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flavour of ‘The Bay Leaf’ Judging from its stylish decor and its mouth- watering menu, The Bay Leaf matches its distinguished surroundings as it caters with flair for its discerning clientele. With roadside parking space by its gates and a driveway up to its portico, the restaurant is fronted by a large lawn, ideal for cocktail parties on balmy evenings. Entrance from the portico, where a restored ancient hackery is parked proudly, is through the veranda. A blackboard at the door announces the day's specials and a steward is on hand to greet guests. There are tables on the verandah, each one antique wood, oval or circular in shape and painted dazzling white. There are more tables on the first floor (reached by a traditional wooden staircase) set up on the balcony where fans supplement the The restaurant is now under the direction of Harpo Productions whose CEO is the irrepressible man-about-town, Harpo Gooneratne. blissful breeze. There are also private dining rooms upstairs, one glorious in wedding cake white: white walls, white chairs, white tablecloths and crisp white napkins. It sets the tone for a meal of distinction. The restaurant is now under the direction of Harpo Productions, whose CEO is the irrepressible man- about-town, Harpo Gooneratne. One of the ground floor rooms has been converted into a bar that could become Colombo's most fashionable as it has the decor and drink selection for the connoisseur. With a crescent-shaped glass-topped counter, comfortable metallic stalls with display shelves also in grey metal, and lighting that is an artistic talking point, the bar has the glamour of a modern cocktail lounge combined with the soothing atmosphere of a club. ‘Remarkable in such surroundings, the drinks come at affordable prices, with standard cocktails less than half the price charged at most other establishments.’ said Harpo Gunaratne. The wine list, too, is so low priced, it encourages sampling and since there are new world wines from South Africa, Australia, Chile, California as well as France and ltaly, the choice is exemplary. There is even a range of cigars for the bon viveur. Also on the ground floor is a pastry shop. Those who patronised the restaurant when it was Le Palace will be pleased to know that Jean-Pierre is still there baking delicious pastries and irresistible desserts. Gooneratne has assembled a team of experts at Bay Leaf who work smoothly to ensure guest satisfaction to complement the high standard of the culinary fare. The menu is concise and thoughtfully designed with sections indicating the choices; each item is enticingly described. Main courses include seafood specials - and the fish is prepared with respect, not overcooked. Items such as "Pie of tender lamb cubes and white mushrooms braised in port wine topped with crispy puffed pastry" are deservedly popular. The pasta dishes feature vegetarian choices like "penne pasta with fresh cream, gorgonzola and spinach". The dessert list has chocolate brownies, apple crumble, and a sensational baked Alaska, all made on the premises. Each dish is not only beautifully presented so it appeals to the eye but is also expertly prepared, full of that Bay Leaf flavour and offering an experience to satisfy the fastidious gourmet. ‘The main reason for eating out is to enjoy the food’ he added. The Bay Leaf (which is open daily from 11 a.m - 11 p.m.) is just right for a memorable meal, at a reasonable price too. |
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The
newest addition to Colombo's collection of good restaurants is ‘The
Bay Leaf’. The name is apt since it suggests the subtle flavour
of good cuisine, and every dish served at The Bay Leaf is noteworthy.
The restaurant has been created in a grand colonial mansion in Gregory's
Road, in the heart of Colombo 7, the city's prestigious residential
and diplomatic district. 