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Kasia - Oxford & Travel | Gluten free • Dairy free

@kasiasplate

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🧁Food & Travel
🌾 Gluten free & dairy free
🏡 Oxford, UK
💌 [email protected]
✈️ Travel to 40+ countries

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Sri Lankan feasts at The Coconut Tree are the cosy dinner that you need to add to your bucket list 🌴 AD

This eatery has been one that I have loved for years, ever since I experienced it for the first time back during my PhD studies. I have since been exploring the other branches since, with Oxford being my main hub. Trevine, the manager at Oxford, is always a delight to see. He always has a huge smile on his face and great energy - it really lights the place up and makes you feel welcome from start to finish. Definitely ask for his recommendations, as they are always spot on for your palette.

This visit found me some new favourites. The tofu and jackfruit curry as well as the devilled pork and pineapple will be on my order list from now on. The tofu and jackfruit curry was creamy and fragrant, whilst being beautifully light. The pork was a lush contrast of sweet and spicy. Now I do not usually opt for items that have a chilli next to them on the menu, but this dish had more of a warming tingle rather than hot spice levels 🌶🍍

My partner finally got his hands on the goat and potato curry, which he devoured without help (minus a small spoonful for me to try). It was rich and gravy-like. The meat was tender, too.

We also ordered the chicken kotthu and vegetarian (egg) rice to supplement our curries. My personal top choice was the kotthu; a string hopper with chunks of meat and spices. This is one that I order every time I visit. They also have a gluten-full version using roti, if dietaries allow.

Usually I never save myself room for dessert here, as the meals are hearty. Ordering 5 dishes between the two of us felt like the sweet spot for mains this time. This meant we could share the sweet gluten free & vegan hopper with treacle and salted caramel ice cream. I would say this was plenty between us, as it is on the sweeter side. Perfect if you have a sweet tooth 🍬

Thank you again to The Coconut Tree for having us. We are already planning our next visit. Trevine has already tempted us with the bottomless brunch (which includes unlimited food and drinks for the duration of the session) 🍸 taken in Oxford by @kasiasplate

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2 months ago

The Lantern Restaurant, Belfast 📍

The outside of this place may seem unassuming, but it ended up my favourite meal of my trip to Belfast. A cosy atmosphere with excellent, hearty food. I was so lucky to have nabbed the last table.

The staff made me feel at ease immediately here. They could explain the gluten free and dairy free dishes with lots of knowledge, and were reassuring about reducing cross contact. They also were happy to adjust meals to make them suitable, too.

For starters, I couldn't resist a generous helping of leek and potato soup. This is my favourite soup flavour, and it was made even better with a side of warmed gluten free bread. It had a real creaminess to it, without the dairy. Every spoonful was lush.

I opted for the slow cooked beef shoulder for main. This quite literally melted in the mouth. You can see how tender and delicate it is from the photos. Every morsel was succulent; making the taste buds dance. The meat was accompanied by colourful vegetables and coeliac safe chunky chips. The kind that are crisp on the outside but fluffy on the inside.

If I am ever back in the area, this will certainly be a place I re-visit, perhaps to check out the budget-friendly pre-theatre menu next ✨️ taken in Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK by @kasiasplate

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2 months ago

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3 months ago

EDO Restaurant, Belfast 📍

Wow. What a meal.

This place was not originally on my gluten free hit list, but it certainly blew me away. I happened to be passing by, and noticed how popular the spot was. I know that tapas often has a lot of naturally gluten free items, so I popped in to enquire about the dishes. Whilst they do not appear to actively advertise a gluten free menu, I was surprised when the servers handed me an adapted menu that had allergens noted for both gluten free and dairy free.

My friend and I rocked up around 9pm for our reserved table, and were quickly seated near the open kitchen. We didn't end up doing tapas in the traditional way, and instead had plates to ourselves. I ended up snapping a photo of one of Will's dishes - the gnocchi with a creamy mushroom sauce. Whilst I couldn't eat this myself, I was completely mesmerised by the sight of it 🍄

For my dishes, I opted for Patatas Bravas, a Spanish omlette, and scallop ceviche. Every single bite was delicious. The love and care that goes into these dishes really shines through. My personal favourite was the scallop ceviche, as I felt it paired nicely with the lightly pickled kohlrabi. Although you cannot beat the classic patatas bravas.

