Food in Sri Lanka’s east coast is predominantly centred round fresh seafood, particularly shellfish such as prawns and crabs. Fishing is one of the main industries along the east coast: head out on the Batticaloa Lagoon in a catamaran with a local fishermen at dusk and try your hand at traditional fishing techniques which have been handed down over generations, or wake up early and head down to the beach and watch fishing boats unloading the days catch.
There are many ways to enjoy the fresh seafood in the east coast, whether you prefer to try traditional prawn and crab curries or have fish prepared in a simple way, such as a mouth-watering tuna steak. Restaurants in Trincomalee and Passikudah are largely limited to the main hotels, many of which offer beach dining, seafood BBQs and a wide range of alcoholic beverages, as well as family-friendly menus.
Arugam Bay boasts two of the best restaurants in Sri Lanka – Hideaway and Zephyr Restaurant and Bar. Zephyr also has a restaurant in Mirissa, and both venues offer Sri Lankan and western dishes, a wide range of cocktails and a tranquil atmosphere in a spot overlooking the ocean. Hideaway, a beautiful boutique hotel, is renowned throughout the island for its delicious cuisine and picturesque setting.
