Food in Colombo has transformed significantly in recent years, with an influx of restauranteurs from all over the world bringing a vast array of international cuisine to Sri Lanka’s capital. There are now a wide range of restaurants in Colombo serving up everything from Indian, Thai and Chinese to French, Italian and English cuisine, and the city is home to two of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2017 – Ministry of Crab, which sits in the historic Dutch Hospital, and Nihonbashi, a tranquil venue serving authentic Japanese cuisine crafted by world-renowned chef Dharshan Munidasa.
As well as providing a wide variety of international dining options, visitors can also try delicious local delicacies and traditional dishes such as rice and curry, either at one of the Sri Lankan restaurants such as Upalis or Nugegama at Cinnamon Grand, or street-hawker style at Galle Face Green whilst watching a spectacular sunset over the sea. Palmyrah offers a range of Jaffna dishes which are a distinctive type of food in Sri Lanka, similar to the curries of southern India in terms of spices and textures – don’t miss out on sampling the mouth-watering Jaffna Crab Curry. There are also many restaurants in Colombo offering both international and local dishes, including the stunning Gallery Café, an elegant establishment with an open-air courtyard which has an extensive collection of delicious desserts.
There are also plenty of bars in Colombo to suit all tastes, whether you want a beer in a lively atmosphere or a tranquil spot where you can enjoy a quiet pre-dinner drink. Check out Cricket Club Café, the oldest sports bar in Colombo, or head to Inn on the Green for a laidback pub atmosphere. For something a little more indulgent, go to Cloud Café in Colombo Courtyard and enjoy a cocktail whilst taking in the beautiful views of the city. There are also many cafés and coffee shops which offer light snacks and a variety of refreshingly cool drinks, such as Barefoot, a popular haunt for ex-pats which has live Jazz music on Sunday afternoons.
For recommendations about where to eat and drink in Kandy please see our Colombo Restaurant Guide.
Colombo Restaurant Guide
Colombo
Explore Colombo’s wide range of restaurants, cafés and street food options, which offer a wide range of traditional local dishes as well as cuisine from around the world.
Duration: N/A
Best time: Year-round
Colombo Tea Factory Tour
Colombo
Can’t find time to travel to the hill country? Explore the world-renowned Ceylon tea industry during this Colombo tea factory tour, which takes you through how the leaves are picked, processed and packaged.
Duration: 3 hours
Best time: Year-round
Colombo's Street Food Walk
Colombo
Savour the local delicacies of Colombo as you weave your way through busy streets brimming with people, food, culture and stories. Be sure you’ve got your adventure cap on for this one.
Duration: 2 hours
Best time: Year-round
