CLAMS IN WHITE WINE SAUCE, PROSCIUTTO & ROCK MELON, CAPRESE SALAD & SPAGHETTI WITH ANCHOVIES, CAPERS & TOMATO @ PREGO, NEGOMBO, SRI LANKA
This was undoubtedly my best meal all Summer. I have to be honest, I wasn't expecting much...which is probably why it was above and beyond.
Prego is a fairly new Italian restaurant along the beach strip in Negombo. It was clean, spacious, simply decorated and hugely affordable. If not for the tuk tuks parked outside I would've thought I was in Roma.
The service was on point, fast and friendly! Everything was cooked and prepared fresh. More than anything, the food was incredibly tasty. I haven't tasted spaghetti as good as that since I was in Italy a few months ago...that has to say something right?!
Make sure you bring some chewing gum for after though, they go heavy on the garlic. You can never have enough though.
This was undoubtedly my best meal all Summer. I have to be honest, I wasn't expecting much...which is probably why it was above and beyond.
Prego is a fairly new Italian restaurant along the beach strip in Negombo. It was clean, spacious, simply decorated and hugely affordable. If not for the tuk tuks parked outside I would've thought I was in Roma.
The service was on point, fast and friendly! Everything was cooked and prepared fresh. More than anything, the food was incredibly tasty. I haven't tasted spaghetti as good as that since I was in Italy a few months ago...that has to say something right?!
Make sure you bring some chewing gum for after though, they go heavy on the garlic. You can never have enough though.
SUSHI ROLLS & MATCHA GREEN TEA ICE CREAM @ YUMI, TAJ SAMUDRA, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
When I heard about Yumi I have to say I wasn't too keen, 'Another sushi restaurant?!' But oh boy was I wrong. This isn't just ANY sushi restaurant. This is the HOLY GRAIL of sushi restaurants in Colombo.
Everything is prepared fresh and with the best of ingredients, you basically get what you pay for. I'm not going to lie, it is pretty damn expensive but you can get away with sharing a couple of maki roll plates amongst 2 or 3 people and still find it satisfying. So far my favourites have to be the Yumi Special and Combination Rolls.
I would stay away from the fried prawn entree as it wasn't worth the money, simply just prawns in batter...which I could make myself at home for half the price. However, their karoge chicken entree was lovely and the dip it came with was a zesty gorgeousness.
Their cocktail list is extensive and they have some wonderful concoctions that are sure to make you feel more than just a little 'happy'.
Close off your meal with their green tea ice cream. It's creamy and not too overpowering. If you're not a green tea fan or used to the taste of matcha then there is a good chance you will completely dislike this dessert but luckily there are alternatives like the warm bitter chocolate tart which my sister gave rave reviews.
DO NOT, I repeat...DO NOT order the wasabi creme brulee. It's more like wasabi scrambled eggs and does not do Yumi justice at all.
All in all I'd give Yumi a solid 8/10. Their service is fantastic and so is majority of their food and drink.
When I heard about Yumi I have to say I wasn't too keen, 'Another sushi restaurant?!' But oh boy was I wrong. This isn't just ANY sushi restaurant. This is the HOLY GRAIL of sushi restaurants in Colombo.
Everything is prepared fresh and with the best of ingredients, you basically get what you pay for. I'm not going to lie, it is pretty damn expensive but you can get away with sharing a couple of maki roll plates amongst 2 or 3 people and still find it satisfying. So far my favourites have to be the Yumi Special and Combination Rolls.
I would stay away from the fried prawn entree as it wasn't worth the money, simply just prawns in batter...which I could make myself at home for half the price. However, their karoge chicken entree was lovely and the dip it came with was a zesty gorgeousness.
Their cocktail list is extensive and they have some wonderful concoctions that are sure to make you feel more than just a little 'happy'.
Close off your meal with their green tea ice cream. It's creamy and not too overpowering. If you're not a green tea fan or used to the taste of matcha then there is a good chance you will completely dislike this dessert but luckily there are alternatives like the warm bitter chocolate tart which my sister gave rave reviews.
DO NOT, I repeat...DO NOT order the wasabi creme brulee. It's more like wasabi scrambled eggs and does not do Yumi justice at all.
All in all I'd give Yumi a solid 8/10. Their service is fantastic and so is majority of their food and drink.
LEMONGRASS CHICKEN @ NOODLES, CINNAMON GRAND, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
KITI PAK CHOCOLATE BISCUIT PUDDING FROM KEELS, CRESCAT, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
Kiti Pak brings back memories. It's been a favourite of mine for years.
I feel like it's gone up in price but that doesn't necessarily matter as the taste never disappoints. It's soft, chocolatey, chewy and one of my best friends.
Kiti Pak brings back memories. It's been a favourite of mine for years.
I feel like it's gone up in price but that doesn't necessarily matter as the taste never disappoints. It's soft, chocolatey, chewy and one of my best friends.
CHOCOLATE & COCONUT ROTTI @ ROTTI SHOP, HIKKADUWA (DOWN SOUTH), SRI LANKA
This fell on the floor about 2 minutes after I was given it. Bear in mind it took about an hour to arrive in the first place. I'm an idiot.
Rotti is a much loved dish in Sri Lanka! It's quick to make (unless you're in hikkaduwa) and there are so many variations of the dish that you can never go wrong. One isn't enough...which is great because that gives you the chance to choose one savory and one sweet.
