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Tilapiya Colombo marks a significant milestone for the much-loved Tilapiya franchise, which has already built a loyal following in Ekala and Bopitiya. Expanding into Colombo feels less like a business move and more like a natural evolution, one driven by demand, consistency, and a philosophy rooted in comfort food and community.

Located in the heart of the city, the space has quickly positioned itself as more than just a place to eat, with live music setting the tone most evenings and a relaxed BYOB policy with no corkage reinforcing its easy-going, social appeal. From the moment you sit down, it’s clear that this restaurant isn’t trying to impress through gimmicks. Instead, it relies on honest flavours, generous portions, and the kind of food that makes you slow down and enjoy the moment.

At its core, Tilapiya Colombo is built on a simple but powerful idea: bringing people together through good food and good company. That philosophy is evident in the menu, which leans heavily into soul food, dishes that are hearty, familiar, and deeply satisfying. Each plate feels thoughtfully prepared, not rushed, and there’s a sense that the kitchen understands what its diners want: flavour-forward meals that feel comforting yet well-crafted.

The Chicken Stew served with roast paan or pol rotti is a perfect example of this approach. The stew is rich and deeply seasoned, with flavours that develop slowly as you eat. The chicken is tender, absorbing the spices without being overwhelmed by them, and the gravy carries a warmth that feels both homely and indulgent. There’s a balance between spice and savouriness that makes it easy to keep going back for another bite. Paired with roast paan, the stew soaks in beautifully, while the pol rotti adds a slightly nutty, earthy contrast that complements the dish rather than competing with it. It’s the kind of meal that feels familiar but still thoughtfully executed.

Seafood lovers will find plenty to enjoy, starting with the Grilled Tiger Prawns served with salad and a homemade shrimp sauce. The prawns are cooked just right, retaining a firm yet juicy bite that highlights their natural sweetness. The seasoning is restrained, allowing the flavour of the prawns to shine through rather than masking it. What truly elevates this dish, however, is the shrimp sauce. It’s bold, slightly tangy, and layered with umami, adding depth and complexity with every dip. Combined with the freshness of the salad, the dish feels balanced, light enough to start a meal, yet flavourful enough to leave a lasting impression.

One of the standout dishes on the menu is the Crispy Whole Tilapia Fish & Chips. The tilapia is exceptionally well-seasoned, with a crisp exterior that gives way to soft, flaky flesh. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast in texture, enhanced by fried garlic, curry leaves, and red chilli that add bursts of aroma and heat. The flavours are unmistakably comforting, with subtle Sri Lankan influences woven into a familiar format. The French fries provide a neutral, comforting base, while the green salad helps cut through the richness.

The homemade sauces tie everything together, offering varying levels of spice, tang, and creaminess that allow diners to customize each bite to their liking.

For those who prefer chicken with a Mediterranean influence, the Grilled Greek Chicken is a refreshing change of pace. The chicken is marinated well, allowing the flavours of garlic, lemon, and herbs to penetrate deeply rather than sitting on the surface.

The result is meat that’s juicy, fragrant, and bright in flavour. The acidity from the lemon keeps the dish feeling light, while the herbs add an aromatic quality that lingers pleasantly. Paired with grilled vegetables and pineapple, the dish achieves a satisfying balance between savoury and subtly sweet, making it ideal for diners who want something flavourful without being heavy.

The Sri Lankan Platter brings everything back to what Tilapiya does best, comfort, familiarity, and flavour. Served on a banana leaf, it features steamed rice, a crisp papadam, and a selection of curries and sides that feel deeply rooted in home-style cooking. Each element is well-balanced, from the gentle warmth of the curries to the sharper notes of sambol that lift the dish and keep it interesting. Nothing feels overworked or excessive; instead, the platter is generous, satisfying, and easy to enjoy. It captures the essence of Sri Lankan food the way it’s meant to be eaten, shared, relaxed, and full of heart.

What truly sets Tilapiya Colombo apart is its consistency across the menu. Each dish reflects careful attention to seasoning, cooking technique, and portion size. The food is filling without feeling excessive, and there’s a clear emphasis on value for money. You leave feeling satisfied, not just because you’ve eaten well, but because the meal feels worth it.

Behind the scenes, Tilapiya Colombo is the brainchild of friends Chanuka Suraweera, Hashan Jayamaha, Chandu De Silva, and Madushanka Thiwantha. That sense of friendship translates seamlessly into the dining experience. The menu feels personal, the flavours feel intentional, and the overall experience reinforces their vision of “dining and socializing, by friends for friends.”

Tilapiya Colombo isn’t about fleeting trends or overcomplicated dishes. It’s about flavour, comfort, and connection. Whether you’re dropping in for a casual meal or gathering with friends to celebrate everyday moments, the food here reminds you why shared meals matter. Every dish tells a story of care, warmth, and the belief that every meal, no matter how ordinary the day, deserves to be celebrated.