It was a rainy Tuesday afternoon in the bustling heart of Colombo, where the chaotic traffic outside seemed worlds away from the tranquil ambience inside Apéro situated at Galle Face Court (near Bavarian). The café’s name itself hinted at an aperitif-like experience, a prelude to a culinary journey that awaited. As I sat in a cosy corner, my senses were enveloped by the aromatic embrace of a freshly brewed cappuccino. The delicate hiss of the espresso machine, a comforting hum in the background, was the perfect soundtrack to the unfolding narrative of flavours.

Sipping the hot cappuccino, I watched as the rain cast a dreamy blur on the bustling street outside. It was the kind of day that begged for warmth and comfort, and Apéro delivered just that. As I savoured the coffee, I couldn't help but appreciate the concept behind this establishment. Saha Jayasuriya, the Executive Director of Apéro, sat down with me for a conversation that provided insight into the heart and soul of this intriguing deli. Apéro, I learned, had its origins in 2019, owned by the same group as Bavarian.  Initially, it began as an importer of fine food ingredients like truffles, cheeses, and hams.

It was their passion for sourcing these exquisite ingredients that fuelled the idea to open a retail space. Apéro found its home in its current location in December of the previous year. Prior to that, it operated mainly as a supplier to hotels, restaurants, and cafes. However, with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, they decided to pivot and cater directly to the retail market. This shift brought forth a transformation from an ingredient supplier to a place where food aficionados could immerse themselves in the culinary world.

The essence of Apéro lies in its unique approach to deli-style dining. Customers are encouraged to explore and handpick their meat items, sausages, cheeses, and hams. It's a sensory experience, one where you can truly connect with the ingredients that will make their way onto your plate. As my conversation with Saha continued, it became evident that Apéro's distinctiveness wasn't just about the products it offered, but also the deep connection they had with their consumers. Saha emphasised their commitment to understanding customer preferences and tailoring dishes accordingly. This personalised touch was not just a business strategy but a genuine love for food and its intricate nuances.

The mention of cheeses piqued my interest, and I couldn't wait to delve into the cheese platter. The selection included Danish Blue, Goats Brie, Noord Hollander (a 4-year-old Gouda), Smoked Cheese, and Red Cheddar. Each cheese had its unique story, and it showed in its flavours. The Danish Blue was velvety with a subtle tang, while the Goats’ Brie offered a creamy, earthy richness. The Noord Hollander had developed a delightful complexity over its ageing, and the Smoked Cheese imparted a bold smokiness that lingered on the palate.

\The Red Cheddar, on the other hand, was a sharp, robust companion that cut through the creamy undertones of the others. The cheese platter was not merely a tasting experience; it was a journey through the varied landscapes of cheese-making traditions, regions, and ages. It was accompanied by Smoked turkey ham, sundried tomatoes, Chicken ham with herbs, beef pastrami, and Calamata olives. Saha recommended the beef pastrami with purple sourkraut and Russian dressing as one of the must-try sandwich options. The purple sourkraut, a vibrant addition, lent a delightful contrast to the succulent beef pastrami. The Russian dressing provided a tangy, spicy, creamy kick that brought the whole ensemble together.

Another sandwich I tried was the Spicy BBQ chicken with roasted peppers, spicy aioli, and spinach. I loved the smoky sweetness of the BBQ chicken that harmonised with the fiery notes of the spicy aioli. The roasted peppers contributed a charred sweetness.
One aspect that sets Apéro apart is their commitment to offering halal-certified hams, ensuring inclusivity in their culinary journey. This attention to detail was a testament to their dedication to making their culinary delights accessible to all.

As the rain outside continued its serenade, I couldn't help but appreciate the joy of discovering Apéro on this rainy Tuesday afternoon. It was more than just a deli; it was an oasis hidden in plain sight, a place where passion infused every dish and where the connection between the staff, the food, and the customers formed a bond. Apéro was, indeed, a testament to the belief that food transcends the boundaries of sustenance; it is an art form that connects us, comforts us, and elevates our spirits. Apéro, with its genuine love for food and unwavering commitment to its patrons, had created a culinary sanctuary that was a treasure to behold. 

PHOTOS  Waruna Wanniarachchi