Cinnamon Grand Colombo’s Ramadan iftar at the Cedar Room unfolds this year in a space many Colombo regulars will recognise, the former Cheers Pub.
Yet the transition from lively watering hole to reflective dining venue feels natural. The room’s warm wooden tones, low lighting, and intimate layout lend themselves well to the quiet anticipation that marks the breaking of fast. There is a sense of enclosure and calm, helped along by attentive service and a layout that allows families and groups to gather without feeling crowded.
The buffet is firmly rooted in Pakistani and Middle Eastern culinary traditions. There is no attempt to dilute the concept with Western staples. No pasta counter. No generic grills. For some diners, that may require a small adjustment of expectation. For others, it will be precisely the point. This is a focused menu, and it works because it commits to its theme.
The evening traditionally begins with kanji and dates, setting a comforting tone. The kanji in particular is very flavourful without being spicy and is certain to be a crowd favourite. From there, the spread opens up into a substantial selection of kebabs and koftas, easily among the strongest elements of the meal.
The variety is impressive. Shish tawook, kibbeh, grilled chicken variations, and spiced minced preparations are all handled with care. The seasoning is confident without being overpowering. Each piece carries depth of flavour, with balanced use of spice rather than blunt heat. The meats remain moist, which is not always guaranteed in buffet settings.
The beef biriyani is also a highlight, a departure from the usual chicken or mutton, and quite welcome. The rice is fragrant and well separated, carrying the aroma of whole spices without becoming heavy. More importantly, the beef is cooked to a tenderness that signals patience in preparation. Each portion yields easily, rich but not greasy, and properly integrated into the rice rather than sitting apart from it. In a buffet built around robust flavours, this dish anchors the meal.
A live shawarma station adds energy to the room. Watching the carving of layered meat from the rotating spit brings movement to the otherwise steady rhythm of buffet service. The shawarma itself is satisfying, wrapped fresh with the expected accompaniments and offering a welcome contrast to the plated mains.
Alongside this, a selection of roasted meats provides further substance, appealing to diners who prefer simpler preparations seasoned well and allowed to speak for themselves.
The spread continues with hummus, fresh breads, curries including a well-executed mutton speciality, and traditional desserts such as Umm Ali. The dessert selection remains in keeping with the overall theme, resisting the temptation to add unrelated sweets for the sake of variety.
What defines this iftar experience is clarity. The kitchen knows the direction it has chosen and delivers within that framework. For those seeking a Westernised buffet with familiar international options, this may not be the right setting.
For diners looking to experience a menu grounded in Pakistani and Middle Eastern flavours, executed with consistency and respect for tradition, Cinnamon Grand Colombo’s Ramadan offering delivers a cohesive and satisfying evening in a setting that feels quietly appropriate for the season.