Türkiye Food Festival kicks off at Courtyard by Marriott Colombo

From left: Chef Eren Barishan, Turkish Airlines Sri Lanka and Maldives Country Director Fatih Bozkurt, Courtyard by Marriott Colombo General Manager Elton Hurtis, Republic of Türkiye Ambassador R. Demet Şekercioğlu, Counsellor Atıf Şekercioğlu, and JW Marriott Hotel Istanbul Marmara Sea Chef Volkan Gür

The Türkiye Food Festival formally began its journey last week in Colombo, hosted by Courtyard by Marriott Colombo in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye and Turkish Airlines.

The festival kicked off with a spectacular gala dinner attended by dignitaries, diplomats, ministers, members of parliament, ambassadors, well-wishers, and media luminaries.

During the gala event, the Courtyard by Marriott Colombo General Manager Elton Hurtis, Republic of Türkiye Ambassador R. Demet Şekercioğlu, and Turkish Airlines Sri Lanka and Maldives Country Director Fatih Bozkurt, addressed the attendees and formally inaugurated the Türkiye Food Festival. They delivered speeches that emphasised the enduring diplomatic ties between Türkiye and Sri Lanka, underscoring that the Türkiye Food Festival represents the collaborative harmony and partnerships within the hospitality sector.

Running until 23 September, the 10-day festival is set to immerse food enthusiasts in the rich and diverse cuisine of Türkiye. Two renowned Guest Chefs, Volkan Gür and Eren Barishan, flown in from JW Marriott Hotel Istanbul Marmara Sea, will tantalise the taste buds of Sri Lankans with an authentic Turkish gastronomic experience.

Chef Volkan Gür and Chef Eren Barishan have curated an extensive buffet that showcases the intricate flavours of Türkiye. From mouthwatering tas kabab and fragrant pilaf to Turkish sakşuka, succulent lamb chops, tantalising mezes, and a host of signature dishes, guests can embark on a culinary journey through the captivating tapestry of Turkish gastronomy.

The Türkiye Food Festival takes centre stage at Beira Kitchen within Courtyard by Marriott Colombo. The dinner buffet is available at an attractive price of Rs. 9,500 nett per person and can be savoured between 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

As part of the Türkiye Food Festival lineup, an exquisite Turkish Tea Party was hosted on 17 September offering a unique perspective on Turkish tea culture. Separately an exclusive Chef’s Table, led by Chef Volkan Gür, was also on offer.  Chef Volkan Gür of JW Marriott Hotel Istanbul Marmara Sea said: “I’m thrilled to be in Sri Lanka, sharing the vibrant flavours of Türkiye. Our Turkish Food Festival promises to be a delightful journey filled with cherished dishes, ensuring a rich cultural exchange.” Guests will have the opportunity to taste delicious baklava, flaky pastries, and more, all while delving into the cultural significance of these delightful flavours.