The Coconut Tree: Bringing the delicious food of Sri Lanka to the UK

The Coconut Tree restaurant in the city centre presents a genuine taste of Sri Lankan culinary tradition. The staff, functioning more as a tight-knit family than mere colleagues, share a collective passion for bringing authentic Sri Lankan dishes and experiences to the UK. The venue’s ambiance is apt for both daytime and evening gatherings, with a carefully curated menu that encompasses dishes and drinks reflecting authentic food on the Sri Lankan shores. The establishment consistently bridges the culinary gap between Sri Lankan culture and cuisine and the United Kingdom.

The story behind The Coconut Tree

At The Coconut Tree, passion and vision unite the entire team. It is run by a close group of Sri Lankan friends and family, whose ultimate goal is to bring Sri Lankan cuisine and culture to communities across the world.

The entire experience is elevated by the relaxed island atmosphere, great tunes and warm customer service. Everyone is welcome and, as soon as they walk through the door – whether to dine and experience something new and fresh or try out delicious cocktails – they become part of the Coconut Tree family.

The culinary selection

Spanning from spicy to traditional street food, The Coconut Tree showcases dishes suited for every palate. The devilled chicken wings cater to those with a penchant for spice, while the Lankan chicken curry epitomises genuine Sri Lankan flavours. For seafood enthusiasts, the prawn curry stands out.

Beyond the rich chicken curry, the kottu roti – a street-food staple comprising shredded roti, vegetables, and a choice of meat or tofu – merits attention.

This Sri Lankan restaurant presents an elevated, refreshing culinary journey. The dishes are ideally portioned for sharing, promoting a communal dining atmosphere. Such an approach facilitates the sampling of a broader range of dishes and the experience of the essence of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Vegans and vegetarians receive notable consideration at The Coconut Tree. Unlike in some establishments where plant-based options might be limited, here there’s an array of main dishes that rival their meat counterparts in flavour and satisfaction. The vegan kottu, for instance, is a vegetable stir-fry combined with chopped roti, presenting a substantial and appetising option.

To round off a meal, there’s a selection of desserts, including the Sri Lankan cake paired with options like vegan stracciatella ice cream.

The ideal accompaniment to each dish

A meal often feels more complete with the right beverage. At The Coconut Tree, this is encapsulated by their botanical “cocotails”. One might imagine enjoying a concoction named Tropical Sunrise, blending coconut water, rum and various fruits, all in a welcoming and serene setting.

Alternatively, the Spiced Islander presents another option, mingling spiced rum, cinnamon and fresh lime. These beverages do more than merely quench thirst: they enhance the dining experience.

Island ambience: A hint of the tropics amidst urban life

Upon entering The Coconut Tree, there’s an impression of having been momentarily whisked away to the beaches of Sri Lanka. The interior radiates a laidback island feel, marked by earthy hues, rustic decor and greenery.

The experience suggests it’s not solely about dining and refreshment, but also a brief respite from the usual routine.

Music: Setting the ambience for the culinary experience

An island-themed setting often benefits from a matching auditory backdrop. The Coconut Tree offers a playlist attuned to the restaurant’s ambience, with traditional Sri Lankan music and rhythms that blend seamlessly with contemporary beats, enhancing the overall dining atmosphere.

Hospitality: Prioritising guest experience

In this establishment, hospitality transcends mere service – visitors note the warmth from their initial welcome to their departure. The attentive nature of The Coconut Tree’s staff aims to transform each visit into a distinctive memory.

Feedback on The Coconut Tree experience

Descriptive terms such as “fresh, tasty and full of flavour” and “distinctive atmosphere” frequently characterise guest feedback regarding The Coconut Tree. The Guardian review acknowledges the establishment for its spot-on representation of Sri Lankan cuisine and its affable service. Moreover, the value proposition is emphasised by the reasonable pricing, ensuring that indulging in quality Sri Lankan cuisine remains accessible.

Those seeking an authentic Sri Lankan experience might consider The Coconut Tree as a prime destination.

Locations of The Coconut tree restaurant

Those keen on sampling the tropical flavours and calming ambience have a selection of locations to choose from. Notably, there’s an establishment in Oxford, a city celebrated for its historic significance and academic prestige. The Coconut Tree’s presence isn’t limited to Oxford; it graces several cities such as Bath, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol (both Glos Rd and Clifton Triangle), Cardiff, Cheltenham and Reading.

Each venue promises not only a culinary delight but also a rejuvenating experience. The array of vegetarian and vegan options ensures a diverse and inclusive menu. For residents or visitors to these cities, The Coconut Tree offers an invitation to a genuine Sri Lankan dining experience.

The editorial unit