The Chinwag | Restaurant Review

“Dumplings, curry and convo, they’ve got it all!”

Nestled in the heart of Colombo, right at one of the city’s busiest intersections, The Chinwag lives up to its name, creating a space where great food and good conversation come together. Inspired by the British slang for a friendly chat, this cosy spot is all about connections, simple pleasures and unpretentious dining. With its open-air setting, warm lighting and an open kitchen that puts the action on display, The Chinwag offers a laid-back yet lively experience.

Each dish is perfectly portioned for one but even better when shared. If you’re looking for a fresh dining experience in Colombo, one visit to The Chinwag will have you coming back for more.

APPETISERS

Fried Cheese and Chili Dumplings  – LKR 1,450 (4/5)

Shrimp and Mango Nacho Bowl – LKR 2,100 (5/5)

We weren’t sure what to expect with this dish, but one bite was all it took to win us over. Fresh mango, prawns, tomatoes and a mix of herbs and spices come together with crispy nacho chips for a refreshingly cool and satisfying combination. The tangy sweetness of the mango and tomatoes pairs perfectly with the savoury prawns and crunchy nachos, making it the ideal way to start a meal, light, flavourful, and just enough to leave you excited for what’s next.

MAINS

Butter Chicken Dumplings – LKR 1,890 (4/5)

The Chinwag puts a creative spin on a classic, wrapping everyone’s favourite butter chicken in a soft dumpling. Served with a creamy curry sauce and a drizzle of chilli oil, this fusion dish blends bold flavours with comforting textures in a way that’s both unexpected and exciting.

With each bite, the rich, fragrant butter chicken takes centre stage, balanced by the soft dumpling dough. While the combination might be unfamiliar to some, the experience of enjoying butter chicken in dumpling form is definitely worth a try.

Creamy Curried Prawn Dumplings – LKR 1,900 (5/5)

Rich, creamy curried prawn wrapped in a soft, chewy dumpling, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and creativity. The seafood’s natural sweetness enhances the dumpling’s flavour, while the gentle spice adds just enough warmth without overwhelming the palate.

Smooth, satisfying, and just the right mix of familiar and adventurous, this is the perfect dish for anyone looking to step outside their comfort zone without going too far. If you are new to experimental dumplings, this is the one to start with.

Turkish Mutton Dumplings – LKR 2,400 (5/5)

Mutton is tricky to perfect, and even trickier to wrap into a dumpling, but The Chinwag has nailed it. Each bite reveals tender, juicy mutton that melts in your mouth, releasing a bold, savoury explosion of flavour. The tangy tomato paste and creamy Greek yoghurt on top create the perfect contrast, proving that even the most unexpected pairings can come together in perfect harmony.

Yellow Rice with Black Pork Curry – LKR 1,890 (5/5)

For those who prefer something familiar, this dish is a comforting break from the more experimental options. Tender, well-seasoned black pork curry comes with fragrant yellow rice, a generous helping of cashew nuts, mango chutney, papadam and a rich, creamy dhal curry that ties everything together. The dhal, in particular, elevates the dish, balancing the bold flavours and making this a must-try at The Chinwag.

DESSERTS

Dessert of the Day – (price varies) (4/5)

The Chinwag keeps things exciting with a rotating dessert of the day, giving diners something new to look forward to each visit. Prices vary depending on the selection. During our visit, we indulged in a rich chocolate brownie served with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of honey. The warm, fudgy brownie paired perfectly with the cool, creamy ice cream, while the honey added a delightful touch of sweetness, making for a satisfying end to our meal.

DRINKS

Lime and Mint Crush – LKR 800 (5/5)

Lime and mint are a classic combination, and this refreshing drink takes full advantage of their cooling qualities. Served over crushed ice, it’s the perfect way to beat the heat on a warm day. The natural mint leaves give the lime juice a vibrant green hue, while the subtle sweetness adds just the right touch without overwhelming the palate. A simple yet satisfying choice for any time you need a refreshing pick-me-up.

Passion and Narang Crush – LKR 800 (5/5)

Crushed ice blended with tangy Narang and passionfruit juices creates the perfect tropical twist to complement your meal. The fresh passionfruit pulp adds an extra layer of satisfaction, with bursts of tart and sweet flavours that make each sip a refreshing experience throughout.

AMBIENCE

The Chinwag offers a relaxed dining experience, perfect for enjoying great food and good company. As soft music blends with the hustle and bustle of one of Colombo’s busiest intersections, warm lights begin to glow at sunset, creating a cosy atmosphere. Occasionally, live music adds an extra touch, making it an even more memorable spot to unwind.