Now usually when I go for tapas, I cannot help myself but order more than I can fit in. I was stuffed and struggling to fit more after only 3 plates. The portions were very generous.

As well as food, we both ordered ourselves a tipple. I cannot rate the cocktails more. I wish I had also grabbed myself a sangria 🍷

It was hard to get a spot here at first, so I advise booking in advance. I ended up booking a table for 2 hours after originally spotting the place. It was packed out even in the later hours. A really bustling vibe with good food and drinks. No wonder this place has been Michelin recommended. taken in Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK by @kasiasplate

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3 months ago

Home Restaurant, Belfast 📍

This was the first spot that I visited on my trip. I had seen it was highly recommended for gluten free, and it was nearby to my hotel. So the perfect excuse to pop in after my Sunday morning flight.

For starters, I opted for the fishcake. It came with a Thai-style salad and wasabi sauce. This was my favourite of the two courses. It was fishy and refreshing but with a kick. I am often quite picky on salads too (I am certainly not a lettuce fan), but this one went down a treat. I would happily of had it for a main-sized portion.

For the main, I couldn't help myself but order one of my "go-to" comfort foods: burger (minus the cheese) and fries. The patty was nicely cooked, and the generous helping of sweet relish elevated the dish. Whilst I did really enjoy my main and would happily eat it again, I would say it was on a more premium price point so it left me wanting a little more for what I had paid. Saying this, I did notice that they do offer a value Prix Fixe menu on a Monday to Friday which I had missed.

The staff were really kind and quite hilarious throughout. I love great humour so I genuinely felt right at "home" here. They were also knowledgeable on allergens and had confidence behind their question answers.

I can see why this restaurant is popular, and has a Bib Gourmand from 2025. The ambience, food, and waiting staff all together make it for a special meal 🫶 taken in Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK by @kasiasplate

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3 months ago

If you are looking for a light breakfast spot or sweet fix in Belfast, then make sure to check out Nica Nica. This is an authentic Italian café which specialises in cannoli. It is tucked away in a small shopping area, just off a main street. I was so lucky that this was a 5 minute walk from my hotel.

The café is run by the lovely Guiseppe (also known as Pupino Chef). He moved to Belfast from Sicily, and shortly after set up Nica Nica. It was nice to chat to him and get to know his story behind the place and food offerings.

I visited here twice on my trip to Belfast, taking friends both times. I knew I had to add it to my "to try" list due to the recommended gluten free offerings.I couldn't resist trying their vegan chocolate cream-filled cannoli and brioche-style pistachio croissant. These paired well with a thick hot chocolate 🍫

If you are gluten free only, they even have a cannoli tasting. I certainly would have tried this if there were more dairy free options for the filling.

Don't fancy anything sweet? They do also have savoury items on offer. I didn't personally try these, though, so make sure to ask about gluten free options.

You can also get your hands on gluten free imported items such as spreads, pesto, and breaded goods. I have my eyes on their gluten and dairy free panettone when it is next in stock as these are so hard to come by. All of this is available via their online shop, with reasonable shipping to mainland UK.

📍 Nica Nica, Belfast taken in Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK by @kasiasplate

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3 months ago

Lisbon is a city of postcard views, beautiful architecture, and marvellous mosaics. A city break I would recommend to anyone for a few days away🇵🇹

PLACES TO EAT:
🍛 Bali Do Casis - this is a highly recommended spot for those seeking out a gluten free meal. They serve Indonesian dishes that are hearty and filling. There are also gluten free & lactose free (not dairy free) Pastel de nata to get your hands on, too.

🍔 Café do Rio - Craft hamburgers that are a MUST try. My favourite place in Lisbon. You all know I love a good burger, and it is my top pick of comfort foods, but these were something else. Artisan plates of deliciousness. All allergens were clearly marked, too.

🍚 Tapioca World - Almost everything here is gluten and dairy free, with sweet and savoury options. A tapioca folded "wrap" with a range of fillings.

🥐 Rice Me Deli - a 100% gluten free bakery with dairy free goods. I found the DF a little more limited here, but still had a gorgeous doughnut and salmon bagel. It was a nice pit stop from the airport into town for lunch.

🥑 Eating Bear - A tapas restaurant that I could not get enough of. The portions were big, and the plates really put on a show of their own. I was stuffed full after eating here. It is also in a slightly lively area, with a bar next door for a post-dinner cocktail and live music.

