• Softlogic to reposition heritage site as Colombo’s top food and lifestyle hub
• New zones to include premium dining, casual eats, co-working space
• 10,000 sq ft co-working area, Colombo Wax Museum part of relaunch
• SL’s first conveyor belt hot pot and non-alcoholic bar to debut

Arcade Independence Square is set to undergo a dynamic transformation by December, positioning itself as Colombo’s premier food and beverage destination while simultaneously introducing a state-of-the-art 10,000 sq ft co-working space designed to attract entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals to the heart of the city.

Speaking to The Sunday Morning Business, Softlogic Holdings PLC Leisure Sector and Group Asset Management Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sid Solanki stated that Arcade Independence Square was entering a bold new chapter, transforming into the city’s leading food and beverage destination.

He said that with a renewed vision and strategic repositioning, Arcade would curate a vibrant mix of culinary experiences, bringing together celebrated local eateries, international brands, and innovative food concepts. 

Solanki added that with this transformation, which would be fully effected by December, Arcade would be elevated into a dynamic lifestyle hub, where timeless architecture met contemporary indulgence.

“We are reimagining Arcade Independence Square not just as a retail space, but as a culinary and cultural experience,” he stated.

“Our goal is to create a destination that resonates with Colombo’s evolving urban lifestyle, offering something truly unique for both locals and tourists.”

Solanki further noted that, as part of the transformation, Arcade would be restructured into three distinct zones: a restaurant zone, a casual dining zone, and a lifestyle zone. 

According to him, the restaurant zone, which overlooks the Victorian lawns, will showcase a curated selection of seven premium dining establishments. 

These include Department of Coffee, May’s Table offering urban Thai cuisine, The Terrace by Koluu, Nidahas Bar featuring Sri Lanka’s finest arrack, We Ai Family, which is Sri Lanka’s first conveyor belt hot pot restaurant, and Sober Social, the country’s first non-alcoholic bar. 

In addition to these, several international food brands and a new bar are set to make their debut in Sri Lanka by the end of the year.

Solanki noted that the agreement with Department of Coffee would be entered into tomorrow (11).

Commenting on the casual dining zone, he noted that it would be tailored for relaxed, everyday dining, featuring a diverse mix of quick-service and informal eateries. 

Among the highlights are Burger King; Domino’s; Blooming Breakfast, which will involve a unique 24x7 concept; and Vito’s Pizza. Complementing these will be 10 innovative food truck concepts, collectively fostering a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere that encourages spontaneity and social connection. 

According to him, the lifestyle zone will feature a proposed 10,000 sq ft co-working space complemented by a curated café experience, specifically designed to support start-ups, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. 

Adding to its cultural appeal, the zone will also house the Colombo Wax Museum, which is scheduled to open in Q3 2025. 

He further claimed that in order to enhance the overall experience, the transformation would include upgraded infrastructure to support premium dining, alongside a strong emphasis on community engagement through curated events, seasonal activations, and pop-up concepts. 

“With its architectural charm, central location, and elevated culinary offerings, Arcade Independence Square is set to become the heartbeat of Colombo’s food scene, blending elegance, flavour, and heritage,” he said.