News / Restaurants
Founders of Coconut Tree celebrate five years in Bristol
A tapas-style Sri Lankan restaurant group is celebrating five years in Bristol’s culinary scene.
The Coconut Tree began on the triangle in Clifton five years ago, before opening its second premises on Gloucester Road.
Speaking to Bristol24/7 on their journey so far, Rashintha Rodrigo, one of the founders, said: “We couldn’t have been more excited to have opened our restaurant in Bristol.
“In fact, we were so thrilled about the location that we decided to open two spaces instead of one! We just love the diverse and dynamic culinary scene in Bristol, and we wanted to be a part of it.
The twin branches of The Coconut Tree are celebrating five years in Bristol – photo: TCT
“When you come to our Bristol locations, you’ll be transported into a world of delicious dishes and a lively atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of Bristol. We’re all about offering a unique dining experience that mirrors the city’s eclectic charm.”
It certainly has not been plain sailing, as the twin restaurants on Cheltenham Road and in Clifton have weathered many a storm, including a pandemic.
Each restaurant has the capacity to host 80 patrons and the ambience is a marriage of British pub and Sri Lankan street food.
Having started on a shoestring budget in a dilapidated pub in Cheltenham seven years ago, TCT group has come in leaps and bounds, creating a £10m business with a team of 300 dedicated staff.
Founded by five school friends while still working in 9-5 jobs, TCT’s rise has been swift. Following the success in Cheltenham, the franchise opened outlets in Oxford, Birmingham, Reading, Bournemouth, Cardiff and twin branches in Bristol.
The bar area of TCT is fashioned as a rustic beach hut – photo: Milan Perera
Dishes served at the Coconut Tree include hoppers, curries, sweetmeats and kotthu, a mixture of ingredients such as sliced vegetables, shredded flat bread, eggs and spices made on a greased hot plate using a metal spatulas.
Main photo: Milan Perera
Read next:
- Jason Donervan celebrates 25 years in Bristol
- The Coconut Tree, Cheltenham Road – restaurant/bar review
- Fish and chips restaurant shortlisted for national award
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