display of flowers adorning a central column encircled by seating. It’s a truly captivating sight. The ambiance is relaxed and inviting, which makes it the perfect spot to spend a leisurely Chuseok holiday, especially when many other cafes close for the day.
Finding Your Perfect Spot
Mamma Mia Cafe offers various seating options, but I preferred a cozy nook near the entrance, perfect for solo visitors with laptops or a good book. It’s a popular spot. Consider a table by the open courtyard door if unoccupied. Here, you can enjoy people-watching, charge your phone, and savor a delightful cafe drink in their charming mugs. Whether you choose the courtyard, the inviting ground floor, or the second floor beneath cascading red and pink roses, Mamma Mia is Instagram-worthy.
Tips for a Seamless Visit
Before making your way to the cafe, consider sending them a direct message (DM) using Instagram to confirm their operating hours via the Naver or Kakaotalk apps. This is a helpful tip to ensure your questions are understood, especially if English-speaking staff are unavailable.
The Price Worth the Experience
Dalmation Dosan and Oncheonjip Dosan
While it’s true that Mamma Mia Cafe’s prices are slightly higher compared to most cafes, the experience and variety they offer make it a worthwhile investment. The captivating ambiance and delectable menu options create a memorable visit that justifies the cost. If you have time, I suggest you take a walk around the Apgujeong district– there are so many cute cafes and coffee shops. Dalmation Dosan and Oncheonjip Dosan, a Mediterranean Brunch Cafe and Japanese Shabu Shabu restaurant, respectively, are on the same street.
Like it? Pin it!
Address:
[KakaoMap] Mamma Mia
45, Apgujeong-ro 42-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
서울 강남구 ì••êµ¬ì •ë¡œ42길 45