I chose the chocolate and coconut for the first time and I have to say it wasn't really up to scratch but it definitely could've been a killer combination. The chocolate they use is usually a brand called Kandos of which i'm not really a huge fan, but it doesn't really matter when it's inside a rotti. There wasn't enough chocolate compared to the heaps of coconut but they did go together pretty nicely.
This fell on the floor about 2 minutes after I was given it. Bear in mind it took about an hour to arrive in the first place. I'm an idiot.
Rotti is a much loved dish in Sri Lanka! It's quick to make (unless you're in hikkaduwa) and there are so many variations of the dish that you can never go wrong. One isn't enough...which is great because that gives you the chance to choose one savory and one sweet.
I chose the chocolate and coconut for the first time and I have to say it wasn't really up to scratch but it definitely could've been a killer combination. The chocolate they use is usually a brand called Kandos of which i'm not really a huge fan, but it doesn't really matter when it's inside a rotti. There wasn't enough chocolate compared to the heaps of coconut but they did go together pretty nicely.
VIETNAMESE PRAWN SUMMER ROLLS (RICE PAPER ROLLS) @ URBAN KITCHEN (PARK STREET ARPICO) COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
I have to say these don't look so great to the eye but they taste good. Usually summer rolls are a lot smaller and tighter packed but these ones do the job I suppose.
Carrots, cucumber, coriander and noodles and a filling of your choice (prawn/chicken/vege) are wrapped in a piece of rice paper to create the summer roll. It also comes with a dipping sauce. Not everyone will like it but it's simple and satisfying and doesn't take too long to make.
Urban Kitchen are great..in fact whenever I need delivery that's fast I always pick them! They have loads of choice and have practically every basic cuisine on the menu. I wanna take a photo of their Mezze Platter for you guys cause that's probably the best thing on the menu! It's so reasonably priced and always really really yummy.
I have to say these don't look so great to the eye but they taste good. Usually summer rolls are a lot smaller and tighter packed but these ones do the job I suppose.
Carrots, cucumber, coriander and noodles and a filling of your choice (prawn/chicken/vege) are wrapped in a piece of rice paper to create the summer roll. It also comes with a dipping sauce. Not everyone will like it but it's simple and satisfying and doesn't take too long to make.
Urban Kitchen are great..in fact whenever I need delivery that's fast I always pick them! They have loads of choice and have practically every basic cuisine on the menu. I wanna take a photo of their Mezze Platter for you guys cause that's probably the best thing on the menu! It's so reasonably priced and always really really yummy.
CHICKEN & CHEESE KOTTU ROTI @ PILAWOOS, GALLE ROAD, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
I'm surprised I even managed to snap a photo of this bad boy! It was after a night enjoying colombo's finest nightlife (more emphasis on the 'finest')...pilawoos is usually enjoyed best at this hour.
For those who don't know...Pilawoos is a small establishment on Galle Road that offers up a rather interesting service. You don't actually have to get out of your car to order. They come to you and take your order...bring your food to your car...wait for you to eat...and then come collect your plates and cups and lastly, give you the bill. It's not always quick (especially when you're drunk) but it always does the job. Pilawoos is the equivalent of a greasy kebab joint back in the UK.
The food isn't as cheap as it used to be but it tends to be the only place open and close by that early in the morning.
The chicken and cheese kottu roti is one of their signature dishes as it's probably the one they're most popular for. The chicken and cheese is fried along with onions, chillis and roti. It is then wrapped in another roti...something like a fajita wrap except with a lot more flavour and spice.
I'm surprised I even managed to snap a photo of this bad boy! It was after a night enjoying colombo's finest nightlife (more emphasis on the 'finest')...pilawoos is usually enjoyed best at this hour.
For those who don't know...Pilawoos is a small establishment on Galle Road that offers up a rather interesting service. You don't actually have to get out of your car to order. They come to you and take your order...bring your food to your car...wait for you to eat...and then come collect your plates and cups and lastly, give you the bill. It's not always quick (especially when you're drunk) but it always does the job. Pilawoos is the equivalent of a greasy kebab joint back in the UK.
The food isn't as cheap as it used to be but it tends to be the only place open and close by that early in the morning.
The chicken and cheese kottu roti is one of their signature dishes as it's probably the one they're most popular for. The chicken and cheese is fried along with onions, chillis and roti. It is then wrapped in another roti...something like a fajita wrap except with a lot more flavour and spice.
STEAK SANDWICH @ SUGAR BISTRO, CRESCAT, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
Whenever I end up at Sugar Bistro I always tend to order the same things! Mostly because the few things I have tried have always been so good. So this time I decided to go a little out of my comfort zone and choose something I had never tried before. The Steak Sandwich.
I have to be honest...compared to some of the other things on the menu this wasn't as great as it could've been! The bread they used was good quality and very wholesome! The steak however wasn't cooked to my liking at all. I asked for medium but what I was faced with was a severely undercooked steak. It probably would've been great if not for that. So next time i'm going with well done.
5/10 -decent. nothing major.
Whenever I end up at Sugar Bistro I always tend to order the same things! Mostly because the few things I have tried have always been so good. So this time I decided to go a little out of my comfort zone and choose something I had never tried before. The Steak Sandwich.
I have to be honest...compared to some of the other things on the menu this wasn't as great as it could've been! The bread they used was good quality and very wholesome! The steak however wasn't cooked to my liking at all. I asked for medium but what I was faced with was a severely undercooked steak. It probably would've been great if not for that. So next time i'm going with well done.
