Restaurant Lai Min, located on Rue Royale in Mauritius, is celebrating its 80th anniversary. Founded in 1940 by Edmond Lai Min, a Chinese immigrant who arrived in Mauritius in the 1920s, the restaurant has become an institution in Mauritian gastronomy. Edmond Lai Min built his life in Mauritius, starting as a retail business owner before opening the Lai Min hotel in the 1940s. The establishment was known for its traditional Chinese dishes, including mine bouillie, bol renversé, and sow chue.
The Lai Min family has been instrumental in the restaurant's success. Edmond Lai Min married Paule Leung Pew, a Mauritian, and they had eight children together. Their eldest son, Laval, was the first to work alongside his father, followed by Jean-Pierre, Jean-Michel, and Jean-Marc. Today, Jean-Pierre and Jean-Marc co-direct the establishment, ensuring that their father's spirit and values are preserved. The brothers attribute their success to their constant presence at the restaurant, allowing them to maintain a close relationship with their clientele.
Over the years, Restaurant Lai Min has evolved, introducing new dishes and activities. In 1946, the establishment was known as Hôtel Lai Min, a simple place to enjoy a meal. The restaurant has hosted dinner-dance nights with live music every quarter and has undergone several transformations, including a new look in the 2000s and the introduction of its signature Chinese fondue, "Ying Yang," in 2006. The restaurant's kitchens have integrated Chinese chefs to preserve traditional techniques and authentic flavors.
Restaurant Lai Min has also played host to numerous celebrities over the years. The establishment has welcomed personalities such as former President Jean-Bédel Bokassa, French actress Brigitte Bardot, and Mauritian singer Karen Cheryl. According to Jean-Pierre Lai Min, the baron Arnaud Fromet de Rosnay, a French photographer and adventurer, frequently visited the restaurant in the 1970s and brought celebrities along.
The restaurant's menu features a range of traditional Chinese dishes, including the popular canard farci à la crème de taro. Jean-Pierre Lai Min notes that the key to their success lies in their ability to balance creativity, flavors, and traditions. The establishment's commitment to preserving traditional Chinese cuisine has earned it a loyal clientele.
As Restaurant Lai Min celebrates its 80th anniversary, it continues to be a significant part of Mauritian gastronomy. The establishment's history is a testament to the Lai Min family's dedication to their craft and their ability to adapt to changing times while preserving their traditions. The restaurant's legacy is a reflection of the country's cultural diversity and its history of welcoming immigrants from around the world.
Today, Restaurant Lai Min remains a popular destination for those seeking traditional Chinese cuisine in Mauritius. With its rich history, commitment to tradition, and dedication to quality, the establishment is sure to continue serving the local community and visitors alike for many years to come.
Key points
- The restaurant has been family-run for over 80 years, with Jean-Pierre and Jean-Marc Lai Min currently co-directing the establishment.
Reporting sources
- Restaurant Lai Min : 80 ans d’histoire · Le Défi Plus
