Whether you’re hung over and craving something spicy, or someone with an insatiable palate requiring wholesome and tasty food, Oporto is the place to be. Situated at Food Studio’s Atrium – the new and hip Colombo City Centre – Oporto facilitates the celebration of good food and culture, whilst hoping to introduce a unique dining experience to its local fans here in Sri Lanka. Following months of anticipation, Oporto opened its doors to its Sri Lankan fans on 16 October. The launch was graced with the presence of Australia’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka H.E Bryce Hutchesson. Since its introduction to the public in 1986 by Portuguese immigrant Antonio Cerqueira, Oporto currently houses a network of 165 outlets across Australia alone. The franchise took place in partnership with Ataraxia Capital Partners, whereby it furthered itself by extending its brand to Singapore first, and then to Sri Lanka. Something Oporto’s customers should look forward to would be their signature flame-grilled chicken topped with its unique blend of Portuguese influenced chilli sauce. We tried this, and it was cooked to absolute perfection; the chilli sauce on it was a good fit with the grilled chicken that fell off the bone. The Portuguese influenced chilli sauce is truly unique, and was also served up with its trademark Bondi Burger and a generous side of fries. This rather flavoursome sauce isn’t your average chilli sauce for it complements the local palette. Bryce Hutchesson said: “In Australia, when I want to grab a quick meal after work, I would go to Oporto. It has good food, and I’m sure people in Sri Lanka would love the chillies, spices and the great flavours.” Oporto also offers a variety of dishes, from a selection of mouth-watering wraps, salads, rice bowls and sides to desserts. Customers are also guaranteed a 100% authentic Oporto experience as the local culinary team is instilled with specialised training in Australia. Oporto International CEO Craig Tozer added that they’re honoured to have brought their brand to a nation that’ll appreciate the culinary experience they wish to offer. He said: “We’re delighted to be here, and we’re looking to have an impact on the young community here as well.” Whilst Ataraxia Capital Partners Co-founder and Partner Sharad Sri assured us that they look forward to opening more outlets right here in Sri Lanka, he said that Rajagiriya is set to be their next location. By Chenelle Fernando Photos Indika Handuwala