If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Singapore in Sri Lanka, Shiok Singaporean at Colombo City Center (CCC) is a culinary destination you cannot miss. Established in 2018, Shiok has quickly become synonymous with flavourful, authentic Singaporean cuisine, bringing dishes that are as vibrant and comforting as the city-state itself.
The story behind Shiok is as rich as its menu. Born into a family with a longstanding legacy in the seafood industry, the founder carried forward a passion for quality ingredients and bold flavours. This vision was elevated through a strategic partnership with Ark Holdings Pte Ltd, a renowned Singaporean enterprise led by Chairman Mr. Tai Toon Lim. Inspired by Mr. Lim’s love for the iconic Hainanese chicken rice, the team embarked on a mission to master this beloved dish under the guidance of Chef John in Singapore.
The founder and his wife trained meticulously, learning the art of poaching chicken to perfection and infusing rice with the same broth and aromatics that make Singaporean chicken rice truly special. From the delicate balance of flavours to the precise cooking techniques, every step was designed to preserve the authenticity of the dish before bringing it to Sri Lankan diners.
The opening of Shiok’s first outlet at CCC marked the beginning of a journey to introduce Sri Lankans to Singaporean culinary culture. The response was overwhelmingly positive, quickly paving the way for further expansion. A second location at One Galle Face Mall followed, where the restaurant added the aromatic and flavourful laksa soup to its menu. Today, Shiok proudly operates three outlets, including the Shiok’s first standalone restaurant, opened at Food Harbour, Port City, Colombo.
At the heart of Shiok’s menu is its signature dish, Hainanese Chicken Rice, often hailed as Singapore’s national dish. In Singapore, chicken rice is everywhere; from hawker centers to high-end restaurants, and it is beloved for its simplicity and depth of flavour. At Shiok, the chicken is tender, juicy, and subtly seasoned, while the rice, cooked in the same chicken broth with pandan leaves and ginger, is aromatic and comforting. The dish is accompanied by three essential sauces: spicy chilli, fragrant ginger, and a sweet dark soy sauce. Diners are encouraged to first taste the rice plain, then with each sauce individually, before combining all three for the full flavour experience. A clear chicken soup, made from the same broth, completes the dish. Each bite is a perfect balance of savoury, aromatic, and slightly sweet notes, making it easy to see why Hainanese chicken rice is loved across the globe.
Beyond chicken rice, Shiok’s menu offers a variety of Singaporean favourites that never disappoint. The Singapore Curry Chicken is rich and comforting, with tender pieces of chicken and potatoes soaking up the creamy, spiced coconut-based sauce. Each mouthful is warming, hearty, and satisfying, making it a dish you’ll want to savour slowly.
The Singapore Laksa is equally impressive. Its broth is creamy and fragrant, packed with bold flavours from spices and prawns, creating a luxurious, indulgent taste experience. Every spoonful feels like a celebration of Singaporean cuisine, with the noodles perfectly absorbing the rich, aromatic sauce.
For fans of hawker-style dishes, the Hawker Stir-Fried Noodles are bursting with savoury, bold flavours, making them a satisfying and flavourful option for anyone craving something hearty and familiar. The Chicken Dumplings are juicy, well-seasoned, and melt-in-the-mouth, perfect as a starter or accompaniment to a main course.
Shiok Singaporean succeeds because it honours the culinary heritage of Singapore. Each dish is prepared with care, using authentic ingredients and techniques that make every bite memorable. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity allows diners in Sri Lanka to experience Singaporean cuisine as it was meant to be enjoyed, simple, soulful, and utterly delicious.
Whether you are a seasoned fan of Singaporean food or a curious foodie eager to explore new flavours, Shiok at CCC offers an unforgettable experience. From the iconic Hainanese Chicken Rice to the fragrant Laksa and comforting Curry Chicken, every visit promises authenticity, bold taste, and a true flavour of Singapore.
Hawker Stir Fried Noodle
Dumplings – chicken
Hainanese Chicken Rice
Singapore Laksa
Singapore Curry Chicken
