In the heart of Thimbirigasyaya lies a hidden gem that beckons with its lush greenery and inviting ambiance – the Al Fresco Garden Café. The Daily Morning Brunch had the pleasure of sitting down with the dynamic duo behind this unique establishment, Dhanushka Ranasinghe and Emi Senevirathne, the co-founders whose vision brought this delightful spot to life.
As we settled in for our chat, we were eager to learn about the origins of this captivating café. “Could you tell us a little bit about how you guys got into the restaurant business and what prompted you to open this particular venue?” we inquired. The response was a story of chance, shared passion, and a desire for something fresh in the culinary landscape of Colombo.
The co-founders, who have been family friends for years, stumbled upon the idea almost serendipitously. Dhanushka discovered the rundown space, suffused with a sense of neglect, yet brimming with potential. It was the allure of transforming this canvas into a haven of greenery and tranquillity that sparked their venture. “We want to bring something different to Colombo,” he expressed. “A place where people can escape the busy life, relax, and indulge in a different kind of café experience.”
This vision is palpable as you step into Al Fresco Garden Café. The space is a harmonious blend of urban charm and natural serenity. The founders emphasised their aspiration for the café to become a hub of creativity – a place where artists, writers, and like-minded individuals could gather, share ideas, and find inspiration amidst the verdant surroundings.
The menu
The café’s menu mirrors this ethos of diversity and comfort. “We’ve curated a menu with a wide variety of options,” Emi explained. From gourmet sandwiches and wraps to hearty pastas and pizzas, the offerings cater to diverse palates. Everything is made in-house, ensuring freshness and quality in every bite.
Beyond the culinary delights, Al Fresco Garden Café hosts events like pop-ups and music sessions to engage the community and foster a sense of belonging. “We want this place to be more than just a café,” Emi shared. “It’s a space where connections are made, ideas are born, and creativity thrives.”
A standout feature is the brunch menu, available on weekends, which promises a delightful selection of dishes designed to elevate the weekend dining experience. Additionally, the café boasts a separate menu for patrons seeking a casual drink and light bites – a thoughtful touch that caters to varied preferences.
As our conversation drew to a close, we couldn’t help but appreciate the passion and dedication these entrepreneurs exuded. “We want to build a community around this place,” they emphasised. “A community that cherishes good food, great conversations, and a shared love for creativity.”
Al Fresco Garden Café isn’t just another eatery in Colombo – it’s a sanctuary tucked away from the urban chaos, waiting to be discovered. With its lush setting, inviting menu, and commitment to fostering a creative spirit, this café is poised to become a cherished retreat for locals and visitors alike. As Dhanushka aptly put it: “We’re not your typical café; we’re a little hidden treasure waiting to be found – a secret café, if you will.”
Our picks
As food enthusiasts always on the lookout for the next culinary adventure, we found ourselves eager to sample their enticing menu offerings and experience the tranquil ambiance that had been generating buzz around town.
Our afternoon began with a refreshing start as we ordered the salted caramel frappe and strawberry iced tea. The frappe was a delightful blend of creamy sweetness with just the right touch of saltiness, making it a perfect pick-me-up treat. The strawberry iced tea was equally satisfying, with a refreshing fruity flavour that was ideal for the warm afternoon.
Next up was the shakshuka – a Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring poached eggs in a rich tomato and bell pepper sauce. This savoury concoction was served with warm crusty bread for dipping, and it proved to be a comforting and flavoursome choice. The eggs were perfectly cooked and the sauce was seasoned just right, leaving us impressed with the attention to detail.
Moving on to the main courses, we indulged in a spread of hearty dishes. The tandoori chicken pizza caught our eye with its vibrant colours and aromatic spices. The pizza crust was thin and crispy, topped generously with tandoori-marinated chicken, onions, and bell peppers, creating a fusion of Indian flavours on Italian dough – a delightful surprise that left our taste buds tingling.
The spicy chicken wings were a definite highlight – a mouthwatering combination of crispy skin and tender meat coated in a fiery sauce that packed a punch. This dish was a must-try for spice enthusiasts and we couldn’t get enough of the addictive flavour.
For something more substantial, we savoured the grilled chicken with ham, cheese, bell pepper, and onions. This dish was a satisfying medley of flavours and textures, with the grilled chicken complemented perfectly by the salty ham and gooey melted cheese. The fresh vegetables added a delightful crunch, making each bite a delightful experience.
Throughout our meal, we couldn’t help but appreciate the serene surroundings of Al Fresco Garden Café. The lush greenery and open-air setting provided a welcome escape from the bustling city outside – a perfect backdrop for a leisurely dining experience.
If you find yourself yearning for a moment of tranquillity amid the urban landscape of Colombo, venture into Al Fresco Garden Café. Indulge in their culinary delights, soak in the ambiance, and perhaps, who knows, spark your next creative endeavour in this hidden oasis.
Photos Eshan Dasanayaka