THE COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT COLOMBO UNVEILS THE JAFFNA FOOD FESTIVAL: A CELEBRATION OF NORTHERN SRI LANKAN FLAVORS

Courtyard by Marriott Colombo officially launched its much anticipated Jaffna Food Festival in collaboration with renowned culinary storyteller Thushara  Innasithamby, with a lively press preview held on Friday morning. The event, attended by leading  members of the media, influencers, and food enthusiasts, offered a tantalizing glimpse into the  rich, layered, and unapologetically bold flavors of Sri Lanka’s northern peninsula. 

Welcoming guests with warmth and gratitude, Elton Hurtis, General Manager of the Courtyard  by Marriott Colombo, expressed his delight in hosting an event that celebrates the rich and  diverse culinary fabric of Sri Lanka—where Jaffna cuisine stands as a deeply cherished and  flavorful expression of the island’s many cultural influences.  

“This festival is more than just food on a plate—it’s a story of families, communities, and culture,”  he shared. “At Courtyard, we are thrilled to partner with Thushara and Danu to bring this vibrant  celebration to life. The authenticity of the dishes, the heart behind each recipe, and the  storytelling woven into every bite make this festival truly special. Our thanks also go out to the  media—your continued support means the world to us.” 

Thushara Innasithamby, known for her deeply personal and nostalgic approach to cooking,  shared the inspiration behind the festival. What began as humble meals prepared at home—often  in the midst of caring for a loved one—has blossomed into a heartfelt culinary journey that  connects people through food. 

“I'm not a professional chef,” Thushara said with a laugh. “But I am a passionate one. These are  the flavors of my childhood—the ones that made our eyes water, our brows sweat, and our hearts  full. We grew up with pots simmering all day, kitchens alive with spices, and meals shared with  many. I wanted to bring that feeling here.” 

She was joined by Danu Innasithamby, who has long championed the beauty of Sri Lankan  culture through his media work. He echoed Thushara’s sentiments, saying:

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“For years, we spoke about how the food we tasted growing up—the real Jaffna food—wasn’t  quite found in restaurants. This festival is our answer to that. Each dish has a story, a memory,  and a region behind it. Some guests may ask, ‘Is this really Jaffna food?’ And the answer is yes— Jaffna has many faces and flavors. We’re just serving ours.” 

From fire-crackling mutton curries to lovingly spiced seafood, smoky sambols to creamy desserts,  the festival’s dishes celebrate traditional methods passed down through generations—often kept  secret, even within families. The menu features over 60 unique dishes, rotating through the  course of the festival to showcase the full spectrum of Jaffna’s culinary richness. 

“It’s not fancy food, but it’s food with soul,” Thushara added. “It’s about sitting together, eating  slowly, telling stories, and feeling at home. That’s what we hope to share.” 

Adding an even deeper layer of authenticity, the festival also welcomes three guest chefs from  the Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort, all hailing from Jaffna themselves. Their presence  pays homage to the roots of the cuisine and brings professional expertise shaped by personal  heritage. Their contribution further enhances the depth and accuracy of the Jaffna culinary  narrative being shared at the festival. 

The Jaffna Food Festival opens to the public on Friday, 30 May and runs through Sunday, 08  June 2025, at Beira Kitchen, Courtyard by Marriott Colombo. Held nightly from 6:30 PM to 10:30  PM, this celebration of Northern Sri Lankan cuisine features live cooking stations and beloved  regional dishes, served just as they should be—generously, joyfully, and with heart. The  experience is priced at LKR 7,500 per person. 

This event is part of Courtyard by Marriott Colombo’s commitment to spotlighting authentic Sri  Lankan experiences while providing guests with memorable dining that honors both tradition and  innovation. 

Reservations are recommended. For bookings, please call 011 773 4451.