Restaurants in Colombo
Where to eat in Colombo, Sri Lanka — 5 places from local rice and curry to street food and sit-down dining. Popular spots include Hotel De Pilawoos, Ministry of Crab, Nihonbashi.
Hotel De Pilawoos
Sri Lankan Muslim, Halal
A legendary late-night halal eatery in Colombo, famous for cheese kottu, string hopper kottu and short eats. A dependable, buzzing halal option that draws crowds well into the night.
Ministry of Crab
Sri Lankan Seafood
An acclaimed fine-dining restaurant in the restored Dutch Hospital precinct, celebrated for Sri Lankan lagoon crab served in giant, garlic and pepper preparations. A bucket-list seafood experience; booking well ahead is essential.
Nihonbashi
Japanese
A refined Japanese restaurant in Colombo Fort known for fresh sushi, sashimi and teppanyaki using local seafood. An upmarket choice with a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu.
Saraswathie Lodge
South Indian Vegetarian
A long-running pure-vegetarian South Indian eatery in Bambalapitiya, famous for crisp dosai, string hoppers and thali at budget prices. Fully vegetarian and a favourite with meat-free travellers.
Upali's by Nawaloka
Sri Lankan
A smart, popular restaurant serving authentic Sri Lankan home-style cooking, from rice and curry to hoppers, kottu and lamprais, with plenty of vegetarian dishes. A reliable place to sample traditional island flavours.
Frequently asked questions
- Where should I eat in Colombo?
- Well-reviewed places in Colombo include Hotel De Pilawoos, Ministry of Crab, Nihonbashi.
- Is there local food in Colombo?
- Yes — expect Sri Lankan rice and curry, hoppers, kottu and fresh seafood on the coast.