Daily Mirror - Print Edition

Barista takes great coffee to tourist hotspots of Ella and Pinnawela

08 Oct 2016 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}      

Colombo’s favourite coffee house chain Barista recently opened its first outlet in the Uva Province targeting the inflow of tourists to the cool climate of Ella. 


The latest outlet is situated in a central location at the Ella town and is walking distance from the train station which serves as the main entry point to the hillside town. It is also in close proximity to many attractions such as the Bambaragala Peak, Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak, Ravana Ella Falls and the Nine Arches Bridge in Demodara.


Due to its strategic location that links the central hills and the southern coast and a pleasant temperature all year round Ella is constantly buzzing with tourists from around the world and more recently an increased number of local holiday-makers as well. Having a familiar place such as Barista to go to for a quick bite after much sight-seeing or a hot coffee to enjoy while snuggling up to read is a welcome addition to the area.
Commenting on the decision to extend Barista’s network to outside of Colombo CEO Thilina Amerasinghe said, “Ella is widely regarded as one of the fastest growing tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. In fact, a couple of years ago the famous Lonely Planet magazine recognized Ella as one of the best places to visit in the world. The area has many attractions that are arguably some of the best scenic sites on the planet. Barista is proud to be the first international food and beverage chain to enter the area.”


Meanwhile, the 15th outlet of the highly successful chain was also recently declared open in Pinnawela. The outlet is located within walking distance of the famous elephant orphanage and boasts an elevated deck with a river view of the elephant’s bathing area. Travellers who come from around the globe to witness the unique lifestyle of the pachyderms at the orphanage can enjoy the sights and sounds of the herds frolicking in the waters below while sipping a hot or cold signature Barista beverage of their choice.


Speaking regarding this opening Amerasinghe said, “Barista is once again proud to be the first international food chain to enter the Pinnawela area. Tourism is one of Sri Lanka’s key income generators and as we see the inflow of tourists from around the world steadily increase it is also important for us to consider the hospitality offering we have in place for them. A familiar franchise is always a welcoming thought to many tourists, which is why Barista has been moving into strategic tourist hotspots to ensure that no matter where tourists go to in Sri Lanka they feel at ease to step in and grab a bite or their favourite coffee.”
Both new outlets will be serving the entire signature Barista food and beverage range including Italy’s Favourite Coffee Lavazza prepared to perfection by the skilful brew masters.