Kandy Restaurant Guide

A gourmand’s insight into Sri Lanka’s cultural capital

Surrounded by misty hills and steeped in history, Kandy is a city where culture, spirituality and flavour come hand-in-hand. As Sri Lanka’s last royal capital and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kandy has long been a crossroads of regional influences, and its cuisine reflects this rich cultural mélange. From fiery Jaffna crab curry to Dutch-inspired lamprais and the local speciality ambul thiyal, a sour fish curry, you’ll get a taste of the islands most celebrated and diverse dishes here.

Kandy’s central location means that culinary traditions from across Sri Lanka converge in the city. Local markets overflow with exotic fruits, vibrant vegetables and canvas sacks bursting with colourful spices, while street corners sizzle with vendors preparing popular spicy snacks known locally as ‘short eats’. For the adventurous eater, wandering through these bustling markets offers a sensory introduction to the heart of Sri Lankan food.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, Kandy served as a British base and this colonial past has left its mark on the city’s cuisine. You’ll find western favourites such as traditional English afternoon tea served alongside traditional Sri Lankan fayre. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed café near the Temple of the Tooth, a hilltop restaurant with sweeping views or an atmospheric colonial bar for sundowners, in this guide we’ve brought together some of our favourite cafes, restaurants and bars in the city.

Restaurants in Kandy

Hotel Restaurants & Scenic Dining

Theva Cuisine – One of Kandy’s best restaurants, perched in the hills of Hanthana with expansive views over the city. Expect delicious food, beautiful presentation and creative signature cocktails, alongside mouthwatering desserts.

Helga’s Folly – For something totally different and wonderfully eccentric. This artistic hotel restaurant is a destination in itself and a great choice for afternoon tea or a pre-dinner drink in an unforgettable setting.

Adigar’s Manor – A stunning resorted family house turned boutique hotel and restaurant, ideal for a leisurely lunch or elegant dinner. Located outside Kandy town but well worth the journey.

Royal Bar & Hotel – A landmark colonial building with atmospheric bars, a central courtyard and an upper balcony-terrace. We think this is one of the best places in Kandy for a drink (see bar section below), but it also serves fantastic European and Sri Lankan cuisine.

Casual & Standalone Restaurants in Kandy

Cafés in Kandy

Bars in Kandy

Royal bar & Hotel - With its multiple atmospheric spaces, colonial charm and wide drinks selection ranging from malt whisky to chilled beers and classic G&T’s this remains Kandy’s top spot for an evening drink.