5 places to enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan meal in Colombo

Sri Lankan cuisine is a mélange of native spices, the soothing creaminess of coconut milk, and a host of addictive sambols. Here’s our pick for top places to eat a truly Sri-Lankan meal while in Colombo. Bon appétit!

The island-nation is shaped like a tear off the face of India; yet, despite Sri Lanka's proximity to India, she has her own distinctive flavours. Fiery red chilies, rustic curry leaves and strong herbal infusions are toned down with a generous use of coconut milk to give you a unique balance of flavours. The island naturally has loads of sea-food on offer, not to mention that over 25 varieties of bananas, the biggest jackfruits you've ever seen, gourds, mangoes and many other fruits and vegetables are grown on Lanka’s fertile soil.
The love of rice, and a host of different ways of cooking it, came from the Dutch. Cakes and desserts often have a Portuguese touch. And everything can be washed down with a cup of tea, from one of the many local plantations inspired by the British. It's a melting pot of different types of cuisines; and together, they create finger-licking-good Sri Lankan fare.