5/10 -decent. nothing major.
SEASONAL FRUIT PLATTER & EGGS FLORENTINE (POACHED EGGS, SPINACH, TOAST, MUSHROOMS, TOMATO & HOLLANDAISE SAUCE) @ TINTAGEL, PARADISE ROAD, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
I've done plenty of Tintagel posts before but this time I went back and decided to try something new just for you...and of course for me too.
The fruit platter looked great and tasted great too! The selection was lovely which is key to any great fruit platter but more than that it was very clear that they had chosen the right fruits..nothing was too ripe or too soft.
The eggs florentine much like the eggs benedict (posted previously) was really well presented and provided a great start to the day.
People tend to think that Tintagel food must be real expensive but actually it's a lot more affordable, has a much better atmosphere and is a whole lot tastier than most of the breakfast places in and around Colombo. I've never had lunch or dinner there before but the breakfast provides a very wholesome menu to choose from!
I've done plenty of Tintagel posts before but this time I went back and decided to try something new just for you...and of course for me too.
The fruit platter looked great and tasted great too! The selection was lovely which is key to any great fruit platter but more than that it was very clear that they had chosen the right fruits..nothing was too ripe or too soft.
The eggs florentine much like the eggs benedict (posted previously) was really well presented and provided a great start to the day.
People tend to think that Tintagel food must be real expensive but actually it's a lot more affordable, has a much better atmosphere and is a whole lot tastier than most of the breakfast places in and around Colombo. I've never had lunch or dinner there before but the breakfast provides a very wholesome menu to choose from!
TEMAKI CONE (PRAWN, AVOCADO, RICE & KETCHUP MAYO), KAPPA MAKI (CUCUMBER ROLL) & SALMON SASHIMI @ NIHONBASHI, ODEL, SRI LANKA
So i've been waiting to write a post about Nihonbashi because quite honestly it is my most favourite place to eat out in Colombo! It's easy, quick and always so yummy. Plus I always order the same few things so it can never go wrong.
My all time favourite thing on the menu is the Temaki cone, which is basically sticky white rice wrapped in seaweed with filling of your choice. I always go for avocado, prawn and ketchup mayo...it's a trio I've been ordering for years because it's just so damn good. Each cone is something like 300-400 bucks...expensive but one or two is enough to fill you right up! The only thing is that Odel is the only branch where you can choose your fillings!
Kappa Maki is the first Japanese dish I was introduced to. It's so simple but so satisfying and you never feel bad for eating it! It is simply sticky rice and cucumber wrapped in seaweed. I always have mine with pickled ginger and soy and wasabi.
Finally, the salmon sashimi at Nihonbashi is beautiful! I've been to other places in Sri Lanka where the salmon sashimi has been rubbery and tasted off (ahem Sakura)... but Nihonbashi has never let me down on this one! The salmon is always so well prepared and so fresh.
So i've been waiting to write a post about Nihonbashi because quite honestly it is my most favourite place to eat out in Colombo! It's easy, quick and always so yummy. Plus I always order the same few things so it can never go wrong.
My all time favourite thing on the menu is the Temaki cone, which is basically sticky white rice wrapped in seaweed with filling of your choice. I always go for avocado, prawn and ketchup mayo...it's a trio I've been ordering for years because it's just so damn good. Each cone is something like 300-400 bucks...expensive but one or two is enough to fill you right up! The only thing is that Odel is the only branch where you can choose your fillings!
Kappa Maki is the first Japanese dish I was introduced to. It's so simple but so satisfying and you never feel bad for eating it! It is simply sticky rice and cucumber wrapped in seaweed. I always have mine with pickled ginger and soy and wasabi.
Finally, the salmon sashimi at Nihonbashi is beautiful! I've been to other places in Sri Lanka where the salmon sashimi has been rubbery and tasted off (ahem Sakura)... but Nihonbashi has never let me down on this one! The salmon is always so well prepared and so fresh.
MODHA WITH LIME AND CHILLI DRESSING @ LAGOON, CINNAMON GRAND, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
After being introduced to this dish last summer I seem to order nothing else but this whenever I dine at Lagoon. The Modha (white fish) is always cooked to perfection...soft and no bones whatsoever. You can choose the dressing you fancy but I always go for lime and chilli (you can't go wrong). The zesty lime juice brings out the flavour in the fish and goes really well with their garlic kankung and rice.
After being introduced to this dish last summer I seem to order nothing else but this whenever I dine at Lagoon. The Modha (white fish) is always cooked to perfection...soft and no bones whatsoever. You can choose the dressing you fancy but I always go for lime and chilli (you can't go wrong). The zesty lime juice brings out the flavour in the fish and goes really well with their garlic kankung and rice.
FRESH OYSTERS @ LAGOON, CINNAMON GRAND, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
A ladies night out calls for some good food and that's about it really. We decided to go all out and invest in a platter of fresh oysters. They were definitely fresh but not so great taste wise! I had to drench my half in lime and Tabasco sauce to make them taste a little less fishy. They were decently priced and you can choose between a platter of 6 or 12 depending on how hungry you are.
A ladies night out calls for some good food and that's about it really. We decided to go all out and invest in a platter of fresh oysters. They were definitely fresh but not so great taste wise! I had to drench my half in lime and Tabasco sauce to make them taste a little less fishy. They were decently priced and you can choose between a platter of 6 or 12 depending on how hungry you are.
