Sapphyr Lounge, Shangri-La Colombo

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#7 of 930 Restaurants in ColomboCafe, International, €€ - €€€

What is Travellers’ Choice?

Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

Sapphyr Lounge, Shangri-La Colombo

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+94 11 7 888288Improve this listing

About

Travellers' Choice

2024

Accessible directly from the hotel lobby, the Sapphyr Lounge is bathed in natural Sri Lankan sunlight through floor to ceiling windows. From savoury pastries, featuring exotic fillings, served as they come hot from the oven, to crispy fresh puffs and sandwiches, along with a choice of delicate desserts, there's something for every craving.

Features

CUISINES

Cafe, International, Healthy

Meal types

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinks

Special Diets

Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options

FEATURES

Accepts Credit Cards

Free off-street parking

Free Wifi

Full Bar

Highchairs Available

Parking Available

Reservations

Seating

Serves Alcohol

Table Service

Validated Parking

Location

1 Galle Face Level 2 Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo 00200 Sri Lanka

Free off-street parking, Parking Available, Validated Parking

Does this restaurant offer highchairs for toddlers?

Yes

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Hours

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Closed now

• Opens at 7:00 AM

Sunday

7:00 - 0:00

Monday

7:00 - 0:00

Tuesday

7:00 - 0:00

Wednesday

7:00 - 0:00

Thursday

7:00 - 0:00

Friday

7:00 - 0:00

Saturday

7:00 - 0:00

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4.9

1,017 reviews

Excellent

959

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Yes

Maria Nerizza V

Brunei-Muara District84 contributions

Best High Tea with Nice Music, Pleasing Ambience, and Great Crew!

Jan 2025 • solo

I had high tea last week and I really enjoyed the spread, the music, and the ambience. The staff who attended to my needs, Ishani, Jeyanthini, and Harsha were all very professional, courteous, and accommodating. I hope they continue this great service. The food was a good mix of sweets and savory so I was greatly satisfied. The violinist and guitarist also had a nice selection of music to play that afternoon!

Written 8 February 2025

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Dhanushka Sampath

Greetings from Sappyhr Lounge! Thank you for your kind review! We're pleased to hear you enjoyed the high tea experience, from the delicious food spread to the lovely music and ambience. It’s great to hear that Ishani, Jenithan, and Harsha provided exceptional and friendly service. We'll be sure to pass along your kind words to them! May we also suggest our International buffet known for having extensive live stations in all of Colombo, along with our specialty cuisine restaurants the Capital Bar and Grill and Shang Palace for your next visit. We look forward to welcoming you once again! Best Regards, Sapphyr Lounge Team!

Written 16 March 2025

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Yavinka M

2 contributions

Friendly staff, bright orange hues and acoustic sounds

Mar 2025 • family

Ah! Honestly, I have been coming here for 6 months back to back. I have been made to feel as part of the hotel. I use this space as a space to relax, unwind, work and also socialise. It has amazing panaramic views of the Indian Ocean and Port. A vista not to be missed, with flowing traffic to gaze on, and the Galle Face Green Promenade with its hustle and bustle. I do not know any other better lounge in Colombo to relax in, than this. Other lounges or cafes or bars, fall short, or else overly excessive and does not have "Spirit". The staff here caters to everyone, whether you are a budget traveller, a local, or a wedding invitee, rich or poor, or a local person exploring the fanciest hotels, they cater to everyone, with no shame or judgement, they treat you well with respect. Multilingual staff that speaks English, Tamil, and Sinhala, and you can converse in what you prefer. I use both English and Sinhala to get the mixed-cultural experience. The staff is dedicated and comes from a long way to treat you (distance too!), and they will always treat you with a smile and genuine courtesy. I do not regret spending time or money here, often daily. The staff has been understanding and respectful of both the time to respect privacy as well to engage in conversation and ensure I am having a good time. The decor and design of the lounge is open and vast, with high ceilings, with curtain blinds to shield you from the heat/sun when needed. One of my most memorable moments are the endless sunsets I see here, bright Orange Sunsets, often not to be missed. Try and see if you can wait without taking a picture. Try also not to look at all the well-dressed event attendees or traditional looks! Lots of joy and smiles here, can cater to any mood. Lastly, the lounge hosts an array of music from lobby music on speaker, to live piano, live jazz, live drum, and jazz, and sometimes singing with accoustics too! A very valuable deal if you are even just here for a latte. Brick and mortar cannot create this "spirit" or the "vibe" that the staff will endeavour to provide. My hats off and immense gratitude to Harsha, Hiruni, Kelum, Ishani, Shakira, Malik, Aakib, Asanka, Rizni, Alicia, Archana, Tuan, Nilanka, Udara, Upeksha, and Jenathan. Thank you! Merci, Gracias, Danke!

