maman

Maman is a French-inspired café and bakery chain that has become a beloved lifestyle brand across North America. Founded in October 2014 by Canadian Elisa Marshall and Frenchman Benjamin Sormonte, the first location opened in the SoHo neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City.

The name "Maman," meaning "mother" in French, reflects the founders' inspiration drawn from their childhood experiences cooking with their own mothers. This influence is evident in the café's offerings, which blend traditional French cuisine with North American flavors.

The menu features a variety of seasonal dishes, including hearty salads, sandwiches, savory quiches, and an array of pastries. Notably, Maman's Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookie has garnered widespread acclaim, appearing on Oprah's Favorite Things list.

Lifestyle Brand Expansion

Beyond culinary offerings, Maman has grown into a lifestyle brand. It offers a cookbook titled "Maman: The Cookbook, All Day Recipes to Warm Your Heart" and collaborates with brands like Lalo to produce children's clothing.

Locations

As of July 2025, Maman operates many locations across the United States and Canada, reflecting its expanding presence.

• In the United States: New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., Florida, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania
• In Canada: Toronto and Montreal
• Additional U.S. locations include New York, NY; Upper Darby, PA; Princeton, NJ; Hialeah, FL; Miami, FL; Hoboken, NJ; West Palm Beach, FL; Arlington, VA; Bayonne, NJ; Elizabeth, NJ; East Orange, NJ; and NYC, NY

Design and Atmosphere

Each Maman location is uniquely designed to reflect its neighborhood's character while maintaining the brand's signature rustic charm.

The décor often includes rustic exposed brick, antique provincial furniture, and classic blue and white porcelain. This combination creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests.

Services and Offerings

Besides café services, Maman offers catering options for events ranging from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations.

The company also provides online ordering via its app, allowing customers to place orders for pickup and delivery conveniently.

Commitment to Quality

Maman is dedicated to using quality ingredients and fostering community engagement.

This commitment has solidified its reputation as a cherished destination for those seeking French-inspired cuisine in a cozy setting.