Seven years ago, TukTuk Wine & Dine opened its doors in the heart of Negombo with a vision—to blend good food, great music, and unforgettable experiences into one vibrant destination. What began as a humble concept has grown into a household name, beloved by both locals and tourists. And every year, we mark that journey with a celebration that captures the spirit of TukTuk: bold, soulful, and alive.
This year’s 7th Anniversary Pre-Party was no exception. More than just the start of a birthday celebration, it was a night of powerful performances, familiar faces, new memories, and musical energy that echoed into the early hours. As is now tradition, the pre-party launched a full month of festivities, honoring the community that made TukTuk what it is today.
A Night of Exceptional Talent
The lineup this year featured two standout artists who brought their unique sounds and loyal followings to our stage: Arjumann and Sachintha Pulasthi. While both artists performed individually, the night was unified by the pulsating presence of Tropic Candy, the live band that carried the rhythm from start to finish.
Each performer brought something special to the event—different genres, different voices, but all bound by the power of meaningful music.
Arjumann: Soul, Storytelling, and Substance
Taking the stage once again was Arjumann, a Sri Lankan singer-songwriter who has carved out a space for music that feels deeply personal yet universally resonant. Known for his poetic, socially conscious lyrics and a style that mixes folk, minimalism, and experimental tones, Arjumann is not just a performer—he’s a storyteller. His songs touch on themes like love, loss, society, and healing, often built with raw simplicity, even from everyday tools like an iPhone.
His performance at the pre-party was his second at TukTuk, and the anticipation in the crowd was palpable. With well-known tracks like Sarungal, Puusek, and Ahasin Eha, Arjumann delivered an emotionally rich set that captured the attention of both long-time fans and newcomers. His stage presence is quiet but commanding, offering a reflective counterpoint to the upbeat nature of the night.
Arjumann’s artistry reflects the broader journey of TukTuk itself—humble beginnings, experimentation, and a deep connection with people. In many ways, his presence felt symbolic, reminding us that music at TukTuk is more than entertainment—it’s a core part of our identity.
Sachintha Pulasthi: Familiar, Fierce, and Full of Heart
If Arjumann brought introspection, Sachintha Pulasthi brought fire. A familiar face at TukTuk, Sachintha is no stranger to our stage. With multiple appearances over the years, he’s built a special bond with our guests—one that grows stronger every time he returns.
Sachintha’s music is rooted in Sinhala-language songwriting, blending folk-pop melodies with heartfelt narratives. Songs like Kohe Giyath, Manju Gaawa Naa, and Thaanna Ghoiya Kande Lala were not just crowd-pleasers—they were sing-alongs. His voice, clear and powerful, resonates with emotion and authenticity, making his set one of the highlights of the evening.
More than just a musical performance, Sachintha’s presence felt like a reunion between artist and audience. There’s a reason he’s a crowd favorite: his music feels honest, accessible, and deeply Sri Lankan. Whether he’s on a large stage or an intimate setting like ours, he has a natural ability to connect.
Tropic Candy: The Pulse of the Night
Supporting the night’s vocal talent was Tropic Candy, a dynamic band known for their versatility and stage charisma. While Arjumann and Sachintha delivered their lyrical and vocal magic, Tropic Candy laid down the beats, melodies, and textures that gave the evening its vibrant energy.
The band’s performance didn’t compete with the solo acts—it elevated them. From rock-inspired rhythms to laid-back grooves and danceable hooks, Tropic Candy adapted their sound seamlessly throughout the night. Their ability to shift tone and style to suit each artist made them the perfect musical glue for the event.
And when the featured acts had taken their final bows, Tropic Candy kept the momentum going. Their late-night set turned the gathering from a performance into a full-blown celebration. People danced. They sang. They lingered long after the last note, soaking in the mood that only live music can create.
More Than a Party: A TukTuk Tradition
At TukTuk, anniversaries aren’t just dates on a calendar—they’re milestones that mark our growth, relationships, and shared experiences. The Anniversary Pre-Party has become an important part of that tradition. It’s the night we look back and celebrate where we’ve come from, while also setting the tone for everything still ahead.
The pre-party always carries a little more weight than other events. It’s not just the beginning of a month-long celebration—it’s the heartbeat of it. It’s the moment when regular guests become family, when performers become part of our story, and when Negombo comes alive with food, wine, and rhythm.
For us, this annual kickoff is a way to say thank you. Thank you to the artists who continue to choose our stage, to the guests who return week after week, and to the community that believes in what we do.
A Month of Celebrations Ahead
If the pre-party was any indication, the rest of our 7th anniversary celebration promises to be unforgettable. With live performances, food and drink specials, themed nights, and surprises along the way, TukTuk is pulling out all the stops.
Our goal is to make every night of this anniversary month feel like something special. Whether you’re here for the music, the cuisine, or just the atmosphere, we want you to feel like you’re part of the celebration.
Looking Forward
Seven years is a long time in the restaurant world, but at TukTuk, we feel like we’re just getting started. The energy, the creativity, and the community that fuels us is stronger than ever. Nights like the pre-party remind us of why we began, and what keeps us going.
As we raise our glasses to the past seven years, we also raise our expectations for the future. More live music. More local talent. More reasons to gather and celebrate. TukTuk has always been about more than food—it’s about people. And we can’t wait to continue that journey with all of you.
Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to the next chapter.