The Gourmet Boutique (TGB) is Colombo’s latest convenience store that offers premium and specialty ingredients you need under one roof; located down the calm and residential neighbourhood at Alfred Place, Kollupitiya.
TGB’s focus is on top-notch service for a unique shopping experience, with a range of exclusive products unavailable in supermarkets, such as artisan food produce, catering to the refined palette with classics and specialties.
Imported products are directly sourced from ethical and sustainable brands trusted in the US, UK, Europe and Australia. TGB also houses organic fruits and vegetables in collaboration with Mango Friends by Dushyanth Weeraman. Specialty ingredients are additionally available to cater to those on keto, gluten-free, and vegan diets. They also have baby foods, pet range and a selection of halal (permissible) cold cuts and Australian protein.
Shaking up the traditional convenience store offering, TGB sources premium, high-end products, even from small local brands. A few of the specialties are the iconic cold cuts, the finest coffees, handmade pasta, luxury chocolate, some of the best international cheeses, and many more.
TGB Founder Ashraff Cassim stated, “TGB is a new style of supermarket with a fresh look, serving our customers a unique shopping experience never seen in Sri Lanka. Our focal point is to provide our customers with personally handpicked products to suit our Sri Lankan taste buds, with the convenience of purchasing products that could only be found overseas right off our shelves.”
Part of TGB’s unique shopping experience comes from its bean bag lounge with several photo-worthy areas where customers can hang out, setting it even further apart from the typical store.
Similarly, the entire concept of TGB stands out; staff outfits are inspired by safari suits to offer an experience similar to fine dining. The interior is a combination of a luxury boutique and cosy ambiance, understanding that interiors are an integral part of the overall shopping experience.
Ashraff’s biggest support has been his daughter Zaithoon Ashraff – TGB’s co-founder and marketing executive. He commented, “She carries a big role backstage handling social media and developing sales strategies that match customer requirements. The products that you can find at our store are all personally handpicked and chosen by us. Moreover, she has kept up to date with identifying new and exciting products that have been rolling out into the market. TGB will be run by Zaithoon Ashraff, Ammar Ashraff, Arthur Perera, our dedicated team overlooking entirely.”
They also have interesting popups lined up as part of their upcoming events, as the brand is focused on supporting small-scale and home-based businesses by allowing them to showcase their products free of charge.
TGB also takes being eco-conscious and plastic-free seriously, as the store refrains from any plastic waste; cane materials are used for trays, while the shopping bags are eco-friendly, and billing is digital to eliminate paper waste.
Privilege cardholders at the store can enjoy special discounts for their birthdays and anniversaries, while the store also houses a fresh flower shop that offers imported luxury flowers from the Netherlands and Thailand. The popular Isle of Gelato ice cream brand is available at the store’s premises.
“Our goal is to provide a unique, high end and hassle-free shopping experience for our customers, with personal shopping assistants to provide a service unmatched by our competitors,” Ashraff explained.
They are open all week from 10 am to 9 pm; you can walk in and let the intoxicating scent of fresh ingredients and foods welcome you. It’s not just a marketplace; it’s an experience.
