THREADS OF TIME – INDEED A SHOW LIKE NO OTHER

Threads of Time, a fashion extravaganza that was billed as a show like no other, indeed lived upto its promise by exceeding all expectations.

Organiser and Architect of the show Anita Dorai pulled out all stops to ensure that this was indeed the fashion of the decade to be held in Sri Lanka, while designer Kavita Thulasidas embedded Stylemart in the minds of the Sri Lankan audience forever with her spectacular one of a kind couture outfits that took the audience by storm!

Imran Saibo of Funtime put up one of the best shows of his career in a production that started promptly on time, ran smoothly and seamlessly, while choreographer Brian Kerkoven showed his mettle by proving that Sri Lankan choreographers can hold their own and put up a show that is on par with any international catwalk event.

The show was slick and quick and sans the boring repetitions so familiar with catwalk shows where models are compelled to walk the runway repeatedly in the faint hope that the audience will get a better idea of the clothes displayed. Brian definitely proved to all present that slick and quick is the way to go to ensure that clothes are best displayed and appreciate din a catwalk show.

 

Newlyweds Stephanie and Dushmanth’s renderings of the timeless classic from the Godfather with which the show opened, paved the way for an unforgettable evening and the audience was hard pressed as to which was the better clothes segment. There was something for everyone with dazzling saris, fusion wear, clothes reminiscent of the Gatsby era, cocktail dresses and more, that left the audience in a state of entrancement. Chiffons, Silks, Crystal, Georgettes, and Velvets in a myriad rainbow hues , embellished with beads, sequins, intricate embroidery and Crystals, ensured that Anita and Kavita’s maiden effort in Sri Lanka will definitely go down in the annals of Sri Lankan fashion history.

 

Threads of Time – a show like no other? Indeed so it was!

Tiesh unveils Sri Lanka’s largest Gems and Jewellery Emporium

Tiesh, the leading jewellers both in Kandy and Colombo, recently unveiled its massive 27,000 sq ft showroom and now goes on record as having Sri Lanka’s largest ever Gems and Jewellery Emporium, all under one roof.

Famously known as “Lakmini (Pvt) Ltd” since its launch in 1997, this showroom at No 676, Peradeniya Road, is now completely revamped and rebranded as ‘Tiesh’, and is a virtual haven for both walk-in customers, tourists and the eagle-eyed connoisseur.

Tiesh already holds the record for owning the largest showroom in Sri Lanka since the opening of the Gallery of Sapphires in 2016, a landmark achievement at the same premises.

This new venture expands its portfolio with the addition of over 14,000sq ft of plush showroom AND an additional 13,000sq ft of service areas featuring auditoriums and theatres. The current expansion includes the new state-of-the-art workshop and museum in addition to the existing laboratory, auditorium and the near-real replica of the gem mine.

“This resplendent outlet lays claim to Tiesh’s commitment towards enhancing the customer experience and feel of being part of something more than the mere purchase of a dazzling piece of jewellery. It is an immersive journey into a culture, spawned centuries ago, in a land which continues to appeal to the heart of gems and jewellery connoisseurs from around the world,” said its visionary Founder and Managing Director, Lasantha de Fonseka, adding that customers will be enthralled by Sri Lanka’s gemological story. “The success of Tiesh as Sri Lanka’s leading gems and jewellery provider, is also due to the dedication and passion of my family, staff, tour operators and loyal customers.”

Over the years Tiesh has burgeoned into a brand of great repute. The 27,000sq foot Emporium features an exquisite array of authentic gems and handcrafted pieces of jewellery set in both precious and semi-precious gem stones, highlighting the world famed Sri Lankan Blue Sapphires and more.

All items are intricately designed with precious metals ranging from gold (yellow, white and rose in 22k, 18k and 14k) to sterling silver. With a keen eye for detail, the one-of-a-kind jewellery is crafted to international standards and designed to mesmerise.

This family-owned establishment which began on 05 September 1997, has, over the past three decades acquired great celebrity status in the local and international sphere. Spearheaded by its Founder / Managing Director Lasantha De Fonseka and his wife Bryony, Tiesh is joined by the equally hands-on next generation, with daughter Thiyasha and son Ayesh who are committed to providing an unparalleled expertise and a personal interest in each customer who steps into a world of brilliance.

