The culinary bond between Sri Lanka and India is a tight one bound by shared history, culture and also trade. Sri Lanka has recorded lot of travellers of Indian nationality. Many of the Indians want to feel at home by eating their home dishes in foreign country. There are many restaurants in Sri Lanka that serve authentic Indian cuisine. This guide explores Indian food availability in Sri Lanka in all major cities and towns frequented by tourists.
The story of shared cuisine begins long before modern restaurants. Indian traders in Sri Lanka, settlers and cultural exchanges between countries laid foundation for spices, rice and coconut to create common culinary language.
The deeply rooted connections make finding Indian food in Sri Lanka easier. It feels more like you are exploring the local cuisine but in a different region. In modern days the connection is fueled by tourism, thriving Indian diaspora and also the love Sri Lanka has for vibrant and spicy foods.
Colombo is easily the capital of Indian cuisine. City offers unparalled gastronomic tour of regions of India. Many options are available from vegetarian dishes to fine dining options.
Pure Vegetarian Cuisine: Several restaurants in city boasts of vegetarian dishes of India. A2B Veg restaurant for example is known for South Indian fare and Shanmugas is popular for impeccable thalis and ambiance. Sri Aiswarya Veg in Nugegoda also serves authentic vegetarian flavors.
Fine Dining and Specialties: enjoy luxurious meals and elegance at Indian Summer Restaurant. Go to Mango Tree for refined North Indian classics and try out Anantham and Dwaraga for a authentic regional specialties in high end locations.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorite: Madras Darbar Indian restaurant serves rich Indian flavors, Junior Kuppan give unique spins and Manjal is great for modern Indian dishes. Other restaurants in Colombo serving Indian delicacies include Indian Affair, Indian Kitchen, Thalis Restaurant and Agra Colombo known for legendary kebabs and great history.
The Indian food scene in Sri Lanka spreads past the capital. You will find restaurants serving Indian foods in major tourist attractions. When following itinerary you may make stops at resturants to enjoy favorite Indian delicacy.
We show you other places from the capital where you find restaurants serving Indian foods.
Coastal town of Negombo gives fantastic Indian food options. Go to Shasha Food Court or Banglour Café Negombo for quick authentic bites and also meals. If want a serene ambience go to Indian Garden Restaurant or RD Family Restaurant. Sri Ragava Lagoon Restaurant and Vintogary Restaurant offer unique dining experience by ocean. You enjoy traditional flavors and beautiful views while eating.
Around Pinnawala: After you tour Pinnawala elephant orphanage go enjoy satisfying Indian meals at Grand Loyal Pinnalanda or Hotel Sandeepa Indian Restaurant. If you want specific regional taste, consider going Indian Talapakatti restaurant.
Sigiriya: When climbing Sigiriya Rock Fortress you also get chance to have taste of Indian cuisine. Enjoy hearty Indian and fusion meals after exploring the rock. CR Indian Food and King Dosa Indian and Chinese Restaurant will serve you familiar cravings of Indian foods.
Thissamaharama: Also called Tissamaharama, this town is gateway to Yala National Park. Those going for wildlife encounters can stop at Set Indian Restaurant to refuel with a tasty Indian cuisine either before or after safari in jungle.
Indian food availability in Sri Lanka extends beyond restaurants. The island’s supportive infrastructure has contributed to availability of Indian foods in other avenues apart from restaurants.
In neighborhoods like Bambalapitiya and Wellawatte in Colombo you will see specialty stores that stock Indian foods and spices like asafoetida, kasuri methi and lentils. You will also find ready to eat kits and also snacks from brands including Haldiram’s. major chains in Sri Lanka also have isles dedicated to Indian cuisines.
Street Food and Fusions: Indian influence in Sri Lanka is also seen in street foods. Vadai and samosas are popular teatime snacks that show the natural fusion of culinary traditions
We have prepared tips to help you find best Indian food while on tour in Sri Lanka. These include:
From legendary restaurants of Colombo to eateries in tourist hubs, Indian food has made a vast and vibrant appearance in Sri Lanka. Journeying through Indian delicacies in Sri Lanka tells a story of cultural kinship and shared taste buds. Get peppered with tastes of India while on tour in Sri Lanka.