THINGS TO SEE/DO:
🪨 Visit the iconic Belém Tower on the waterfront (I only did the outside view)

🎨 Explore the Jerónimos Monastery for the most eye-capturing Manueline architecture

🏘 Stroll through Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood, Alfama

🥙 Check out the Time Out Market for food and drink

🏛 Admire the Rua Augusta Arch (making sure to look up at the details as you walk through)

🖼 Visit the mosaic museum to see some of Lisbon's iconic artwork

🪴 Make the most of Lisbon's hilly nature, exploring the different viewpoints (the most popular is Miradouro das Portas do Sol)

DAY TRIP:
🏰 Venture out to Sintra for a day out of the city (~40 mins by train). Make sure to book entry slots in advance, as they book up even in the off-season. I would have given this place an overnight stay if I had time, as one day was not enough. taken in Lisbon, Portugal by @kasiasplate

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3 months ago

Truva Lounge Cocktail Bar, Towcester 🇬🇧

This weekend, I was visiting one of my best friends from University in Northamptonshire. Nearby was the local town of Towchester, which had an adorable garden centre and a quaint high street with shops and eateries. Just off the main street, we found this Turkish eatery which had great reviews on Google. When glancing at the menu, they proved to have many gluten and dairy free options, which was a bonus.

After questioning the staff, I felt really safe dining here. They had lots of allergen knowledge, seperate chip fryers, and mentioned seperate preparation for gluten free items. I was made very comfortable.

My friend and I both dived in to ordering a mixed grill each. After spotting it on the menu, it was a non negotiable for me (especially when I found out they could adapt it to be dairy free). They only swapped my salad dressing for a moreish pomegranate one. I don't tend to eat the salad, but mopped this up. The meats were succulent, and the chips were lightly seasoned. My friend's favourite was the chicken kebab, and mine was the Adana kebab.

As well as the main, I opted for a portion of Dolma. I can never resist these. Although, I ended up having to take these and part of my main home as I was stuffed full. It made for a perfect leftovers dinner, though.

We were also pleasantly surprised when they provided us with complimentary breads and dips. My friend had the (gluten containing) Turkish bread, and I had a gluten free bread option. The dips were a combination of yoghurt and spicy. As I couldn't have either, due to dietary requirements and taste preference, the manager bought me over a large serving of houmous and said "he couldn't let me have nothing". This was so thoughtful, showing they care a lot about their customers.

Overall it was very warm and welcoming. We arrived around the lunchtime opening when it was quieter, but the place quickly started to liven up. I can see why it is popular, and would happily return when in the area ✨️ taken in Towcester, Northamptonshire by @kasiasplate

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4 months ago

Coogi's Restaurant and Tea Garden, Mdina, Malta 🇲🇹

This was the first spot I ventured to in Malta, as I was based in Mdina for our stay. I actually went here twice in one day, as I felt it was the safest spot nearby in my opinion.

I would say this place does cater more for tourists, as it is in the heart of the Old Town. This also means the prices do reflect it. However, I did enjoy both of my meals and would go again. For the first meal, I had the beef with potatoes and vegetables. The meat melted and was absolutely delectable. It paired nicely with the jus. At dinner, I visited again with my family this time. I settled on the large spaghetti bolognese. It was plentiful - enough for two in fact. I must recommend their homemade lemonade as well. My brother and I polished off two jugs of this during the evening.

For our lunch visit, we did opt for desserts. I had one of the raw cakes whilst my partner had a (gluten and dairy containing) sundae. I must say I was quite jealous of his ice cream tower; watching intently as he dug in. The raw cakes weren't exactly to my taste, so I preferred the mains overall.

As well as this spot, there is The Knight's Kitchen (their sister restaurant). I found this later on my stay, but only popped in for a cocktail. However, the food menu looked like it had good options for gluten free diners ⚔️ taken in Mdina, Malta by @kasiasplate

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4 months ago

Diar il-Bniet, Rabat, Malta 🇲🇹

I found this gem purely through a singular Google maps review, searching for "gluten free" to see what was in the area. The staff were really friendly, and were able to talk me through the menu options. They also exhibited knowledge of cross contact for gluten free items (but did mention there is gluten in the kitchen). I was shown the gluten free (and vegan) bread roll wrapped singularly with an identifying sticker. They also noted they would use clean cutting boards and utensils when making my item to increase safety. I personally felt comfortable eating here after chatting to them, but always do your own checks.

