Loon Tao returns with expanded design

Wednesday, 5 February 2025 00:10 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

From left, SDA Hospitality Group Chairman Dillan Ariyawansa, Loon Tao CEO Shani Perera, Loon Tao Executive Chef Dasu, SDA Hospitality Group Managing Director Anjalo Mendis

By Divya Thotawatte

After being closed for two and a half years, the popular Chinese seafood restaurant by the beach, Loon Tao, reopened its gates to the public recently under a new management with a fresh redesign.

In its highly-anticipated comeback, Loon Tao is now under the management of the SDA Hospitality Group, with Chairman Dillan Ariyawansa and Managing Director Anjalo Mendis working to transform this once – legendary beachside restaurant into a reimagined dining experience. With an expert Chinese chef to ensure every dish is crafted with authentic Chinese flavours and an expanded seating capacity of 350, Loon Tao is once again set to build a vibrant community of Chinese food–lovers.

Speaking on the dining experience expected by the initiative, Ariyawansa said, “We wanted to bring authentic Chinese cuisine to the beach. We have hired a skilled Chinese chef because people want to experience genuine Chinese cooking. We currently have a dedicated team of around 20 in the kitchen at the moment. We will expand further once we reach full capacity.”

Ariyawansa and Mendis also emphasised that Loon Tao would feature fresh, locally sourced seafood and other high‐quality ingredients, with the dishes prepared using traditional Chinese culinary techniques. Guests can enjoy the carefully curated menus as well as seasonal dishes along with Mount Lavinia’s stunning beach views. Adding to the experience, Loon Tao is also designed tastefully to create the perfectly complementary atmosphere to enhance the guests’ experience. The restaurant also offers three private dining rooms for those seeking a more intimate dining experience.

These rooms are well-suited for personal gatherings, celebrations, and corporate events, complete with tailored menus and exceptional service. Loon Tao is open daily for dinner from 6 p.m., featuring live music every evening to elevate the beachside experience of its guests. On Sundays too, guests can enjoy a special brunch with live music, making it the perfect spot to unwind by the ocean over the weekend. For corporate events and celebrations, the restaurant also offers catering services. For those on the go, lunch will also be available for pick up via PickMe and UberEats.

– Pix by Shehan Gunasekara