FETA & OLIVE RAVIOLI, TURKEY, CRANBERRY AND MINT SALAD (SEASONAL), MOZZARELLA & TOMATO SALAD, CREAM OF GOTUKOLA SOUP @ PARADISE ROAD, GALLERY CAFE, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
Feta & Olive Ravioli (review by Tamaia): The ravioli was thick and cheesy (the way ravioli should be) & was accompanied by a zesty pesto sauce and grated feta cheese. The meal was a little too heavy and so I'd rate it a decent 7.5/10
Turkey, Cranberry & Mint Salad (review by Mummy D): The turkey was moist and beautifully cooked. The fresh cranberries and mint leaves added a little sweetness and bite to the salad. The presentation was lovely and the meal left me completely satisfied. 8/10
Mozzarella & Tomato Salad: Extremely simple but super healthy and completely guilt free! The salad was dressed with a little balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The presentation was lovely with the slices of tomato and mozzarella stacked on top of each other. A basic salad like this deserves a 5/10
Cream of Gotukola Soup: The soup was creamy and the perfect temperature! The portion was just the right size for a starter. I've had this numerous times before as it is incredibly healthy and packed with vitamins, plus it tastes really good. 8/10
Feta & Olive Ravioli (review by Tamaia): The ravioli was thick and cheesy (the way ravioli should be) & was accompanied by a zesty pesto sauce and grated feta cheese. The meal was a little too heavy and so I'd rate it a decent 7.5/10
Turkey, Cranberry & Mint Salad (review by Mummy D): The turkey was moist and beautifully cooked. The fresh cranberries and mint leaves added a little sweetness and bite to the salad. The presentation was lovely and the meal left me completely satisfied. 8/10
Mozzarella & Tomato Salad: Extremely simple but super healthy and completely guilt free! The salad was dressed with a little balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The presentation was lovely with the slices of tomato and mozzarella stacked on top of each other. A basic salad like this deserves a 5/10
Cream of Gotukola Soup: The soup was creamy and the perfect temperature! The portion was just the right size for a starter. I've had this numerous times before as it is incredibly healthy and packed with vitamins, plus it tastes really good. 8/10
SEASONAL STRAWBERRY JUICE @ PARADISE ROAD, GALLERY CAFE, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
The strawberry juice may not always be available as it is a seasonal fruit. I wasn't too impressed by this one as it was a bit too bitter and thick for my liking. Plus it's one of the more expensive juices on the menu. Not something I'd order again but it was worth the try.
The strawberry juice may not always be available as it is a seasonal fruit. I wasn't too impressed by this one as it was a bit too bitter and thick for my liking. Plus it's one of the more expensive juices on the menu. Not something I'd order again but it was worth the try.
LEMON & LIME SLICE, RASPBERRY & WHITE CHOC COOKIES, CARAMEL SHORTBREAD & A STICKY TOFFEE CUPCAKE @ THE ENGLISH CAKE COMPANY, JAWATTE, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
I had heard a lot about the English Cake Company before I decided to go try it out for myself. The bakery itself is situated down a small lane in Colombo 5. I definitely wouldn't have found it on my own!
It's a small bakery and it's pretty lovely because you can actually see the bakers creating all the goodness right in front of you. The smell is incredible which ensures you don't leave the shop empty handed. They don't just sell sweet things either...the bakery is home to Panino (also found at the Good Market) which crafts a variety of healthy paninis.
So since I visited ECC purposely for Food Beggar, I thought i'd try as much as possible (that's the excuse i'm using anyway).
Lemon & Lime Slice: Probably the best looking out of the lot, the lemon and lime slice was zesty, creamy and incredibly sweet. To be honest, I couldn't handle more than two or three bites...anymore and i'd be diagnosed as a diabetic for sure.
Raspberry & White Chocolate Cookies: If you've been to Millie's cookies in England then you probably won't be too impressed by the ECC version. The cookies were moist and tasted alright but I wouldn't go as far to say they were anything special.
Caramel Shortbread: Okay, so the shortbread was quite incredible! Again, it's not something you can eat a lot of because it really was super sweet but without a doubt it was the best caramel shortbread i've tasted in Colombo. Be prepared for messy fingers as the caramel and chocolate is oh so gooey!
Sticky Toffee Cupcake: It was like a sticky toffee pudding in a cupcake...pretty damn good. More than one could be lethal so don't be too greedy!
All in all, The English Cake Company is a great place for a one off treat now and again but I really can't see myself going there too often. Everything definitely tastes better than it looks...they're not too big on presentation but rather taste. Which I suppose is a good thing in a way...but If I hadn't received any recommendations then I'm sure I wouldn't have given it a try.
I had heard a lot about the English Cake Company before I decided to go try it out for myself. The bakery itself is situated down a small lane in Colombo 5. I definitely wouldn't have found it on my own!
It's a small bakery and it's pretty lovely because you can actually see the bakers creating all the goodness right in front of you. The smell is incredible which ensures you don't leave the shop empty handed. They don't just sell sweet things either...the bakery is home to Panino (also found at the Good Market) which crafts a variety of healthy paninis.
So since I visited ECC purposely for Food Beggar, I thought i'd try as much as possible (that's the excuse i'm using anyway).
