Back in March, although it seems like only yesterday, I went for breakfast with the lovely Southampton Bloggers at Lakaz Maman in Southampton. Having lived in the city centre for the past few years now, I love trying out new restaurants, particularly when they are able to cater for the low FODMAP diet. The menu clearly states gluten free, vegan and dairy free options, and the staff are also able to adapt items for food intolerances and allergies.
Lakaz Maman is like no other restaurant I’ve been to in Southampton, it’s creole for ‘Mum’s House’ and has a relaxed vibe and intimate feel. It is owned by Shelina Permalloo, whom you may remember as the winner of the prestigious BBC Masterchef competition back in 2012 – the Masterchef trophy sits proudly in the heart of the restaurant in Southampton, and is available for a sneak peek if you’re interested… The restaurant is inspired by Mauritian gourmet street food and has a vibrant and varied menu.
The reason why I’ve posted this review slightly later than intended is that I wanted to return for dinner before sharing my experience. Having enjoyed the breakfast menu so much, I knew I had to try the dinner menu too! Having now sampled both, I can let you in on a little secret – it’s fantastic! I emailed ahead for both visits, and was served low FODMAP dishes on both occasions. This made the whole experience so much easier, as I chose what to eat in advance (and was recommended particular meals which would be easier to create without any FODMAPs) and could relax and enjoy the experience.
Southampton Bloggers Brunch
On arrival, I was met by Alice Spake of Southampton Bloggers, and was introduced to a number of other local bloggers. As I entered the restaurant, I immediately felt relaxed, as if I was on holiday! The table was decorated with flowers, leaves and jugs of inviting drinks so I went for a refreshing glass of ginger and tamarind. Not only tasty but tummy-friendly too. Shelina gave us an introduction the restaurant, as well as answering questions about her time on Masterchef. For breakfast I’d ordered breakfast eggs: perfectly poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce served with a warm roti (dairy free, but can be made gluten free and vegan on request) as I thought this could easily be adapted for the low FODMAP diet. They tasted amazing, so much flavour considering they were cooked without onion and garlic. Having breakfast here inspired me to create my own low FODMAP Breakfast eggs (Shakshuka) at home! I can’t wait to return and try more of the menu – I think I’ll try the porridge next time as it sounds delicious… If you’re looking to plan your visit, you can find the menu here. Breakfast is available from 8:30 – midday, Thursday to Sunday.
Dinner menu
A couple of month’s after my breakfast visit, I finally had the opportunity to return to Lakaz Maman for dinner with friends. I’d heard so many great things about the different curries and seafood dishes so I requested a Red Snapper Rougaille: a rich creole tomato sauce with garlic, thyme and chilli served with either yellow rice or roti. I love red snapper, and it’s pretty hard to come by in restaurants, so that was an easy decision for me. I also went for the rougaille as it could easily be adapted without onion and garlic. To accompany my meal, I went for a Panakon: a Mauritian lemon and tamarind drink, light and refreshing and the perfect accompaniment with a spicy dish which I’d really recommend trying.
Of course, the real reason for returning for dinner was to try dessert! I went for Puddine Coco: a light and refreshing dessert made with coconut milk served with tropical coulis and fresh tropical fruits. This had a lot more coconut than I was expecting (I’m sometimes wary of coconut due to my tree nut allergy), however this was so moreish. The base was so creamy, but not too rich, and it really complimented the sharpness of the tropical fruits. This dessert was gluten free, dairy free, vegan and most importantly – low FODMAP!
I had a lovely time at Lakaz Maman on both visits and I would highly recommend it to anyone in the Southampton area. Located in Bedford Place, it’s easy to get to, and situated near a number of nice bars if you fancy a couple of drinks afterwards. What I love about it most is the small, intimate size of the restaurant, coupled with the unique and authentic Mauritian flavours you just can’t get anywhere else.
Since my visit, I’ve recommended Lakaz Maman to Morwenna of Living Gluten Free & Elegantly, take a look at what she had to eat on her instagram post.
Let me know if you get the chance to visit, it’s definitely worth a trip down south!
Alice x
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