Multi-award winning Sri Lankan street food operator, The Coconut Tree has announced plans to expand throughout major towns and cities, appointing leisure property specialists Fleurets to act on their behalf.
The Coconut Tree currently trades from sites in Cheltenham and Oxford and has agreed terms on a site in central Bristol.
The concept was founded by five Sri Lankan friends who recognised the potential to introduce the cuisine to the UK. The team have been supported by Brand Director, Anna Garrod, who boasts a wealth of leisure industry experience, having previously been Brand Director promoted to Managing Director of Po Na Na and more recently Head of Brand and Revenue for The Lucky Onion as part of her consultancy business.
The Coconut Tree serves Sri Lankan street food, tapas-style, accompanied by innovative Cocotails. The bar and restaurant is built on the Sri Lankan ethos of always laying an extra place at the table, welcoming groups large and small.
Food and drink menus are curated with careful consideration around price and to allow multiple choices for vegan and vegetarians alongside meats and fish. This all reflects the warmth of The Coconut Tree’s hospitality and inclusiveness ensuring that “Everyone is welcome at the table.”
Anna Garrod commented, “Both Cheltenham and Oxford have been welcomed by customers and critics alike and we believe strongly in the brand, which we are confident will work throughout the UK. The quality of the food and atmosphere sets us apart and we are excited about the next phase of our growth.”
Kevin Conibear, Head of Urban Markets at Fleurets, is coordinating the search on The Coconut Tree’s behalf. He said, “The Coconut Tree is a great example of an innovative new brand that is making the UK restaurant and bar market so exciting at present.
'Whilst unfortunately we have witnessed some casualties in recent times, good quality concepts from emerging operators are thriving and The Coconut Tree has quickly established itself as a highly respected bar and restaurant, backed by an experienced team, with the quality to grow throughout the UK.”