Glossop isn’t just blessed with incredible Peak District countryside on its doorstep. In more recent times, the village has also become known for a great selection of food and drink spots, perfect for refreshing and revitalising after a hard day out exploring the fells. Ayubowan, which roughly translates into English as ‘long life’, is one example. A bowl of the exotic in rural North West England, this is the first of three restaurants opened by the namesake family, all of which specialise in the finest Sri Lankan cuisine.
“An escape to warmer climes” is how the team describe their business. Located on bustling High Street, Ayubowan was a success from the word go, opening back in 2015, proving how many people clearly want to bask in the glory of spicy delicacies. Of which there are many: the menu boasts a mouthwatering selection of dishes specific to the South Asian island. Like Amma’s Abula — a traditional recipe which sees curries, sambols, cutlets of fish or meat and yellow rice served on a banana leaf. Opt for Colombo (chicken), Negambo (tuna and aubergine), or Vegan, and you won’t be disappointed
Elsewhere, devil dishes live up to their name, whether beef, mutton, prawn or jackfruit, and there’s a whole selection of medium curries to go at, divided by different meats, seafood, or vegetarian and vegan ingredients, alongside biryanis. For something truly iconic, though, try the Nasi Goreng range. A smoky and aromatic stir fry with fried egg, grilled pineapple and chilli paste. Or the Kothtu, a Sri Lankan street market favourite with cabbage, carrot, egg, curry leaves, and shredded godamba roti — mixed, prawn, mutton, vegan and chicken are all offered. The selection of starters and sides at Ayubowan is equally impressive, from mint yogurt raita to jackfruit cutlets and chicken shish kebab. And we recommend saving some room for dessert, where you’ll find things like Watalappam (jaggery, coconut milk, cashew nuts) and coconut pancakes.