Hiruni Fernando of Cinnamon Citadel Kandy secures victory at National Bartenders Regional Competition

Wednesday, 21 May 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Hiruni Fernando – Winner of Kandy-Nuwara Eliya region National Bartender Competition

Contenders from Cinnamon Citadel Kandy

Cinnamon Citadel Kandy Team

Cinnamon Citadel Kandy raised the bar at the 30th National Bartenders Competition for the Kandy and Nuwara Eliya region. Among 65 talented bartenders from leading hotels and resorts in the region, Hiruni Fernando successfully captivated the judges and audiences alike, securing first place in the highly competitive Classical Category.

The National Bartenders Competition stands as a landmark event in Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape, celebrating bartending excellence, innovation, and talent. Organised by the Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM), and supported by International Distillers Limited (IDL), this prestigious competition aims to elevate industry standards in mixology and beverage service.

Hiruni’s award-winning cocktail was inspired by the Traditional Masks of Sri Lanka, masterfully blended cultural storytelling with refined mixology, earning her top honours and widespread industry acclaim. This remarkable achievement not only highlights her technical brilliance and creativity but also marks a proud milestone for Cinnamon Citadel Kandy, as she advances to the national semi-finals in Colombo. Hiruni’s success stands as a powerful testament to the rising female talent shaping the future of hospitality in Sri Lanka.

Alongside Hiruni, Cinnamon Citadel Kandy was proudly represented by Ishara Dharmaratne, Tharindu Lakmal Paranavithana, Tharindu Herath, and Prageeth Wijesundara, each showcasing exceptional skill, creativity, and composure under pressure. Their collective performance was a true reflection of the high standards of craftsmanship and service that define Cinnamon Citadel. While celebrating this remarkable achievement, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts reaffirm its commitment to nurturing talent and continuously elevating the art of hospitality.