Located in Anosivavaka, Loft Mada is a restaurant concept store that serves Lebanese cuisine with a personal touch. Rima Jahami, the chef and owner, left Lebanon, her home country, at the age of 19. She traveled extensively and developed a passion for combining her Lebanese heritage with French influences. Jahami's culinary journey began with studies in fashion and textile design in Paris, followed by work in the textile industry until 2016.
Jahami's idea for Loft Mada took shape, and with the help of her close ones, she opened the concept store in February 2021. The restaurant is the first of its kind in Madagascar, offering a unique blend of Lebanese cuisine and Malagasy culture. Loft Mada was transformed from a former Air Liquide factory into a vibrant space where Jahami can express her creativity, from painting to cooking.
Jahami's cooking style is characterized by simplicity and attention to detail, with an emphasis on oriental, specifically Lebanese, flavors. She draws inspiration from her childhood and her mother's excellent cooking skills. Jahami's dishes often combine hot and cold ingredients, with a focus on seasonal products and colorful presentations.
Jahami's menu features a range of dishes, including shawarmas, salads, and rice-based meals. Her signature dish is stuffed vine leaves, made with love and care, just like her mother used to make. The menu is regularly updated with new additions, and Jahami is currently working on introducing sandwiches to the menu.
Jahami's favorite ingredients include seven spices, olive oil, and lemon juice, which are often used in her recipes. She takes inspiration from her customers' requests and adapts her dishes to incorporate seasonal ingredients. Jahami's culinary creations are a reflection of her mixed heritage and her passion for sharing her culture with others.
One of Jahami's signature dishes is a meat and vegetable stew made with locally sourced ingredients. The recipe involves preparing meatballs with a mixture of ground meat, onions, parsley, and spices, which are then cooked with vegetables and a flavorful tomato sauce. The dish is served with Lebanese-style rice, flavored with vermicelles and spices.
Loft Mada offers a unique dining experience, with a focus on warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere. Jahami's goal is to share her passion for Lebanese cuisine with the Malagasy people and to create a space where people can come together to enjoy good food and company. With its innovative approach to cuisine and culture, Loft Mada is set to become a popular destination for foodies and culture lovers alike.
Key points
- Rima Jahami's Loft Mada offers a unique blend of Lebanese and Malagasy culture through its cuisine and atmosphere.