Written 7 March 2025

Dhanushka Sampath

Greetings from Sapphyr Lounge! Thank you for taking the time to share such a kind review! We're beyond happy to hear that you've had such a wonderful experience with us and that our team has made you feel like part of the family. We truly appreciate your continued support and are grateful for your thoughtful words. We look forward to welcoming you back in the near future! Best Regards, Sapphyr Lounge Team

Written 17 March 2025

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

anishka s

1 contribution

21st Birthday Cake of my son by Chef Ashan

Jul 2024 • family

This review is for Chef Ashan (Mr. Ashan Saranga) for my only son’s 21st Birthday cake!! 🙏💯♥️🎂 This is how the story goes. I called all around Colombo 5stars hotels for my son’s cake which we wanted to throw him a surprise birthday party. I had an idea in mind to incorporate everyone who has been in his life to help me raise him as a single mom. For the cake idea, every other hotel had a problem. CG said they cannot add cheese cake on top of fudge. A chocolatier said the same. And my own hotel which we stayed and are diamond members of threw me an exuberant price for 1kg which was the most hilarious. Plus its chef was being very evasive on confirming the layers of the cake and he too had a problem with adding the 2 most important layers mentioned above. All in all everyone wanted to charge us heavily without putting in the effort. But not Chef Ashan!! He said yes to all my layers for the cake and he even suggested more layers, more varieties of nuts and he even agreed to my specific icing and ganache. Thank you Ashan, you made my son’s cake, stress free for me. You made a wonderful cake, did the layers yourself. And the final touches as per your instructions were completed by Anuradha Sankalpa, Gayan Randika, and Suva Laksshika Jayakumar. Thank you guys too and love you!! My son loved it!! The guests loved it, including me no my partner. 💗🎂💗 I’ll be back for my birthday cake in November. 😉 What I want to stress here to the world is, these guys are true to their work and the most dedicated in Colombo. And by looking at the photos you’ll see how each layer has been constructed and what wonderful finishing they did for a 2kg plus cake. And I ask Shangri la to treat them well, because they take your name to the world. Finally I ask from people to never be afraid to give these guys a unique cake design / idea, because they will nail it!! They will nail the taste and design to the t. We love you Ashan and the crew!! We are blessed to get to know you!! 🙏💯♥️

Written 14 July 2024

Gihan Vithana

Dear 747anishkas, Thank you for your heartfelt review! We are thrilled to hear about your wonderful experience with Chef Ashan and his team for your son’s 21st birthday cake. It’s great to know that they were able to bring your vision to life and create a cake that not only met but exceeded your expectations. Your kind words truly highlight their dedication and talent, and we’re pleased that your son and guests loved the cake. We can’t wait to welcome you back for your birthday! Thank you for recommending our team, and we look forward to creating more memorable moments for you in the future!

Written 18 September 2024

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Savithri S

1 contribution

High Tea Shangrila on a weekday

Aug 2023 • friends

came as a guest of friends who had booked a table for high tea. Disappointing service. Staff sat us down and then had to be called to serve us. Asked for tea with milk and sugar and tea was brought without milk and once again had to wait a while until the milk was brought! Nice music. The food was plenty. The rotti exceptional. All in All, an indifferent start to the ‘high tea’ experience; small tea saucers to eat both the sweet and the savoury food items Will not recommend this ‘High Tea’ to anyone

Written 23 August 2023

Shangri-La Colombo

Dear Savithris, Thank you for sharing feedback of your recent visit to Sapphyr Lounge. We were all very disappointed to see that your experience fell below your expectations and was far beneath the level of service that we continuously strive to provide to all our valued guests. I would like to share with you that we have addressed this with our teams accordingly and please accept my sincere apologies. We look forward to having you with us in the years to come. Warm Regards Sapphyr Lounge team

Written 26 August 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Sightseer635547

2 contributions

Good

Nov 2023 • family

We ordered beef burger and club sandwiches, lime juice, peach iced tea and a chocolate milk shake. Food was very good. Chocolate milk shake not so much. Tasted powdery. Other two drinks were good. Reason I didn’t give 5 stars was even though there were plenty of empty tables by the windows overlooking the ocean we were seated in the middle section after request. Server Chaminda was amazing.

