Dulan Hapuarachchi, a Victoria-based financial entrepreneur and devoted father of two, places family at the core of his values. Originally from Colombo, Sri Lanka, Dulan migrated to Australia at the age of 11, cherishing memories of a vibrant childhood filled with familial warmth and delectable Sri Lankan dishes. His roots, embedded in the rich culinary traditions of his large family, continue to influence his life and work.
While his financial career takes centre stage, Dulan's love for cooking has emerged as a delightful passion. Influenced by his extensive travels and fueled by a newfound appreciation for Sri Lankan cuisine, he embarked on a culinary journey during the pandemic. Dulan's ties to Sri Lanka remain strong, with regular visits to the island, transforming him into a celebrated chef in his homeland.
Chef Dulan's culinary story began at a tender age, peeling onions for his grandmother and observing family feasts prepared by his parents and aunts. Gaining inspiration from culinary icons like Gordan Ramsay, Peter Kuruvita, and MasterChef Australia judge Jock Zonfrillo, Dulan dreams of showcasing his skills on the Sicilian coast of Italy. Despite his preference for savoury flavours, he showcases versatility with desserts like tiramisu and crème caramel, demonstrating his commitment to mastering diverse cuisines.
Explore the culinary world through Dulan's lens as he balances financial entrepreneurship with a profound love for family and food. Discover the flavours that shape his journey and follow his aspirations to make a mark on the global culinary stage.
With support from his wife Nadeera, his four-year-old son Nicky and newborn daughter Nia at home, Dulan one day hopes to open a Sri Lankan-inspired café-style restaurant with his wife who is a cocktail connoisseur. He also wants to open a cooking and hospitality school for the less fortunate in Sri Lanka.