Central Restaurant and Café at Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo welcomes guests

Central Restaurant show kitchens

Central Restaurant semi private dining rooms

 Central Cafe that connects to One Galle Face Mall

Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo officially opens Central on Sunday, 20 September. This vibrant new all day dining restaurant and café serves the finest international and local delights, whilst the décor, design and ambience of Central reflects Sri Lanka’s famous scenic train journeys that are a key part of the country’s history and culture. Central takes guests on a global culinary tour where the restaurant’s esteemed chefs showcase their skills in beautifully presented show kitchens, with cuisines that have been carefully prepared using a myriad of cooking techniques.

Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo Executive Chef Patrick Buttgereit

The extensive buffet service-style at Central is reminiscent of train terminals with each featuring a different country’s cuisine. At the Indian terminal, spices reign supreme, with tantalising tandoor dishes including chicken tikka with its delightfully smoky flavour and traditional breads that are paired with multi-regional curries. The delicious medley of Southeast Asian cuisine includes crunchy wok fried dishes and sizzling clay pot favourites, whilst an array of hand-made dim sum and make-your-own-soups cooked up into a hearty broth offer an oriental touch. 

The team of chefs at the Japanese terminal pay homage to the art form of this cuisine, ensuring that the ingredients and flavours are perfectly prepared for the handcrafted sushi, sashimi, crispy tempura, and Yakitori, the quintessential Japanese soul food of grilled chicken with salty-sweet soy sauce. Guests can also indulge in fresh seafood on ice with shellfish, oysters and seafood salads. 

The Butcher’s Block at the Western terminal is a gratifying stop for meat-loving epicures. Prime cuts of beef and lamb are marinated to blend flavours in absolute unison and are complemented by home-made sauces. At the Italian terminal, guests are reminded of an old-school trattoria as the chefs in action toss up pasta with the finest sauces. Their signature à la minute pizza is crafted from carefully kneaded dough to create a thin crust that harmonises with a range of authentic toppings. 

Returning to Central’s Sri Lankan station, the chefs have traversed the length and breadth of the country to source the finest ingredients to create local culinary treasures made from age-old recipes, as well as colonially influenced dishes. From the tangy fish ambul thiyal to the rhythmic clanking of street-style kothu, guests are transported back in time and can feed their fancy with home favourites.

The bar at Central is a testament to this venue’s inventive offerings, crafted by talented bar tenders. A collection of unique cocktails and mocktails with Ceylon tea forming the base, challenge everyday perceptions. A Pettah Tea Station adds to the theatre where skilled servers pull milky tea between vessels to create a delicious frothy foam. A range of all-time favourites such as bubbles, spirits and fresh juices are also served.

The dessert station at Central is a marvel with colourful, decadent delights inviting guests to indulge. Frosted, delicate cakes, homemade puddings, an overflowing candy counter and an array of flavoured nitrogen ice creams will have children coming back for more. 

Central Café is a truly fascinating stop on the dining journey and conveniently connects to One Galle Mall. The café is a treat for the eyes and palate alike. Tropical floral décor in soothing pastel shades adorn the ceiling, creating a haven for guests to relax and enjoy an eclectic mix of sweet and savoury comfort food.

Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo Executive Chef Patrick Buttgereit said: “My team and I have curated a colourful feast where we believe everyone will find something they love. We wanted to showcase classic favourites while also experimenting with exciting new ingredients, recipes and cooking styles to ensure each guest carries lasting memories of dining at Central. We look forward to welcoming guests to experience an epic selection of delicious flavours and dishes, served in a relaxed setting by our friendly, charming service team.”

Central all day dining restaurant serves an international dinner buffet priced from Rs. 3,950 nett per person onwards, with the Sunday Brunch buffet priced at Rs. 4,500 nett per person. The restaurant also features an à la carte menu for both lunch and dinner, whilst the café offers light eats and accompanying beverages through the day. Central’s two semi-private dining rooms are ideal for more intimate celebrations or business gatherings. 

For reservations, telephone (94) 11 788 8288 or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.shangri-la.com/colombo.

Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo is also home to Shang Palace, Shangri-La’s signature Chinese restaurant serving the finest regional delicacies; Capital Bar & Grill presenting delicious seafood and meat grills to the backdrop of live music, and Sapphyr Lounge for a choice of light eats and beverages.