Lemon & Lime Slice: Probably the best looking out of the lot, the lemon and lime slice was zesty, creamy and incredibly sweet. To be honest, I couldn't handle more than two or three bites...anymore and i'd be diagnosed as a diabetic for sure.
Raspberry & White Chocolate Cookies: If you've been to Millie's cookies in England then you probably won't be too impressed by the ECC version. The cookies were moist and tasted alright but I wouldn't go as far to say they were anything special.
Caramel Shortbread: Okay, so the shortbread was quite incredible! Again, it's not something you can eat a lot of because it really was super sweet but without a doubt it was the best caramel shortbread i've tasted in Colombo. Be prepared for messy fingers as the caramel and chocolate is oh so gooey!
Sticky Toffee Cupcake: It was like a sticky toffee pudding in a cupcake...pretty damn good. More than one could be lethal so don't be too greedy!
All in all, The English Cake Company is a great place for a one off treat now and again but I really can't see myself going there too often. Everything definitely tastes better than it looks...they're not too big on presentation but rather taste. Which I suppose is a good thing in a way...but If I hadn't received any recommendations then I'm sure I wouldn't have given it a try.
HOME-MADE GINGER BEER @ PARADISE ROAD GALLERY CAFE, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
Refreshing and totally tasty...their home-made ginger beer went down a treat! It's something I would most definitely order again.
It's not as strong as Elephant House Ginger Beer which works out well for me as i'm not really a huge fan of EGB anyway.
Perfect for a hot day alongside a hearty meal.
Refreshing and totally tasty...their home-made ginger beer went down a treat! It's something I would most definitely order again.
It's not as strong as Elephant House Ginger Beer which works out well for me as i'm not really a huge fan of EGB anyway.
Perfect for a hot day alongside a hearty meal.
PARADISE ROAD BANANA SPLIT @ PARADISE ROAD GALLERY CAFE, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
Probably one of the best banana split's i've tasted! The Paradise Road banana split is unlike any other...mostly due to the ice cream flavours used. Forget about standard chocolate and vanilla scoops...this banana split has scoops of coconut and jaggery ice cream.
The jaggery ice cream is to die for! It's creamy, sweet and you can really taste and bite into the lumps of jaggery. And who can say no to banana's, nuts and stringy syrup?!
The split is the same price as the individual scoops of ice cream so it's definitely good value for money. Eat it quickly though, otherwise you'll end up with a soup.
Probably one of the best banana split's i've tasted! The Paradise Road banana split is unlike any other...mostly due to the ice cream flavours used. Forget about standard chocolate and vanilla scoops...this banana split has scoops of coconut and jaggery ice cream.
The jaggery ice cream is to die for! It's creamy, sweet and you can really taste and bite into the lumps of jaggery. And who can say no to banana's, nuts and stringy syrup?!
The split is the same price as the individual scoops of ice cream so it's definitely good value for money. Eat it quickly though, otherwise you'll end up with a soup.
FRESH FRUIT PLATTER @ SUGAR BISTRO, CRESCAT, COLOMBO
I have to say I wasn't too impressed by the fresh fruit platter. The papaya and mango were chilled and tasted lovely but I was hoping for a bit more variety. The watermelon was straw like and so I wasn't to keen on eating it.
Probably won't bother ordering it again but if you're after a quick fruit fix then this will do the job.
I have to say I wasn't too impressed by the fresh fruit platter. The papaya and mango were chilled and tasted lovely but I was hoping for a bit more variety. The watermelon was straw like and so I wasn't to keen on eating it.
Probably won't bother ordering it again but if you're after a quick fruit fix then this will do the job.
CRAB KOTTU @ SUGAR BISTRO, CRESCAT, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
INCREDIBLE! I am so so happy I bothered to try this out as I usually stick to the salmon sandwich on the Sugar Bistro menu. The waiter informed us that their is high demand for the crab kottu as it was only recently added to the menu.
The kottu was tasty and wasn't spicy at all (for those who like chilli then the kottu comes with a gravy), the addition of a fried egg and onion sambol made it all the more delicious.
A fairly simple meal but this one definitely gets a 9/10 from me!
INCREDIBLE! I am so so happy I bothered to try this out as I usually stick to the salmon sandwich on the Sugar Bistro menu. The waiter informed us that their is high demand for the crab kottu as it was only recently added to the menu.
The kottu was tasty and wasn't spicy at all (for those who like chilli then the kottu comes with a gravy), the addition of a fried egg and onion sambol made it all the more delicious.
A fairly simple meal but this one definitely gets a 9/10 from me!
STRAWBERRIES & CREAM @ BAREFOOT CAFE, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
Fresh strawberries enveloped in strawberry sauce and whipped cream...it's all I need to keep me happy. This dessert is a favourite amongst my friends and I.
We love it so much that it's almost become tradition to have a glass of wine and strawberries & cream whenever we are in Colombo.
I would say that if you're not a fan of whipped cream (seriously?!) then definitely don't go for it as 80% of the dessert is made up of just that. I usually like my strawberries with double cream and sugar but this was a welcome change.
Fresh strawberries enveloped in strawberry sauce and whipped cream...it's all I need to keep me happy. This dessert is a favourite amongst my friends and I.
We love it so much that it's almost become tradition to have a glass of wine and strawberries & cream whenever we are in Colombo.
I would say that if you're not a fan of whipped cream (seriously?!) then definitely don't go for it as 80% of the dessert is made up of just that. I usually like my strawberries with double cream and sugar but this was a welcome change.
