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!
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