Swyree calls itself a Chinese hotel and restaurant, but it’s really a great kottu stand. They also do a good fried rice. Trinco – especially the suburbs around Uppaveli and Nilaveli – is gentrifying fast so it’s good to find a truly local food joint which is upscale enough without being foreign.
The Food
East coast kottu is better than the Colombo stuff. The Kottu here is lighter and fluffier and it’s generally less leaden and filling. They don’t put cheese much at all, but it’s kinda better that way. The chicken kottu is Rs. 220 and it’s sizable, enough for two. It comes with gravy but we’d say try the kottu first, then add a drizzle to taste. The kottu has a flavor of its own and you don’t want to overpower it.
They also do a nice fried rice. We haven’t tried their Chinese stuff, but we’re sure it’s OK.
The Service
The family running the place is really nice. They’re very happy to meet tourists and don’t seem to mind any particular request. It’s a mom-and-pop store, so you get the experience of eating in a family home.
Location
The restaurant itself has a nice outdoor gazebo type eating area – an elevated wood platform. There’s plenty parking and the location is near Orr’s Hill and the Inner Harbour.
Conclusion
Swyree is a little spot near Orr’s Hill which serves a great Kottu and fried frice. East coast kottu is different and this place is worth a try.
