Layards Wharf by Food Studio opens its doors with exclusive dining experience for guests

April, 4, 2024

Food Studio proudly introduces its third food court at Havelock City Mall, offering a distinctive concept and international scale ambiance

Layards Wharf by Food Studio was opened to the public on the 1st of March 2024, at the newly opened Havelock City Mall, promising a unique experience that goes beyond merely serving food and drinks. This is the 3rd food court opened under Food Studio (Pvt) Ltd., Sri Lanka’s pioneer Food Court Management Company and culinary innovator, with its predecessors already established at the two other high-end shopping malls of Colombo’s most prestigious mixed-use development projects – Colombo City Centre and One Galle Face.

“Layards Wharf transcends the conventional notion of a food court,” said Nadeem Rajabdeen, Co-Founder & CEO of Food Studio (Pvt) Ltd. “From the moment patrons step foot inside, they are greeted by a captivating market-style layout, with specially designed areas and thematic installations that honour the rich tapestry of the locale's heritage and flavours.”

Situated on the historical grounds of the former Welawatte Spinning and Weaving Mills, adjacent to the Wellawatte canal (aka Layard’s Folly), a creation of Briton C. P. Layard in 1872, Havelock City embodies a legacy of cultural convergence which transformed the local area into a thriving industrial hub. “Embracing this legacy, Layards Wharf by Food Studio pays homage to Havelock's multicultural roots, serving as a melting pot of global cuisines inspired by Sri Lanka's rich trading history,” he explained.

From Mediterranean delights to South Asian flavours, East Asian delicacies, Fresh & Healthy options, enticing grills, and tantalising pastries, Layards Wharf offers a gastronomic adventure for every palate. Jesse Aston, Co-Founder & CEO of Big Studio Inc., the culinary innovation arm and subsidiary of Food Studio (Pvt) Ltd., emphasised, "There’s something for everyone at Layards Wharf."

Distinguished as a cashless venue, Layards Wharf streamlines transactions through debit/credit cards, with cash transactions facilitated via a QR code issued at a central cashier point, ensuring seamless convenience for patrons.

Recently, the venue held an exclusive event for guests who were encouraged to indulge in the menu offering. As a gesture of hospitality, guests were provided with fully paid for QR codes, granting them unlimited access to the culinary delights on offer.

Naveed Cader, Co-Founder & Vice Chairman of Food Studio (Pvt) Ltd. said, “At Food Studio, our ethos is rooted in fostering a farm-to-table community that unites local and international F&B stakeholders, fostering collaboration to deliver unique, diverse, and affordable dining experiences across Sri Lanka. We are truly proud of how far we have come today. Within a mere 5 years since inception, we have become a leading force in Sri Lanka's culinary landscape, boasting 3 thriving food courts within the country's premier mixed developments and a diverse portfolio featuring 14 dynamic restaurant brands.”

Layards Wharf by Food Studio was designed and architectured by Kanishka Perera of The Pollen Studio whilst the branding concept and design was handled by Studio Nice One.