The Tiesh Emporium is designed with the intention of sparking an appeal to delve into the milestones of the gem industry; from the history of the stones to the entire production, prior to becoming a gift of love, a family heirloom or an indulgence to the customer.

As one of Sri Lanka’s leading contemporary jewellers, Tiesh is not only a jewellery store with a reputation to match. It is also an engaging and hands-on learning experience. It inspires that ethereal feel of being ensconced in a world of one’s own, in which gems and jewellery take precedence. A step into the showroom lures you to luxuriate in the story of every sparkle uniquely created just for you.

TAMBA VILLAS, THE ULTIMATE IN PARADISE LIVING

The Southern coast which in recent times has witnessed a flurry of development and related activities, will soon be home to an idyllic, luxurious yet at the same time, a home away from home development; Tamba Villas.

 

“To build a home that is so exceptional that coming home either for a holiday, or to live there permanently would be the ultimate in paradise living!  This is Eduard Hempel’s vision for his latest venture, Tamba Villas.  Eduard Hempel Director & Co-Project Principal for Tamba Villas, expressing his vision for his latest project, which will be in excess of US $ 15 million, went on to say, “we want to give each home owner an idyllic life in a beautiful, safe space with all the comforts of modern day living. Our collection of 37 Villas have been purpose-built for people who like to work, holiday or retire in one of the most beautiful areas of Galle, a place that affords them a 5-Star life-style; in short Tamba villas in  Thalpe”.

Each villa has been named after a tea estate and the overall look and feel is highly reminiscent of world renowned architect, Geoffrey Bawa.  “The courtyards and verandas and the general feel of the buildings echo that grandest and most delightful and celebrated period of Sri Lanka’s architecture, the Colonial period. Tamba Villas hearkens back to a bygone era where leisure and sheer gentility were the order of the day. Serenity, respite and tranquillity, combined with modern day 5-star amenities and luxury pampering, will be our hallmark”, said Hempel.

 

Tamba Villas is a delightful private coconut estate which is set back 300 metres from Thalpe beach (on the land side) surrounded by lush tropical gardens and swaying palm trees.  There is only a collection of 37 homes, which have been designed by an award-winning Singaporean Architectural team, to create a coastal lifestyle design with high-end amenities for living, working or early retiring in a much sought-after area in the south of Sri Lanka.

Since arriving in 2003 from the U.K, Eduard Hempel has immersed himself in the Sri Lankan property sector, with the goal of building happy and thriving businesses and making a difference in the local community. By working closely with the local culture, he has done just that. Hempel Holdings has a strong foundation in Galle and has grown to be a well established and grounded business. Over the years, Eduard has been a bridge for people looking to invest in Sri Lanka and he has helped many clients and businesses in the negotiation, acquisition and development of exceptional real estate.

 

Hempel Holdings has a track record of over 15 years in specialised property development. This has been the catalyst in building a good and fair reputation with both Sri Lankans and foreign investors.  Hempel is also Co-Director in Pearl Properties in Unawatuna, which has been operating for more than 12 years.

 

Hempel and Trevor Morgan Director & Co-Project Principal for Tamba Villas, expects to commence construction of this unique and niche development project in early 2019, while completion of Tamba Villas is estimated to be around late 2020.

With a degree in Combined Engineering, from Coventry University in the UK, Trevor founded his first company with a staff of seventeen, covering manufacture, design, administration and fittings. He then went on to gain extensive experience in construction and interiors, working in exclusive areas of Barcelona, which included eight development projects and a £8.6M development project in Kensington, UK. Trevor arrived in Sri Lanka in 2012 to set up Shakticola with Eduard Hempel, bringing his knowledge of managing construction projects from design through to completion, as well as his understanding and experience in achieving a high level of finish for luxury interiors. He has outstanding experience in high end interior and building products. Examples of such products are the Sea Heart House, Koggala Jungle View Villa and Thalpe Villa, to name just a few.

