In a move that may turn some heads in the Scottish restaurant scene, Shenal Suwaris, recently departed from the head chef role at Sushi Samba in Edinburgh, has joined Glasgow’s Kochchi as executive chef.
This high-profile arrival, coming just two months after Kochchi’s official launch, is said to ‘signal serious intent’ from the ambitious Sri Lankan concept as it looks to cement its place in Glasgow’s west end.
At Sushi Samba, within Edinburgh’s W Hotel, Suwaris was part of a ‘high-performing culinary team delivering bold, contemporary cuisine’ in one of Scotland’s most high-profile dining environments.
Described as one of the country’s most exciting Sri Lankan chefs, Suwaris is celebrated for his vibrant approach to flavour and his deep connection to the food culture of his home country, refining the traditions, techniques and spice heritage of the island with modern flair.
His appointment at Kochchi represents a reunion, as he is close friends with its founders Suki Jayaratne and Shehan Fernando.
“Joining Kochchi at this stage feels incredibly special,” said Suwaris. “We’ve shared a vision of showcasing true Sri Lankan flavours in a modern and exciting way. It is an honour to step into the kitchen just two months after launch and help shape its future.”
This month Chef Suwaris will introduce a Sri Lanka Tasting Menu at Kochchi Glasgow, designed to take guests on a culinary journey through the island’s diverse regions and bold flavour profiles.
The multi-course experience promises to highlight heritage recipes, contemporary interpretations and carefully curated spice blends—offering a deeper exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich and varied food culture.
Under his leadership, the kitchen will focus on refining Kochchi’s core menu, enhancing presentation and introducing seasonal additions while staying true to the restaurant’s vibrant street food roots.
Jayaratne and Fernando commented: “Bringing Shenal on board was always part of the bigger dream. His passion, skill and deep understanding of Sri Lankan flavours make him the perfect person to lead our kitchen.
“The launch of the Sri Lanka Tasting Menu will be a huge moment for us and for Glasgow’s dining scene.”
Alongside his work at Kochchi Glasgow, Shenal will also embark on a series of foodie festivals, industry trade shows and collaborative guest chef partnerships across the UK to champion Sri Lankan cuisine on a broader stage.
Through live demonstrations, curated tasting experiences and collaborative menus, Shenal hopes to shine a spotlight on the bold flavours and rich heritage that define Sri Lankan cooking, inspiring greater appreciation and understanding within the UK restaurant trade and beyond.
In his new role with Kochchi, Shenal will oversee both the flagship kitchen in Glasgow and the original Kochchi site within Bonnie & Wild in Edinburgh, leading menu development, training and kitchen operations.
