The Mae Deli

Since I found out about its opening through Ella’s IG, I’ve been really excited about this place. I have to say my first impression was really disappointing; as soon as I walked in I’ve been told there were no seats available. Period. I ask «how long is the wait». Answer: «about half an hour». That’s fine. Two things bothered me: 1. how the girl who served me seemed unfriendly and really unwelcoming (how about suggesting «we do take away if you wish», «have you tried our cakes?», nope, nothing.) 2. One of the seats on the ground floor was occupied by her colleague, eating. I understand the staff needs to eat and take a break, but seriously? At that moment I was ready to leave, but I was waiting for my friend. She arrives, and a table is now free downstairs. The first girl finally tells me «I think you can go downstairs now» and gives us a numbered spatula. We go down, empty dishes are still on the table, and both of us think «ok they’ll come and take/​wipe away». Nothing. At that point I’m losing my patience. I go back up, ask them «sorry but this is our first time here, how does this work?» (may I just add, customers are not meant to be asking this kind of question). The girl replies «oh you chose your food here». Ok could you not have told us this before we take our seats? So I call my friend up, we finally chose our main. My bag is downstairs and we have to pay on the spot (what’s the point of having a numbered spatula??). I run down again, take my card, pay. We’re now finally seated and ready to enjoy the meal (previous dishes by the way are still not cleared so I do it myself). £10.75 for a bit of curry and rice. It was good, but really we both found it pricey for the portion that was served to us. Needless to say, we were super disappointed and still hungry so as soon as we finished eating we left the place and grabbed a delicious pizza across the road. On my way out I recognised Ella’s boyfriend so congratulated him on the opening. Also grabbed a pecan brownie, take-​away, which was lovely.
Conclusion: nice warming interior, very cosy. Food is good however portion unsatisfying for the price. Service: 0. They were nice, just really inefficient. Would I go back? Only, and only, if I happen to be in the neighbourhood.

Great little shop! The food was really good and very generous portions! I couldn’t finish my main!
We took the hot mae — an assortiment of 3 hot dishes. And we also bought 2 pieces of cake which well have as a snack later on!
The drinks were great too (took the fruit cold pressed juice).
The atmosphere is super cosy, with cute decoration and a very nice style. Both Matthew and Ella were there — so it was nice «meeting» them (#fanclub)!
All the staff was very nice too which helps!
Highly recommend it after a busy day shopping in Oxford Street! Perfect to unwind!

If you want a small, neighborhood, healthy café with the feeling of at home healthy cooking.
Mae is your place!
This little gem is full of good healthy options that taste delicious.
Eating healthy does not mean you loose the flavor in food.
The Mae deli is alllll about the flavors
Fresh food, great juices, good coffee.
**I love getting the avocado toast w coffee if I want something light
** the curry is delicious
** the vegetable soup is awesome
** sitting is limited so I suggest get it to go it’s great for a short lunch break.
Staff is friendly and the owners are so sweet!
I would add more tables downstairs if you ask me. But this place is a great addition to the amazing row of restaurants on Seymour PL
Enjoy!