Park Street Mews sets benchmarks

The investment opportunities in the entrainment, food and beverage sector is unlimited, the main reason for this is the ending of the war and stability of the country.

One of the entertainment legends of the country, Harpo Gooneratne says that today a person has to make a reservation to 'go out for a meal' a sinario which is evident in Europe and other developed countries.

The reason behind this, that people want to enjoy a bit of luxury and want to pamper themselves, which they have been deprived for many years. "Basically people want to enjoy the fruits of peace," he said.

He further stated that this was the reason behind the creation of many up-market restaurants and entrainment venues by the private sector.

Starting his life as a DJ and then moving to the hospitality industry after undergoing training in the hotel he created the 'Library' at the then Ramada and was the first local entrainment manager, for the past 10 years. Moving to Hilton as the Business Development Manager he created the Excel World with Sri Lanka's first Bowling alley and Entertainment Park with a local investor.

Being employed overseas he was also the General Manager of Crescat till 2004 and later with his overseas experience created Harpos Caf‚ and an entertainment management company. He also created Commons, Bayleaf which are much sought after venues even today.

Harpo then moved to the newly refurbished Dutch Hospital in Fort. "I should say that this is one of the best decisions I made, as the response I am getting by both the locals and foreigners is amazing," he said.

Setting another benchmark in the hospitality Industry Harpo created Park Street Mews the countries first ever entertainment street by converting an old ware house. "I want to give the Singaporean and European dining experience to Sri Lankans and my idea was to create a street, where people sit out relax and wine and dine. The venue also has ample parking," he said.

The restaurant could accommodate 100 guests and already there is a steady local and foreign clientele patronizing this.

"This is one of the few restaurants that serve a comprehensive breakfast," he said. Currently we are looking for more companies to come and take up space in this premises," he said. Gooneratne said in a bid to give the colonial era food experience they are also re-introduced the 'Kottu cart' which is the more hygiene version of the mobile food kiosk.

In a bid to offer quality employee to the leisure sector The Harpo's group has their own education school and also operate a boutique hotel in Negombo.

-SS