Colombo, Sri Lanka – L’Expérience Française, a three-day fine dining showcase held from May 16th to 18th, 2025 at 1864 Limited Edition, brought the heart of French culinary artistry to Colombo in an unforgettable collaboration with Michelin-starred Chef Serge Chenet.
Over the course of three exquisite days, guests were treated to a masterfully curated à la carte menu for lunch as well as dinner, featuring refined techniques, seasonal ingredients, and elegant tea pairings by Dilmah. Chef Chenet, a Meilleur Ouvrier de France and a revered figure in global gastronomy, prepared each dish à la minute, offering diners an intimate look into the craftsmanship that defines modern French cuisine.
The experience was further elevated by the soulful performances of Trio Topaz, whose live jazz set the tone within the elegant setting of 1864 Limited Edition, the Galle Face Hotel’s award-winning fine dining destination. On the final evening, guests were treated to a surprise performance by renowned baritone Gehan A Cooray, whose powerful and emotive delivery brought the event to a moving and memorable close.
“This was more than a culinary event—it was a celebration of culture, collaboration, and excellence,” said Suresh Abbas, General Manager of Galle Face Hotel. “Bringing Chef Chenet to Sri Lanka aligns with our vision of curating world-class experiences that are as meaningful as they are memorable. We are proud to have shared this moment with our valued guests.”
Also key to the event’s success was the leadership of Chef Rukmal Samarasekera, Culinary Director of Galle Face Hotel, whose collaboration with Chef Chenet ensured a seamless and elevated gastronomic journey.
L’Expérience Française is a continuation of Galle Face Hotel’s commitment to delivering unforgettable culinary experiences that celebrate international excellence while creating heartfelt moments here in Sri Lanka.
About 1864 Limited Edition
Located within the iconic Galle Face Hotel, 1864 Limited Edition is Colombo’s premier fine dining destination for contemporary European cuisine. With a curated wine cellar, handcrafted cocktails, and exhibitions from Sri Lankan artists, the restaurant offers a sensory-rich experience that earned it the title of “Best Contemporary Fine Dining Restaurant” at the 2024 Sri Lanka Tourism Awards.