PARTY FOOD BY THE GOURMET CUISINE EVENT CATERING
The Gourmet Cuisine Event Catering: 0725338188/0773235647
[email protected]
I'm not usually a big fan of buffets...It's great when you're super hungry...but it's pretty difficult to make sure every dish is good and cooked to perfection. However, that being said...I was pleasantly surprised by the spread that The Gourmet Cuisine provided for us at my dad's birthday party.
It was a little heavy on the meat selection (chicken sausages, chicken and lamb) but it tasted real good. The chicken was a slight let down as some pieces weren't cooked thoroughly all the way through but overall it was a good meal and i'd probably use the same caterers again in the future.
The Gourmet Cuisine Event Catering: 0725338188/0773235647
[email protected]
I'm not usually a big fan of buffets...It's great when you're super hungry...but it's pretty difficult to make sure every dish is good and cooked to perfection. However, that being said...I was pleasantly surprised by the spread that The Gourmet Cuisine provided for us at my dad's birthday party.
It was a little heavy on the meat selection (chicken sausages, chicken and lamb) but it tasted real good. The chicken was a slight let down as some pieces weren't cooked thoroughly all the way through but overall it was a good meal and i'd probably use the same caterers again in the future.
ACHCHARU COCKTAIL BITES CATERED BY THE ACHCHARU KADE
The three things necessary to a Sri Lankan family party...
Booze
Baila
Bites
The latter perhaps being the most important. Everyone's always waiting for a good bite, something to wet their taste buds before the big meal. Our party bites came in the form of achcharu platters (which went down a treat). In no more than half an hour the mango platter was wiped clean!
We spent Rs. 4500 on 3 large platters, all with various dips (green chilli, red chilli powder and black ground pepper). For the size and quantity the price is definitely reasonable.
You can buy smaller achcharu portions from their stall at the Good Market on Thursday's (Sunday's at Crescat).
https://www.facebook.com/theachcharukade
The three things necessary to a Sri Lankan family party...
Booze
Baila
Bites
The latter perhaps being the most important. Everyone's always waiting for a good bite, something to wet their taste buds before the big meal. Our party bites came in the form of achcharu platters (which went down a treat). In no more than half an hour the mango platter was wiped clean!
We spent Rs. 4500 on 3 large platters, all with various dips (green chilli, red chilli powder and black ground pepper). For the size and quantity the price is definitely reasonable.
You can buy smaller achcharu portions from their stall at the Good Market on Thursday's (Sunday's at Crescat).
https://www.facebook.com/theachcharukade
ACHCHARU @ ACHCHARU KADE, GOOD MARKET, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
My mother likes to send me daily updates of all the wonderful things she, my sister and my dad are eating. It's a horrible habit that leaves me feeling pretty sorry for myself.
She sent me this photo of achcharu's a couple of days ago...it looked so bloody good I just had to put it up. You can find these at the achcharu kade stall at the Good Market on a Thursday (sunday at crescat).
The concept is brilliant and I only wish I had thought of it first!!
For those of you who don't know what achcharu is...it's a method of pickling. In Sri Lanka, it's traditionally prepared out of carrots and onions, mixed with ground pepper, mustard powder, crushed ginger, garlic and vinegar. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
My mother likes to send me daily updates of all the wonderful things she, my sister and my dad are eating. It's a horrible habit that leaves me feeling pretty sorry for myself.
She sent me this photo of achcharu's a couple of days ago...it looked so bloody good I just had to put it up. You can find these at the achcharu kade stall at the Good Market on a Thursday (sunday at crescat).
The concept is brilliant and I only wish I had thought of it first!!
For those of you who don't know what achcharu is...it's a method of pickling. In Sri Lanka, it's traditionally prepared out of carrots and onions, mixed with ground pepper, mustard powder, crushed ginger, garlic and vinegar. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
CHEESE PLATTER & WINE @ IL PONTE, HILTON, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
Mmmm Cheese.
Cheese is one of those things...you either love it or you hate it. I've never really met anyone who's in the middle.
As you can tell. I love it.
In Sri Lanka, I've found it incredibly hard to go to a supermarket and buy good quality cheese. You get a fair selection but nothing like the wall of cheese in any British supermarket.
So instead of creating my own at home, I decided to ask my main man Asoka at Il Ponte. Although the variation of cheese wasn't that great, the platter itself looked really great and tasted pretty decent too. I managed to beef it up with some freshly baked bread, olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Not forgetting the wine!
So far it's been the best cheese platter I've ordered in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Mmmm Cheese.
Cheese is one of those things...you either love it or you hate it. I've never really met anyone who's in the middle.
As you can tell. I love it.
In Sri Lanka, I've found it incredibly hard to go to a supermarket and buy good quality cheese. You get a fair selection but nothing like the wall of cheese in any British supermarket.
So instead of creating my own at home, I decided to ask my main man Asoka at Il Ponte. Although the variation of cheese wasn't that great, the platter itself looked really great and tasted pretty decent too. I managed to beef it up with some freshly baked bread, olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Not forgetting the wine!
So far it's been the best cheese platter I've ordered in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
CINNAMON CHAI TEA @ GALLERY CAFE, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
I'm pretty much obsessed with chai tea. When i'm in London i'll allow myself the weekly treat of a chai tea latte from starbucks, which I used to believe was the holy grail of all things chai. That was until I met the cinnamon chai tea at the Gallery Cafe. Boy oh boy!