 

Tamba Villas is a collaboration between Shakticola and Award-winning A D Lab, a Singaporean Architectural firm focused on cutting edge residential projects, while STIX, another award-winning landscape designer designed the lush tropical gardens. Together, they have designed generous spaces for tropical living in the form of unique villa homes which coexist in harmony with nature.

 

Singaporean A D Lab is an award-winning firm which has created and completed residential and housing projects throughout Asia and will bring all their experience and knowledge to fashion something unique and edgy to tropical living, while paying tribute to the excellent historical architectural style of Sri Lanka.  A D Lab never duplicates developments – instead, they look at each project on its own merit according to the environment and local culture.

 

“The Tamba team wanted to build a development that did not overwhelm the landscape, instead ensuring that each Villa blends in sensitively around all the greenery, preserving the natural surrounding beauty”, said Hempel. “Tamba Villa buyers will also have the ease of purchasing a furniture package, either modern or classic, provided through a collaboration with a reputable company, which makes the whole process of buying and transporting furniture much easier”. Plans are also in place for a Business Centre, a visiting licensed doctor and a visiting beautician, while many other amenities will be added accordingly.

 

Tamba Estates Ptv Ltd, a Sri Lankan Limited company, owns 100% of the land that Tamba Villas will be built on. The in-house sales team at Tamba Villas office will be handling the sales in conjunction with Pearl Properties, one of the South’s leading agencies. Tamba Villas will also be working with global partners in Singapore, USA, Canada, Australia and the U.K., along with one of Britain’s leading digital sales specialists.

 

“We are confident your villa will be an excellent investment.  Property prices have been steadily going up over the last 5 years and will continue to rise, given our strong tourism sector and growing economy”, said Hempel. “With only 37 villas, we don’t expect they will be around for long.”

 

The core foundation of all of Hempel’s business endeavours is stamped with integrity and professionalism, and Tamba Villas is set to become a valuable asset on the southern coast.

Truly Grand Treatment at Le Grand, Galle

In keeping with its vision to offer exclusive leisure properties at key selected destinations, Asia Leisure, in partnership with Belluna Co. Ltd, Japan opened its sixth leisure property ‘Le Grand’ in Galle recently. With its attractive setting and offerings, the urban resort and lifestyle destination will cater to a variety of travellers.

Asia Leisure is a progressive hotel chain based in Sri Lanka and subsidiary of Asia Capital PLC. The business aims to harness the vibrancy of Sri Lanka’s hospitality and share it with the world. With a strong thrust on expansion, Asia Leisure is involved in multiple property development projects at present in Sri Lanka and overseas, with its first resort in the Maldives currently being built. The company currently owns and manages six luxury resorts.

Le Grand is a synonymous leisure/ hospitality name in Japan and with properties developed by Belluna such as Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort and Le Grand Kyu Karuizawa and based on the success of these properties, this latest property by Asia Leisure and Belluna will Co. Ltd will bring forth the same brand legacy.

“Asia Leisure is one of the most widely recognized resort brands in the Country and together with Belluna Co. Ltd, Japan we are pleased to add this hotel to our family,” said Chief Executive Officer of Asia Leisure, Reyhan Morris. “We will continue to expand our presence, delivering a unique sense of hospitality that makes guests feel at ease the moment they walk through the door. Le Grand, Galle exemplifies this unique service in terms of locality, the exceptional view of the Galle Fort and the modern amenities and services that we offer.”

Belluna Co. Ltd, Japan is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE), First Section, with a market capitalization of approximately USD 800 million.(Stocks listed on the TSE are separated into the First Section for large companies and Second Section for mid-sized companies). A diversified company with the core business of mail order, Belluna Co. Ltd, Japan also holds prominence in Real Estate Development. Beyond Tokyo, the company’s investments in real estate span the rest of the globe from Myanmar to the USA, including projects in Hollywood, Los Angeles and now Sri Lanka.

Many of the hotel’s guestrooms and suites have spellbinding views of the Indian Ocean and UNESCO World Heritage site Galle Fort, with the suites that include the plunge pool even being named after the Bastions of the Fort, – ranging from the 45-square-metre Deluxe Sea View Room to the elegantly styled Plungepool Suite offering 146 square metres of luxurious living space. The Sitting Room offers the greatest views of the entire hotel with a spacious open-air poolside terrace that provides a tranquil retreat from the urban lifestyle.

