Sri Lanka restaurants offer unique and flavorful cuisine that reflects the country’s diverse cultural influences. With its bold flavors, exotic spices, and fresh ingredients, Sri Lankan food has gained popularity among food enthusiasts worldwide.
However, finding good Sri Lankan restaurants can be a challenge, especially for those new to the cuisine. In this blog post, we will explore the best Sri Lankan restaurants, traditional dishes, and dining etiquette to help you make the most of your Sri Lankan culinary experience.
Exploring Sri Lanka restaurants
When exploring Sri Lanka restaurants, it’s important to keep in mind the unique flavors and ingredients of Sri Lankan cuisine. Many Sri Lanka restaurants offer a range of traditional dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu, as well as lesser-known dishes like lamprais and pol Sambol.
One way to experience Sri Lankan cuisine is to order a traditional rice and curry meal. These meals typically include a serving of rice along with several different curries, each with a unique blend of spices and flavors. The curries may feature vegetables, meat, or fish and are often cooked with coconut milk.
Hoppers are another must-try dish at Sri Lankan restaurants. These pancake-like dishes are made with fermented rice flour and coconut milk and can be served with a variety of curries and chutneys.
Kottu, a popular street food in Sri Lanka, is another dish to try when exploring Sri Lanka restaurants. This stir-fried dish features chopped roti mixed with vegetables, meat, or egg and a range of spices and seasonings.
String hoppers, a type of noodle made from rice flour, are another unique Sri Lankan dish to try. These noodles are often served with coconut Sambol or other spicy relishes.
Many restaurant sri lankais also offer vegetarian and vegan options, like jackfruit curry and paneer curry. And don’t forget to try some of the traditional Sri Lankan desserts, like Wattalappam or Kiri bath.
When exploring srilankan restaurant, it can be helpful to ask the server for recommendations or to try a tasting menu to get a sense of the different flavors and dishes available. And be prepared for a range of spice levels, as Sri Lankan cuisine can be quite spicy!
Michelin Star Restaurants in Sri Lanka
People often ask are there any Michelin star restaurants in Sri Lanka? Although Sri Lanka does not have any Michelin-starred restaurants, the country is renowned for its culinary traditions and has a vibrant food scene. Many Sri Lanka restaurants offer unique dining experiences that incorporate local ingredients and spices to create delicious and authentic flavors.
One of the most famous Sri Lanka restaurants is Ministry of Crab, which was founded by two famous Sri Lankan cricketers and serves up some of the best seafood in the country. The restaurant’s signature dish is the “Crabzilla,” a massive Sri Lankan crab that can weigh up to 2 kilograms.
Another highly-rated restaurant in Sri Lanka is Nihonbashi, which serves up Japanese cuisine with a Sri Lankan twist. The restaurant’s sushi and sashimi are particularly popular, and the chefs use locally-sourced seafood and ingredients to create their dishes.
Finally, The Lagoon is a seafood restaurant located in Colombo that has an extensive menu of fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant is known for its stunning views of the Indian Ocean and its romantic ambiance.
Must Eat Restaurants in Sri Lanka
If you are looking to explore the best of Sri Lankan cuisine, you must try some of the country’s top-rated restaurants. Some of the must-try Sri Lanka restaurants include:
Ministry of Crab: Located in Colombo, Ministry of Crab is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers. The restaurant’s specialty is Sri Lankan crab, which is known for its large size and sweet meat. The crab is prepared in a variety of ways, from pepper crab to garlic chili crab, and is served with delicious sides like garlic bread and buttered corn.
Nuga Gama: For a taste of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, head to Nuga Gama in Colombo. The restaurant is set in a beautiful outdoor setting, complete with traditional thatched roofs and a large pond. The menu features a range of Sri Lankan dishes, from spicy curries to rice and curry, all made with fresh, local ingredients.
The Curry Leaf: Located in the heart of Colombo, The Curry Leaf is a popular restaurant serving up a range of Sri Lankan and Indian dishes. The restaurant is known for its delicious biryanis and curries, all made with fresh herbs and spices. Be sure to try the mango curry, which is a sweet and spicy delight.
Kandy Muslim Hotel: If you’re in the city of Kandy, be sure to check out Kandy Muslim Hotel, a popular local restaurant known for its delicious biryanis and curries. The restaurant is popular with locals and tourists alike, and the portions are generous, so come hungry.
The Beach Wadiya: For a taste of seafood in a stunning beachfront setting, head to The Beach Wadiya in Mount Lavinia. The restaurant has been around for over 60 years and is known for its fresh seafood, including crab, prawns, and lobster. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner.
Dining Etiquette in Sri Lanka Restaurants
When dining in Sri Lanka restaurants, it is essential to respect the local customs and traditions. While wearing sandals is acceptable in some restaurants, it is best to check the dress code before dining. Additionally, it is customary to remove shoes before entering some restaurants. In terms of seasoning, some Sri Lankan restaurants may add salt to their food, so it is essential to check before ordering.
Firstly, it is important to wash your hands before eating. Most Sri Lanka restaurants have a handwashing station outside the entrance, so be sure to take advantage of this before entering. Additionally, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering some traditional restaurants, but you will not be asked to do so best bet is to follow other visitors.
In Sri Lanka restaurants, it is common to share dishes with the table rather than ordering individual meals. This is a great way to try a variety of traditional Sri Lankan dishes. It is also considered polite to take only a small portion of each dish and to leave some for others to enjoy.
When eating, it is customary to use your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean. If you are not accustomed to eating with your hands, utensils may be provided upon request. It is also important to refrain from talking with your mouth full, and to use a napkin to wipe your mouth as needed.
Finally, it is customary to thank the host or server after the meal, and to offer to help with cleaning up or washing dishes if you are dining in a private home. By following these dining etiquette customs, you can show respect for Sri Lankan culture and enjoy a traditional meal with your hosts and fellow diners
De Novo Restaurant Sri Lanka
De Novo is one of the top-rated Sri Lankan restaurants in the country, known for its innovative cuisine and stunning views. The restaurant offers a fusion menu that blends Sri Lankan and European flavors, with dishes such as crab and mango salad and slow-cooked pork belly. The restaurant’s breathtaking views of the city make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Sri Lankan cuisine.
Are you a passionate foodie, always on the lookout for new and exciting culinary experiences? Look no further than the tropical paradise of Sri Lanka! With its rich and diverse cultural influences, Sri Lankan cuisine is a feast for the senses, bursting with exotic flavors and spices that will take your taste buds on a journey of a lifetime.
At Surabi Lanka Travels, we understand your cravings for exquisite and otherworldly flavors, and we’re here to help you fulfill them. Our expert team can create a customized itinerary that takes you on a culinary adventure through Sri Lanka, where you’ll get to savor the unique flavors of our vibrant cuisine.
From fragrant curries to mouth-watering street food, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. Let us guide you through the bustling markets and hidden gems of our country, where you’ll get to meet local chefs, farmers and food artisans, and discover the secrets of our cuisine. So why wait? Contact us today and let Surabi Lanka Travels help you plan a trip that you’ll never forget – one that tantalizes your taste buds and fills your heart with happiness!
Conclusion
Sri Lanka restaurants provide unique and flavorful cuisine that is worth exploring. Whether you are looking for traditional Sri Lankan dishes or innovative fusion cuisine, Sri Lanka has something to offer. By following our guide to the best Sri Lanka restaurants and dining etiquette, you can make the most of your culinary experience in Sri Lanka
