With many historical influences, Sri Lanka has developed a unique fusion of cooking styles. It draws heavily on Indonesian and South India dishes, with some Dutch influence mixed in. The clash of styles has resulted in a unique Sri Lankan style that is not to be missed. Where are the best restaurants in Sri Lanka? We’ve listed some top restaurants serving Sri Lankan specialities to make sure you taste the best that this country has to offer.
*Updated: January 2026.
Best Restaurants in Colombo
Seafood is a great option when in Colombo, as a fresh catch is brought in every day. Many restaurants display their produce on a seafood counter, allowing you to choose exactly what you eat.
The Lagoon
The Lagoon takes the seafood counter to the next level. The daily fresh catch is stacked on giant ice counters, creating an entire Seafood Market. They are known not only for variety but also for quality. While The Lagoons’ Sri Lankan dishes are delicious, the Indian and Thai flavours are also superb. This is certainly a high-end choice, with prices to match. However, the freshness and flavours make it worth the bill!
- The Lagoon, 77 A2, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
- Operating hours: Lunch 12:00–2:30 pm, Dinner 6:30–11:00 pm
- Reservations contact: +94 76 560 4972
The Gallery Cafe
The Gallery Cafe, part of the Paradise Road complex, is a must-visit in Colombo. The stunning architecture and atmosphere draw in tourists and keep locals returning. The food is Sri Lankan with a range of international dishes. The black pork is highly recommended, and every meal should be topped off with a delicious chocolate-focused dessert.
- The Gallery Cafe, 2 Alfred House Rd, Colombo
- Contact: +94 112 582 162
- Opening hours: 10 am–midnight
Ministry of Crab
This famous Colombo restaurant celebrates the best of Sri Lankan seafood. There are no prizes for guessing the speciality- crab. Diners can choose the size of the crab from an astonishing range. Meanwhile, the variety of flavours transforms this Sri Lankan staple into a gourmet feast. With the ‘Crabzilla’ weighing a huge 2kg, it is perfect for groups who like to share. The chilli and garlic crab is a favourite, and the curry crab is a modern twist on a Sri Lankan classic.
- Ministry of Crab , Old Dutch Hospital Colombo, +94 770 024 823
- Open daily from 12 noon (closing time is commonly 10.30 pm–11 pm)
Restaurants in Galle
Galle Fort is home to modern and sophisticated bars and restaurants on every corner. You can get every type of cuisine for a range of different budgets. A short stroll down the cobbled streets will give you plenty of dining options, but this is one of our favourites.
Church Street Social
Church Street Social has all the modern elegance of a top London Restaurant. While the exceptional food keeps customers returning, the warm service makes it special every time. The fusion of Middle Eastern, Asian and Sri Lankan flavours makes this restaurant unique. All ingredients are locally sourced, and the presentation is superb. If you visit for brunch, be sure to try the traditional Egg Hoppers and some of the best coffee in Sri Lanka.
- Church Street Social, 26 Church Street, Galle Fort, Sri Lanka, +94 77 363 8381 / +94 77 725 2271
- Open 7.00 am – 10.00 pm
Lucky Fort Restaurant
This budget restaurant is tucked away in Galle Fort. While it doesn’t look like much at first glance, the rave reviews have made it a local hot spot. The ’10 curries’ dish appeals to tourist who want to try all the main Sri Lankan flavours. Designed for sharing the ’10 curries’ is serves as small plates which can be mixed or sampled alone. The prices remain low, and the service is friendly, making this a great lunch spot.
- Lucky Fort Restaurant, 7 Parawa Street, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka, +94 91 224 2922 / +94 76 48 34 34 3
- Typically opens midday and runs until late evening (hours vary by day)
Pedlars Inn Cafe and Restaurant
Pedlars Inn’s open-fronted restaurant draws tired shoppers in, with the promise of Italian coffee. Once inside, you will find a calm atmosphere, attentive staff, and tasty food. While this is a good spot to grab a coffee and a snack, the full menu is worth trying as well. There is a great range of seafood which can be served with crisp string hoppers. If you can fit in dessert, then the gelato is definitely worth a try.
