FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – FEBRUARY 2025

A Taste of Royalty: Gourmet Galle Welcomes Tom Parker Bowles to Colombo & Galle!

IXTA BELFRAGE – ANDI OLIVER – RAVINDER BOGHAL – MR LYAN – DOM FERNANDO – TOM PARKER BOWLES – PETER KURIVITA – DARINA ALLEN – JR RYALL

Gourmet Galle: January 25 – March 9, 2025

Colombo, Sri Lanka, 21st February 2025; Gourmet Galle hosts Tom Parker Bowles, son of Queen Camilla, at 1864, Galle Face Hotel in Colombo for an unforgettable Royal Banquet. Gourmet Galle brings its signature culinary extravagance to Colombo, welcoming the award-winning food writer, renowned restaurant critic, and royal food historian.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Known for his deep dive into the tastes and traditions of the British monarchy, Parker Bowles brings an exquisite journey through royal dining history, stretching from the Victorian era to the present day. His latest book, Cooking and the Crown: Royal Recipes from Queen Victoria to King Charles III explores the grandeur of royal cuisine, offering recipes that have graced coronations, state banquets, and intimate royal meals alike. This evening promises an enchanting experience with behind-the-scenes glimpses into royal feasts, traditions, and the fascinating personalities of palace kitchens through the ages.

On 28th February 2025, the iconic Galle Face Hotel, a landmark of colonial elegance and Sri Lankan heritage since 1864, will host this extraordinary event. Overlooking the shimmering Indian Ocean, this historic venue has been the preferred retreat for royalty, dignitaries, and luminaries for generations. Guests will be transported into an

era of refined indulgence as they step into the legendary halls of this timeless hotel to enjoy a menu meticulously crafted for an experience fit for kings and queens.

A delectable selection of canapés will be followed by a sit-down feast of historic royal dishes, including Scotch Broth, Crab Mousse, Barramundi, Chicken Fricasée, or the regal Les Petits Vol au Vents for vegetarian diners. Accompaniments such as Pommes Elizabeth, Petit Pois à la Française, and Mushrooms à la Crème will enhance the flavors of an already lavish menu. The grand finale will be an exquisite Bomb Glacée, famously served at Princess Elizabeth’s wedding breakfast, alongside Fraises à la Chantilly, a sweet staple of royal tables. Handcrafted petits fours and a selection of fine cocktails and wines will round off this majestic evening.

For those seeking an intimate affair with Tom Parker Bowles, the journey continues to Galle on 2nd March 2025 at the breathtaking Doornberg. This stunning hilltop residence, overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort and the Indian Ocean, has long been regarded as the most beautiful home in Galle. A fusion of Dutch colonial charm and contemporary elegance, Doornberg offers an ambience of serenity and sophistication, perfect for an evening of drinks, supper, and engaging conversation with the esteemed author. Nestled within a lush acre of garden, this private retreat will serve as the setting for a memorable gathering featuring exquisite cuisine and fine company.

At Doornberg, an exquisite culinary experience awaits you, featuring a selection of traditional and indulgent dishes. Savour the comforting Potage Parmentier, followed by a delightful assortment of savoury bites, including Mutton Pies, Potted Crab, Ham & Mustard Sandwiches, and Smoked Salmon Sandwiches. To conclude, indulge in classic desserts such as Rhubarb Fool, Chocolate Bavarois, Balmoral Shortbread, and Ginger Cake.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

With an unparalleled celebration of royal gastronomy, history, and storytelling, Gourmet Galle welcomes Tom Parker Bowles to Sri Lanka. From the grandeur of state banquets at the iconic Galle Face Hotel in Colombo to the refined elegance of a private supper at Doornberg in Galle, immerse yourself in an extraordinary journey through regal indulgence, tradition, and culinary excellence.

For tickets and information, visit www.gourmetgalle.com.

About Gourmet Galle and Galle Literary Festival

Since its launch in 2007 by Geoffrey Dobbs, the Galle Literary Festival has become a cornerstone of South Asia’s cultural calendar, known for its intimate and historic setting. Expanding its success, the GLF team now brings you Gourmet Galle, a dedicated culinary festival spotlighting the exceptional food and talent of Sri Lanka’s South Coast for both local and international guests.