Sri Lankan food is diverse and full of flavour. Just as its culture is infused with the many influences of its history, the food has been equally inspired by the different flavours and styles of the region, as well as those who have colonised and left their mark in the country. Being an island nation also makes Sri Lanka an ideal place for fresh seafood. For a true food lover, this country’s cuisine will undoubtedly inspire and satisfy.
As seafood is so readily available, it is found almost anywhere. Prawns, cuttlefish, crabs and even shark meat are cooked deliciously, whether in curries served with rice, seafood cocktails, and grilled, fried or battered dishes which are usually served with chips, salad and roast vegetables. Devilled seafood dishes are also very popular.
Although seafood is cheaper in smaller sea-side towns like Negombo, even the capital Colombo boasts a great number of superb restaurants where one can enjoy these gifts of the sea, and diners can be sure they are getting their money’s worth.
Lavinia Breeze Seafood Restaurant offers a truly enjoyable dining experience. Located in Mount Lavinia, this beach-side restaurant is one of the best at what they do. The wooden house and sandy courtyard add to the experience of enjoying some of the best seafood in Colombo. Diners can choose to be seated in the courtyard or the balconies for an al fresco meal, or inside where it is air-conditioned.
Prices range from about LKR 500 for entrées to LKR 2000 for their famous lobster and crab mains.
Waters Edge is a hospitality and leisure facility in the suburb of Battaramulla. They service everything from banquets, buffets, á la carte dining and take-away meals. They offer fine dining, scrumptious appetisers and snacks, and a varied and delicious buffet.
It is set on a beautiful 200 acre piece of land, with expansive grass areas and vegetation. Dining in the main restaurant can be enjoyed al fresco or in the indoors bar/dining area.
Prices range from around LKR 200 for entrées to LKR 2000 per person for the buffet
Barefoot Cafe
The Barefoot cafe and art gallery is a beautiful place to enjoy lunch or tea. Located on Galle Road in Colombo 3, it offers a small but delicious menu with great seafood dishes. It’s an open, colourful and tranquil location, with a courtyard, art gallery and shop.
Prices range from around LKR 500 to LKR 1000.
Commons Cafe
The Commons Cafe, located in Colombo 7, is a great place for snacks and seafood. Their stuffed rotti are superb and their selections from the grill are a pleasant surprise for a cafe. The cafe has a leafy courtyard as well as an inside, air-conditioned seating area with sofas and a pool table. They also do home deliveries.
Prices range from about LKR 300 to LKR 800.
*Please note that prices are in Sri Lankan Rupees, and are meant to be used as a general guide only. They are correct as of date of publication.
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