Tis Returns to Italy! Day 69: Il Super Mago Del Gelo

Today, I went inside the cheeky bar on the corner and discovered the secrets inside!

On my last full day in Polignano, my curiosity got the better of me. I finally went into the cheeky bar on the corner that had fascinated me as to its popularity. I ordered a tea and grabbed a booth so I could have a good long look around.

Pleasantly Surprised 

After taking a good look around, I can confirm that for many wonderful reasons, the caffè called “Il Super Mago del Gelo” should be the center of life in Polignano a Mare. Its name loosely translates to “The Magician of Frost”, referring to the gelato that is consumed in large quantities by the citizens and visitors of Polignano a Mare. 

How do I love thee Super Mago del Gelo?  Let me count the ways…

• The place is full of magnificently kitschy decorations. One of my favorites is the fish tank aquarium from somewhere in the 80s that is quite clean for an old-school aquarium.
• The Caffè Speciale was invented here! I had never heard of a Caffè Speciale but apparently it is a delicious mix of coffee, amaretto, cream, sugar, and a lemon peel. 
• There is lively music playing that tends to be a bit cheeky but here it works.
• Locals are constantly popping in and out all day and night, chatting with each other and keeping things lively. 
• Its corner location with big windows all around lend themselves to great people and traffic watching.
• It has not one, but TWO disco balls just waiting for someone to play some Bee Gees and dance!!!
• There are three incredibly uncomfortable booths whose seats might have been recovered several times but the stiff 90-degree angle remains the delightful same.
• The walls are lined with photos of people who visited over the years, including Paul McCartney whose face decorated my booth. I assume mine will be added next and I hope I am placed next to Paul.
• Last but definitely not least, Dominico Modugno who wrote the quintessential Italian song “Volare” was born in Polignano a Mare and a frequent patron of the caffè. One feels like they are communing with the spirit of Volare himself while in these cheeky, hallowed halls.

While I enjoyed my morning tea here, I had to come back in the evening for a Caffè Speciale. The place was even better at night for “The Museum of Life” experience I love. 

Oh Super Mago, I apologize for doubting you. However, it is I that has suffered the greatest loss in all the days I missed spending time here. If ever in Polignano a Mare again, you will be my first stop!

Ciao for now!