Restaurants in Jaffna
Where to eat in Jaffna, Sri Lanka — 5 places from local rice and curry to street food and sit-down dining. Popular spots include Cosy Restaurant, Green Grass Restaurant, Malayan Cafe.
Cosy Restaurant
Jaffna Tamil, Halal
A long-running local favourite serving Jaffna-style rice and curry, kottu, biryani, seafood and short eats. A dependable, welcoming halal kitchen with plenty of vegetarian dishes.
Green Grass Restaurant
Sri Lankan, Multi-cuisine
A relaxed garden restaurant attached to a popular hotel, offering Jaffna and Sri Lankan cuisine, seafood, Chinese and Western dishes, with a good vegetarian selection and a calm setting.
Malayan Cafe
South Indian Vegetarian
A beloved old-school pure-vegetarian South Indian eatery in the town centre, famous for dosai, idli and thali served on banana leaves at very low prices. Fully vegetarian and a Jaffna institution.
Mango's Restaurant
Jaffna Tamil, South Indian
A popular, brightly decorated family restaurant serving authentic Jaffna cuisine including crab curry, seafood, rice and curry and South Indian dishes, with generous vegetarian options.
Rio Ice Cream
Ice Cream, Desserts
A famous Jaffna ice-cream parlour and snack spot, hugely popular with locals for its sundaes, faluda and short eats in a lively evening atmosphere. Vegetarian-friendly and great for a treat after temple visits.
Frequently asked questions
- Where should I eat in Jaffna?
- Well-reviewed places in Jaffna include Cosy Restaurant, Green Grass Restaurant, Malayan Cafe.
- Is there local food in Jaffna?
- Yes — expect Sri Lankan rice and curry, hoppers, kottu and fresh seafood on the coast.