Bringing Coffee, Crêpes and Other Cravings to Westhampton Beach

When they realized what was missing during their trips to New York, husband-and-wife Jamie and Olga Betam decided it was time to bring the mambo to Long Island.

The duo, from England and Spain respectively, has spent the last 10 years on the islands of Hawaii and since 2003 they have been running Café Mambo in Maui. They have since decided to bring the business to Westhampton Beach.

The idea of opening café was originally a joke among their friends who own Imrie, a clothing boutique three stores down, but it quickly became a reality when they signed the lease and opened shop on June 19.  

"This has all happened so quickly," said Jamie Betam describing his excitement from the positive reactions he has been receiving this summer. "We were concerned about how we'd fit in the town but everyone has welcomed us here.”

For now, the Mambo menu will feature breakfast foods including fresh fruit, pastries and granola in addition to sandwiches and paninis available to order throughout the day.They also offer an extensive crêpe selection that ranges from savory to sweet depending on your palate.

Customers have the option of sitting outside on the patio in the back or in front on one of the benches. Although there are no immediate plans, Jamie says there is definitely room for growth and mentioned the possibility of serving tapas and obtaining a liquor license.

"What we have now is delicious and with time who knows what the future will bring," said Betam. "Our priority is working on what we have now and making sure it meets the needs of our customers."

Initially the couple planned for a summer spot but by popular demand they will stay open on the weekends after the summer scene subsides.

Jamie and Olga have many years of restaurant experience under their belt. They worked for Jamie's brother at a restaurant in England. When they traveled to the United States, they knew quickly they wanted to find a way to stay here.

"We both complement each other and together make a great team," Jamie said.

While they decide together the type of food to be served, Jamie says the rest is about designating roles.

"I do more of the cooking and ordering responsibilities," he said.

As for Olga, she is the organizer and innovative light behind the restaurant. One of her ideas was to have a designated area where kids can play with toys and color. Inspired by their son Alex who loves to color, Olga decided to have a weekly coloring contest for a chance to be featured on the ‘Art Board’ and win a free crêpe.

Café Mambo is open Monday through Thursday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.