Page 99 - Jun-Jul 2024

Sunday brunch featuring dishes made from locally
sourced, sustainable ingredients.
Golden Dragon, on the other hand, offers generous
portions of Chinese cuisine with a loyal following, while
Yumi is a go-to for exceptional Japanese flavours,
particularly renowned for its sushi and teppanyaki dishes.
Acting on multiple recommendations, I ventured into a
captivating spot called Barefoot, a café, gallery, and
boutique owned by the renowned artist Barbara Sansoni
and her son Dominic, a talented photographer known for
his charisma, wit, and touch of sarcasm. Spending time
here is a joy – surrounded by local art, colourful handmade
fabrics, and delicious food for when hunger strikes. Don’t
miss their live jazz Sunday lunches, a hidden gem where a
stylish crowd gathers for an exceptional experience.
Another must-visit is the vibrant Ministry of Crab,
nestled in the historic Old Dutch Hospital and favoured by
Sri Lanka’s elite. With cricket stars Mahela Jayawardene
and Kumar Sangakkara, alongside chef Dharshan
Munidasa leading the way, this spot exudes prestige.
For a memorable dining adventure, take on the mighty
Crabzilla, a massive masterpiece that offers not just a tasty
meal but also a picture-perfect moment. Reserve your spot
in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on this
unforgettable dining destination.
Munidasa’s acclaimed Japanese restaurant, Nihonbashi,
recently relocated to the cutting-edge Port City Colombo, a
development hailed as South Asia’s gateway, with President
Ranil Wickremesinghe presiding over its prestigious
unveiling.
With a 29-year history starting in 1995, Nihonbashi has
been a beacon of authentic Japanese cuisine in Sri Lanka,
earning a place on the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list from “MUNIDASA’S ACCLAIMED JAPANESE
2013 to 2018. RESTAURANT, NIHONBASHI, RECENTLY
Serving as a culinary link between Sri Lanka and Japan,
Nihonbashi has inspired other establishments like RELOCATED TO THE CUTTING-EDGE PORT
Ministry of Crab and Kaema Sutra, embodying a true taste CITY COLOMBO, WITH PRESIDENT RANIL
of Japan. Munidasa’s commitment to showcasing Japanese WICKREMESINGHE PRESIDING OVER ITS
cuisine has garnered him ‘The Order of the Rising Sun, PRESTIGIOUS UNVEILING..”
Gold and Silver Rays’ from Japan.
Moving on, nestled amidst lush greenery in Campbell
Park, located in the Cinnamon Gardens area of Colombo’s
northern fringes, stands an enchanting colonial building rhythmic pulse of life around me, just a short distance
exuding an old-world Italianate charm. Upon stepping from Galle Face. Here, I chanced upon a peaceful spot
inside, I was welcomed by artifacts dating back to 300 BC, favoured by Colombo’s café society, evoking a sense of
showcasing the historical influences of British, tranquility akin to scenes from Las Vegas.
Portuguese, and Dutch rule, alongside a treasury of ancient Finding a cosy café, I lost myself in the music, unwinding
marvels like ancient palm leaf manuscripts and delicate before bidding adieu to the day.
porcelain. The wild yet calming sea, accompanied by a few evening
The impressive assortment includes a diverse array of walkers on the promenade, provided a comforting
demon masks, each with its own fascinating tale. backdrop against the vast waterscape.
Afterward, I chose to take a tuk-tuk ride down to the In that moment, I comprehended that I had discovered a
unique Esplanade, featuring a picturesque palm-lined truly extraordinary place. Colombo proves itself to be as
promenade scattered with quaint cafes and eateries. stunning as Phuket, sans the crowds, and as adventurous
Opting to simply relax by the sea, I observed the as Indonesia, yet notably more refined in its allure.

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