Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The trim colonial bungalow that houses Shanth Fernando's Gallery Cafe used to be the of-
fice for Sri Lanka's most famous architect, Geoffrey Bawa. The open-air dining area looks
over an intimate courtyard and reflecting pool. The Sri Lankan-inspired dishes focus on
fresh ingredients and bold, clean flavours.
Curries made with black pork and prawns are popular. There's a huge range of luscious
cakes you can snack on through the day.
DON'T MISS
HOTEL DE PILAWOOS
open-fronted purveyor of short eats is renowned for what may be the bestkotthuin town.
Starchy, savoury and very addictive, this purely Sri Lankan dish starts withrottis(prefer-
ably day-old), which are then rather dramatically sliced up along with vegetables, meats
or some such combination thereof. The results are cooked on a very hot iron sheet and
served steaming.
Possibly invented here, although no one is sure, cheesekotthuare rapidly becoming
the most popular version. Expect the mighty and the humble to drop by anytime to grab
one, often with a fresh juice. In the wee hours, many customers are clearly looking for ab-
sorbent fare, of whichkotthuis ideally suited; in the morning, you'll see bleary eyed cus-
tomers looking for the restorative magic for whichkotthuis known.
Note that this is the true and original Pilawoos. As is often the case in Sri Lanka their
success has inspired dozens of competitors to adopt some version of their name; ersatz
Pilawoos abound.
Cinnamon Gardens
Stylish little cafes and more ambitious restaurants can be found along the genteel streets of
Colombo's classiest district.
Ceylon Tea Moments
CAFE
mains Rs 100-500; 7am-11pm; )