The hotel’s one-of-a-kind poolside bar, DIP offers delightful cocktail concoctions to complete the satiation of senses as guests relax on oversized sunbeds under the shade of giant umbrellas.

Le Grand, Galle takes a fresh approach to dining experiences with its use of rustic and ruggedly tropical décor. TASTE, an all-day dining restaurant offers the ambiance and simplicity of a modern bistro with food that is delightful and brings back memories of home. BLUE, the speciality seafood restaurant boasts an open kitchen, an enviable wine list and sprawling views of the deep blue ocean. The exquisite meals are prepared using seafood delivered daily by local fisherman.

Commenting on the architectural design of Le Grand, Galle, principal architect of the property, Philip Weeraratne from PWA Architects said, “Two extremely distinct and exclusive characteristics of this property were the stunning view of the world heritage monument, the Galle fort and its ramparts across the azure blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Absorbing all this, it was only natural that our creation and its form should be respectful in proportion, form and texture. We also wanted to position the spaces and unravel the hotel as an exciting maze of discoveries of long vistas and framed views of both the fort and ocean which were an ever changing mural and scape to feast your eyes on.”

The property offers a state-of-the-art gym, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, as well as beauty and massage treatments in the spa area where Balinese therapists combine traditional rituals with precious oils and salves to nurture, balance and restore a guest’s peace of body and mind.

Asia Leisure operates a number of luxury leisure properties including Shingawa Beach in Balapitiya, Tamarind Hill in Galle, Taprobana in Wadduwa, The River House in Balapitiya and its latest addition The Habitat in Kosgoda. Asia Leisure is currently engaged in an expansion drive to establish multiple properties in Galle, city hotels in Colombo and the Maldives.

Starry Starry Nights & Story Book Magic: amanté launches AW’18 collection

Walk in fairy dust and moonlight with amanté’s new collection ‘Starry Tales’, launching this September. Inspired by the dreamy satin textures and ethereal hues of moonlight, this Autumn/Winter 2018 collection from Sri Lanka’s leading designer lingerie brand is in stores now.

amanté’s AW’18 is inspired by the night and its ability to bring the mysterious to life. The collection centers itself celestially with the moon, and a garden that comes alive under its light. The key print is chrysanthemum- the runway flower of the season- with other key trends such as three-toned lace, leaf motifs and luminescent moonlit effects incorporated into the collection.

The collection’s key pieces include Moonlit Florals; an opulent darted, padded and wired demi bra with bikini. This piece incorporates both floral prints and three-toned lace inspired by the chrysanthemum, with a beautifully crafted cradle made of laminated satin overlapping at the centre-front. Midnight Shimmer is a moulded, padded and wired fully covered bra with cradle and bikini-the highlight of this piece is the iridescent two-toned fabric moulded for complete smoothness, with a trendy key-hole cut and a rhinestone charm. Lace Bloom features brooch embroidery moulded; Night Garden is a printed sweetheart bra available in both wired and non-wired styles; and Nocturne is imprinted with magical floral prints and trendy double-strapping center front details.

“We’re calling this campaign Starry Tales to try and capture the almost magical collection that the team has created,” says Niranjan Wijesekera, CEO, MAS Brands. “amanté has always catered to an audience that knows innerwear isn’t only functional-it can make you feel incredible if you choose the right design and cut. This collection nicely straddles the end of summer and the impending festive season in December.”

The launch event at Barefoot on Monday, 3 September also previewed Ultimo – MAS Brand’s newest brand for larger cup sizes. Ultimo was launched in 2017 for full figured South Asian women; the label has been embraced by a growing audience of full-figured women looking for lingerie that delivers perfect fit, support and comfort without compromising on style.

Both amanté and Ultimo are available at the flagship amanté store at the Racecourse mall in Colombo 07 and Kandy City Centre, where experienced fit consultants can guide customers to make the choice that fits best. The brands are also available at leading modern trade retail outlets island-wide and on the amanté e-commerce site www.amante.lk for shipping and delivery.

