How ’The Mango Tree’ became Colombo’s North Indian cuisine maestro

In the heart of Colombo, a city whose very name echoes the vibrant hues of mango leaves, there stands a mango tree that goes beyond being a mere symbol of foliage. 'The Mango Tree,' an establishment founded in 2004, has evolved into a culinary landmark, offering authentic, affordable, and irresistible North Indian cuisine that has captivated the taste buds of Sri Lankans.

Viraj and Crishanthi (Crish), the dynamic couple at the helm of The Mango Tree, identified a gap in the market for genuine North Indian fare that didn't compromise on quality or affordability. Their commitment to authenticity led them to bring in a chef from Mumbai and import key ingredients directly from India, ensuring an immersive dining experience for their patrons.

Named after the mango trees in their own backyard, 'The Mango Tree' resonates with the couple's love for nature. Crishanthi emphasizes the need to customize the dishes for the Sri Lankan palate, proving that authenticity is a nuanced blend of imported talent and local adaptation.

Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, The Mango Tree has weathered the storm, maintaining unwavering quality and retaining a loyal customer base. Starting as a single signature outlet in downtown Colombo, the restaurant expanded to prestigious locations like Odel and Colombo City Centre, reverting to a more centralized setup post-pandemic.

Viraj Panchal sheds light on the challenges faced during the pandemic, highlighting a strategic shift to a more compact space. Accompanied by the introduction of chefs from the Garhwal region of India and proactive engagement with loyal customers, this pivot has proven instrumental in the restaurant's successful revival.

Beyond being a culinary hotspot, The Mango Tree has become a cultural bridge, emotionally connecting Sri Lankans to India. Viraj and Crish, unintentional cultural ambassadors, have fostered people-to-people bonds between the two neighboring nations through their culinary venture.

The annual sensation of Diwali sweets at The Mango Tree, featuring delights like kaju katlis, malai chamchams, and Kala jamuns, adds another layer to the emotional connection Sri Lankans share with India.

Situated on Duplication Road in Colombo, 'The Mango Tree' stands not just as a restaurant but as a testament to the resilience and creativity of its founders. Viraj and Crish Panchal have created a concept that holds a special place in the hearts and minds of everyday Sri Lankans, reinforcing the enduring bond between India and Sri Lanka.