Cocktails with a twist

There’s nothing quite like savouring a chilled drink on a sunny day by the beach. Here in Sri Lanka, these blissful moments are not just a treat – it’s a way of life.

This paradise isle, known for its rich spices and fragrant culinary heritage, is entering an exciting era. Hoping to create a vibrant fusion that celebrates both tradition and innovation – Sri Lanka is curating a seamless blend with its time-honoured spirits, like toddy and arrack with the artistry of modern mixology.

Toddy, a traditional beverage fermented from coconut flower sap and Arrack, a refined spirit distilled from toddy, are iconic elements of Sri Lankan drinking heritage that celebrate the island’s unique flavours.

Dom Fernando, a British-Sri Lankan owner of Paradise in London, recently shared during his visit to Sri Lanka that the drinking culture here is accelerating  and possibly outpacing the food culture. He is ambitious to draw inspiration from this dynamic shift and be innovative with the drinks served at his establishment as well. Their new drink list incorporates Sri Lankan ingredients from rambutan and curry leaves, to jasmin, ginger and Ceylon orange Pekoe tea – celebrating the tropics in an elevated style. 

Sri Lanka boasts several iconic venues for those eager to experience the vibrant local cocktail culture firsthand.

With every sip, you’ll taste not only the artistry of mixology but also the heart and heritage of this tropical paradise. Whether it’s a toddy sour with a twist or a spiced arrack old-fashioned, Sri Lanka’s bar scene is an invitation to explore a symphony of flavors. It’s a celebration of tradition meeting innovation, and of the island’s culinary identity evolving in exciting, unexpected ways. 

Source: https://on.ft.com/4g5dzbR