J-Town Food Festival

On Sunday the 16h of September, My Sister’s Kitchen will be collaborating with The Sandwich Factory to bring Colombo the funkiest fusion of Jaffna flavors with a western twist for ONE DAY ONLY!

Hisham Cader of The Sandwich Factory and Thushara Innasithamby of My Sister’s Kitchen have put their food expertise together to combine the best of both worlds and are excited to present to you their interpretation of traditional Jaffna cuisine inspired by precious family recipes.

Here is what you can expect to taste on the menu at the J-Town Festival!

Uppuma Balls with Prawn – Diced prawn stuffed in Uppuma balls served with a fresh pathola salad and prawn curry gravy on the side.

Pulled Beef Poriyal Toasties – Homestyle kade paan toasties with pulled beef poriyal. (Available in chicken & soya)

Spicy Cuttlefish Crostini – Jaffna-style devilled cuttlefish with karapincha butter and onion sambal.

Idly Sliders – Traditional Idly stuffed with spicy red fish curry and sambol and served with karapincha sambol and gravy.

Jaffna Curry Burger – Authentic Jaffna Chicken Curry served in a soft bun topped with a Jaffna-style omelet fried in gingelly oil. (Available in chicken & soya)

Poori Tacos – Pulled beef or chicken curry on soft-shell Pooris with karawila sambol. (Available in chicken & soya)

Big Jaffna Breakfast – This hearty meal features the classic roast paan, beef bone curry and a special Jaffna-style omelet fried in gingelly oil. (Available in chicken & soya)

We invite you to join Jaffna Boy on this culinary adventure as he presents his favorite home-cooked dishes for you to enjoy right here in Colombo. Let your tastebuds dance and sing to the hypnotic Jaffna beats because this is one food fiesta you will not want to miss out on!

Call The Sandwich Factory on 0114-333-363 to make a reservation or for more information!

#MSK #JTownFoodFestival #JaffnaStyle #SandwichFactory #Culinary #2k18 #MySistersKitchen

Five Fine Years

 

Everyone has a vision of their dream home. More often than not, it is something you have carried with you for years while growing up and finally being able to fulfill it and see it manifest right before your eyes is a dream come true. And then there are some folk, who have dreamed and envisioned not just their own home but also the homes of thousands of others. With such a vision to bring stylish homes to reality Martin Klement launched “Fine Furniture” five years ago.

 

The increasing demand in vertical living has seen the popularity of Fine Furniture literally sky-rocket in the span of half a decade. The quality of the products and services provided by the furniture and interior solutions provider has won it the trust of not only potential homeowners, but also of condominium developers, construction companies and the hotel sector.

 

Together with his partner Niluka, Martin found a gap in the stylish furniture market despite there being a considerable demand from those who wanted their homes to be a reflection of their taste and personality. Starting off with German-made HÄCKER Kitchens, the company soon found clients requesting for them to consider furnishing other parts of their homes. The high-quality kitchen units and appliances were just the beginning of a long-journey that today has Fine Furniture being a one-stop shop for stylish furniture, lighting solutions and accessories for all parts of your home.

 

The lifestyle store situated at 593/1/1 Nawala Road, Rajagiriya is today the go-to place for some of the most luxurious European home brands such as Koinor, Pacific Green, Flexa, Loddenkemper, Alpa Salotti, Bosch, Miele, Brandt, Bovictus Metaltex, Eurographic and Masterlight. Ranging from high-quality kitchen units and appliances, to plush designer sofas, chic interior solutions, modern lighting and even children’s furniture, Fine Furniture now has the entire gamut of a home owner’s needs within its lifestyle store.

 

Apart from individual houses that have been transformed to homes with a touch of class with Fine Furniture’s products, the company is also involved in some of the largest real estate and mixed-development projects coming up in the city. Fine Furniture has supplied complete interior solutions for projects such as Shangri-La, Clearpoint, Destiny 1 and Destiny 2 among many others.

 

In celebration of the five year milestone, Fine Furniture is also introducing an array of 29 different ready-made packages for homes to suit varying requirements. “Depending on your taste and budget, we can customize the packages that have been created, or if you tell us your requirement and budget we can match it with a package that we have already designed. What makes these packages unique is that we have sat with interior designers and decorators to create quality offerings no matter how much you pay for it. Although they are pre-designed we can make colour changes and adjustments so that no two homes ever look the same”, said Mahesha Perera, general Manager at Fine Furniture.

