Veganuary is the perfect opportunity to embrace the adventure of trying something new, and our family meal at The Coconut Tree in Bath offered an incredible journey through the flavours of Sri Lanka. From fragrant spices to creamy coconut blends, this was a meal that delighted our taste buds and opened our eyes to the variety of vegan cuisine. It’s the ideal spot to encourage kids to discover new tastes and explore the joy of sharing dishes as a family.
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We started our meal with some exciting appetisers that immediately captured our attention. The Cheesy Columbo, Sri Lankan-style fried cheese cubes, was a hit with its crispy texture and sticky, tangy sauce. It was a great way to show the kids that cheese can be enjoyed in a completely different style.
Alongside this, we tried the Kotthu, a vegan wok-fried dish of chopped roti and vegetables. Its medley of textures and spices made every bite a surprise. For a gluten-free option, the String Hopper Kotthu—made with rice flour noodles instead of roti—was light and full of flavour, giving us a new twist on this traditional dish.
The adventure at The Coconut Tree continued with our main courses, a colourful spread of dishes that encouraged us all to dig in and try something different. The Hot Battered Cauli was a standout, with cauliflower marinated in garlic and chilli, then battered in polenta and served with caramelised onions. Its combination of heat and sweetness made it a firm favourite with the whole family.
The Parippu Dhal, a creamy blend of lentils, Sri Lankan spices, and coconut milk, was pure comfort food. It was a fantastic introduction to lentils for the kids, who loved scooping it up with soft roti.
The Chickpeas dish, stir-fried with coconut oil, garlic, mustard seeds, and curry leaves, added a satisfying crunch and a spicy kick that wasn’t too overpowering. For something milder, the intriguingly named Fat Sister—tender pumpkin cooked in coconut cream with pandan leaves—offered a subtle sweetness that balanced the bolder dishes perfectly.
The Sri Tato, Sri Lankan-style roast potatoes, were an easy win, lightly spiced and crispy on the outside. Finally, the Kaju Maluwa, a creamy curry of cashews and green peas in a sweet coconut sauce, was rich and indulgent, rounding off the meal beautifully.
Eating Sri Lankan food is not just about the flavours; it’s also about the experience. The concept of sharing dishes at The Coconut Tree is a wonderful way to encourage kids to experiment with new tastes and textures. Each dish had its own unique personality, from the bold and spicy to the creamy and mild, creating an engaging meal that kept everyone excited. Sharing also sparked plenty of conversation as we compared our favourites and encouraged each other to try “one more bite” of something unfamiliar.
The Coconut Tree in Bath provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families who want to step out of their culinary comfort zone. The vibrant setting complements the bold and aromatic dishes, making it a feast for all the senses.
Whether it’s the fiery kick of chilli, the fragrant blend of spices, or the creamy sweetness of coconut, Sri Lankan cuisine has a way of appealing to everyone, from the youngest diners to seasoned food adventurers.
Our visit to The Coconut Tree reminded us that food is an adventure, and trying new dishes together is a great way to create lasting memories. Veganuary gave us the perfect excuse to dive into Sri Lankan vegan cuisine, and it’s safe to say we’ll be returning for more. If you’re looking for a fun, flavour-filled family outing, this is an experience not to be missed.
You can find out more about The Coconut Tree at their website.
