“In Sri Lanka, one doesn’t say goodbye, instead there is a beautiful phrase which translates to “I will go now and come back later”. Saying goodbye is far too final and dramatic which, in this instance, suits me perfectly,” O Tama Carey shared in a recent statement.
“Lankan Filling Station, in its current state, is coming to an end as I look at saying farewell to our home on Riley Street.”
The chef and author opened Lankan Filling Station in 2018 and it has since become a stalwart of the Darlinghurst dining scene.
Although dates are still uncertain, Carey predicts the closure of the restaurant’s Riley Street location may be at the end of winter.
During the restaurant’s seven years of operation, Carey published her first cookbook Lanka Food. Her next book, Lankan Filling, is currently in the works and will be “a continuation of the story”. It will be available from 30 September.
“Until we finally close the doors it’s going to be business as usual, despite the bittersweet knowledge that our current home is soon to be no longer. Hoppers will still be cooked, lunches and take away will continue, crab curry Sundays may make a reappearance, our curry powders will still be stocked, and old favourite dishes will make a comeback,” wrote Carey.
“Please come and celebrate these final moments with us as we cook with joy and gratitude for our time on Riley Street.”
Read O Tama Carey’s full statement here.
Photography by Nikki To.
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