Nurture your passion for food and life in Colombo, a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka. It’s a vibrant city with golden beaches, picturesque scenery, and hospitable people. Equally an ideal place where you can find the eateries offering genuine fine dining experiences. The best Colombo restaurants are the ones where you can enjoy pure, natural, nutritious food that tastes amazing. Also, the harmonic ambiance and generous hospitality here will let you create memories that will last a lifetime. From mouthwatering traditional Sri Lankan food to appetizing European and Chinese cuisine, here you can enjoy a wide range of options. So, get ready to savor a culinary delight in Colombo crafted with passion.
Best Colombo Restaurants: Unleash Your Inner Foodie
Colombo is a dream vacation destination for every travel enthusiast who wants to experience the wonders of a tropical paradise. It's also known for its delectable food, offering true ingredients, true flavors, and true passion. If you're looking for a gastronomic experience in Sri Lanka, you must explore the best Colombo restaurants. Here, you can get a delectable and extensive variety of food with a dining experience worth sharing. So, let us take on a culinary journey and savor the authentic flavors. Below, we have curated a list of some famous restaurants that you must discover in Colombo.
- The Gallery Café
- Monsoon Colombo
- The Avenue
- Palmyrah Restaurant
- Shang Palace
- The Bayleaf
- Nuga Gama
- Nihonbashi
1. The Gallery Café: Elevate the Dining Experience
The Gallery Café in Colombo is famous for offering international, European, and Sri Lankan cuisine. This best restaurant in Colombo is well renowned for its cozy ambiance, warm hospitality, and helpful staff. If you are on your trip to Colombo, you must visit here to experience the symphony of flavors. Indulge in the art of dining and enjoy the true ingredients, true flavors, and true passion. This is the most amazing place, serving an array of mouthwatering foods, and is highly recommended while touring Colombo.
Location: 2 Alfred House Rd, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Timings: Monday to Sunday- 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Popular Cuisines: International, European, Sri Lankan
Dishes you must try: Grilled duck with teriyaki sauce and pasta, shitake mushroom, puff pastry with parmesan, walnuts and salad, whole cakes, steamed vegetables, apple sauce and crackling stick
Places to visit near the Gallery Cafe: Independence Square, Crow Inland Beach Park, Gangarama Temple, Colombo Port Old Lighthouse, Kayman’s Gate, Independence Memorial Museum
Shopping Places near the Gallery Cafe: Crescat Boulevard, Arcade Independence Square, Marino Mall, Colombo City Center Mall, One Galle Face Mall, MINA Shopping Center
Things to do near the Gallery Cafe: Sightseeing, enjoying delicious local food, shopping for exotic souvenirs, exploring rich culture and history
2. Monsoon Colombo: Indulge in the Culinary Delights
Monsoon Colombo is a restaurant offering the best Southeast Asian cuisine. Here you can get some of the regions' favorite dishes from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. The world-class ambiance and welcoming hospitality make it one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. In addition, the superb service and nutritious food qualify it as the trendiest Southeast Asian Restaurant in Colombo. This is a modern restaurant with a menu that will make your mouth water. So, visit this restaurant in Colombo to experience the warmth and elegance.
Location: 50 Park St, Colombo 00200, Sri Lanka
Timings:
- Monday and Tuesday: 12:00 to 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 to 10:30 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 10:30 PM
- Friday: 12:00 to 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Popular Cuisines: Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian, Indonesian, Singaporean
Dishes you must try: Prawn Sarong, Malaysian Chicken Satay, Thai Barrumundi, Char Kway Teow, Milo ice cream
Places to visit near the Monsoon Colombo: Old Parliament Building, World Trade Center, Laksala, Khan Clock Tower, Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple, Wolvendaal Church, Colombo lotus Tower, Sri Lanka Planetarium
Shopping Places near the Monsoon Colombo: Colombo City Centre Mall, Crescat Boulevard, Liberty Plaza, Majestic City, Lakarcade, Arcade Independence Square, Marino Mall
Things to do near the Monsoon Colombo: Shopping for beautiful souvenirs, bustling city tour, savoring flavorful local food, discovering beautiful architecture.
Suggested Read: Best Cafes in Sri Lanka: Experience the Perfect Blend of Culture and Coffee
3. The Avenue: Indulge in Opulent Flavors
The Avenue Restaurant is high class eatery offering American fusion, steakhouse classics, Mediterranean, and South Asian cuisines. This is one of Colombo top restaurants where you can unwind and enjoy the finer things in life. Here, you can discover culinary fusion at its finest and indulge in an eclectic menu promising a truly unique experience. The vibrant atmosphere, top-notch service and a dining journey blending flavors and cultures will make you come here again. It will be an unforgettable adventure where every bite is a fusion masterpiece.
