Rampe 7: Grand and homely at same time

By Divya Thotawatte

Rampe 7, the newest addition to Colombo’s fine dining scene, is redefining the genre, delighting diners with a refined selection of Sri Lankan and Indian specialties that offer a high-end experience, yet remain comfortingly familiar and homely.

Located in the heart of Colombo on Rajakeeya Mawatha in Colombo 7, this fine dining restaurant is the second branch of Rampe, which opened last month. Meanwhile, the original Rampe in Rajagiriya continues to offer a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, complemented by the distinct flavours of Sri Lankan and Japanese cuisine.

Rampe Rajagiriya has long earned a reputation as a go-to spot for friends and families, known for its welcoming environment and diverse menu options. It brings together traditional Sri Lankan dishes with Japanese items, catering to diners of all ages. Children can enjoy sushi while grandparents savour the Sri Lankan classics, says Rampe Director Avrille De Zoysa. 

In contrast, Rampe 7 in Colombo 7 is more upscale, designed for a mature audience seeking an elevated dining experience. However, De Zoysa adds: “It’s more of an upmarket look and feel, but we still embody that warm, cosy essence of Sri Lankan culture.”

A diverse menu showcasing Sri Lankan heritage

Designed to create an elevated, yet authentic experience of Sri Lankan fine dining, Rampe 7’s menu is full of dishes that highlight flavours from all corners of Sri Lanka.

From Jaffna crab curry to tomato curry from Ratnapura, and the South’s famed pol sambol, the dishes celebrate the country’s diversity. The team has meticulously researched traditional recipes to ensure a genuine experience, even naming certain dishes, such as ‘Soma’s mas curry’ after a cherished staff member who contributed to its creation. This homage to tradition, combined with the expertise of the chefs, gives every dish a story, making each a memorable experience.

From ‘gova thel dala’ (cabbage) to ‘kos’ (jackfruit), the owners of Rampe also emphasise that Rampe uses local produce. The menu also features classic local favourites like pittu, roast paan, and hoppers, ensuring that guests can experience the comfort of a home-cooked meal with a gourmet twist. For those living in urban Colombo apartments, these dishes would help them experience a traditional piece of home that they may not always be able to recreate in their city rooms and kitchens.

Additionally, “all our lunch packets go out in banana leaves, sticking to the authentic Sri Lanka fee. We serve our lamprais the same way,” De Soyza notes, highlighting the immersive nature of Rampe’s culinary experience.

The dishes are also made with inclusivity in mind, where they are not only medium-priced, but also halal. “This outlet is 100% Halal; no pork, and we made sure the entire establishment is compliant with Halal requirements,” she added.

While Rampe 7 does not serve alcohol, it is BYOB and even serves a bites-menu. Items include beloved Sri Lankan bar snacks, handallo, and kadala (spiced chickpeas), presented with the finesse of fine dining. Reminiscent of casual eateries and sports clubs, the bites reflect local culture, but with an elevated presentation under the elegant touch of De Zoysa.

A major part of the restaurant’s soul can also be credited to its head chef who has been working with Rampe since its Rajagiriya days. With over 20 years of experience in Sri Lankan cuisine, including stints at five-star establishments, the chef brings to the table a unique blend of traditional knowledge and contemporary creativity. His dedication ensures that each dish not only tastes exceptional but stays true to its roots. This blend of experience and innovation has kept customers coming back, with Rampe Rajagiriya enjoying consistent praise since its opening.

Elegant, culturally-rich ambience

From wall paintings of dancers to the black and white floors and artfully hand-picked furniture, Rampe 7’s interior is designed to emulate a careful blend of Sri Lankan and Indian heritage. 

“We wanted to bring out the Kandyan kingdom feel, the mandala symbols, and combine it with the royal Indian essence to fit the Maharaja Palace location,” says De Zoysa, excitedly highlighting what makes Rampe 7 feel both grand and inviting.

While Rampe 7 offers a fine-dining experience, the essence of warmth and comfort remains central. In a city where Sri Lankan fine-dining is rare, Rampe 7 stands out as a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the island, offering both locals and visitors an immersive taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, all within a setting that celebrates the beauty and complexity of the culture.

With its focus on providing a refined dining environment, the restaurant also offers private rooms equipped with soundbars, karaoke, and televisions, offering guests the freedom to personalise their experience.

The journey towards Rampe 7

The story behind Rampe began over a decade ago when the founders were involved in bringing a Japanese restaurant chain to Sri Lanka. Following an unexpected tragedy involving their Japanese business partner, the groundwork they had laid led to the opening of the first Japanese restaurant in Negombo. As COVID-19 took over the world in 2020, the founders saw an opportunity to pivot from Japanese cuisine to authentic Sri Lankan fare, supporting local farmers and suppliers who were facing difficulties.

The idea of Rampe 7 came to fruition when the founders recognised the potential of a space in Colombo 7. Within two months, the concept became a reality, and Rampe 7 opened its doors. The initial months were challenging, but word of mouth about the quality and authenticity of the food has already established a loyal customer base, said De Zoysa. 

Pix by Lasantha Kumara