The Art of Atmosphere & The Architects of Taste
About the Event
Join us for a masterclass in modernising the dining experience, delivered by the people who built it. Hear from a dynamic panel where the giants of Colombo dining collide with the young innovators redefining the scene and engineering world-class experiences. Colombo's dining scene is exploding, and it's all about design. This discussion will go beyond the menu, revealing the design thinking from atmosphere to plating exploring what creates an iconic dining experience, turns tables into canvases, and puts Colombo on the global map.
Time & Location
Sunday, 23rd November 2025
11.30pm - 1.00pm
At Fashion Week Lounge, Level 8
Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams
No. 02 Glennie St, Colombo 02.
Moderated By
Eliane Sterchi
Eliane Sterchi is the architect behind Gourmet Galle, Sri Lanka’s premier culinary festival that unites world-class chefs with the island’s unique ingredients and tropical charm. Having grown up in Sri Lanka, her deep love for the country, its cuisine, and its spirit of hospitality drives her vision to showcase Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage on a global stage. Eliane has also guided the menus at Sri Villas, a boutique property near Bentota, for over 20 years, reflecting her enduring passion for the island’s vibrant flavors.
Panelists
Gehan Fernando
Gehan Fernando is the Founder and Owner of Uncle’s Bar. A true visionary in Sri Lanka’s modern bar culture, Gehan is the creative force behind one of Colombo’s most beloved social hubs. With a passion for authentic hospitality and homegrown flavor, he has reimagined what it means to gather, connect, and celebrate in the city.
Mahesh Alkegama
Mahesh Alkegama is the founder of Seed Café in Colombo, a beloved spot known for its third-wave coffee, wholesome food, and inviting atmosphere. Blending passion, quality, and community, Mahesh has created a space where people can slow down, connect, and feel at home a reflection of his warm, hands-on approach to hospitality and his dedication to authentic, locally inspired experiences.
Elizabeth Norris
The owner of Club Ceylon in Negombo. She is half Sri Lankan and half British, who spent 10 years working as a fish chef in London before returning to her mother's hometown in Sri Lanka.
Jesse Aston
Jesse Aston is the Culinary Director at Food Studio, Founder of Big Mighty, and a food consultant. From a New Zealand winemaker to a global culinary force, Chef Jesse Aston has evolved through multiple eras of the dining and bar scenes across New Zealand, Melbourne, and Sri Lanka. Since settling in Sri Lanka in 2015, Jesse has been a pioneering influence in shaping the country’s F&B landscape. His diverse experience from modern dining and hip burger bars to vibrant beach clubs now fuels Big Studio Inc., a dynamic hospitality company that’s not just creating successful QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) brands but redefining the local food scene and investing in its future. Jesse’s commitment goes beyond business. His team has trained over 200 chefs, nurturing a new generation of Sri Lankan culinary talent. He doesn’t just set the scene he’s building the future of it.