Have you ever wondered why Sri Lankan food is popping up on menus, supper clubs, and food festivals across the UK? In this episode of Talking Hospitality, Tim and Joe are joined by food writer, podcaster, and festival founder Ranjit Thangia, who takes us on a vibrant journey through the culture, community, and culinary roots of Sri Lanka — and why it's having such a powerful moment in the British food scene right now.
Ranjit, co-founder of the Sri Lankan Culture Collective, shares her personal story of rediscovering her roots through food, the loss of her father that sparked a passion project, and how her South London upbringing met with Sri Lankan flavours to inspire a cultural movement.
We dive into:
Why Sri Lankan cuisine is distinct from Indian food, and why that matters
The rise of restaurants like Hoppers, Rambutan, and The Coconut Tree
How supper clubs and artisan producers are reshaping the food scene
The unexpected role of grief in preserving culinary heritage
Why spice levels are a badge of honour in Sri Lankan kitchens
And what hospitality leaders can learn from the community spirit behind this cultural resurgence
We also hear a heartwarming story from Joe about discovering authentic Sri Lankan food by accident — and nearly crying over breakfast (in the best way possible).
If you're in hospitality and you're not paying attention to Sri Lankan food, this is your wake-up call. Whether you’re a chef, a GM, or someone shaping menus and experiences — this episode will leave you hungry for more.
👉 Guest links:
Ranjit’s Substack and info about the Sri Lankan Culture Collective Festival: [Link via talkinghospitality.com]
Supper club listings & restaurant recommendations inside.
🔗 Brought to you by:
Graphic Kitchen – specialists in hospitality branding & storytelling
LeisureJobs – connecting talent and opportunity in hospitality
Top tips from the crew at Talking Hospitality podcast - providing solutions & support for the Hospitality industry.
http://www.talkinghospitality.com/
This is more than just a podcast — it's a platform for voices across the global hospitality industry. At Talking Hospitality, we bring together the people who live and breathe service — from hotel executives, restaurant owners, chefs, and marketers to educators, designers, and startup founders transforming the way we experience hospitality.
Each episode explores the real stories, strategies, and challenges behind the scenes of hospitality — from luxury hotels and fine dining to sustainable tourism, F&B innovation, and customer experience. Whether you’re a student just starting out or a seasoned professional looking for fresh inspiration, you'll find something here that speaks to your passion and purpose.
📌 What you can expect:
In-depth interviews with hospitality leaders and changemakers
Real talk about hotel operations, guest experience, and team culture
Insights into hospitality marketing, branding, and digital transformation
Discussions on sustainability, tech disruption, and industry trends
Career guidance, entrepreneurship journeys, and leadership lessons
We believe hospitality is not just an industry — it’s a mindset, a global community, and a force for connection. This channel is your space to learn, grow, and stay ahead in a fast-evolving world of service.
📅 New episodes every week.
🎧 Available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.
👉 Subscribe now and join a worldwide network of passionate professionals who are talking hospitality — and changing it.
#TalkingHospitality #HospitalityPodcast #HotelIndustry #RestaurantIndustry #TourismTrends #ServiceLeadership #FandBInnovation #HospitalityCareersTop tips from the crew at Talking Hospitality podcast - providing solutions & support for the Hospitality industry.
http://www.talkinghospitality.com/
This is more than just a podcast — it's a platform for voices across the global hospitality industry. At Talking Hospitality, we bring together the people who live and breathe service — from hotel executives, restaurant owners, chefs, and marketers to educators, designers, and startup founders transforming the way we experience hospitality.
We believe hospitality is not just an industry — it’s a mindset, a global community, and a force for connection. This channel is your space to learn, grow, and stay ahead in a fast-evolving world of service.
📅 New episodes every week.
🎧 Available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.
👉 Subscribe now and join a worldwide network of passionate professionals who are talking hospitality — and changing it.
#TalkingHospitality #HospitalityPodcast #HotelIndustry #RestaurantIndustry #TourismTrends #ServiceLeadership #FandBInnovation #HospitalityCareers