Dumplings
If I had to describe my experience at South Asia’s tallest revolving restaurant in one word, it would be unforgettable. This is not just any buffet. It is a culinary journey that takes you through seven cuisines, hundreds of dishes, and a breathtaking 360-degree view of Colombo as the restaurant slowly turns.
My colleague and I visited for the dinner buffet, and from the first sip of soup to the last bite of dessert, we were impressed. Buffets can be hit or miss, but this one stood out for its variety, freshness, and the way each section felt like a miniature world of its own. Before we even talk about the food, the setting deserves attention. Seating more than 200 guests, Blue Orbit completes a full rotation every 90 minutes, giving diners panoramic views of the city skyline. At night, Colombo’s lights sparkle, and the distant sea glimmers, creating the perfect backdrop for an indulgent evening.
We began with soup. I chose the Mutton Marrow Hotpot, while my colleague selected the Seafood Tom Yum. Soups at buffets do not usually impress me, but this time I had to change my opinion. The Mutton Marrow Hotpot was rich and comforting, with a broth that had the kind of depth that comes from slow cooking. The meat was tender and fell apart easily. The Seafood Tom Yum was tangy, spicy, and savoury, with generous portions of seafood. We both took our first spoonful and, without planning it, said “five out of five” at the same time. That is how you know it is good.
Vegetable biriyani
Next came the bread Corner, an inviting display of soft bread, breadsticks, lavash, focaccia, and crusty loaves for those who enjoy a chewier bite. Flavoured butters and dips provided a simple yet satisfying start. The dumpling Corner offered chicken, prawn, and beef varieties, each steamed to perfection. I tried the chicken dumpling, which had a juicy, well-seasoned filling. I paired it with garlic soy sauce, although coriander salsa and sweet chilli sauce were also available. For me, it was a solid four out of five and worth going back for seconds.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the Pani Puri Corner. This was my first time trying it. The crispy hollow shells were filled with spiced potato and chickpeas, then dipped into tangy, spiced water. The moment I took a bite, there was an explosion of flavours. It was crunchy, tangy, spicy, and refreshing all at once. It instantly became one of my favourite snacks, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who has never tried it before. The Indian Cuisine was vibrant and aromatic. I enjoyed the tandoori chicken, naan bread, and vegetable biriyani. The tandoori chicken had a signature smoky flavour, the naan was soft yet slightly crisp at the edges, and the biriyani was fragrant with spices without being overpowering.
Seafood lovers will be delighted. The cold seafood counter offered prawns, mussels, and more, while the sushi section presented beautifully made rolls. The sushi rice was perfectly cooked, sticky without being mushy, and the fish was fresh. The fruit section featured rambutan, oranges, apples, and olives. I almost skipped the salads, but my health-conscious colleague convinced me to try the creamy spicy chickpea salad, which was surprisingly delicious. She also enjoyed the kachumber salad, Sri Lankan wild fruit salad, and honey roasted vegetable salad. Salad lovers will have plenty to explore here.
One corner of the buffet offered creative appetisers I had not seen elsewhere. These included Kochchi Pineapple Marinated Chicken Mousse on Tartlets, Cold Cut Roulade on Toasted Bread with Mustard Mayo, and Beetroot and Spinach Terrine. Each was beautifully presented and full of flavour. The cold cuts selection included chicken ham, chicken mortadella, and smoked chicken.
The dessert Corner was divided into two areas, one for adults and another that looked like a paradise for children. The children’s section had cookies, biscuits, fudge, milk toffee, coconut toffee, and nut clusters. The ice cream Corner was nearby, with multiple flavours and toppings.
For visitors to Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan Cuisine is a must-try. Dishes included favourites such as string hoppers, pol sambol, papadam, and a variety of spicy curries. The flavours were authentic and tasted like home-cooked meals with a buffet twist. The Italian section featured pastas, noodles, and spring rolls. My colleague enjoyed this corner more than I did, particularly the pasta with creamy sauce. The Western Cuisines offered grilled meats, potatoes, and continental-style dishes.
Although I am not a tea drinker, my colleague ended her meal with a cup from the tea Corner. She described it as one of the best cups of tea she had ever had, smooth, aromatic, and the perfect way to finish a large meal. At LKR 9,000 nett, this buffet offers exceptional variety and quality. From soups that surprise you, to dishes you might be trying for the first time, such as my Pani Puri experience, and the stunning revolving view of Colombo, it is more than just a meal. It is an experience. If you love food, this is a place where you do not simply eat. You explore, taste, and savour. For those who enjoy sampling cuisines from around the world without leaving the city, Blue Orbit is the perfect choice. Whether for lunch or dinner, arrive hungry, because with over 300 delicacies across seven cuisines, you will want to try a little bit of everything.
Bread Corner
Dessert Corner
Kids Corner
Dumplings
Paani Puri Corner
Sri Lankan Cuisine