 

Having created a branch that truly resonates luxury, durability, quality and class, Martin Klement recently took a back seat at Fine Furniture handing over the reins to his new management team appointing Amila M Michael as Chief Executive Officer  and Mahesha Perera as General Manager to overall operational management of the company. He remains as the Chairman of the company strategically branching out the brand. “It was time for me to take a back seat and look at the bigger picture. Fine Furniture has had resounding success in the furniture market and created a niche for ourselves. It is time for me to now look at the next step and let the day to day operations be run by those who have moved up the ranks in our company very successfully”, Martin added.

 

For more information on Fine Furniture please contact 011 3355249 or 0113355244 or visit their website www.finefurniture.lk or email: office@finefurniture.lk

 

By Nishu Hassim

A New A La Carte Menu at CAFÉ KAI, Hilton Colombo

They say it’s gourmet on the go, it’s grab and go and it’s a quaint little corner in a busy lobby.  Café Kai is that place where one could just relax over a hot cuppa or a fresh juice and a salmon bagle or an oven fresh fruity Danish with a friend, colleague or on your own.

 

Café Kai has expanded the offering and you can now enjoy a limited edition of fine French casual cuisine offered on the a la carte menu at this same venue. A few of the dishes on the menu are the all-time favourite Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon or chicken ham, the Breakfast All Day which includes your choice of egg with home-made sausages, chicken or pork ham and hot toast on a platter, the Croque Monsieur; toasted French bread with chicken ham, béchamel and melted emmental cheese.  A treat for sausage lovers is the Bangers & Mash; home-made artisanal lamb and chicken sausage on top of mash, glazed carrots and peas served with onion gravy is a must try! The Fish Blanquette; a duet of salmon and barramundi with carrots, zucchini and potatoes in dill hinted lemon sauce and the Grilled beef or tuna Tartine is another classic you may want to sample from this exciting classic French menu.  The chef guarantees that it’s all full of natural goodness. So treat yourself and experience fine food Brasserie style.

 

Café Kai also offers the grab and go range from hand crafted chocolates to decadent cakes, French pastries, wraps, healthy salads, smoothies, sandwiches, fruit cups, even, everyone’s favourite the bacon and egg brioche! Freshly poured coffees fill the air with an aroma that tempts you even if you are not looking out for a quick bite and drink!

 

Call the F&B Reservations Desk on 2492492 for more information on what’s happening at the Hilton Colombo. Log on to www.hiltoncolombo1.com FB/hiltoncolombo for details.

The Butterfly in the Garden

As you drive down Flower Road, the latest addition to the elite street is hidden among a cluster of trees. As its name suggests “Le Papillon” or “The Butterfly” is a restaurant and boutique hotel that promises an experience of nature in the great city.

As you enter on the left hand side of the property is an outdoor bar. Although Le Papillon does not have its liquor license (yet!) you are allowed to bring your own and enjoy an evening with your friends and family. One of the first things that catches your eye is the excellent work done with the interior of the building. Low lighting and artefacts that are reminiscent of a bygone era in Sri Lanka adorn the hallway that leads to both the A/C and non A/C seating areas of the restaurant. Adjacent to that is a plush and comfy looking “library” and “lounge” where one can relax and unwind with a good book. You can either bring your own or choose from a collection of classic literature, architecture, biographies and many more.

We also had a quick glance at the rooms and suites and found them to be very plush and comfortable with all the amenities of a 5-star readily available. We particularly liked the massive four-poster beds in the suites and the tasteful interior decorating. However, since we were there to review the restaurant we chose to come back down and sit inside the air-conditioned seating area. There’s a lot of black used in the furniture and even the cutlery and crockery which makes for a perfect setting for date-night. The area seats approximately 20 and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Service though courteous is a bit slow and it took a while for the staff to get things going although we were the only guests for quite some time. Arun in particular though was attentive and suggested quite a few of the dishes we ordered. Our entrees were a Crab Dip and Orange and Thyme-spiced Chicken Wings. The Crab Dip was absolutely divine and came with 6 slices of light and crispy Garlic Bread which we loved. The Chicken Wings however was not to our liking as the orange used for marinating seemed to have gone sour and totally destroyed the taste of the chicken, thyme and other spices.

