Discover the Best Restaurants in Sri Lanka for Tourists

Sri Lanka, an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, is known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and diverse culture. One of the best ways to experience the culture of Sri Lanka is through its food. Sri Lankan cuisine is a fusion of influences from India, Southeast Asia, and Europe, resulting in a unique culinary experience. In this article, we will explore some of the best restaurants in Sri Lanka for tourists and their specialties.

1. Ministry of Crab, Colombo

Ministry of Crab is a popular seafood restaurant located in Colombo that is co-owned by Sri Lankan cricketing legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. The restaurant is known for its giant crab dishes that are cooked in a variety of styles, including pepper, garlic, and chili. The restaurant also serves a variety of other seafood dishes, including prawns, lobster, and fish. The restaurant has a modern setting with indoor and outdoor seating and a bar that serves cocktails and local beers.

2. Nuga Gama, Colombo

Nuga Gama is a traditional Sri Lankan restaurant located in Colombo that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant is housed in a replica of a traditional Sri Lankan village and serves a variety of Sri Lankan cuisine, including rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu roti. The restaurant also has a bar that serves local beers and cocktails. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, with live music performances on certain nights.

3. A Minute by Tuk Tuk, Galle

A Minute by Tuk Tuk is a popular restaurant located in the coastal town of Galle that specializes in Sri Lankan cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious rice and curry dishes that are prepared using fresh ingredients. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant has a casual setting with indoor and outdoor seating and a bar that serves local beers and cocktails.

4. The Fort Printers, Galle

The Fort Printers is a luxury boutique hotel located in Galle that has a restaurant that specializes in Sri Lankan and international cuisine. The restaurant is known for its fine dining experience and offers a variety of dishes that are prepared using local ingredients. The restaurant has a romantic setting with indoor and outdoor seating and a bar that serves cocktails and local beers.

5. The Lagoon, Colombo

The Lagoon is a popular seafood restaurant located in Colombo that specializes in Sri Lankan and international cuisine. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes that are prepared using local ingredients. The restaurant also has a bar that serves cocktails and local beers. The restaurant has a modern setting with indoor and outdoor seating.

 

6. Upali’s by Nawaloka, Colombo

Buhari is a chain of restaurants located in Chennai, known for its iconic Chicken 65 and biryani. The restaurant’s decor is simple and unpretentious, with comfortable seating and a casual ambiance. The Chicken 65, a spicy and crispy fried chicken dish, is the highlight of the menu, served with a tangy sauce and onion rings. The biryani is also a must-try, made with flavorful rice and tender meat, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Buhari’s affordable prices and excellent service make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

7. The Curry Leaf, Negombo

The Curry Leaf is a popular restaurant located in Negombo that specializes in Sri Lankan cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious rice and curry dishes that are prepared using fresh ingredients. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant has a casual setting with indoor and outdoor seating.

8. Shore by O!, Galle

Shore by O! is a popular seafood restaurant located in Galle that specializes in Sri Lankan and international cuisine. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes that are prepared using local ingredients. The restaurant also has a bar that serves cocktails and local beers. The restaurant has a modern setting with indoor and outdoor seating.

9. The Sizzle, Colombo

The Sizzle is a popular restaurant located in Colombo that specializes in grilled meats and Sri Lankan cuisine. The restaurant is known for its sizzling platters of meats, seafood, and vegetables. The restaurant also serves a variety of Sri Lankan dishes, including rice and curry. The restaurant has a modern setting with indoor and outdoor seating and a bar that serves local beers and cocktails.

10. The Black Cat Cafe, Galle

The Black Cat Cafe is a popular cafe located in Galle that specializes in vegetarian and vegan cuisine. The cafe is known for its healthy and delicious dishes that are made using organic and locally sourced ingredients. The cafe also has a variety of freshly brewed coffee and homemade baked goods. The cafe has a cozy setting with indoor and outdoor seating.

11. The Palmyrah Restaurant, Colombo

The Palmyrah Restaurant is a popular restaurant located in Colombo that specializes in Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that are made using fresh ingredients. The restaurant also has a bar that serves local beers and cocktails. The restaurant has a casual setting with indoor and outdoor seating.

12. The Tuna & The Crab, Colombo

The Tuna & The Crab is a seafood restaurant located in Colombo that specializes in sushi and Sri Lankan seafood dishes. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood that is sourced directly from the local fishermen. The restaurant also has a bar that serves cocktails and local beers. The restaurant has a modern setting with indoor and outdoor seating.

13. Hoppa, Colombo

Hoppa is a popular restaurant located in Colombo that specializes in Sri Lankan street food. The restaurant is known for its delicious kottu roti and hoppers, which are a Sri Lankan pancake made with rice flour and coconut milk. The restaurant also has a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant has a casual setting with indoor and outdoor seating.

14. The Tamarind Tree, Kandy

The Tamarind Tree is a popular restaurant located in the hill country city of Kandy that specializes in Sri Lankan and international cuisine. The restaurant is known for its fine dining experience and offers a variety of dishes that are prepared using local ingredients. The restaurant has a romantic setting with indoor and outdoor seating and a bar that serves cocktails and local beers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of restaurants that specialize in traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, as well as international cuisine. From luxury fine dining to casual street food, there is something for every type of traveler. With its fresh and locally sourced ingredients, Sri Lankan cuisine is a must-try for food lovers visiting the country.

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