A Passion for Hospitality and Heritage
From an early age, Saman Edirisinghe was captivated by the rich cultural heritage of Sri
Lanka and the art of creating memorable experiences for others. After completing his
education, he began his career in the hospitality industry, working in various roles that
deepened his understanding of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and the importance of preserving
cultural traditions.
Driven by a vision to showcase Sri Lanka's culinary heritage in unique settings, Saman
developed expertise in restaurant management, heritage tourism, and sustainable business
practices. His approach combines traditional Sri Lankan flavors with innovative
presentation, creating dining experiences that celebrate the country's rich cultural
tapestry.
Transforming Heritage: Prison Park Restaurant
Saman's passion for heritage preservation and culinary excellence culminated in the
establishment of Prison Park Restaurant at the historic Bogambara Prison site in Kandy.
Recognizing the potential to transform this significant historical location into a unique
cultural and culinary destination, he created a restaurant that honors the site's history
while providing exceptional dining experiences.
What began as a vision to preserve heritage through hospitality has grown into one of Kandy's
most distinctive dining destinations. Prison Park Restaurant has become renowned for its
authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, served in an atmosphere that tells the story of the country's
colonial and post-independence periods. Today, the restaurant employs over 50 team members
and serves thousands of visitors monthly.
Expanding Cultural Experiences
Building on the success of Prison Park Restaurant, Saman expanded his offerings to include
guided cultural heritage tours that provide visitors with deeper insights into Sri Lankan
history and the significance of the Bogambara site. These educational experiences combine
storytelling with cultural immersion, supporting sustainable tourism development in the
Central Province.
Premium Catering and Community Impact
Saman's commitment to excellence extends beyond the restaurant through premium catering
services that bring authentic Sri Lankan cuisine to weddings, corporate events, and cultural
celebrations throughout the region. His catering team specializes in traditional ceremonies
and modern events alike, maintaining the same standards of quality and authenticity.
Understanding the importance of community support, Saman actively engages in local outreach
programs, providing employment opportunities for young people, supporting local farmers
through ingredient sourcing, and participating in cultural preservation efforts throughout
Kandy and the surrounding areas.
A Legacy of Cultural Preservation
From transforming a historic prison into a thriving cultural destination to supporting local
communities through sustainable business practices, Saman Edirisinghe continues to
demonstrate how hospitality can be a powerful force for cultural preservation and community
development. His journey reflects a deep commitment to celebrating Sri Lankan heritage while
creating meaningful economic opportunities in the heart of the Cultural Triangle.
