In the midst of Soho's culinary landscape, Kolamba shines as a beacon of tropical innovation, transporting diners to the sun-drenched streets of Sri Lanka through its bold interior design and authentic cuisine. No passport required.
Aushi and Eroshan Meewella, the founders of Kolamba, have created a culinary haven that not only serves up authentic Sri Lankan cuisine but also immerses diners in a space that's as much a tribute to their homeland as it is a testament to innovative design. The menu, infused with homegrown recipes and personal anecdotes, serves as a heartfelt ode to their Colombo heritage – just think of dishes named 'Aunty Mo's 'Chatti' Roast' and 'Vaira's Jaggery Beef’. To cater to a range of tastes, the menu also includes delectable string hoppers and a variety of vegan options. The restaurant's predominantly Sri Lankan team also adds a layer of warmth and community to the overall experience.
The design, a collaboration between Studio Fils and the Meewellas, pays tribute to Sri Lanka's Tropical Modernism movement, inspired by the work of Geoffrey Bawa. Fare Inc. founder Annabel Harrison's concept drew on traditional and modernist design elements from the country, shaping the narrative of the two-floor space.
The ground floor's polished cement walls provide a sleek backdrop for the stylish banquette, paired with a 4-meter-long raw wood dining counter and modernist stools. Vibrant batik art, commissioned from Sri Lanka, adds a pop of color to the space. A custom terrazzo, inspired by the island's architectural heritage, has been created exclusively for the restaurant, adding a touch of drama to the open-kitchen dining area where chefs showcase traditional cooking techniques.
In contrast to the typical Soho basement, the downstairs area is a bright and airy oasis. By uncovering the glass pavement tiles, Harrison has cleverly brought natural light into the space, which is further enhanced by lush greenery and chunky concrete seating areas. Twisted wooden screens divide the space, allowing light and plants to flow freely. The pièce de résistance is the supersize terrazzo cocktail bar, crafted from large, broken chunks of teal marble set in white resin – a sustainable design choice that adds a touch of glamour to the otherwise earthy palette.
