- A multi-cuisine spot set to win hearts
It’s not often that a restaurant manages to strike the right balance between being approachable, family-friendly, and yet ambitious enough to aim for global recognition. Cuisine Colombo seems to have found that sweet spot.
Tucked within the Sri Lanka Tennis Association in Colombo 7, Courtside by Cuisine Colombo is the brand’s third outlet: an expansion that came within a few years of opening. That in itself speaks volumes about the steady following it has already gained.
The vision behind Cuisine Colombo is simple but far-reaching: To become a recognised restaurant chain, locally and internationally, serving ‘top quality food with an array of dishes to cater to a majority’. It’s a bold goal, but judging by our visit, one that doesn’t feel out of reach.
“We wanted to create a place where anyone could walk in, kids, families, young professionals, even health-conscious diners, and find something they genuinely enjoy,” said founder and Managing Director Sushan Peiris. “Food is for everyone, and Cuisine Colombo reflects that.”
First impressions
The location itself is casual and inviting. The atmosphere feels more like a hangout spot than a stiff dining room, making it an easy choice for both weekday lunches and weekend family outings. The staff is friendly without being overbearing, and the menu, spanning European, Italian, Asian, Chinese, American, and even Thai, is approachable for every kind of diner.
With chefs who have trained in five-star hotels and cruise lines around the world, Cuisine Colombo brings experience to the table, but without any of the intimidation. It’s comfort food, world-style, with an emphasis on freshness, quality, and hygiene.
Starters
We began with two small plates: The Buffalo Wings and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich. The wings came with just the right amount of kick – enough heat to please those who like spice, but not so much that it overwhelms the palate. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, it was an addictive start. The grilled cheese, on the other hand, was pure nostalgia: golden, crisp bread with gooey melted cheese inside. Simple but satisfying in a way that proves the team knows the value of nailing the basics.
Mains
The mains at Cuisine Colombo showcase the range of cuisines on offer, and we sampled a little bit of everything.
The Spaghetti Bolognaise was hearty and familiar, with a tomato-rich sauce and a generous portion size; exactly the sort of dish that wins over both kids and adults alike.
From the Asian side of the menu, the Chicken Nasi Goreng stood out. Packed with flavour, it came with the classic accompaniments, and had just the right balance of spice and texture. This dish, in particular, felt like a crowd-pleaser, one you could happily share at a group table.
Seafood fans will find the Seafood Platter a worthy choice. It’s one of those dishes that feels celebratory, with its mix of grilled prawns, calamari, and fish, all well-seasoned and fresh.
The Grilled Spring Chicken was tender, smoky, and well-paired with its sides. And then came the Chicken Cordon Bleu, a dish that often divides opinion because it can so easily go wrong. Here, however, it delivered a crunchy exterior giving way to juicy chicken and cheese inside. It was rich but satisfying, and easily one of the highlights of the meal.
Desserts
We opted for two house specials: Ammi’s Cream Caramel and CC’s Signature Tiramisu.
The cream caramel was homely and comforting, the kind of dessert that tastes like it was made with care. It wasn’t too sweet, which made it even more enjoyable after a filling meal.
The tiramisu, on the other hand, carried a bit more flair. Light, coffee-soaked layers came together beautifully, and it felt like a signature worth returning for.
The big play
What makes Cuisine Colombo interesting isn’t just the food, it’s the story behind it. The restaurant was born out of pure passion. For Peiris, starting his own restaurant chain wasn’t just a business decision; it was a dream. “I’ve always loved the idea of bringing people together through food,” he shared. “Cuisine Colombo is about inclusivity. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, meat-lover, or simply someone who wants a healthy option, we’ve made sure there’s something for you.”
That inclusivity shines through in the menu’s range. You don’t need to be adventurous to eat here, but if you are, there’s plenty to explore. Families with children will appreciate the variety, while groups of friends can easily find dishes to share. The team behind the kitchen is experienced. Having chefs who have worked in top hotels and cruise lines brings a certain polish to the food, even when it’s presented in a casual setting. That balance, between high standards and everyday accessibility, is what sets Cuisine Colombo apart.
Part of Cuisine Colombo’s success lies in not overcomplicating things. The dishes are straightforward, the portions generous, and the prices reasonable given the quality and variety. By keeping the focus on taste, freshness, and approachability, the restaurant has created a formula that appeals to a wide cross-section of diners.
As Sushan put it: “We want to be recognised not just for our food, but for the feeling people get when they dine with us. It’s about quality, freshness, and above all, creating a space where everyone feels welcome.”