You can never really ‘not’ like Sri Lankan Chinese, can you? What, with all that chilli, varying sauces and oils it is a tempting treat that you won’t and quite honestly can’t easily say no to. Another to the list of growing restaurants is Flower Gate situated down Elvitigala Mawatha in Narahenpita.

They have an impressive and large menu with meats ranging from beef, chicken, fish (including seafood) and even pork! One of the main reasons their menu excited me, aside from the pork of course, was that they serve dumplings. They are stuffed with vegetables (Rs 350), chicken (Rs 400), pork (Rs 400) and seafood (Rs 500) and the portion comprises 10 dumplings. The chicken dumplings were delicious, especially dipped in a bit of soy mixed with chilli paste and vinegar soaked chillies. The combination of the three really heightens the flavour of the silky smooth dough and the savoury filling.

Another interesting treat on the menu were the Prawn Balls (Rs 750). It is served as a portion of six and is absolutely delicious with that perfect crunch and hint of oil on the outside and soft, warm prawn meat on the inside. We really enjoyed these dipped in the soy mixed with chilli paste and vinegar soaked chillies.

Among the mains the Sizzling Belly Pork (Rs 780) was my pick. It was succulent and had the perfect combination of sauces and a hint of crunch thanks to the sizzling platter. Another dish that they are known for is Firework Prawns (Rs 700). This delicious treat of prawns wrapped in bacon and deep fried in batter is one scrumptious dish.

Then among the less exotic but still flavourful dishes was the Crispy Battered Fillet with Sweet and Hot Sauce (Rs 550) and Singapore Chilli Chicken (Rs 675 – small and Rs 1,100 – large). The fish was a light and airy treat while the sauce was not overpowering; the chilli chicken was cooked perfectly while the hint of chilli gave it a super twist in flavour. All these can be enjoyed with either a bowl of Steamed Rice (Rs 100) or Seafood Fried Rice (Rs 460 – small and Rs 620 – large). I also felt that if they did use MSG in their food, it was not over done in the least, which was refreshing.  The staff is extremely friendly and courteous while I must mention that Lyndon and Arsha were delightful.   
   
The desserts range from the usual fare available in the many Chinese restaurants in the city, like Lychees (Rs 300) to Fresh Fruit Salad (Rs 200) and Cream Caramel (Rs 250).  

Hours of operation: 11.30am – 3.00pm and 6.00 to 11.00pm

Ratings:

Taste – *****
Value for money – *****
Friendly staff – *****
Parking – *****
Cleanliness (Restaurant) – ****


Address: 2, Victoria Place, Elvitigala Mawatha, Colombo 8. You can also order take out from their outlet at the Keells Super in Rajagiriya.

Website: www.dineways.com/flowergate
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flowergateColombo   
Email: [email protected]



Text by Natasha Fernandopulle
Pics by Kanishke Ganewatte