In the heart of Colombo, nestled within the historic Dutch Hospital, lies a culinary gem that has become synonymous with Sri Lanka’s rich seafood heritage – Ministry of Crab. Launched in December 2011 by renowned chef-restaurateur Dharshan Munidasa, along with Sri Lankan cricketing legends Mahela Jayawardena and Kumar Sangakkara, this restaurant is a celebration of the island nation’s abundance of seafood, with the succulent Mud Crab taking center stage.
Munidasa’s journey into the culinary world began during his time at Johns Hopkins University in the USA, where he developed a passion for cooking alongside his studies in Computer Engineering and International Relations. Born to a Japanese mother and Sri Lankan father in Tokyo, Munidasa’s multicultural upbringing greatly influenced his culinary philosophy, which seamlessly blends Japanese cooking techniques with Sri Lankan flavors.
His first venture, Nihonbashi, founded in 1995, introduced Sri Lanka to fine Japanese cuisine, utilizing local ingredients to create unique masterpieces inspired by Japanese culinary traditions. The restaurant quickly gained recognition and became the first Sri Lankan establishment to be listed on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List in 2013. Munidasa’s commitment to quality and innovation continued with the launch of Ministry of Crab in 2011, which elevated Sri Lanka’s Mud Crab to global acclaim.
Ministry of Crab’s ethos revolves around serving the highest quality ingredients in their freshest form, with a daring no-freezer policy ensuring that guests experience the true essence of Sri Lankan seafood. From the signature Mud Crab prepared in five tantalizing ways to innovative dishes like Crab Liver Pâté and Garlic Chilli Freshwater Prawn, each creation reflects Munidasa’s dedication to culinary excellence.
Beyond its culinary delights, Ministry of Crab has played a pivotal role in transforming Colombo’s dining scene and placing Sri Lanka on the global culinary map. The restaurant’s international recognition, including consecutive listings on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants from 2015 to 2022, underscores its impact on the gastronomic landscape.
Munidasa’s influence extends beyond the kitchen, as evidenced by his efforts to promote Japanese culture and cuisine overseas. His appointment as a ‘Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador’ and the prestigious honor of receiving ‘The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays’ from the Government of Japan highlight his significant contributions to cultural exchange and diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Japan.
Moreover, Munidasa’s hands-on involvement in sourcing the finest ingredients and his meticulous attention to detail have revolutionized Sri Lanka’s gastronomic landscape. His restaurants not only showcase the best of Sri Lankan produce but also embody a commitment to sustainability and culinary innovation.
In recognition of his pioneering spirit and entrepreneurial achievements, Munidasa was awarded the Business Today Passionate Award in 2017, honoring his role as a visionary leader in Sri Lanka’s culinary industry. As a member of the presidential committee tasked with promoting tourism in Sri Lanka, Munidasa continues to champion the country’s diverse culinary heritage on the world stage.
In essence, Dharshan Munidasa’s culinary legacy epitomizes the fusion of tradition and innovation, elevating Sri Lanka’s culinary scene to unprecedented heights while fostering cultural exchange and appreciation on a global scale. Through his unwavering dedication to excellence, Munidasa has not only tantalized taste buds but also enriched the cultural tapestry of Sri Lanka and beyond.