The drink itself was warm, creamy and needless to say utterly delish! I later learnt that the secret ingredient is condensed milk to give it that creamier, more sugary taste. The cinnamon around the edge of the glass enhanced the flavour by a mile without giving me a gagging reflex (if you've watched any cinnamon challenge home videos on youtube you'll understand). The cinammon stick swimming inside gave it a touch of authenticity that lacks in any starbucks chai tea latte!
I was feeling pretty lethargic after this one, although most people will say that's how I am 24/7...this beaut tea put me to bed ever so nicely.
I will mention that you should expect quite a pricey bill, especially with the extra added service charge! I must have spent around Rs. 1000 on this bill alone (just the tea & service charge). But as a one off treat it really is worth it!
I'm pretty much obsessed with chai tea. When i'm in London i'll allow myself the weekly treat of a chai tea latte from starbucks, which I used to believe was the holy grail of all things chai. That was until I met the cinnamon chai tea at the Gallery Cafe. Boy oh boy!
The drink itself was warm, creamy and needless to say utterly delish! I later learnt that the secret ingredient is condensed milk to give it that creamier, more sugary taste. The cinnamon around the edge of the glass enhanced the flavour by a mile without giving me a gagging reflex (if you've watched any cinnamon challenge home videos on youtube you'll understand). The cinammon stick swimming inside gave it a touch of authenticity that lacks in any starbucks chai tea latte!
I was feeling pretty lethargic after this one, although most people will say that's how I am 24/7...this beaut tea put me to bed ever so nicely.
I will mention that you should expect quite a pricey bill, especially with the extra added service charge! I must have spent around Rs. 1000 on this bill alone (just the tea & service charge). But as a one off treat it really is worth it!
LEMONGRASS SODA @ BAREFOOT CAFE, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
A mad hot summers day (we're talking around 35 degrees in the shade) calls for a serious ice cold beverage. So what better than a lemongrass soda with lovely fresh lemongrass sprigs and some much needed ice cubes. It tasted a little like sparkling lime juice with a touch of lemongrass taste coming through. Needless to say it was real refreshing and I'd probably go back and order it again.
A mad hot summers day (we're talking around 35 degrees in the shade) calls for a serious ice cold beverage. So what better than a lemongrass soda with lovely fresh lemongrass sprigs and some much needed ice cubes. It tasted a little like sparkling lime juice with a touch of lemongrass taste coming through. Needless to say it was real refreshing and I'd probably go back and order it again.
EGGS BENEDICT @ TINTAGEL, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
If you ask me which meal of the day I prefer, my answer will always be breakfast/brunch. I literally dream of what i'll eat the night before. Since I can't afford to eat out every morning I keep my all out brekkie days to sundays.
I was looking for a good breakfast joint in Colombo for a while, until a couple of my girlfriends decided to check out the menu at Tintagel. I've always thought of Tintagel as an extremely pricey, fine dining sorta situation but I was pleasantly surprised to find the prices for breakfast quite reasonable.
My eggs benedict hit around the Rs.700 price range (if I remember correctly), which is the equivalent of 3.29 GBP...bargain! I wanted some good old protein after my workout...the meal turned out to be a bit of a workout on its own. The poached eggs were beautifully presented on a small bed of spinach leaves and toast circles, topped off with a creamy hollandaise sauce. I'm a huge fan of the egg yolk so for me this dish was only complete once drenched in all that goo!
The whole thing left me wanting more and i've been back twice since...don't say I didn't warn you!
If you ask me which meal of the day I prefer, my answer will always be breakfast/brunch. I literally dream of what i'll eat the night before. Since I can't afford to eat out every morning I keep my all out brekkie days to sundays.
I was looking for a good breakfast joint in Colombo for a while, until a couple of my girlfriends decided to check out the menu at Tintagel. I've always thought of Tintagel as an extremely pricey, fine dining sorta situation but I was pleasantly surprised to find the prices for breakfast quite reasonable.
My eggs benedict hit around the Rs.700 price range (if I remember correctly), which is the equivalent of 3.29 GBP...bargain! I wanted some good old protein after my workout...the meal turned out to be a bit of a workout on its own. The poached eggs were beautifully presented on a small bed of spinach leaves and toast circles, topped off with a creamy hollandaise sauce. I'm a huge fan of the egg yolk so for me this dish was only complete once drenched in all that goo!
The whole thing left me wanting more and i've been back twice since...don't say I didn't warn you!
BANANA MAPLE PORRIDGE WITH BUTTERED APPLES @ TINTAGEL, COLOMBO
The word 'porridge' has always pulled on my wee little heartstrings. I think that's because my grandfather would make and eat it each and every morning without fail. His was usually made from an instant Quaker oats packet with a few spoonfuls of extra added sugar to make it more bearable.
This particular porridge however, needed no extra added anything! It was pretty much perfect, apart from the fact that I burnt my tongue because I was too eager to get it down. The porridge consistency was creamy but not too watery, which I love. The bananas added a bit more weight to the dish, topped off with the sticky maple syrup and sprinkling of cinnamon.
This is the perfect meal for energy replacement after a heavy workout! Even without working out, this meal is great cause it keeps you completely satisfied for a few hours as it's slow burning.
