Welcome to York, Mama Doreen’s! Since the announcement of this new arrival to York’s Vangarde Shopping Park, we’ve been peering through the window and fielding questions from our eager children about when it will open. The transformation from cookie-cutter chain restaurant to a sumptuous, welcoming independent emporium was surprisingly swift, and we jumped at the chance to check it out for ourselves.
We were invited to a Disney singalong brunch, which is just one of the regular themed events hosted at Mama Doreen’s in York. Singalong brunch takes place every month, with a Grinch brunch, Wonka brunch, and Winter Wonderland brunch/afternoon tea all coming up over the next few weeks (keep an eye on their website and social media for the latest).
The singalong brunch was brilliant fun, and certainly woke us up on a Sunday morning. Never in our wildest dreams have we eaten the most delicious scrambled eggs, cakes and pastries while being serenaded by Elsa, Woody and Captain America! They sang all the Disney favourites, engaged with the kids and gave the grown-ups a giggle too.
The restaurant is cosy and welcoming while being spacious enough to accommodate large groups (we’re already eyeing it up for birthday party purposes), and the staff exude genuine warmth and hospitality that adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Our request for the vegetarian brunch option was no problem, and our girls were thrilled to be given a little selection of vegetarian sweets to take home (which are harder to come by than you’d think). It’s brilliant that there’s a whole range of gluten-free options, too, including a full gluten-free afternoon tea.
The food sparkled like the space itself, and who wouldn’t enjoy eating a glittery strawberry under a twinkling chandelier?! Buttery and silky, the scrambled eggs were spot on and deserve a special mention, and we loved all of the sweet treats too. We couldn’t manage it all, so we were pleased to be able to take the leftovers with us to enjoy later.
With York Leisure Centre, Cineworld, Tenpin and Puttstars – as well as the shops – Vangarde is a magnet for York families, and it’s wonderful that we now have the option of a lovely, independent place to eat. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a pick-me-up after a swim or a round of golf, Mama Doreen’s is a fabulous choice for all ages. And if you don’t have time to sit and enjoy the full enchanting experience, you can pick up cupcakes – or a whole afternoon tea – to take home. That really is the icing on the cake.
Mama Doreen’s Emporium, Vangarde Shopping Park, Vangarde Way, Huntington, York YO32 9AE – Visit the Mama Doreen’s website
