Chinese Dragon Cafe celebrates 84 years of serving generations of Sri Lankans

Chinese Dragon Cafe is celebrating its 84th anniversary in 2026, marking more than eight decades of serving generations of Sri Lankan customers. The journey of Chinese Dragon Cafe began in 1942 in Bambalapitiya, when a Chinese couple opened a small restaurant and introduced Chinese cuisine to the local community. What started as a single restaurant later grew into a well-known restaurant chain and a familiar name among Sri Lankan families. For the past 17 years, the new management has proudly carried forward the founding family’s legacy, preserving the authentic recipes, quality standards, and exceptional service that have defined Chinese Dragon Cafe for generations. While staying true to its heritage, the brand has continued to grow, expanding to 14 outlets (Bambalapitiya, Mount Lavinia, Nugegoda, Rajagiriya, Pelawatta, Wattala, Kandana, Kaduwela, Jaffna, Galle, Gothatuwa, Orion City, Negombo and Dubai) and creating memorable dining experiences for our valued customers across Sri Lanka.The company is also preparing to expand further, with Kandy and Kurunegala opening soon. 

The opening of its newest outlet in Negombo marks another important step in the company’s journey. Located at No. 48, Chilaw Road, Negombo (400 metres from the Maris Stella College towards Kochchikade), the outlet brings Chinese Dragon Cafe to one of Sri Lanka’s most popular coastal cities and further strengthens the brand’s reach across the island. Chinese Dragon Cafe has also taken its name beyond Sri Lanka with the opening of an international outlet in Dubai, bringing its Sri Lankan Chinese dining experience to customers overseas as well. Throughout its 84-year journey, Chinese Dragon Cafe has become known for many customer favourites, including Hot Butter Cuttlefish, Seafood Fried Rice served in a Banana Leaf, Chilli Paste, Chilli Crab, Tom Yum Seafood Soup, and a wide range of rice, noodles, seafood and Chinese dishes. While food remains at the heart of the brand, Chinese Dragon Cafe has continued to develop its services to suit the changing needs of its customers. Today, customers can enjoy dine-in, takeaway, free delivery, online ordering (www.chinesedragoncafe.com), corporate meal solutions, indoor and outdoor catering, event catering and private dining room facilities. 

To mark this special milestone, Chinese Dragon Cafe also held a series of special Anniversary Week offers for its customers. The promotions ran from October 9 to October 14 and included a range of exciting deals. On 9 October, customers who spent over Rs. 10,000 received Rs. 3,000 off. On 10 and 11 October, customers enjoyed 30% off on dining and 25% off on delivery. On 12 October, the first 25 customers who purchased Hot Butter Cuttlefish (R) received a free chilli paste bottle. On 13 October, customers who bought Hot Butter Cuttlefish (R) received 50% off on Chicken Fried Rice (R1). On 14 October, customers were offered 25% off on dining. These special offers added to the celebratory spirit of the anniversary and gave customers a chance to be part of the occasion. Behind the success of Chinese Dragon Cafe is a dedicated team that has supported the company’s growth over the years. The company continues to focus on building a positive working environment while encouraging teamwork, staff development and employee engagement. The company also values the important role played by its loyal customers, many of whom have enjoyed Chinese Dragon Cafe across different generations.

Commenting on the anniversary, Chief Operating Officer Lahiruwan Lakmal said: “Reaching 84 years is a very special milestone for Chinese Dragon Cafe. Our journey has been made possible by the trust and support of our customers and the commitment of our team. Many families have grown up enjoying our food, and we are proud to have been part of their memories for generations. As we move forward, we will continue to protect the values and flavours that built our brand while improving and introducing new experiences for our customers.” As Chinese Dragon Cafe celebrates 84 years, the brand continues to look ahead with plans to grow its presence, improve the customer experience and reach more communities in Sri Lanka and beyond. From a small restaurant in Bambalapitiya in 1942 to a recognised restaurant brand with a growing local and international presence, Chinese Dragon Cafe’s 84-year journey reflects a story of food, family, loyalty and continuous growth. As the brand enters another year, Chinese Dragon Cafe remains committed to serving the flavours that generations of Sri Lankans have come to know and enjoy, while creating new experiences for the generations to come.