Along Nygatan and inside Köpmangatan, in one of Skellefteå's oldest wooden house quarters, you will find the café Lilla Mari. It is a popular destination for both Skellefteå residents and tourists who want to enjoy coffee in a historical environment.
Lilla Mari Café is run by Najed Sebae and his wife Majed, together with their daughter Thuraia who helps out during the summer. The family has been living in Skellefteå for ten years and previously managed Bussgrillen and Dungers in Malå before taking over Lilla Mari five years ago, in one of Skellefteå's oldest houses owned by Skebo.
– The location is fantastic, everyone loves our outdoor seating. In winter, we can't accommodate as many guests, so the outdoor seating is a lovely addition, says Najed.
The café offers a wide menu that attracts many, with bestsellers like Caesar salad, Greek salad, chicken toast, and chanterelle toast. Here you can also enjoy ice cream, soft ice cream, and light lunches.
– In the summer, many tourists come here, and the new battery factory has given us a boost, especially on weekends. We've also started offering new dishes like frappé, different types of coffee, and Turkish coffee that appeal to many of the new Northvolt employees, says Najed.
Lilla Mari is known for its high quality and use of fresh ingredients, something that customers appreciate.
– Five years ago, we did everything ourselves, and we still have the same rhythm and quality today. Customers like it when you maintain the same high standard, says Najed.
The courtyard at Lilla Mari is lush and charming, with flowers that give the feeling of sitting in a forest. It is a unique environment that contributes to the café's popularity.
– Customers leave many positive reviews on Google or reach out via Instagram or Facebook. We are satisfied and do our best every day, says Najed.
Now, another cozy addition has been added to the courtyard of the quarter in the form of the book kiosk. The old telephone kiosk now houses free books to borrow, and if you have a book to leave, another bookworm will also be happy.
In addition to the café's regular menu, the family also offers Lebanese food upon request, including mezze, grilled dishes, and kebabs that they make from scratch with their own spices.
– It's long shifts of twelve hours, but we love it, concludes Najed with a smile.