In a triumph for authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, Colombo Kitchen – Hopper & Kottu Bar, a popular restaurant located in Worcester Park, Merton, UK, has been announced as a Blue Ribbon winner at the Good Food Awards 2024. Despite facing challenges during its opening in 2019 on the brink of the Covid-19 outbreak, the restaurant has not only persevered but has also garnered a reputation for its exceptional offerings.
Headed by Chef Sylvia Perera, a skilled chef trained in Australia, Colombo Kitchen has established itself as a go-to spot for those seeking genuine Sri Lankan flavors and innovative cocktails. Over the past four years, the restaurant has received numerous accolades, including the Best Sri Lankan Restaurant of the Year 2023 at the Asian Restaurant Awards, a top-three placement in the Surry Life Chef of the Year Awards, and recognition at the Good Food Awards 2023.
Chef Sylvia Perera expressed her gratitude, emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to delivering an outstanding dining experience. Despite opening its doors just before the pandemic, Colombo Kitchen has not only weathered the challenges but has thrived, becoming a symbol of high-quality food and impeccable service.
A standout on the menu is the Lamprais, a distinctive rice and curry dish served with banana leaves, touted as exclusive to Colombo Kitchen in London. Additionally, the seafood offerings, including the Negombo prawn curry and crab curry, have become customer favorites, contributing to the restaurant's widespread acclaim.
The restaurant gained international attention when an influencer highlighted it on Instagram, leading to visitors traveling from as far as Australia to experience its culinary delights. Chef Sylvia Perera expressed joy at the viral recognition, stating, "Our restaurant went viral on Instagram… we have had customers from as far as Australia coming to visit us to try our food."
Colombo Kitchen is among the proud recipients of the Good Food Awards in south London this year. These awards, based on food quality, service, and value, recognize 11 businesses for their culinary excellence. The Good Food Awards, initiated in 2022, celebrate outstanding contributions to the culinary landscape, spanning cafes, restaurants, and takeaways.
Chef Sylvia Perera concluded, "We are absolutely thrilled that Colombo Kitchen has been honored with a prestigious blue ribbon award from the Good Food Awards. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our exceptional staff, whose unwavering dedication and hard work have been instrumental in propelling Colombo Kitchen to the heights of success we have achieved."
