Embark on a culinary journey steeped in rich history as Kunthaville, the latest addition to Singapore’s vibrant dining scene, opens its doors in the historic Little India district, shining the spotlight on underrepresented Ceylonese cuisine. Housed in a century-old colonial-style conserved shophouse, Kunthaville is a multi-concept lifestyle and dining destination that offers Ceylonese fine-dining, Ceylon tea appreciation, and holistic wellness programs. The 55-seater restaurant pays homage to the culinary heritage of Ceylonese cuisine, drawing inspiration from diverse ethnic cultures and the influences of the Dutch and Portuguese, who once ruled Ceylon, the former name of Sri Lanka. It is a celebration of flavours, techniques, and natural, plant-based ingredients indigenous to Ceylon.
Paying tribute to the architectural heritage of the 3,000 sq ft two-storey shophouse and the rich culinary legacy of Ceylonese cuisine and Ceylon tea dating back to 1867, Kunthaville offers an immersive experience that goes beyond the ordinary in this historical and cultural precinct. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with warm Sri Lankan hospitality. The heritage shophouse features a charming covered porch and an entrance flanked by lush banana trees and outdoor patio garden tables and chairs, creating a tranquil atmosphere for your visit.
The restaurant’s interiors are a nod to the colonial era, with a captivating black and white design reminiscent of the times of British rule, just like British rule in Ceylon before it was renamed as Sri Lanka. Enter this welcoming haven where colonial-inspired interiors seamlessly blend with a sprawling feature wall filled with verdant foliage. Ms. Kuntha Chelvanathan, Founder and Chef Owner, has ingeniously designed the Tea Room, featuring custom-made rattan and teak furniture that exude understated elegance. In the Cocktail Lounge, you will find handpicked plush sofas of varying colours and designs, creating an eclectic and inviting atmosphere. Serving as a gathering place for well-heeled and discerning guests, the lower level boasts a distinctive bar counter adorned with intricately carved motifs reminiscent of Ceylon. Experience a thoughtfully curated selection of beverages that includes both classic and locally-inspired concoctions, featuring signature cocktails and Kunthaville tea.
Originating from the vibrant North and East regions of Sri Lanka, the culinary journey is enriched by the abundance of local produce. The fertile land yields an array of rice varieties, a variety of vibrant vegetables, fiery chilies, fragrant onions, and a medley of succulent fruits. Furthermore, the region boasts an abundant supply of coconut and palmyra palms, adding a unique richness to Ceylonese cuisine at Kunthaville.
What sets Kunthaville apart is its commitment to plant-based Ceylonese cuisine that makes it stand out and resonate with global audiences. Catering to the growing trend among the local community and international visitors who lean towards plant-based preferences, it offers a contemporary twist on traditional dishes that celebrate the essence of these flavours while also honouring the rich culinary heritage of Ceylonese cuisine. For centuries, Ceylonese menus have made use of wild and organically grown ingredients like jackfruits, mangoes, coconuts, bananas and beetroots and blending them with spices and herbs for varied flavours.
While Kunthaville features a carefully curated menu with signature dishes that harken back to the must-have favourites characterising Ceylonese cuisine, it is not just about food; it is also about tea. The restaurant embraces the Ceylon Tea Plantation legacy, offering an exquisite selection of Ceylon teas to complement the menu, providing guests with the ultimate gastronomic journey. The exclusive tea selection of 10 varieties, deftly curated by Kuntha who tasted over 50 versions before handpicking the 10 that are now available at Kunthaville, is also a testament to this belief. From herbal infusions that calm the soul to rare, handpicked teas that invigorate the senses, Kunthaville offers a holistic journey for the health-conscious and wellness seekers.
