Gourmet Galle welcomes Tom Parker Bowles to Colombo and Galle

Doornberg

Galle Face Hotel

Gourmet Galle hosted Tom Parker Bowles, son of Queen Camilla, at 1864, Galle Face Hotel in Colombo for an unforgettable Royal Banquet. 

Gourmet Galle brought its signature culinary extravagance to Colombo, welcoming the award-winning food writer, renowned restaurant critic and royal food historian. 

Known for his deep dive into the tastes and traditions of the British monarchy, Parker Bowles brought an exquisite journey through royal dining history, stretching from the Victorian era to the present day. His latest book ‘Cooking and the Crown: Royal Recipes from Queen Victoria to King Charles III’ explores the grandeur of royal cuisine, offering recipes that have graced coronations, state banquets and intimate royal meals alike. The evening was an enchanting experience with behind-the-scenes glimpses into royal feasts, traditions and the fascinating personalities of palace kitchens through the ages.

Yesterday, the iconic Galle Face Hotel, a landmark of colonial elegance and Sri Lankan heritage since 1864, hosted this extraordinary event. 

A delectable selection of canapés was followed by a sit-down feast of historic royal dishes, including Scotch Broth, Crab Mousse, Barramundi, Chicken Fricasée or the regal Les Petits Vol au Vents for vegetarian diners. Accompaniments such as Pommes Elizabeth, Petit Pois à la Française and Mushrooms à la Crème enhanced the flavours of an already lavish menu. The grand finale was an exquisite Bomb Glacée, famously served at Princess Elizabeth’s wedding breakfast, alongside Fraises à la Chantilly, a sweet staple of royal tables. Handcrafted petits fours and a selection of fine cocktails and wines rounded off this majestic evening.

For those seeking an intimate affair with Bowles, the journey continues to Galle on March 2, 2025 at the breathtaking Doornberg. This stunning hilltop residence, overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort and the Indian Ocean, has long been regarded as the most beautiful home in Galle. A fusion of Dutch colonial charm and contemporary elegance, Doornberg offers an ambience of serenity and sophistication, perfect for an evening of drinks, supper and engaging conversation with the esteemed author. Nestled within a lush acre of garden, this private retreat will serve as the setting for a memorable gathering featuring exquisite cuisine and fine company.

At Doornberg, an exquisite culinary experience awaits you, featuring a selection of traditional and indulgent dishes. Savour the comforting Potage Parmentier, followed by a delightful assortment of savoury bites, including Mutton Pies, Potted Crab, Ham and Mustard Sandwiches and Smoked Salmon Sandwiches. To conclude, indulge in classic desserts such as Rhubarb Fool, Chocolate Bavarois, Balmoral Shortbread and Ginger Cake. 

With an unparalleled celebration of royal gastronomy, history and storytelling, Gourmet Galle welcomes Tom Parker Bowles to Sri Lanka. From the grandeur of state banquets at the iconic Galle Face Hotel in Colombo to the refined elegance of a private supper at Doornberg in Galle, immerse yourself in an extraordinary journey through regal indulgence, tradition and culinary excellence.