By Charnika Imbulana Munasinghe
SLYCAN Trust, a non-profit organization committed to sustainable development, announced the launch of Plant Based Gastronomy: ‘Tales of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Heritage’ in collaboration with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Colombo last week.
This Ground Breaking initiative being announced by both parties to the pact, at Cinnamon Grand hotel’s Nuga Gama Restaurant, renowned as the Village in the City with its synonymous Nuga Tree serving as the backdrop, was very apt.
The official launch took place in the grand setting of the hotel’s Atrium, and a large gathering that included sustainable advocates were witness to the unveiling of this exceptional project.
PROMOTE CULINARY TOURISM IN SRI LANKA
Plant Based Gastronomy; “Tales of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Heritage“ is an innovative exploration of Sri Lanka’s traditional culinary practices, emphasizing the vibrant array of plant- based ingredients deeply rooted in the country’s heritage.
This initiative seeks to celebrate Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage through a unique culinary journey that highlights the essence of plant-based cuisine to promote culinary tourism in Sri Lanka.
This collaboration between SLYCAN Trust and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Colombo aims to promote ethical, sustainable, and climate-friendly dining choices while showcasing the diverse flavours and culinary traditions of Sri Lanka.
SLYCAN Trust Global Executive Director Vositha Wijenayake, stated: “As part of this venture, we will be building partnerships with key stakeholders for promoting ethical, sustainable and climate-friendly food options. Among these plant-based food will be one of our priority areas, including plant-based culinary experiences aimed at enhancing the market for locally-sourced plant-based food as well as promoting Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage.
“We are extremely happy to partner in this endeavor with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Colombo, and contribute to achieving common objectives,” she added
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Colombo Area Vice President and Cinnamon Grand Colombo General Manager Kamal Munasinghe speaking at the Press Briefing said “Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Colombo underlining sustainability and local heritage, work closely with partners to enhance ethical practices and cultivate sustainable consumption experiences.
“We’re not just fostering a vibrant culinary scene but also catering to the changing preferences of the market,” he added.
“We are delighted to collaborate and contribute significantly to the success of this initiative and partner with institutions promoting culinary tourism, supporting evolving markets, and aligning with those elevating plant-based cuisine in Sri Lanka,” he elaborated.
When questioned on the methods in which this message will be conveyed to the clients he said that Cinnamon will expand the plant-based food range by Introducing a dedicated plant-based food corner at the buffet at Plates restaurant at Cinnamon Grand Colombo.
This progressive move is designed to cater to the evolving preferences of guests seeking diverse and sustainable dining options. The plant-based food corner hopes to have a carefully-curated selection of culinary delights that celebrate the vibrant flavours and cultural richness of Sri Lanka.
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Colombo was proud to inform that patronizes can now anticipate and experience world-class plant-based culinary at their properties. They would be hosting of a world-class vegan chef this year, adding a layer of sophistication and innovation to the initiative, elevating plant-based gastronomy to new heights.
“The culinary prowess will ensure that the dishes are not just substitutes for traditional non-vegetarian options but stand on their own merit as delectable creations that appeal to a wide audience,” he said.
With regards to awareness and engagement, SLYCAN Trust, through its EthicalX: Climate & Innovation Hub and Meatless Mondays Sri Lanka initiatives, is committed to promoting ethical, sustainable, and climate-friendly food systems.
CINNAMON HOTELS – THE FIRST HOTEL CHAIN TO PARTNER SLYCAN TRUST
SLYCAN Trust chose Cinnamon Hotels as the first chain of Hotels to embark on this novel joint project. Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Colombo renowned as a leader in the hospitality trade in Sri Lanka has established its place for its continued commitment to sustainability and efforts to integrate eco-friendly practices into its operations, contributing to the well-being of the environment and local communities.
SLYCAN Trust is a non-profit think tank dedicated to climate change, sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, animal welfare, and social justice, including gender and youth empowerment. Its work spans national, regional, and global levels, encompassing policy analysis, evidence-based research, and on-the-ground implementation across Asia, Europe and Africa.
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Colombo and SLYCAN Trust will work together in creating awareness on food systems work that directly connects with Sri Lanka’s tourism and hospitality industry to promote and scale up awareness and engagement across the island. Both parties will partner in awareness creation activities.