Location: 24 Alfred House Ave, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Timings: Monday – Sunday: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Popular Cuisines: Steakhouse, American, Mediterranean, South Asian cuisines
Dishes you must try: Ceaser salad, seafood Tom Yum, southern fried chicken, southern fried chicken, seafood Tom Yum Penne, Dallo Curry
Places to visit near the Monsoon Colombo: Gangaramaya Buddhist temple, Galle Face Green, Independence Square, Viharamahadevi Park, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, Mount Lavinia Beach, Colombo National Museum and Colombo Fort
Shopping Places near the Monsoon Colombo: Colombo City Centre Mall, Crescat Boulevard, Liberty Plaza, Majestic City, Lakarcade, Arcade Independence Square, Marino Mall, One Galle Face Mall
Things to do near the Monsoon Colombo: Old Parliament Building, World Trade Centre, Laksala, Khan Clock Tower, Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple, Wolvendaal Church
4. Palmyrah Restaurant: Satisfy Your Cravings
Palmyrah Restaurant, with its homely ambience and excellent service, is the perfect place to spend some quality time. Here, you can get the best Sri Lankan food that will satisfy your taste buds. Savoring the mouthwatering cuisine in this restaurant is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. You can also get a chance here to try some of the famous Asian cuisines. So, get ready to enjoy the aromatic spices of the Sri Lankan curries and mouthwatering seafood curries for an incredible experience. Indulge in the flavors, which are a perfect blend of taste and health.
Location: 328 A2, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Timings:
- Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Popular Cuisines: Sri Lankan, Asian
Dishes you must try: Jaffna Chicken Mulligatawny, Jaffna crab curry, Odiyal Kool, prawn curry, mutton biryani
Places to visit near Palmyrah Restaurant: Independence Square, Gangarama Temple, Viharamahadevi Park, Galle Face Green, Gangaram Sima Malaka, Independence Memorial Museum
Shopping Places near Palmyrah Restaurant: Liberty Plaza, Crescat Boulevard, Majestic City, Colombo City Centre Mall, Marino Mall, Arcade Independence Square
Things to do near Palmyrah Restaurant: Sightseeing, savoring local food, shopping for beautiful souvenirs
Suggested Read: Best Forts in Sri Lanka: Travel in Time with the Grandeur of Past
5. Shang Palace: Savor the Essence of China
If you want to try authentic Chinese food in Sri Lanka, then you should go to Shang Palace. Here, you can enjoy the flavors of Dongbei, Sichuan, and Canton with a range of Chinese teas and cocktails. Also, the dining experience here is steeped in culture and tradition. The ambiance of the restaurant is inspired by Beijing’s traditional Siheyuan houses. It is one of the most popular restaurants in Colombo, known for its succulent meats, seafood, and dim sum accompanied by traditional Chinese tea. Hence, take part in a gastronomic journey to the far East.
Location: Shangri La, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Timings: Monday to Sunday: 12:00 to 10:30 PM
Popular Cuisines: Chinese, Cantonese, Szechuan
Dishes you must try: Peking duck, spicy cuttle fish, Dim Sum, sea food, traditional Chinese tea
Places to visit near Shang Palace: Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, Mount Lavinia Beach, Viharamahadevi Park
Shopping Places near Shang Palace: One Galle Face Mall, Shangri La Shopping Complex, Crescat Boulevard, Guess Shopping Mall, Colombo City Centre Mall
Things to do near Shang Palace: Exploring local markets, visiting temples, discovering museums and enjoy delicious local food
Suggested Read: Best Shopping Malls in Sri Lanka: Rediscover a Great Shopping Tradition
6. The Bayleaf: Savor the Moments, Savor the Flavor
Get ready to delve into the luxurious ambiance of an elegantly decorated restaurant where you can savor flavorful Italian food with an authentic taste. It is one of the best restaurants in Sri Lanka and is located in the heart of Colombo. The verandah overlooking the beautiful garden offers here al fresco dining under the impressive marquee. The menu here includes wood-fired pizza and homemade pasta, fulfilling your comfort food cravings. It will wake up your taste buds and satisfy your snack attack. So, grab this ultimate opportunity to enjoy the best culinary adventure.
Location: 7, 79 R.G. Senanayake Mawatha, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka
Timings: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Popular Cuisines: Italian
Dishes you must try: Le pasta Della Case, Le Zuppe, Carpaccio Carne, Ravioli di Anatra, Fusilli al Frono
Places to visit near The Bayleaf: Independence Square, Viharamahadevi Park, Gangarama Temple, Independence Memorial Museum, Galle face Green
Shopping Places near The Bayleaf: Arcade Independence Square, Majestic City, Colombo City Centre Mall, Liberty Plaza, Crescat Boulevard, Marino Mall
Things to do near The Bayleaf: Sightseeing, trying delicious food, shopping for exotic souvenirs, playing golf, exploring parks
Suggested Read: Nightlife in Sri Lanka: Discover the Ultimate Nightlife Sensation
7. Nuga Gama: Taste the Magic on Every Dish
Nuga Gama is a village in the heart of the bustling city of Colombo, offering a rural setting. The lavish buffet here under a thatched roof, served in earthen pots, will give you an authentic experience. It is one of the best dining places in Colombo, famous for its traditional live band playing soulful tunes. Also, the great service and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant will make you come here again. This is an ideal place to spend some good time with your family and friends. Explore this hidden gem in Sri Lanka to experience the magic of dining.
