The holidays have a way of bringing people together, whether you are returning home, visiting the coast or simply looking for a special evening out.
This year, AQUA Forte in Galle Fort and AQUA Pazza at Park Street Mews are adding to that sense of celebration with an exclusive festive menu served only on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Both restaurants offer a chance to slow down, share a refined Christmas dinner and enjoy Italian flavours shaped with care and elegance.
At the heart of this year’s festivities is a thoughtful collaboration with the Dilmah Ceylon Cinnamon Company. Authentic Ceylon cinnamon adds a graceful seasonal note to the experience, enhancing the atmosphere rather than altering traditional recipes.
Its aromatic warmth complements the structure and clarity of an Italian Christmas dinner, bridging Italian culinary heritage with Sri Lankan provenance. The collaboration creates a festive identity that feels distinctive, elevated and rooted in respect for craftsmanship
The holiday menus draw inspiration from signature dishes, each reflecting the finesse and balance that define the AQUA Family. At AQUA Forte and AQUA Pazza, the special Festive Menu reflects the warmth, flavour and celebratory spirit guests look forward to each year.
Handmade pastas anchor the offering with richness and depth. The Pesce affumicato alla cannella features cured fish with Mediterranean spices that pair beautifully with Dilmah’s finest Ceylon Cinnamon for a striking, luxurious dish. The Ravioli di Gamberi features prawns encased in silky pasta, finished with a refined seafood cinnamon broth that suits the elegance of the season. The Gnocchi della nonna conjured images of a warm Italian family kitchen, where the delicious aroma of pasta dumplings with a rich Parmigiano Reggiano fondue and a dusting of cinnamon powder envelop the senses.
For Secondi, Agnello al Vin Brulé brings depth and seasonal warmth to the table, featuring sous-vide Australian lamb rack paired with a mulled wine reduction and baked potato for a rich, festive treat.
Desserts bring the festive experience to a close with a sense of tradition and indulgence. The Panettone Tradizionale, baked in house for the season, is served with whipped mascarpone cream and offers a classic Christmas finale that feels generous and comforting. Thoughtfully prepared and rooted in Italian heritage, it completes the menu with Christmas food designed to be savoured slowly, long after the last course arrives.
Atmosphere elevates the festive dining experience even further. AQUA Forte’s setting within the UNESCO listed Galle Fort offers an intimate escape where warmly lit, classic architecture and attentive service create a sense of calm luxury. Guests seeking thoughtful Christmas and New Year’s Eve dinner ideas will find the restaurant’s sophisticated environment ideal for evenings marked by connection and celebration.
In Colombo, AQUA Pazza brings contemporary elegance to Park Street Mews. Its stylish interiors, warm lighting and lively urban setting create a scene that feels both modern and inviting, making it one of the best places to celebrate NYE with friends, family or colleagues. The ambience encourages long conversations, shared plates and a festive spirit that carries late into the night.
The festive menus at AQUA Forte and AQUA Pazza together form a culinary journey across two cities, united by Italian craftsmanship and Sri Lankan influence. From artisanal breads to carefully chosen wines and dishes accented by the character of Ceylon cinnamon, the experience reflects the thoughtful approach of the AQUA Family.
For guests travelling between Galle and Colombo in December, the opportunity to dine at both restaurants becomes a luxurious way to immerse themselves in holiday flavour, culture and atmosphere.
With festive dates in high demand and menus offered for a limited time, early reservations are recommended. Learn more and plan your festive dining at AQUA Forte and AQUA Pazza today.
