My friend Maria and I decided to catch up for lunch last Thursday and I was keen to try this place. Having driven past the cafe many times I was intrigued by what Jamaican food might offer. With neither of us having been lucky enough to visit Jamaica in person, we figured the cafe was our next closest thing.
The place wasn’t busy as we were there mid week for lunch. The décor was colourful and cheerful and we were made to feel immediately welcome by our hosts. The feeling was fun and the reggae background music made me feel instantly relaxed and in a holiday mood.
The menu was simple but inviting and some great value lunch specials ranging in price from $10 - $14 were on offer.
To my great relief the mention of my gluten intolerance was meet by enthusiasm and understanding by the staff. Everything is made fresh and from scratch. The food is healthy, delicious and I could have almost my free choice of the menu except for a few dishes.
Spoilt for choice I was very tempted to try the chicken curry or the coconut fish lunch specials until our host informed us that she has just finished making a batch of Quinoa & Pumpkin Pilaf from the dinner menu. Both Maria and I were keen to try this dish. Quinoa (pronounced keen-wa) is an ancient grain very high in protein and is supposed to be very good for you. Lots of gluten free cooks love to use it.
Spoilt for choice I was very tempted to try the chicken curry or the coconut fish lunch specials until our host informed us that she has just finished making a batch of Quinoa & Pumpkin Pilaf from the dinner menu. Both Maria and I were keen to try this dish. Quinoa (pronounced keen-wa) is an ancient grain very high in protein and is supposed to be very good for you. Lots of gluten free cooks love to use it.
I have used Quinoa Flakes to made a really tasty Gluten Free version of Anzac Cookies (promise to post that recipe soon...) but I haven’t used the grain in this way. It was so lovely – not unlike a risotto but so light in texture. It was cooked with pistachios, pine nuts, pumpkin, and onions; served with a simple side salad. It tasted great and was super healthy as a bonus. I would definitely order this dish again and again! I also had a homemade lemon & lime ice crush drink. It was fabulous!
I would love to take Chris back one night to try some other dishes and listen to the live Reggae music they offer on Friday and Saturday nights. If you live in the area, or are visiting, why not give this place a go. It’s a refreshing change from the usual glitz and glamour of the Gold Coast where you can find genuine people who are very passionate about their food.
- Address: 149 Scarborough St, Southport, QLD
- Phone: 07 5528 4849
- Hours: Lunch Wed - Sun 11.30am Dinner Tues – Sun 5.30 pm
- Shi-Loh Jamaican Cafe Restaurant (including online menu)
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