Colombo, Sri Lanka – [9th March 2025] — Indiya, the signature Indian restaurant at Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, enters a new chapter with Chef Mukesh Joshi at the helm. Situated on the spectacular Level 23, the restaurant now offers a dining experience that is as elevated as its views, combining Indian culinary traditions with Sri Lankan influences in a contemporary, family-style format.
Under Chef Mukesh’s leadership, the menu takes guests on a journey across India’s regions. Fragrant rice dishes such as Awadhi Mutton Biryani and Zaffrani Chicken Dum Biryani anchor the experience, while comforting classics like Dal Makhani and Chana Masala bring depth and familiarity to the table. Alongside these are thoughtfully crafted vegetarian preparations, including Kurkuri Bhindi, Hyderabadi Bagara Baingan, and the indulgent Shahi Subz Korma.
The experience unfolds through layers of texture and flavour. Crisp starters such as Sev Papdi Chaat, a generous Pakora Platter, and warming soups set the tone, followed by tandoor-led favourites like Hariyali Tandoori Gobi, Rajma Galouti, and non-vegetarian selections including Jhinga Koliwada, Rawa Fried Surmai, and a classic non-vegetarian Kebab Platter. Freshly baked breads, from Chilli Cheese Naan and flaky Paratha to comforting Aloo Kulcha, arrive ready to be shared.
Seafood and meat preparations showcase Chef Mukesh’s confident spice work and regional storytelling, with dishes such as Jhinga Hara Pyaz, Macchi Malai Curry, Railway Chicken Curry, Kozhi Milagu Fry, Mewari Kheema, and Mutton Bhuna forming the heart of the menu. For those seeking something distinctive, the chef’s special selections, including Tandoori Kaala Jhinga, Pahadi Tandoori Kukkad, Nandu Curry, and the standout Lagoon Jhinga Biryani, offer bold, expressive flavours designed to take centre stage.
The meal concludes on a nostalgic, indulgent note with classic desserts such as Mishti Doi and Kulfi Falooda, bringing warmth and familiarity to the final moments of the dining experience.
Indiya’s new approach moves away from traditional fine dining, focusing instead on bringing people together around the table. Whether it’s a family gathering, a dinner with friends, or a special occasion, the restaurant is designed for connection, conversation, and memorable moments, where every dish reflects care, authenticity, and thoughtful execution.
Chef Mukesh’s career spans India and the UAE, from The Westin and St. Regis Mumbai to Dubai’s India Bistro and Art of Dum, where he led kitchens, designed menus, and executed landmark events. Known for balancing classic flavours with contemporary presentation, Mukesh’s hands-on leadership and commitment to excellence shape every aspect of Indiya, from the ingredients and techniques to the teamwork that brings the dishes to life.
With this new chapter, Indiya offers a dining experience that is vibrant, elevated, and immersive, celebrating Indian cuisine in a way that feels authentic, approachable, and perfectly suited to the city-sized destination of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams.
