KOLAMBA founders to open second London restaurant: KOLAMBA EAST

This spring, Kolamba's founders, Eroshan and Aushi Meewella, are set to unveil Kolamba East, their second culinary venture in London, situated on Blossom Street in Spitalfields. Building upon the triumph of their inaugural establishment in Soho in 2019, Kolamba East will continue to showcase the Meewellas' innovative interpretation of Sri Lankan home-cooking, bringing the dynamic and rich flavours of Colombo to the east side of the city.

Drawing inspiration from their upbringing in Colombo, the menu at Kolamba East will revive cherished recipes passed down through generations, highlighting the diverse culinary tapestry of the city's heritage. Crafted by Eroshan from treasured family and community traditions, these dishes celebrate the cultural mosaic of Sinhalese, Tamil, Moor, Burger (Dutch), and Malay influences that define Sri Lanka's capital.

Guests at Kolamba East can anticipate an array of new dishes inspired by the Meewellas' nostalgic memories of the island, including a selection of generous feasting plates designed for communal enjoyment, alongside the beloved 'short eats' snacks, signature hoppers, and aromatic sambols that patrons have come to adore. The 92-cover restaurant will find its home in the Norton Folgate development, strategically positioned at the crossroads of Spitalfields, Shoreditch, and the city, conveniently close to Liverpool Street Station.

Adding a fresh dimension to the Kolamba experience, the new venue will feature a dedicated central bar, a first for the brand, serving cocktails infused with Sri Lankan spirits and ingredients mirroring the culinary offerings. Additionally, two private dining rooms will cater to those seeking a more intimate setting for special occasions.

Renowned London studio FARE INC., led by Annie Harrison, in collaboration with WhiteBox London, the property development and design firm co-founded by Aushi and Eroshan, has spearheaded the interior design of Kolamba East. Inspired by the award-winning design of Kolamba's Soho location, the space pays homage to the iconic Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa, embracing the Tropical Modernism movement he pioneered. Plaster relief panels adorned with leaf motifs, emerald marble flooring, juxtaposed with timber panelling and original exposed brickwork, evoke a sense of tropical elegance.

Through Whitebox, Aushi has fostered partnerships with local artists and suppliers to spotlight emerging Sri Lankan talent and infuse the design with elements unique to the island. This includes the incorporation of batik fabrics by designer Sonali Dharmawardena, a captivating diptych featuring water buffalo by artist Pragreeth Manohansa, and bespoke dining furniture and lotus-inspired lamps meticulously crafted by artisans in Colombo.

Expressing their excitement for the launch of Kolamba East, Eroshan and Aushi Meewella remarked, “We are thrilled to introduce Kolamba to east London this spring, offering our guests a fresh, elevated dining experience in this remarkable space.”