‘The Soccer-Village’ is not too far away! It is right here in the heart of Colombo!
Soccer fans across Colombo flocked around Hilton Colombo's pool side restaurant IL Ponte’s massive TV screen to catch the excitement of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia!
As the FIFA World Cup fever spreads in the town with palpitating uncertainty as to who will emerge the champion, IL Ponte has been transformed into a football field with a ‘sporty’ atmosphere filled with delightful food stalls, international beverages, fun-filled activities plus more!
Hilton Colombo assures a classy blend of soccer, spirits and dining in an amazing ambience at IL Ponte by the pool. The grand finale of 2018 FIFA World Cup between France and Croatia will be screened from 8.30pm local time next Sunday.
The late night second Semi Final between England and Croatia was witnessed by a large gathering of fans at the IL Ponte's wide screen on Wednesday while savouring their favourite beverages and a range of mouth watering cuisine at the Italian restaurant and food stalls, specially prepared for the occasion by the Hotel's Executive Chef, Kazi Hazan. Apart from the fine dining experience at the main restaurant, outside food stalls served ever popular kottu and a range of burgers, bringing the carnival atmosphere to the venue.
The venue was decorated like a football village with Russian architectural features and the 24x12 feet giant screen was placed in one corner, allowing a clear view for spectators. Soccer fans were seen enjoying the matches cheering their favourite teams.
Speaking to the Daily News, Hilton Colombo's F&B Manager, Kapila Mohotti said that Hilton Colombo pioneered the FIFA World Cup giant screen viewing in 2010 when the big event took place in South Africa. They made it a tradition with the next World Cup held in Brazil in 2014. This is the third time in a row they continue the tradition. "This year we saw 250-300 average spectators on a day and our resident guests and regular soccer fans made up the majority. Already, all the tickets for the grand finale have been sold out and there is a raffle draw for the tickets each day where we offer gift vouchers, soccer balls and dinner vouchers," he explained.
He also went on to say that with the increasing demand, another big screen will be set up at the main ballroom for the July 15 final and Football Federation officials, national level players are allowed to watch the matches at IL Ponte free of charge this year.
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