The Beginning — 2013 & 2014

Asian Hotel began its journey in 2013, following the decision of Mr. Ashkar and his brother Mr. Asrar who were running a restaurant in the Maskeliya area to close the business due to its low income and seek a better opportunity in Colombo. At that time, Mr. Shihan and Mr. Farhan joined them. Mr. Aslam, who is a brother, gave the financial support. Together, the five decided to bring a taste of Colombo dining culture to a new location and established their first restaurant under the name Asian Hotel in 2014. Many people around them believed the restaurant would fail within three or six months, but the founders remained determined and refused to give up.

Dedication & Growth

The four founders dedicated themselves completely to the business. They lived together with their families in the same building, staying upstairs above the restaurant and sharing both the challenges and responsibilities of the early days. Through their hard work, commitment and patience, they gradually built a loyal customer base in the area. As the business grew, they continuously improved the restaurant’s interior and overall appearance. After several years of building the foundation, they realized that keeping all four founders in one location was no longer the best way to use their time and potential. They therefore decided to expand, separate their responsibilities and create new business opportunities in different parts of Colombo.

Expansion & Network

This decision marked the beginning of a major expansion. They opened Lanka Hotel at Rathmalana, then Jamaliya in Havelock Town followed by two more Asian Hotel branches in Dehiwala—one on Hill Street and another in Galkissa. They also established Ceylon Kitchen at Union Place, located close to the original Asian Hotel branch. Although the expansion came with its own challenges, including a branch opened and closed of low income, the founders continued moving forward. Today, the group has grown into seven active and successful restaurants across the Colombo area, all operating with strong customer demand. What began in 2014 as a small restaurant built on dedication, family support and perseverance has now developed into a growing restaurant network, carrying forward the same spirit of determination that shaped Asian Hotel from the very beginning.

Board of Directors

M.M.M. Ashkar

Director

Asian Hotel Network

M.M.M. Aslam

Director

Asian Hotel Network

M.R.M.Shihan

Director

Asian Hotel Network

M.M.M. Asrar

Director

Asian Hotel Network

M.A.M. Farhan

Director

Asian Hotel Network