The word 'porridge' has always pulled on my wee little heartstrings. I think that's because my grandfather would make and eat it each and every morning without fail. His was usually made from an instant Quaker oats packet with a few spoonfuls of extra added sugar to make it more bearable.
This particular porridge however, needed no extra added anything! It was pretty much perfect, apart from the fact that I burnt my tongue because I was too eager to get it down. The porridge consistency was creamy but not too watery, which I love. The bananas added a bit more weight to the dish, topped off with the sticky maple syrup and sprinkling of cinnamon.
This is the perfect meal for energy replacement after a heavy workout! Even without working out, this meal is great cause it keeps you completely satisfied for a few hours as it's slow burning.
CUCUMBER JUICE @ 98 ACRES, ELLA, SRI LANKA
Ok, so first I need to start off by saying that 98 Acres is without doubt one of the most breathtaking places I've ever visited. I'm a bit of a sucker for beautiful scenery paired with some heavy sunshine! Unfortunately, I couldn't make the most of my time there (only one night) due to the fact that I fell incredibly sick.
What did perk me up was the prospect of having a fresh cucumber juice...
Which turned out not to be that great at all! It was real watery and lacked any proper taste, I guess that's what you get for choosing something like cucumber juice. The sugar syrup on the side helped to make the drink more bearable, but only because the whole thing ended up tasting like sugar.
Won't be ordering this one again that's for sure! But don't let that put you off the other things on the menu there...I can vouch for the lamprais...amazing!
Ok, so first I need to start off by saying that 98 Acres is without doubt one of the most breathtaking places I've ever visited. I'm a bit of a sucker for beautiful scenery paired with some heavy sunshine! Unfortunately, I couldn't make the most of my time there (only one night) due to the fact that I fell incredibly sick.
What did perk me up was the prospect of having a fresh cucumber juice...
Which turned out not to be that great at all! It was real watery and lacked any proper taste, I guess that's what you get for choosing something like cucumber juice. The sugar syrup on the side helped to make the drink more bearable, but only because the whole thing ended up tasting like sugar.
Won't be ordering this one again that's for sure! But don't let that put you off the other things on the menu there...I can vouch for the lamprais...amazing!
STRING HOPPERS, DHAL, POL SAMBOL & CHICKEN CURRY @ VICTORIA GOLF CLUB, DIGANA, KANDY, SRI LANKA
How I wish I had this in front of me right now. This is probably one of my favourite combinations in Sri Lankan cuisine! Could eat it for breakfast, lunch or dinner...hot or cold!
String hoppers: white/red rice flour, water and a pinch of salt
Pol sambol: coconut, chilli powder, onion, tamarind juice, lime juice, salt & pepper
The lime juice in the pol sambol really lifts the taste of it all. Most enjoyable when eaten by hand!
How I wish I had this in front of me right now. This is probably one of my favourite combinations in Sri Lankan cuisine! Could eat it for breakfast, lunch or dinner...hot or cold!
String hoppers: white/red rice flour, water and a pinch of salt
Pol sambol: coconut, chilli powder, onion, tamarind juice, lime juice, salt & pepper
The lime juice in the pol sambol really lifts the taste of it all. Most enjoyable when eaten by hand!
NUTELLA CUPCAKE @ ODEL, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
I was always under the impression that Odel Cupcakes weren't all that fresh...no doubt they look great on the display and all but there really is no point looking good unless they're baked fresh everyday.
I eventually gave into trying one, one day at office. It was unbelievably good! The icing wasn't over the top or too sweet and the cake was soft and moist.
When I went back to Odel a week or two after I asked one of the shop assistant's about the cakes, it turns out I was completely wrong. They do bake their cupcakes fresh every morning!
It's worth trying! Also check out the rainbow cupcake, it looks pretty mad when you bite into it.
I was always under the impression that Odel Cupcakes weren't all that fresh...no doubt they look great on the display and all but there really is no point looking good unless they're baked fresh everyday.
I eventually gave into trying one, one day at office. It was unbelievably good! The icing wasn't over the top or too sweet and the cake was soft and moist.
When I went back to Odel a week or two after I asked one of the shop assistant's about the cakes, it turns out I was completely wrong. They do bake their cupcakes fresh every morning!
It's worth trying! Also check out the rainbow cupcake, it looks pretty mad when you bite into it.
PASSION FRUIT MOUSSE & MERINGUE PIE @ PARADISE ROAD CAFE, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
By now I have no doubt that you think I'm Paradise Road obsessed. I am. But it's kinda hard not to be when their food is just so damn good.
I'm usually not a fan of these kinds of desserts but after a hard day's work I felt it was necessary to indulge. That's the excuse I'm using at least!
The meringue was a little soft and sticky, not like the type I'm used to over here which is crunchy and cracks when you break into it. Nevertheless, it wasn't much of an issue as the sticky texture of the meringue went perfectly with the soft, creamy texture of the mousse. The base was lovely and moist too.
Perfect for a fat day.
By now I have no doubt that you think I'm Paradise Road obsessed. I am. But it's kinda hard not to be when their food is just so damn good.
I'm usually not a fan of these kinds of desserts but after a hard day's work I felt it was necessary to indulge. That's the excuse I'm using at least!
The meringue was a little soft and sticky, not like the type I'm used to over here which is crunchy and cracks when you break into it. Nevertheless, it wasn't much of an issue as the sticky texture of the meringue went perfectly with the soft, creamy texture of the mousse. The base was lovely and moist too.
Perfect for a fat day.