By Rahma Rifkhan
Every now and then, we all just need to press pause on life.
Ignore all the emails, mute all the groups and just sit down for a laugh with some old friends over a cup of coffee.
Anytime you decide to do it, we got you covered.
Here’s a list of 7 spots where you and your friends can go to and collectively ignore life for a couple of hours.
1. Bakes By Bella
Bakes by Bella is a treat for the senses: artistic murals on the walls, the smell of brewing coffee in the air, vibey music playing in the background and of course, Bella’s mouth-watering dishes.
It’s a cute little spot to get lost in conversations with family or to reminisce with old friends.
Visit them on Instagram @bakesbybella or Facebook @bakesbybella
Location: 26 Col TG Jayawardena Mawatha, Colombo 3
Contact No: 0112 301 588
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday (8.30AM-6PM)
Approximate Price Per Head: Rs.2500/=
2. Peppermint Cafe
With their signature pink blossoms and faded brick walls, Peppermint cafe is definitely an Instagram-worthy spot to have long chats and even longer selfie sessions. They feature mostly outdoor seating, so it’s an all around light and airy space and the fact that they allow pets is just another giant yes!
Visit them on Instagram @peppermintcafe_srilanka or Facebook @peppermintcafe.lk .
Location: 76 Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7
Contact No: 075 632 0420
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday (7AM-10.30PM)
Friday & Saturday (24 hours)
Sunday (12AM-10.30PM)
Approximate Price Per Head: Rs.3000-Rs.3500/=
3. The Embazzy
Whether it’s to dine with family or to have drinks with friends, The Embazzy is your spot. They have private dining spaces for groups and as well a chic rooftop area to relax in.
The Embazzy is also screening the T20 series and what better way is there to catch up with your friend group than to do it over a climactic cricket match?
Also, their menu covers quite the range with their international cuisine, so that’s definitely another plus.
Visit them on Instagram @theembazzybistro or Facebook @theembazzy
Location: 76/1 Flower Rd, Colombo 7
Contact No: 0112 576 027
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday (7AM-12AM)
Approximate Price Per Head: Rs.3000/=
4. The Barnesbury
The Barnesbury is a world of its own. Exposed brick walls along with its wooden floorboards gives a timeless rustic vibe to the whole space. It’s a comfy spot for long conversations interrupted only by really good food.
Visit them on Instagram @thebarnesbury or Facebook @TheBarnesbury
Location: 91 Barnes Pl, Colombo 7
Contact No: 0112 682 144
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday (11AM-12AM)
Approximate Price Per Head: Rs.4000-4500/=
5. Kaapi
Even though they opened their doors recently, Kaapi has already attracted quite the buzz. Their entire vibe, from the interior to the food, is vibrant and full of life. It’s perfect for some Paanwiches followed by their signature Kaapi filter coffee, finished by a game of pool.
Visit them on Instagram @kaapicolombo or Facebook @kaapicolombo
Location: 29, Schofield Place, Marine Drive, Colombo 3
Contact No: 077 153 3443
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday (10AM-12AM)
Approximate Price Per Head: Rs.3000-3500/=
6.The Commons Coffeehouse
Even though it’s been around for 15 years now,The Commons Coffeehouse still hasn’t lost its charm. It’s a chilled-out hangout spot with plush couches and cosy corners to relax and unwind in and also, an extensive menu to choose from.
Visit them on Instagram @commonscoffee or Facebook @Thecommonscoffeehouse
Location: 39 A Flower Rd, Colombo 7
Contact No: 0112 694 435
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday (8AM-11PM)
Friday & Saturday (8AM-12AM)
Sunday (8AM-11PM)
Approximate Price Per Head: Rs.2500/=
7. Central Cafe
After a shopping spree through the One Gale face mall, you can always pause for a cup of coffee at Shangri-La’s Central Cafe. Their iconic floral decor, pastel furniture and plush seating is a perfect setting to catch up with the gang.
Visit their website for more information.
Location: Level 3,1 Galle Face, Colombo 2,
Contact No: 0117 888 288
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday(6.30AM-11PM)
Approximate Price Per Head: Rs.4000-5000/=