Being a rainy day, we were quite hungry and decided to order a soup and salad before our mains as well. The Spinach Salad with Orange and Dates again turned out to be a disappointment with the salad, though a large portion, being completely tasteless and with no dressing in sight. The Prawn and Spinach Soup though was definitely redeeming with a generous helping of prawn floating in the thick, creamy soup. Again served with Garlic Bread the warm soup was great for starting off the meal.

For our mains we ordered a Mushroom and Herb Quiche and a Caramelized Spicy Pork. The quiche was a nice portion of healthy mushrooms, a lot of cheese and herbs to make it smell and taste just right. The dish is not too spicy so if you prefer it that way, then simply ask for some Tabasco or Chilli Paste. Inspired by a Vietnamese recipe the Spicy Pork is actually not that spicy and is rather on the sweet side. This may be attributed to the fact that it is cooked in King Coconut water as well. The thick curry is served with a generous portion of Steamed Rice and a Green Salad on the side.

Le Papillon has quite the eclectic dessert menu as well and we chose the Chocolate and Salted Caramel Tart which turned out to be simply divine. The salted caramel would cut through the denseness of the dark chocolate in perfect harmony in every bite. Wanting to try more of the desserts we also ordered Waffles with Blueberries and Butterscotch. Beware as this is quite a large serving and if you’ve just gone through as much food as we had might end up not being able to finish this. The waffle itself was quite light and fluffy and the fresh blueberries mixed well with the flavor of butterscotch.

After finishing our hefty meal, we have to conclude that while the starters are great and the desserts greater, we won’t really go here for their mains.

So here’s our rating…

 

Location **** (Hard to miss on Flower Road but not too much parking!)

Ambiance ***** (Excellent interior designing and cozy atmosphere!)

Service *** (Service can be a lot better!)

Food *** (Food was presented well but didn’t taste as great!)

Overall *** 3/4

Reviewed by #FoodiesSL

 

Price Range: Approximately 2,000 per head including drinks (Minimum)

Opening Times: 7am – 11pm daily

Address: 21A Flower Road, Colombo 07

Tel: 0772 020212

Pradeep Edward – President SLIM 2018/19

Marketing is a key component of a company’s success – and its marketing strategies make it happen. Iconic Business tycoons in the business and marketing fields established themselves with their exceptional thinking and clever marketing strategies that made profitable investments and thereby brought positive results. In this area, one has to be aware of the latest market trends, to meet with the global marketing standards. Sri Lanka has a lot of potential in bringing talented entrepreneurs to the spotlight. The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) is the pioneer marketing body in the country which produces a large number of skilled marketers, entrepreneurs and industrialists who can contribute towards the country’s economic growth by their expertise and new concepts.

 

Being elected to head a distinguished marketing institution is no easy task. It faces challenges, being up to standard with the latest market developments, and initiating new goals to take marketing towards a new dimension. The best example for a multi-talented marketing personality who has the capability of shouldering such a responsibility is Mr. Pradeep Edward, who was elected as SLIM’s 40th president for 2018/2019, ensuring his support and dedication to bring SLIM forward with a new strategic approach and even more dynamic face lift under the theme of “Towards 50 years of Excellence: The year of Gratitude”.

 

Pradeep who currently holds the position as CEO of Lanka hospitals diagnostics (Pvt) Ltd, is a proud product of St. Peter’s College Colombo. He is a Certified Professional Marketer (Asia Pacific) Practicing Marketer (Sri Lanka), Chartered Marketer (CIM-UK) and a Fellow member of Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM-UK), holds an MBA from Buckinghamshire University, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing / Business Management and a Diploma in Finance.

