The Chinwag

(Long review short - good food, service needs to improve) We tried three varieties. The first was the Gurkha chicken dumplings, which were excellent. The sauce was incredibly flavorful, we actually wished there had been a slice of bread to soak it up. The coriander on top blended well with the dish and complemented the chili crisp nicely. Next, we had the mutton dumplings. Unfortunately, these lacked flavor and tasted quite raw and earthy (almost leafy). The filling probably needs better marination or stronger seasoning. However, the sauce itself was very flavorful and helped make up for the lack of taste in the dumpling. Finally, we tried the curry pork momos. It was an interesting and creative take, but the pork had a bit too much of a strong spice and herb flavor. With better balance it could have been much better. That said, the pomegranate seeds complemented the dish surprisingly well. We also asked for an onion and coriander sambol, which the owner kindly provided even though it wasn’t on the menu. Overall, the fusion concept of the menu works well. The washrooms were clean, and there were about 4–5 parking spots available, but all of them were occupied (by who knows who), because when we visited the restaurant, we were actually the only guests there. Areas for Improvement 1. Service could be better. We had to look around or call out loudly to find a waiter. Ideally, a staff member should always be within visible range. When we entered, we had to call out two or three times just to check if anyone was there. 2. Lighting isn’t the best, although the place has a calm, quiet, homely atmosphere. 3. The waiter didn’t have much knowledge about the menu (he mentioned he had only joined 2–3 days ago). However, he was very polite and kind. His honesty actually helped us manage expectations, and we ended up checking reviews and Instagram to figure out what to order. 4. The staff should be better trained by the owner, especially on things like best dishes, pairings, portion sizes, and recommendations. Staff should actively guide customers through the ordering process. Even small basics like serving drinks on drip mats instead of directly on the table would improve the experience. Suggestions 1. Consider adding side dishes such as garlic rice or lemongrass rice, which would pair very well with the flavorful gravies. 2. A few slices of toasted bread or regular bread would be great to soak up the sauces. 3. A small portion of plain or lightly seasoned noodles could also work well so the gravies don’t go to waste. 4. You could also create recommended combos or pairings on the menu, highlighting dishes that work well together and making the ordering process easier for customers. Overall, this place has good potential, and we genuinely wish the team the best as they improve and grow. If the smaller details are refined, this place could easily rise to the top.

the food was disappointing for the price. We tried the Cheese Kottu after seeing influencer videos, but it was nowhere near our expectations and didn't taste good. We also ordered the dumplings, which were just average. Getting only six dumplings at that price didn't feel worth the money. The restaurant has a clean, attractive, and welcoming environment, which we really liked. However Overall, the pricing doesn't match the quality and taste of the food. I hope the restaurant focuses more on improving the flavor of the dishes and reconsidering the pricing, as the ambiance is already a strong point.

From Chinwag, we tried their mango juice, which was okay - not bad, but nothing memorable. For food, we ordered the butter chicken dumplings, fried rice, and their cheese kottu. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get a picture of the cheese kottu. The dumplings were average. They had a slight butter chicken flavor, but considering the price, they didn’t feel worth it. The fried rice was good and would probably be the only dish we’d come back for. We also tried the cheese kottu, but it didn’t quite live up to the hype created by food reviewers on TikTok. We sat outside in the afternoon, so the place wasn’t very crowded. However, we had to go inside and call the waiter ourselves, so the service could definitely improve.

Very nice atmosphere. There is a kind girl serving, but she dissapears and hard to find when you need something. We tried the lampri, good side is healthy. But it is very dry, please provide some greavy. The vegterian option or chicken does not get an egg which is typically threre in a lampri. Quite place popular with couples. No AC but cool with Fans. Please improve the lampri.

Chicken dumpling was the best dish I tried. It was so good. Kiribathgoda fusion was a pretty big dish. Food was good. French toast was a bit dry but it was good. Calm atmosphere but too dim lighting. There was only 1 staff to serve but she did a good job. Took quite a lot time to serve but food was good so we didn’t mind it ☺️

We visited this place after seeing a few TikTok videos, but unfortunately, the food was not worth the price. The dumplings were good, but the filling was quite small, and most of the dumpling was just pastry. We also ordered the black pork curry with yellow rice, but it was disappointing. The rice was too plain, and the curry lacked the rich flavor and spices we expected. The customer service was okay, and the atmosphere was average. Overall, it didn’t meet our expectations, and I don’t think I’ll be visiting again.

The whole experience here was ok but doesn't come up to amount you spend. We ordered chicken dumplings and the butter chicken dumplings. And they were ok. The butter chicken dumplings were quite ok. The quality wasn't that much. Usually for that price other better restaurants give 8 or 10 dumplings. The portions are not sufficient at all. They need to light the place up because it was quite dark even though we went in the evening. The staff needs more traing for sure. The waiter was acting weird when we were going to pay. Don't think we'll return.