- Pedlars Inn, 92 Pedlar Street, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka, +94 91 222 5333
- Open 9.00 am – 10.00 pm
Restaurants in Kandy
Kandy is the second biggest city in Sri Lanka, so choosing where to eat can be tricky. One of the best things about Kandy is the stunning green vistas, so choose a restaurant with a view.
Kandy House
This Manor house has been converted into a chic hotel and restaurant, perfect for romantic meals out. Their modern take on Sri Lankan classics is visually stunning and doesn’t disappoint in taste. The fragrant rice and poached fish are simple but delicious, and the backdrop allows for a perfect romantic evening.
Kandy House, Amunugama Walauwa, Gunnepana, Kandy 20270, Sri Lanka, +94 81 492 1394
Ceyloni Lounge
Part of the Ceyloni Panorama Resort, Ceyloni Lounge provides a great vantage point for the guests to see most of the city. The restaurant serves Sri Lankan and other traditional food, international cuisines, and high teas and coffees with a spread of cakes (made in-house) and pastries. The bar provides various alcoholic beverages for the guests to enjoy while looking over the mountains.
Ceyloni Lounge (Restaurant & Pub), 352/H Off Dhamaraja Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka, +94 81 224 0400 / WhatsApp +94 76 052 3322
Theva Cuisine Kandy
The views from Theva Cuisine are among the best in Kandy. Based 10 minutes outside of the city it feels like a retreat from the hustle and bustle. With an outdoor eating area to maximise on the views this is a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The traditional Sri Lankan breakfast is not to be missed, while the fish curry is a great lunch option. With the menu also offering western options, this is a great choice for a group with different preferences.
- Theva Cuisine Kandy (Theva Residency), 11/B5/10-1, 6th Lane, Off Upper Tank Road, Off Circular Road 2, Hanthana, Kandy, Sri Lanka, +94 (81) 738 8296 / +94 (81) 738 8299
- Reservations WhatsApp: +94 77 541 4711
FAQ: Restaurants in Sri Lanka
Do you need reservations for the best restaurants in Sri Lanka?
For the most popular spots in Colombo and Galle Fort, yes — especially on weekends and during peak travel months. For local restaurants and smaller cafés, walk-ins are usually fine, but going earlier helps.
What are the must-try Sri Lankan dishes to order?
A solid starter pack includes:
- Egg hoppers (often at breakfast)
- Fish curry with rice
- Kottu roti (street-food legend)
- Pol sambol (coconut sambol) with basically anything
- Watalappan if you want a classic dessert moment
Is Sri Lanka expensive for dining out?
It can suit almost any budget. Local eateries and cafés are generally great value, while top restaurants in Colombo and hotels can be priced closer to international standards. A mix of both usually gives the best experience.
Which city is best for food in Sri Lanka?
Colombo is the strongest all-rounder for variety and “must-book” restaurants. Galle Fort is excellent for atmosphere and relaxed dining. Kandy is a great stop for scenery and slower evenings.
Is it easy to get around Sri Lanka for food trips?
Yes, but travel times can be longer than they look on a map. That’s why staying near your main restaurant “clusters” makes such a difference — it keeps plans flexible and prevents dinner from becoming a journey.
Are there good options for different dietary needs (vegetarian, seafood, spicy levels)?
Definitely. Many places offer vegetarian-friendly dishes (Sri Lankan food loves vegetables and coconut), seafood is huge, and most restaurants can adjust spice levels if you ask — just tell them what you’re comfortable with.
Stay Close to The Best Bites
The range of restaurants in Sri Lanka is vast and suits every budget and taste — and that’s exactly what makes planning so fun (and occasionally chaotic). These restaurants give travellers a real chance to taste uniquely Sri Lankan flavours, not just the “tourist-safe” version. Egg hoppers at breakfast, a proper fish curry at lunch, and something spicy, coconutty, and unforgettable for dinner… it adds up fast.
To make those food plans easier, Villa Finder helps you stay in the right spot — close enough to your must-try restaurants so dinner doesn’t turn into a long transfer, and flexible enough to chase cravings as they appear.
See our villas in Sri Lanka. Inspected and selected by Villa-Finder.com.
