Sigiriya Knutsford

Authentic Sri Lankan flavours & hospitality brought to the town of Knutsford

Sigiriya Knutsford has arrived, bringing the vibrant flavours and colours of authentic Sri Lankan cusine to the town. I was recently invited to the pre-launch event for a taste of the dishes and experience that awaits. This was a complimentary evening, however, all impressions and opinions are my own.

A vibrant transformation

Sigiriya Knutsford is a fantastic addition to the town's culinary scene. Situated on the corner of Tatton Street and Princess Street, this former newsagents has undergone a remarkable transformation, with bold colours and a modern, yet inviting vibe.

The L-shaped layout remains, providing two main dining areas connected by a large open bar. Rich hues of red, green, and yellow combine with patterned fabrics, vibrant wallpaper and dark wood panelling, to create a real feast for the eyes.

A variety of seating options, from high stools around the bar area to wooden and white-topped tables, means the restaurant can accommodate groups of varying sizes. While the selection of dishes on the menu offers diners a range of options, from casual lunchtime bites to large celebratory meals.

Sigiriya Knutsford is open & inviting

Rich hues and a vibrant vibe

Sipping at Sigiriya

At Sigiriya Knutsford, your Sri Lankan journey begins at the well stocked bar. Whether it's wine with your Wheat Luchi, beer with your Baidun, or cocktails with your curry, there's an extensive drinks list to compliment every dish.

And for those seeking a taste of Sri Lankan tradition, try the Lion Lager. The largest beer brand in Sri Lanka shares its name with Lion Rock, the namesake of the restaurant itself.

A selection of starters

We opted for a deliciously chilled pink fizz, before seating ourselves at one of the round tables to peruse the menu.

The Sigiriya Knutsford menu caters for a wide range of diets and palettes, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options thoughtfully incorporated.

As our server was keen to introduce us to some of the restaurant's signature dishes, we allowed him to select our starters. He chose well.

Listed on the menu as 'Small Plates', these dishes would also provide perfect lighter lunchtime meals.

If you're a fellow fan of Paneer, I can recommend the Chutney Glazed Tandoori Paneer. The coating adds a welcome flavour and rich colour to this traditional mild cheese, creating a tasty vegetarian option.

Chutney Glazed Tandoori Paneer

The second vegetarian dish, the Vegetable Roti, also impressed with its generous portion of tangy vegetables encased in a wrap. This great alternative to traditional samosas offers something a little softer on the palette with the same mouthwatering flavours. Served with two chutneys, the Vegetable Roti is one of the more generous 'Small Plates' on the menu, and I'd certainly order it again.

I'm reliably informed the Pan Seared Scallops were cooked to perfection, with my fellow diners declaring them 'melt in the mouth', while the mango salsa provided a refreshing accompaniment.

Tangy Vegetable Roti

Melt in your mouth Scallops

The main event

On to the main event, and the biggest talking point of the night - blue rice! More about this is a moment.

For larger portions, the menu includes familiar rice dishes such as Biriyani and Nasigoreng. Plus options such as Ceylon Chicken, Karahi, and an excellent Noorani Butter Chicken.

A selection of salads offer lighter alternatives. While the aptly named 'Sri Lankan Fusion' section showcases the restaurant's creativity by transforming classic dishes like Beef Wellington and Vegetable Lasagne with Sri Lankan flavours.

Sides include an array of naans, vegetables, and rice. Again, our server brought us a few to try, including the aforementioned blue rice which he informed us gains its distinctive hue from the Butterfly Pea flower.

Flavoured with garlic and onion, it's a more interesting alternative to the steamed rice. However, don't overlook the Pol Sambol - a traditional Sri Lankan dish made from coconut, with a kick of chilli. Delicious.

Of the main dishes we tried, the Kandyan Seabass was a triumph. But, for me, it was the meat and fish in the curry dishes that truly stole the show. There was no skrimping when it came to all the portions, and a personal highlight was the Noorani Butter Chicken, with large pieces of succulent chicken helping set Sigiriya ahead of its Knutsford counterparts.

Sigiriya Knutsford main dishes and sides

Meat, fish, and blue rice!

Sigiriya Knutsford Noorani Butter Chicken

The Noorani Butter Chicken was a personal highlight

To finish

We didn't have room for dessert during our visit, so if the wonderful savoury food wasn't enough reason to return, the chance to sample some sweet dishes certainly is.

In summary, Sigiriya Knutsford has to be applauded. From its warm surroundings and attentive service to its eclectic menu and tantalising flavours, this new establishment is sure to become a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Sri Lankan dining experience in Cheshire.