As for the sandwich, it was delicious. I opted for a breakfast-style bap which had bacon, mushroom, egg, and tomato. They also added olive oil to the bread itself, which I really enjoyed. The portion was plentiful, seeing me struggle to finish. Nothing was wasted, as you are able to take wrapped leftovers with you.

I enjoyed my fresh sarnie so much that I actually convinced my whole family to go and grab their own from the deli an hour later than my visit. At this point, we had to get take away as it was packed out due to popularity (and rightly so).

They do also sell (frozen) gluten free bread rolls to take away if you ask. This is ideal if you need something for a longer journey or picnic. Whilst I did buy one to take away, I preferred the sandwich I had in the shop. As well as sandwiches, they have a range of local produce that is worth browsing 🥪 taken in Diar il-Bniet by @kasiasplate

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4 months ago

Have you seen such a beautiful gluten free crust on a pizza? 🍕

Wild Honey in Valletta really blew me away with this meal. From the outside, this place is petite and unassuming. But from the inside, it is a cosy tavern with a 100% gluten free pizza menu (+ vegan options). The place was run by a single person, who not only topped and cooked the pizzas infront of you in an open kitchen, but was also the waiter, bartender and cashier. He also was friendly and efficient. The whole package for this place.

I opted for the vegan meatball pizza, and my partner had the carbonara pizza. The base passed the flop test, and had plenty of toppings on it. I was even given substitutes at no extra cost (plus some homemade vegan pesto) for anything they had run out of. I actually felt I was given more items to my liking than not. All for a reasonable price, too. The meatball pizza was absolutely delicious. I did not want to share this, even if I did struggle to finish and had to take the rest home.

I will say that it is worth going early, as I had seen some reviews that they run out of vegan cheese/topping options. I was lucky to nab the last portion on this day, and it was only early evening.

Overall, this place is quaint and charming, with rustic vibes. It has a relaxed atmosphere, where we did not feel rushed. I would just say that it does fill up fast, as there are not many tables. The place was full by the time we were finishing. So also more suited to smaller parties of 1-2 persons.

If I had more time in Valletta, I would have loved to pick up a takeaway pizza from here and sit by the water. I think that would have been magical ✨️

*Do note that the beers here are not all gluten free, and it is just the food menu. They told me they make the pizza bases in their own factory, so can assure that they are coeliac safe. taken in Valletta, Malta by @kasiasplate

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5 months ago

Elephant Shoe, Valetta, Malta 📍🇲🇹

This place is situated right next to the Upper Barakka Gardens, which is perfect for grabbing a bite to eat before/after watching the cannon salute. This can make it extra busy around midday at 4pm, though, so there can be a wait for a table. We were lucky and bagged a table for 2 with only a few minutes wait.

Whilst gluten free items are not all marked on the menu, a lot of dishes can be adapted and the waiters are knowledgeable and can guide you through. There isn't a seperate fryer, so do be aware of this when ordering. To be safe, I went for a naturally gluten free and vegan mushroom arepa.

The arepa was appealing to the eye, and also the taste buds. It was plated in a thoughtful way, with an avocado cream garnish. The filling was plentiful, with slightly spiced/BBQ mushrooms. The arepa itself was crisp on the outside with a lightly fluffy inner. As for the portion size, I did feel I got bang for my buck. I didn't expect to get two arepas on my plate.

My partner had the "not a misteak". Doorstop wedges of bread that sandwiched steak, chorizo and eggs. He had tucked in before I could snap a shot, but you can only imagine how delectable it looked. The quality of the food was spot on, and you can tell they take care and attention to their dishes.

To go with my arepa, I had a vegan yellow matcha. Whilst it was a creamy base, I personally did not find it was overly flavourful compared to the food. I was hoping for more matcha and mango notes to come through 🍵🥭

Overall, the ambience was calm and collected, despite being busy. We ended up with a nice table that was by the window, so it felt more intimate and private. The service was initially prompt when taking our order, but the food and drinks did take a while to come (which was reasonable due to how busy it was at the time). This didn't bother us, as it was friendly and we were not rushed. It was an enjoyable experience overall.

If I was in Valletta again, I would be sure to pop in and try more of their dishes 🐘 taken in Elephant Shoe by @kasiasplate

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5 months ago