Your Govanhill: Kofi Kade
In this edition of Your Govanhill, we get to know the face behind Kofi Kade – a Sri Lankan-inspired sandwich shop on Cathcart Road. We chat with founder Rukshan Weeraratne, who shares the unexpected journey behind the business, his culinary roots and his favourite Southside hangouts.
By Samar Jamal | Photos by John Bowden
What’s the story behind Kofi Kade
Sauces were the primary business and that evolved into sandwiches. I started making sauces during Covid. It wasn’t meant to be a business venture at all – it just turned into one because people loved the sauce and kept ordering. Kofi Kadi was created to pay the bills so we could focus on making sauces but it developed its own unique selling point. It was an accidental creation. But we’re in a fortunate position where both work hand in hand.
What kind of sauces do you make and where are the recipes inspired from?
Inspired by my Sri Lankan culture, traditional recipes passed down to me by my mom and granddad. But the variations of sauce were my own creations. They’re essentially Sri Lankan-inspired chilli sauces.
If you could pick a local favorite food spot in Govanhill, what would it be?
Gomo Kimchi. I didn’t know Eddie before I started the business, but we became close. His story is very relatable – he implements his heritage in his food, using family recipes like his auntie’s. That personal touch really resonates with me.
If you could describe yourself as one sandwich, what would it be and why?
I’d say steak and cheese. It’s one of my favorite ones. Well-marinated and cheesy – just like me!
Do you have a favourite artist at the moment?
I grew up on hip hop, so I always go back to Mobb Deep. They’re not exactly positive but their storytelling is strong. I admire that a lot.
Favourite indoor spaces in Southside?
I really enjoyed Tramway when we took part in a show called 12 Last Songs which is about our relationship with work and representation. As part of it, we cooked the Sri Lankan dish, Kiribath, on stage for an audience of 30 people. It’s a great space.
If you could swap lives with one Southside business owner for a day, who would it be and why?
I’d say Lobo. I’d love to learn their cuisine – they’re trained chefs and there’s a lot I could learn from them. Also, Craig from Han Kitchen in the West End. He’s an amazing chef, and his food philosophy aligns with mine. They were recently recognised by the Michelin Guide.