 

Prior to his current appointment at SLIM, he held the positions of Vice President, Hon. Secretary at the institute. He was also a Past President of the Pharma Promoters Association of Sri Lanka, the Charter President of the SLIM MBA Alumni, Former General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Chamber of the Pharmaceutical Industry associated with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, and positions in the National Chamber of Commerce and also involved in activities in the presidential secretariat. Apart from these achievements he is currently a Member of the National Branding Committee to develop a strategic global campaign for Sri Lankan Exports appointed by the department of National Planning, Ministry of national policies and economic affairs in coordination with the Export Development Board.

 

Gaining over 20 years of work experience in both local and multinational companies, of which 15 years were in the managerial capacity with over 8 years at Board Level in General Management /COO and CEO Capacity, Pradeep has won international awards such as Specialized Marketing Manager award from IMS-UK and has been a Judge and Technical Advisor at both local and international programs such as National Exporters Awards / Asia Marketing Excellence Awards. Currently there is a considerable expansion in the number of students interested in marketing studies. The expansion in the competitive environment along with equally enhanced opportunities and exposure are the reasons for its expansion. SLIM which is the national body for marketing in the country has for the first time taken its educational products, training programmes and consultancy options beyond the boundaries of Sri Lanka.

 

SLIM is affiliated to several renowned local and international institutions namely, Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL), Organization of Professional Association of Sri Lanka, World Marketing Association and Asia Marketing Federation.

 

In his discussion with us, Pradeep shared what his presidency would mean to SLIM and what present and future marketers and everyone else who is involved with SLIM from all levels are bound to experience during his tenure.

 

“In less than two years, we would be reaching the 50th year of operations in the country. What I felt, upon undertaking this new responsibility is that, firstly, I’m privileged and elated that I was elected to this position and secondly, would ensure that we at SLIM would strive to recognize each and every individual who has stood with SLIM from its inception and till now to bring it into this position what it is today,” he remarked.

 

Mr. Edward wanted to initiate a platform where everyone who stood behind the scenes as well, would be worthy of recognition and ensure that SLIM highly regards those efforts which had gone in and are currently going towards uplifting SLIM.

 

He added, “SLIM has been focused on CSR projects where there have been many other members for example, whether they held positions of Past Presidents or otherwise, have tirelessly worked and given back to the institute in numerous ways and they deserve to be thanked. We have had tremendous support that were extended to us, in ensuring that all operations at SLIM were run smoothly. The same goes to the staff, where they have demonstrated immense dedication to their jobs. SLIM would not be in the position it is today if it weren’t for those silent voices who worked at their own initiatives and still continue to do so.” He did not forget to add a special note of thanks to those stayed with SLIM since its inception and left the institute after making many sacrifices, and also to its previous staff members. He recalled the efforts taken by them in bringing the prestige which the company enjoys today.

 

“Today, SLIM stands on a very stable and prestigious platform but many years ago, it wasn’t the case. So, it would have taken double the efforts to ensure that this place thrived and continued with its vision. Walking down the memory lane, there would have no doubt been bottlenecks and hurdles which were met by many who were part of this great institution therefore, those who stood with SLIM definitely need to be recognized and expressed our gratitude.’’

 

SLIM today can also be regarded as being instrumental in the organization of major award ceremonies such as Brand Excellence Awards, People’s Awards, NASCO and the Effie Awards coupled with main CSR initiatives such as SLIM Gamata Marketing and Marketing Roks. Mr. Edward also has plans to strategize and meticulously improve standards of these very iconic events. Prior to receiving his appointment, Mr. Edward had long envisaged this idea and also disclosed the news of launching the SLIM Digital Awards this year.

 

Under his leadership, SLIM will also encourage more female participation by introducing female oriented events to entice more ladies taking up the field of marketing and join hands with SLIM. He said, “We undoubtedly wish to encourage female participation at SLIM and will initiate some programmes for them.”

 

Another key highlight of his visionary arrangements is to implement a SLIM Archive, where members and everyone associated with SLIM would cherish the opportunity of experiencing a taste of the bygone days when SLIM was first founded and years that followed, to this day. “The archive will be housed at SLIM premises and we also are working on laying the foundation for a new building which would be constructed to bring about a 11 story state-of-the-art premises in time for the 50th year celebration.”

 

Thus, SLIM will continue to be a resounding success with Pradeep Edward- who is all poised to make all marketing goals turn into reality.

 

By Sureshni Pilapitiya