Refresh. Revel. Rize.

It was one of those long weekends, with Friday being a public holiday. So we decided to pay a visit to “The Rize” (a recently opened Sports Bar), about which we’d been hearing rave reviews. Walking into Rize, you’ll find yourself looking up at a wall filled with inspirational quotes from famous sporting figures like Muhammad Ali, Cristiano Ronaldo, Nelson Mandela and Lance Armstrong.

The red wall by the main bar area is covered with large mirrors, black and white photographs of popular sportsmen and women and large flat screen televisions to watch whatever game is on. The ambiance is stylish and relaxing with cozy couches and familiar bar type furniture. The bar also has a private VIP room and a smoking area outside making it a suitable location to chill out with friends.

My friends and I sat at one of the bar tables and proceeded to go through the cocktail menu. I must say it will have you spoiled for choice! After much debate and laughter we each finally decided on the mojito, which is (for those who are not familiar with the beverage) white rum shaken with muddled lime, fresh mint and syrup topped with soda. The other was a shot of Kamikaze, which is vodka, lime and triple sec, and finally, the “R.I.Z.E” which is a flaming shot that consists of Sambuca, Baileys, Kahula and and Blue vodka.

A couple other drinks that you should try out are the Hot Granny (Absolut Vodka shaken with Apple Juice, Honey and chili sugar) and the Fuzzy Navel (Vodka, Peach Liqueur & Fresh Orange Juice).

All in all we were very pleased with Rize. The service was good, the staff pleasant and helpful. The atmosphere was inviting and since the Cricket World Cup was underway, it was the perfect place to chill out, have a few drinks with friends and watch the match. We’ll definitely be going back! If you’re in the area, check it out:

Rize
29, Dharmapala Mawatha
Colombo 3
Sri Lanka