Food courts in malls have evolved into vibrant hubs of culinary exploration, inviting shoppers and visitors to embark on a journey of diverse flavours and tastes. Nestled amidst the lively atmosphere of shopping centres, these communal dining spaces offer a delightful escape where patrons can indulge in a plethora of culinary delights from around the globe. With an eclectic mix of eateries, food courts cater to a wide range of palates and dietary preferences, making them a destination for food enthusiasts and families seeking a convenient dining experience during their shopping excursions.

Recently, the Food Studio, spearheaded by Nadeem Rajabdeen, Naveed Cader and Jesse Aston, expanded its footprint by opening its third branch at Layards Wharf at the Havelock City Mall. Reflecting on the historical significance of the location, Rajabdeen remarked, "Layards Wharf is situated on the historical grounds of the former Wellawatte Spinning and Weaving Mills adjacent to the Wellawatte Canal, formerly known as Layard Folly. We embraced this legacy and paid homage to Havelock’s multicultural roots."

Embracing modernity, the venue operates on a cashless system, facilitating transactions through debit/credit cards, with cash transactions streamlined via a QR code issued at a central cashier point. Aston elaborated on the diverse culinary offerings, stating, "We adopted a meticulous approach to creating the menu, which includes six distinct varieties: Patisserie and Café, Fresh and Healthy, Mediterranean, Grill, South Asian and Indian, and East Asian. From classic short eats to exotic pastries, fresh salads to grills, Layards Wharf offers a gastronomic experience for every palate."

Upon entering the venue, patrons are greeted by a lively ambience befitting a food court, with attentive staff ensuring a clean and welcoming environment. Venturing into the culinary delights, a selection of Japanese cuisine, grilled prawns, Hainanese chicken rice, and a Smash Burger were sampled. While the offerings were satisfying overall, the standout dish was the sushi, praised for its delightful piquant flavour and generous portion size. However, the Hainanese chicken rice lacked flavour despite efforts to enhance it with accompanying condiments. The grilled prawns exhibited an unexpected sweetness, while the Smash Burger, although commendable, encountered minor issues such as gristle in the beef patty.

In conclusion, while the Food Studio at Layards Wharf offers a diverse array of culinary experiences, individual preferences may vary. Despite minor shortcomings on the opening day, the overall dining experience is promising, warranting a return visit for further exploration.