Written 8 November 2023

Shangri-La Colombo

Greetings from Sapphyr Lounge! We are delighted to hear of your feedback on your recent visit to our restaurant and we thank you for selecting our restaurant on your recent dining out experience and for all the feedback you have shared, as we strive to continuous improvement, these are very helpful in reviewing our processes, product and services to address the areas necessary ensuring that such experiences doesn't reflect with our standards. We shall surely let Chaminda know that his efforts in service were worthwhile. Our purpose is leave a lasting impression and ensure a memorable experience. May we also suggest our International buffet known for having extensive live stations in all of Colombo, along with our specialty cuisine restaurants the Capital Bar and Grill and Shang Palace for your next visit. We look forward to welcoming you once again! Best Regards, Sapphyr Lounge Team.

Written 9 November 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

travesuras

28 contributions

Best Cospa

Sept 2024 • business

We enjoyed afternoon tea. It's a lot, but you can take home what you can't eat. Savory is not spicy, but it tastes like spice. Both sweets and scones are delicious. You can only order one type of tea per person, but when it gets thick, you can ask for hot water and add it to drink. There is music and you can feel very elegant. Cospa is the best. There were times when I couldn't make eye contact with the staff, I couldn't call them and brought the wrong tea, so I think there is room for improvement.

Automatically translated

Written 3 September 2024

Gihan Vithana

Dear travesuras, We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the afternoon tea along with the delicious sweets and scones. It’s great to know you appreciated the elegant atmosphere and music. We also appreciate your constructive feedback regarding staff visibility, your comments will be shared with the team for improvement. We truly value your input and hope to welcome you back for another enjoyable experience soon!

Written 18 September 2024

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Shanelle De Almeida

Colombo177 contributions

Fromage Excellence!!

May 2024 • family

Shangrila CMB is wellknown for excellence in terms of service and quality. The cheese week with Olivier Poulard was exceptional however. My mom and I went for the final day cheese tasting at the sapphire lounge. Our server Kelum was especially noteworthy, so well mannered & gracious . The wines by B & G we’re exceptional. Had a fabulous Chablis. The cheeses were exquisite and well accompanied with deletable condiments. Bravo!!

Written 19 May 2024

Gihan Vithana

Dear shanelle182, Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you and your mom enjoyed the cheese tasting with Olivier Poulard at Sapphyr Lounge. It’s great to know that Kelum provided you with exceptional service, and we’re glad you appreciated the wines and exquisite cheeses. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another memorable experience soon!

Written 18 September 2024

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Kaushka S

1 contribution

Perfect place to get your work done!

Mar 2025 • solo

I visited the Sapphyr Lounge for some coffee and a sweet treat. The staff was really attentive, helpful and friendly! I was able to have a peaceful time by myself. I will definitely be visiting the Sapphyr Lounge more often because it is a great place to bring your laptop and get your work done. The coffee was great and the “Colombo Cheesecake” was so creamy and filling!

Written 1 March 2025

Dhanushka Sampath

Greetings from Sapphyr Lounge! We appreciate your kind words on your recent visit. It’s wonderful to hear that our staff made you feel well taken care of. Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the near future! Best Regards, Sapphyr Lounge Team

Written 17 March 2025

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Chaamila P

2 contributions

High Tea at Sapphyr Lounge

Oct 2022 • couples

The platter was scrumptious and worth the price compared to the other hotels nearby. The staff is very ffriendly. Specially Mr. Rukshan who welcomed us and served us throughout was extremely friendly and attentive. The pianist and the violinist added some extra colour to the vibe.. Would recommend this place for a wonderful afternoon with the loved ones..

Written 4 October 2022

Shangri-La

Greetings from Sapphyr Lounge!! Thank you very much for taking the time to leave a review of your last experience at Sapphyr Lounge. We are happy to know thank you enjoyed the food offering and the service provided by our team and especially the team members mentioned, will ensure to pass on all your comments to everyone at Sapphyr Lounge. Regards, Hisham and team

Written 9 October 2022

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

yfallon r

Colombo18 contributions

Disappointing

Jul 2022 • couples

High tea at Shangri-la was incredibly disappointing. One the worst high tea experiences ever. Didn't receive a pot of tea or coffee we just received a cup of coffee which is highly unacceptable for a 5 start hotel. The variety of the high tea platter was not interesting at all and add to it everything lacked taste .The scones were so dry, the buns were chewy. Incredibly disappointed.

Written 24 July 2022

Shangri-La Colombo

Greetings from Sapphyr Lounge! Thank you for selecting our restaurant on your recent dine out experience and for all the feedbacks shared, as we strive to continuous improvement, these are very helpful in reviewing our processes, product and service to address the areas necessary, we have met with the team and will work on improving as needed. Many thanks again and we look forward to welcoming you back soon. Regards, Sapphyr Lounge team

Written 26 July 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Thishya J

5 contributions

Unprofessional Service!!!