I had to see if this place was worth the hype and certainly didn’t disappoint. The butter chicken dumplings were the best! Would definitely go back to try the rest of the dumplings on their menu.

I visited on the 10th of May 2026 for the “All You Can Eat” offer. Overall, the food was really tasty, and the staff were very friendly and welcoming throughout the experience. One thing that left a bad experience at the end was that despite the poster clearly stating a nett price, we were still charged a service charge. If a service charge applies, it would be better to mention it clearly instead of advertising it as nett. As for the portion sizes, they are pretty standard for dumplings. You can’t really compare dumplings to a full plate of rice, so I can understand why some of the negative reviews mention portion sizes, but for this type of food it felt reasonable to me. Apart from the confusion regarding the pricing, the overall experience was good and the food quality was enjoyable.

Loved The Chinwag! The dumplings are the real deal — the butter chicken ones in that creamy sauce and the curried prawn dumplings are so good. Also smashed the Jaffna Crab Curry — rich, spicy gravy with ghee rice, coconut sambol and roast paan to mop it all up. Messy in the best way! Plus it's BYOB, so great value for a chilled dinner. Will 100% be back! 🙌

The dumplings range was really good. There is alot of fusion in their food. I ended up having a f/rice with the rest of the sauce. However we had to wait approx 30mins to get the food. The service is very poor which seemed to run on short staff (one person to take and bring orders & cleaning). The homely vibe is good but the lighting is so low. Quite concerned that a 70/- MRP water bottle is sold at 200 odd bucks here. 🙁

Beautiful cozy place with ample seating space. Service was good, friendly and quick. Food was good with authentic tastes. Their dumplings are the star of the show. Menu is pretty limited and apart for dumplings very little number of choices to choose from. Potion sizes are quite small. Beverages are limited to five to six choices. Overall its a good place to have a cozy snack or a light meal. But not an ideal place for a full hearty meal or for a gathering with larger number of people.

We tried the Cheese Kottu, but it had no flavor at all. It tasted more like a vegetable curry than a cheese kottu. We also ordered 6 dumplings, which cost Rs. 1,300. Honestly, they weren't worth the price and didn't taste anything special. Please don't mislead customers with exaggerated or misleading promotions. The food didn't live up to the expectations.

Here is some constructive advice. 1. Cooking orders table by table ( the whole meal of those who came before you has to be prepared they told us) means customers like us waited 45 mins for our appetizer. Restaurants need to have a system for multi-tasking. Its not like running a hot dog stand. 2. When a customer arrives don't leave them hanging for 15 mins to get a menu. If that happens to you see photo, the menus are in the top right drawer of the cupboard. They have 2 menus but many items are not mentioned like the lumpreis This place has good food. There is no restaurant manager. Its an auto pilot restaurant. Better you just do delivery or pick up. Do better. Hope this helps you.

After waiting for so long was able to go today. We orders the pepper pork, egg fried rice, butter chicken dumplings, and fiery chicken wings. The food was hot hot and very tasty. Pricing is not bad in the current economy. Hope they can add some more fresh juice items to the menu. I sincerely thank Harish for the great service he gave. Will definitely go back to try other dishes.

Really enjoyed the dumplings and even the hot butter cuttlefish tasted really authentic. Definitely exceeded our expectations. Staff was friendly too. If one thing can be improved, that is to light up the place a little bit more. It’s an old house that’s been renovated and turned into a restaurant, so if the place can be a little bit more welcoming that would have been nice.

We were pleasantly surprised at the fusion dishes that were prepared by them, specially the butter chicken dumplings and the mango and shrimp Nachos and they are delicious . When it comes to the atmosphere it was quiet peaceful and suitable for friendly conversations .

Great location and parking, which is a plus. The food is solid, and I’d definitely recommend the mutton dumplings – they’re a standout. Everything else we tried was good too, and the drinks hit the mark. A few things could be better, though. They don’t accept card payments yet, which was a bit inconvenient, so definitely bring cash or a transfer. Also, it’s a bit hard to get a server’s attention since they seem busy in the kitchen. Possibly needs more staff on the weekend. The outdoor seating is nice when the weather’s right, but if it’s a really warm day, the fans don’t quite keep up. Overall, we left happy and content – the food was good, and passed the vibe check. Definitely worth a visit.

Tried couple of dishes: Nahm Jim Chicken Dumplings and Thai red curry prawn dumplings were good. Then there were two rice dishes. One was with Garlic rice and the other was with rice and chicken meatballs (I don’t have the details). Nothing special. Also tried a Amberalla juice which was better than the food for me. They really need an update on the menus. When we asked what is the juice of the day mentioned in the menu, they said it’s Amberalla which was also mentioned as a separate item.

Dropped by for a light lunch and absolutely loved the meal, the carrot salad was my fav, the pan seared chicken was lovely, with a spicy twist as we requested, the dumplings were a bit dry but tasty nevertheless! The staff were friendly and attentive. Really good value for money! Will definitely return!