TCK 6685 (Railway Carriage) Restaurant

In 1897, under the patronage of Nuwara Eliya Assistant Government Agent Lushington, the Hill Tramway Commission explored the possibility of operating a light railway or tramway. In 1903 the line from Nanu Oya to Udapussellawa was completed, with a terminus in Ragala. The narrow gauge line gave its passengers a rather jerky ride due to the extraordinarily sharp curves on the journey, but they were adequately compensated by a splendid view of tea plantations and pristine forests. The service was in operation for 36 years. Passenger traffic on this line was stopped in 1940 and all traffic terminated in 1950. Vestiges of the line still remain in a stout iron railway bridge near the race course, the railway station at Nuwara Eliya and the stops at Brookside and Ragala - which have now been converted into shops.

The Management of the Tea Factory at Kandapola affords its clientele the nostalgic simulation of colonial train travel in Ceylon, with its spotless restaurant facilities and hearty meals served by liveried stewards. The TCK 6685, having been in slumber for more than 50 years, has reawakened with a toot at the Tea Factory Hotel as an authentic theme restaurant of the 1930’s. The carriage has its numbers painted in burgundy and mustard yellow, the brass polished to perfection and the teak paneling restored to its former glory. The full-size replica of the train’s restaurant, sitting on its small-gauge rails opens for a unique fine dining experience with a shrill whistle, with a cheery “All aboard” and a wave of the green flag by the Maitre’ d.

The cuisine, custom selected by the guests, is prepared with an infusion of Western class with Eastern aromas. The experience begins when the Chef personally visits the ‘passengers’ to discuss their personal culinary preferences. No menu is available at this unique restaurant, and the Chef discusses each meal with every guest. Once the range of possibilities is laid before the guest, he or she has the option of customising the dish.

The gourmet adventure begins with a scrumptious starter that whets the appetite. The range can vary from orange smoked salmon to a delectable dish of duck. The main course is brought in with great pageantry, and ‘whistle blowing’ – in typical train style. One could get anything between a hefty portion of traditional Australian lamb, asparagus tips with honey glazed ham or a tropical Lobster Thermidor. Then comes the most important part of the meal – the dessert. The Chef displays his virtuosity through this course, which could be anything from a dark and white chocolate mousse, to a warm rhubarb crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You are elegantly served by white-glove clad ‘attendants’ in railway uniform.

The fruits and vegetables served are farm fresh, as they are cultivated in the gardens in the vicinity. The bar is well stocked with the finest wines and a unique collection of accompaniments, to add flavour to a delightful evening. The railway carriage restaurant at the Tea Factory will give you an unforgettable experience of a life time. This restaurant has truly re-invented the concept of thematic fine dining, and takes the discerning traveler on a gastronomical adventure.

Meal Times

Dinner - 19.30pm - 12.00am