Jul 2022 • couples

The short eats and the cake pieces available at the lounge are very expensive than the other 5 star hotels in Colombo. Also when we both first went there, we ordered a pot of tea, and they charged for the specific pot. But on the next day again when we visited the place the same pot was charged twice than the previous day stating that it was for two people. It was the same pot, no difference with the quantity. And when we queried this from the manager, stating that they have charged twice as the previous day, for the same pot, he admitted that a miscommunication has happened from a server’s side. But no money refund was done. Very unprofessional service!!! Very much disappointed.

Written 31 July 2022

Shangri-La Colombo

Written 26 July 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Anne S

2 contributions

Sapphyr Lounge experience

Oct 2023 • family

My sister and I were at the Sapphyr Lounge for high tea for the first time and very much enjoyed the experience. We liked the variety of the savory and sweet items that were offered on the menu. The iced coffee was very good. The service was exceptional as well, including our server, Saheed, who was very attentive to our needs and helpful in selecting the items on the menu. We intend to go back again.

Written 30 October 2023

Shangri-La Colombo

Greetings from Sapphyr Lounge! Thank you for visiting us and taking the time for your valued feedback mentioning the delightful experience courtesy of Saheed. We are so happy to read of your appreciation towards his efforts in service. All of us here are obsessed with delivering heartfelt hospitality creating moments of joy that truly matter. Our chefs serve you to the colourful joys of life through our cuisines. We look forward to welcoming you back very soon and to hopefully hosting you and your loved ones to celebrate the special moments in your life once again! Best Regards, Sapphyr Lounge Team.

Written 30 October 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Raya C

3 contributions

Dessert with a friend

Aug 2022 • friends

Albeit EXTREMELY expensive for just two cakes and an unimpressive chocolate milkshake, the cheesecake was absolutely divine as always. We were served by Rukshan and he was very obliging, efficient and extremely helpful. I wouldn’t recommend for an everyday outing but it’s definitely a treat, a perfect place to hang out with a few friends as it’s not crowded at all. The ambience is extremely relaxing and luxurious.

Written 19 August 2022

Shangri-La

Greetings from Sapphyr Lounge! Our team works diligently to ensure each dining experience is exquisite, and we are proud to be one of your favorite destinations. Thank you for such a phenomenal review! Regards, Hisham and team

Written 19 August 2022

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Jude J

Ja Ela1 contribution

An exquisite food festival

Sept 2023 • family

I was here with family on a Friday night for dinner. I was taken by an awe seeing the elegant set up at the buffet. Walking around the food stations only made my appetite grow bigger and felt like trying everything out. Out of the courses, dessert is my personal favorite. The crepe maker won the spotlight in the entire sweet station. “Shanal” at the dessert section making crepes in such a style, had all the diners in queue, wanting to eat crepes. He offered me a special making which really completed my dining experience in a sugary explosion. Had a wonderful time here.

Written 22 September 2023

Shangri-La Colombo

Greetings from Shangri-La Colombo! We appreciate your kind words on your recent visit. We take utmost pleasure in welcoming all of our guests and couldn't be happier with how your experience turned out. We shall surely let Shanal know that their efforts in service were worthwhile and heartfelt. We as a team strive to obsess over creating moments of joy that really matter. May we also suggest our specialty cuisine restaurants the Capital Bar and Grill and Shang Palace for your next visit. We look forward to welcoming you once again! Best Regards, Shangri-La Colombo Team!

Written 2 October 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Zaynab B

2 contributions

Abysmal

Dec 2024 • family

Went for the infamous high tea at Saphyr Lounge. The food was absolutely abysmal. The savoury was hard to swallow down and the sweets were equally terrible. I’m not sure why this costed almost 8,000 Rs per person. This probably marks the end of all high teas for me especially at Shangrila.

Written 30 December 2024

Gihan Vithana

Greetings from Sapphyr Lounge! Thank you for sharing your feedback with us. We're truly sorry to hear that your experience at Sapphyr Lounge didn't meet your expectations. We strive to deliver high-quality food and a memorable experience for all our guests, and we're disappointed to hear that we fell short during your visit. I would like to share with you that we will investigate into this to ensure that there are no repeats of such incidents. We do hope that this will not deter any future stays with the brand or with Shangri-La Colombo as we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back soon to have another opportunity to serve you with the customary Shangri-La excellence and warmth. Best Regards, Sapphyr Lounge Team

Written 21 January 2025

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.