26 June 2025 - Located within footsteps of Galle Fort’s historic churches, galleries, and spice warehouses, Fort Bazaar is a stylish retreat in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set within a restored 17th century merchant’s home that once housed spice and gem traders, the boutique hotel blends contemporary elegance with the spirit of old Ceylon.
26 June 2025 - Located within footsteps of Galle Fort’s historic churches, galleries, and spice warehouses, Fort Bazaar is a stylish retreat in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set within a restored 17th century merchant’s home that once housed spice and gem traders, the boutique hotel blends contemporary elegance with the spirit of old Ceylon.
Rediscovered by Teardrop Hotels in 2006, the long-neglected building was brought back to life after nearly a decade of careful restoration, opening its doors in 2016. Since then, Fort Bazaar has grown into one of the region’s most beloved stays. This year marks a new chapter with the addition of a tranquil courtyard pool, the expansion of the hotel with Court Square Studio, and a refreshed menu at Church Street Social that brings a bold, seasonal approach to bistro-style dining.
A Long-Awaited Poolside Escape
Hidden just beyond the central courtyard, Fort Bazaar’s brand-new swimming pool offers a welcome reprieve from the tropical heat. The new 14-metre pool features four-poster sunbeds and an inviting, sun-dappled terrace where guests can enjoy food and drinks from the comfort of their loungers. Intimate yet expansive, the poolside addition completes the hotel’s offering as a tranquil oasis within the bustling walls of the UNESCO-listed fort.
Fort Bazaar Unveils its Latest Suite: Court Square Studio
Fort Bazaar has introduced Court Square Studio, an exclusive new suite located just 150 metres from the hotel within a cluster of historic lawyers’ chambers on Leyn Baan Street. This private, split-level space blends contemporary design with the rich heritage of Galle Fort, offering guests a stylish and intimate escape.
Framed by panoramic views of the fort’s iconic banyan tree, Court Square Studio is an artistic sanctuary that captures the essence of the living fort. Serene, storied, and full of character, it is ideal for guests seeking both privacy and proximity. The studio is a natural extension of the hotel and brings the total number of Fort Bazaar rooms to nineteen.
A Culinary Destination at Church Street Social
Tucked behind the carefully restored arches of Fort Bazaar in the heart of Galle Fort, Church Street Social has quietly become one of the south coast’s most sought-after culinary destinations. The restaurant offers chic, all-day dining indoors and along a leafy courtyard. A vibrant cocktail bar complements the space with one of the most extensive gin selections in the Fort.
Under the direction of Group Executive Chef Sumudu Kadawata and Fort Bazaar’s Executive Chef Sashika Wickramatunga, the new menu celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishermen along the southern coast. The result is a multicultural take on bistro-style dining, inspired by Sri Lanka’s spice routes, coastal bounty, and evolving culinary identity.
Mornings begin with Sri Lankan staples like kola kanda, a warm herbal porridge made with gotukola. Delicately bitter and gently spiced, it pairs beautifully with buffalo curd and coconut treacle. Then come the hoppers, bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk.
By lunchtime, diners settle into the breezy veranda or leafy courtyard, cocktail in hand. The bar’s signature Arrack Attack is a favourite. Highlights include the Authentic Ceylonese Rice and Curry, featuring mud crab in coconut gravy with drumstick leaves, dry beef curry slow-cooked with roasted spices, and fiery Miris Malu seer fish curry, served with seasonal vegetable curries and crisp papadam.
While rooted in Sri Lankan culinary traditions, the menu also explores global flavours with a distinct island twist. Signature dishes include the Pulled Jackfruit Burger, Steamed Whole Snapper, and Grilled Yellowfin Tuna with local baby potatoes and green beans. Even pizza gets a local refresh with gotukola toppings, and the Grilled Jumbo Prawns come with crusty kade paan.
Fort Bazaar’s lead in rate is U$370 per night for 2 people, inclusive of breakfast. The Court Square Studio’s lead in rate is U$300 per night for 2 people.
ENDS
High Res images here.
COMPANION Communications
Dominique Backhouse - dominique@companioncommunications.com
Sneha Rupani-Nagpal - sneha@companioncommunications.com
About Teardrop Hotels
Teardrop Hotels is a collection of 8 luxurious boutique properties across Sri Lanka, offering curated travel experiences with a focus on authentic cultural connections, personalised service, and a commitment to sustainability. Each property in the Teardrop portfolio offers a variety of light wellness experiences, from nature walks and boat rides to on request yoga and meditation classes and is designed to reflect the unique character of its surroundings, providing travellers with memorable stays in some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning locations.
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Sneha Rupani Nagpal
Director - Singapore
E. sneha@companioncommunications.com
COMPANION®