Location: Colombo3, 77 Galle Rd, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Timings:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 to 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Popular Cuisines: Asian, Sri Lankan
Dishes you must try: Sambol, Sinni, prawn curry, egg hopper, pepper crab, chili crab
Places to visit near Nuga Gama: Gangarama Temple, Galle Face Green, Independence Square, Gangarama Sima Malaka, Viharamahadevi Park, Cinnamon Nature Trails
Shopping Places near Nuga Gama: Crescat Boulevard, Liberty Plaza, Colombo City Centre Mall, One Galle Face Mall, Majestic City, Arcade Independence Square
Things to do near Nuga Gama: Enjoying sightseeing, exploring bustling city, shopping for souvenirs, and trying flavorsome food
Suggested Read: Honeymoon in Sri Lanka: Start Your Blissful Journey of Love
8. Nihonbashi: Discover, Savor, Repeat
Are you a Japanese food lover, then Nihonbashi is the place where you must visit. It is a famous Japanese restaurant, located in the heart of Colombo. It was founded in the year 1995 paying homage to Tokyo’s iconic ‘Japan Bridge’. It is one of the best family restaurants in Colombo where every dish upholds the principles of Washoku. Here the chef pair the freshest and highest quality local ingredients with traditional Japanese culinary philosophies to present a true Japanese dining experience. It has a wide range of options like sushi, and delectable grilled dishes.
Location: 11 Galle Face Terrace, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Timings: Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM, 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Popular Cuisines: Japanese
Dishes you must try: N Sashimi, Maguro Sashimi, Agi Nigiri, Foie gras Teriyaki
Places to visit near Nihonbashi: Independence Square, Gangarama Sima Malaka, Gangarama Temple, Galle Face Green, Independence Memorial Museum
Shopping Places near Nihonbashi: Crescat Boulevard, Arcade Independence Square, Liberty Plaza, One Galle Face Mall, Colombo City Centre Mall
Things to do near Nihonbashi: Visiting temples, shopping for beautiful souvenirs, savoring local dishes
Suggested Read: Best Islands in Sri Lanka: The Pinnacle of Natural Beauty
So, embark on your journey to experience the rhythm of flavors and enjoy the spirit of fun, flavor, innovation, and delight. Visit the best Colombo restaurants to savor diverse cuisine and a unique ambiance. These high-end fine dining restaurants, serving wholesome treats from almost all cuisines in the world, will give you an oasis of pleasure. Also, the welcoming staff, luxurious ambiance, and warm hospitality offered here will give you a fine dining experience. Avail yourself of the Sri Lanka tour packages to discover incredible tea fields, abundant wildlife, beautiful beaches, delectable food, and varied landscapes.
FAQs for Best Restaurants in Colombo
Colombo has numerous amazing restaurants where you can enjoy a delightful culinary experience. Below we listed some of the best restaurants you must explore in Colombo:
- The Gallery Café
- Monsoon Colombo
- The Avenue
- Palmyrah Restaurant
One of the most famous food items of Sri Lanka is Kiribath which is typically a dish of rice and prawns. Apart from this one must try some other dishes as well including Kottu roti, dhal curry, Lamprais, fish Ambul Thiyal, Watalappan, Pol Sambola, and wood apple juice.
The Gallery Café is located at 2 Alfred House Rd, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka. This restaurant with its perfect setting is famous for its delicious, well-cooked Sri Lankan food. It has been developed by local style arbiter and has been open since the year 1998. If you are on your trip to Colombo, you must visit this place.
The best time to visit Sri Lanka is during the months of December to mid-April. During these months the weather here is pleasant and is perfect for all the adventure activities. With ample of sunshine, clear blue skies and lush green landscapes, this period is considered as the best climate to explore Sri Lanka.
One of the best Italian restaurants in Colombo offering traditional Italian cuisine is the Bayleaf. This restaurant is an over 100-year-old colonial home in Gregory’s Road in Colombo and is famous for its delectable dishes, inviting ambiance and warm hospitality.
Colombo is known for its wholesome shopping experiences. There are numerous places here where you can shop the best souvenirs. You can enjoy shopping at Arcade Independence Square, Ceylon Tea Supermarket, Paradise Road, Pettah Floating Market, Majestic City, and Colombo City Center Mall.
The timings of the Monsoon Colombo Restaurant are Monday to Sunday from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM. This restaurant is over 45 years old and is one of the favorite destinations for travelers seeking authentic Sri Lankan flavors. Its world-class culinary services and walm hospitality give an amazing gastronomy experience.
Some of the best places you must discover in Sri Lanka are Royal Botanical Garden, Pidurangala Rock, Golden Temple of Dambulla, Galle Fort, Nine Arches Bridges, Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, bentota Beach, Polonnaruwa, Yala National Park, Sinharaja Forest reserve and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
