Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo woos Thai food enthusiasts this weekend

Cinnamon Lakeside General Manager Nazoomi Azhar (left) with Ambassador of Thailand to Sri Lanka Paitoon Mahapannaporn (centre)

Royal Thai newly appointed Thai Chef Winai Piaphung (left) with Ambassador of Thailand to Sri Lanka Paitoon Mahapannaporn

Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo hosted an exclusive Thai dinner on Thursday, marking the commencement of the highly anticipated Thai Food Festival at the hotel’s signature Royal Thai restaurant. 

The elegant evening was graced by Asian ambassadors, high commissioners, dignitaries, and members of the media, celebrating the long-standing ties between Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo and the Royal Thai Embassy.

The event, hosted by General Manager Nazoomi Azhar, highlighted the rich culinary heritage of Thailand while reinforcing the strong bond shared with the Royal Thai Embassy. Special recognition was given to Ambassador of Thailand to Sri Lanka Paitoon Mahapannaporn and the Thai Embassy staff for their unwavering support in bringing this festival to life.

“We are honoured to partner with the Royal Thai Embassy to present this unique culinary journey to our guests. This evening is a testament to the enduring friendship between our institutions and our shared commitment to celebrating Thai culture and cuisine in Sri Lanka,” said Azhar in his address.

The evening also served as an introduction to Chef Winai Piaphung, the newly appointed Thai Chef at Royal Thai. Chef Piaphung, with his expertise in authentic Thai flavours, has meticulously curated a special menu for the festival, showcasing his culinary artistry. He has worked closely with Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo’s Executive Chef Ashan Liyanage and his talented team to create a gastronomic experience that is both traditional and innovative.

Guests enjoyed an exquisite menu that highlighted signature Thai dishes crafted with premium ingredients and presented with flair. The festival promises to be a feast for the senses, inviting patrons to savour the vibrant and diverse flavours of Thailand.

Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo’s Thai Food Festival will run at the Royal Thai restaurant until Sunday 22 December, and promises a tantalising journey through Thailand’s diverse culinary heritage, featuring an array of signature dishes meticulously prepared to highlight the unique flavours and ingredients that define Thai gastronomy. Some of the festival’s highlights include:

• Crispy prawn cakes: Perfectly golden fried with a burst of fresh prawn flavour.
• Pad Thai: A quintessential stir-fried noodle dish blending tamarind, peanuts, and fragrant herbs.
• Spiced honey pork knuckle: Tender, slow-cooked pork glazed with a sweet and spicy honey sauce.
• Chicken in pandan leaf: Succulent chicken wrapped in aromatic pandan leaves.
• Yellow Curry Crab: Sweet crab meat in a creamy yellow curry sauce, capturing the essence of Thai comfort food.
• Stir-fried beef with chili paste and peppercorns: A fiery, aromatic stir-fry balancing heat and tenderness.
• Lamb with hot basil and red chili: A bold and fragrant dish featuring fresh basil and red chili.

To conclude the meal on a sweet note, the festival offers classic Thai desserts such as:

• Mango sticky rice: Creamy coconut sticky rice paired with ripe mango.
• Lychee tart: A light and fruity dessert perfect for ending the feast.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Thai cuisine or eager to explore its diverse flavours for the first time, the Thai Food Festival at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo is an event not to be missed. This unique celebration of Thai food, culture, and hospitality promises an unforgettable experience for all.

Mark your calendars and join us at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo from 20 to 22 December, for an extraordinary dining experience that brings the flavours of Thailand to your plate. For reservations and inquiries, contact 071 249 1491.