An exotic culinary journey from Shangri-La’s Central

By Sashini Rodrigo

Pics by Priyantha Wickramarachchi

All aboard Shangri-La Hotel’s newest dining experience! Opening its doors on September 20, ‘Central’ is the highly-anticipated all-day dining restaurant located on the third floor of the hotel. With its dynamic setting, soothing live music and international fare, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Taking its inspiration from scenic train journeys, Central evokes the feeling of wandering through the culinary world in a train setting straight out of a film. Walking into the restaurant, guests will pass the ‘luggage racks’ filled with homemade jams, speciality teas and more available for purchase. No detail is overlooked in offering a first-class gastronomic journey, from the ocean views to the intricate, eclectic decor that heightens the fantasy.

At the heart of this unique space is the open show kitchen with a wide variety of international tastes at each station. For those who want to stay close to home, there is Sri Lankan fare with a Shangri-La twist with dishes like Kottu, Curry leaf and Turmeric Hoppers, native sweets, and traditionally-made Yaara tea at the Pettah Tea station.

For a taste of Asia, there is much to choose from including the North Indian tandoor shack, Malaysian Laksa Corner, Clay Pot of The Day and the bustling Japanese station. The Western terminal includes a classic butchers board with prime cuts of meat, a grill wall, authentic hand-tossed pizza, home-style pasta and more.

The dessert station is sure to delight your inner child with its colourful spread that includes the Wonka-esque chocolate fountain, liquid nitrogen ice cream bar, dainty cheesecakes in flower pots and the Candy Wall with sweet treats to take home.

The restaurant’s two semi-private dining rooms are ideal for any occasion, get-together, or even business meeting. Each room boasts its own private bar and beverage station, ensuring welcoming and intimate dining experience. The cafe section also opens towards One Galle Face for mall patrons to drop in, have a cup of coffee, and take in the luxurious charm and Instagram-friendly decor.

Central all day dining restaurant and café offers a combination of a la cart menu offerings and extensive buffets, with the latter priced from Rs. 3,950 nett onwards. For more information and reservations, call (94) 11 788 8288 or e-mail restaurants.slcb@shangri-la.com or visit www.shangri-la.com/colombo.