Lalith ‘Harpo’ Gooneratne, a name synonymous with innovation and passion in Sri Lanka’s culinary landscape, has carved out a remarkable journey driven by his love for food, music, and community service. From humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in the restaurant industry, Harpo’s story is as inspiring as it is impactful.
From Passion to Profession: A Journey Rooted in Love for Food and Music
Harpo’s journey began at St. Thomas’ College in Mount Lavinia, where his early education and a diploma from a local hotel school laid the foundation for his future endeavors. His passion for music led him to pioneer as one of Sri Lanka’s first ‘mobile’ DJs in the early 90s, performing at prestigious venues like the Bentota Beach Hotel. This early career in music not only showcased his creativity but also instilled in him a deep understanding of entertainment and customer experience—a skill set that would later define his approach to hospitality.
This also opened the doors for him to join the hotel industry, starting at ( Ramada Renaissance Hotel – now Cinnamon Lakeside) 5 star hotel as Sri Lanka’s first entertainment manager. Thanks to his skill, the famed ‘The Library Lounge & Music room ” was born. After 10 years, he moved to Hilton Colombo as its Business Development and Entertainment Manager. During which time he was invited as Entertainment Consultant for Hilton hotels in China and Japan . It was followed with the opportunity of working as Manager with owners of WTC and Hilton for proposed high end “Windows on the world” concept and after which was followed by the development of Millennium Park complex, which was Sri Lanka’s first theme park , with the first bowling alley . After successfully setting it up and managing it, he moved on as General Manager of Crescat Boulevard, the first high end Lifestyle shopping complex.
Building an Empire: Harpo’s Cafes and Restaurants
Harpo’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished with the establishment of his first ventures, in 2005, including the first home grown – coffee shop the cozy Commons Coffee House and the acclaimed Italian restaurant , The Bayleaf, nestled in the heart of Colombo. These establishments soon evolved into a diverse portfolio of dining experiences, including the Colombo Fort Cafe at the historic Dutch Hospital Complex. However, it was Harpo’s Pizza that truly made waves, in 2007 becoming Sri Lanka’s first wood-fired homegrown pizza brand, known for its traditional flavors and innovative offerings like the square-shaped 22-inch pizza. Now expanded to 4 outlets in the city and suburbs. Recent addition to the portfolio is SHOULDERS cocktail bar and restaurant at the recently opened Havelock City Mall, offering a Greek infused menu in partnership with a young iconic Sri Lankan consultant chef, Shehan Setunge, from Australia that has made an incredible impact in the restaurant industry in Colombo.
Innovating Beyond Boundaries: From Roaming Trucks to Retail Ventures
Always at the forefront of innovation, Harpo introduced Sri Lanka’s first wood-fired pizza roaming truck, transforming catering with mobile culinary experiences. His ventures into retail with products like homemade pasta packs, frozen pizza and homemade sauces, conveniently available in the major supermarkets, further diversify his brand’s reach and offerings, ensuring Harpo’s Cafes and Restaurants remain at the forefront of Sri Lanka’s culinaryscene.
Global expansion
Harpo took pride in launching his first restaurant venture, registered overseas, Salone Ceylon in Bangalore India, in 2023. As a truly homegrown Sri Lankan brand, doubly proud to introduce Sri Lankan cuisine to the ever growing Indian market and presented by a Sri Lankan team of chefs and manager ensuring the authenticity of the food served. Will be setting up his ever popular Commons Roti cart and Harpo’s Pizza brand to Maldives this year.
Commitment to Community: The Harpo’s Hotel School and Beyond
Harpo’s commitment to giving back is exemplified by the Harpo’s Hotel School in Galle, which has trained and empowered the youth for careers in the restaurant sector till 2020 when the covid epidemic impacted the closure.His philanthropic efforts extend beyond education with annual charity program in support of the Community Concern center children’s education program for 19 years.
Colombo City Restaurant Collective Launched in 2019, Harpo was the first president of this first initiative of restaurateurs, representing over 60 city restaurants, for a 2 year term and was reelected for the 2nd term for 2 more years.
Embracing the Digital Age: Insights and Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Harpo underscores the importance of embracing technology for marketing and operational efficiency. His advice to aspiring restaurateurs Emphasizes the pillars of success: consistency, passion, customer-centricity, and meticulous attention to detail, which have been integral to his own achievements.
Legacy and Future Vision: Inspiring Entrepreneurs Globally
Harpo Gooneratne’s story is not just a local success; it’s a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and community stewardship. As he continues to innovate and expand his culinary empire, Harpo remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide, proving that with passion, creativity, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible in the world of hospitality and beyond.
Tags: #HarpoGooneratne #SriLankaRestaurants #WoodFiredPizza #CulinaryInnovation #CommunityImpact #RestaurantEntrepreneurship #DigitalTransformation
