Colombo is the lively capital city of Sri Lanka, where you can experience a fusion of cultures, history, and most importantly, cuisine. The city is known for its diverse and delicious Sri Lankan food, offering a wide range of dining options. Whether you prefer the lively street markets or the high-end restaurants, this comprehensive guide will help you find the best Sri Lankan food in Colombo.
Explore all the hubs which you must not miss out on in the city of Colombo for the best culinary experience.
Embark on a culinary adventure in Colombo by exploring the vibrant Pettah Market, a sensory feast that encapsulates the essence of Sri Lankan street food. Roam around the narrow alleys filled with the tantalising aroma of spices, and relish local delicacies such as Kottu Roti, a delectable dish made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and your preferred choice of meat or seafood. Do not miss out on the chance to taste Isso Vadai, deep-fried lentil cakes crowned with zesty shrimp, an authentic street food treasure.
Address: WRPX+FXC, Keyzer St, Colombo 01100, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8:30 am to 7 pm
If you're looking for a luxurious dining experience, you should visit the Ministry of Crab. Located in the historic Dutch Hospital complex, this restaurant is famous for its exceptional seafood, especially its crab dishes. The seafood restaurant opened in 2011 and is known for its crab dishes. You can enjoy mouth-watering crab preparations, like the signature Garlic Chilli Crab or the Crab Curry, which are expertly crafted to bring out the freshness of the local catch. The Ministry of Crab is a top choice for seafood lovers with an elegant ambience and attentive service. The place features regularly on Asia's 50 Best list.
Address: Old Dutch Hospital Complex, 04 Hospital St, Colombo 00100, Sri Lanka
Timings: 12 pm to 10:30 pm
Nuga Gama is a restaurant located inside the Cinnamon Grand Hotel. It is known for its unique dining experience that takes place in a rustic village setting. The restaurant specialises in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and offers an extensive buffet of traditional dishes. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes such as hoppers, string hoppers, curries, and sambols. Nuga Gama is an excellent place to explore the country's culinary heritage. Additionally, the restaurant features live cultural performances that add an extra layer of charm and entertainment to the dining experience.
Address: Colombo 3, 77 Galle Rd, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 pm to 10:30 pm
Upali's is a renowned restaurant located in the heart of Colombo. It opened in 2013 with a huge variety on the list ranging from vegetarian, vegan, and organic dishes. The restaurant is famous for its commitment to preserving Sri Lanka's food heritage and offers a variety of classic Sri Lankan dishes on its menu. One of their most popular dishes is 'lamprais', a flavorful rice dish with Dutch influences. Some other notable mentions are roast paan, and fish head curry. The restaurant's cosy ambience and dedication to traditional recipes make it a favourite among both locals and tourists.
Address: 65 Dr CWW Kannangara Mawatha, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka
Timings: 11:30 am to 10:30 pm
Green Cabin, an iconic eatery in Colombo, was established in 1952 and has stood the test of time. The restaurant is famous for its nostalgic ambience and authentic Sri Lankan dishes, serving a diverse menu that includes rice and curry, as well as short eats such as patties and cutlets. Green Cabin's commitment to using quality ingredients and maintaining consistent flavours has earned it a loyal following over the decades. The Green Cabin has many outlets across Colombo.
Address: 453 Galle Rd, Colombo 00300 Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 am to 7 pm