Indian Restaurants in Sri Lanka, famous for its beautiful sights and lively culture, offers a delicious food scene. If you’re an Indian traveler, finding authentic Indian food while exploring this island paradise is a real treat. This guide helps you discover the best Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka, so you can savor the flavors of home during your trip.

Why Indian Food is Popular in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka and India share a rich history and culture, and this connection is clear in their food. Both countries love spices, flavorful dishes, and the many regional cuisines. So, if you’re looking for delicious Indian food like buttery naan, spicy biryani, or a warm bowl of dal, you’ll find it in Sri Lanka—it’s like a taste of home away from home.

Top Indian Restaurants in Colombo

1. Chutneys by Cinnamon Grand

Chutneys, nestled within the elegant Cinnamon Grand Hotel, is a fine-dining spot that focuses on South Indian dishes. Their menu is huge! You’ll find classics like dosas, idlis, biryanis, and thalis, all made with the freshest ingredients and authentic spices.

Some of their must-tries include the Mysore Masala Dosa, Chicken Chettinad, and their delicious Filter Coffee.

Expect to spend around ₹1,200 to ₹2,500 per person.

2. Indian Summer – Indian Restaurants in Sri Lanka

Indian Summer is a popular choice for both locals and tourists, offering a sophisticated dining experience with North and South Indian specialties. With locations in Colombo and Kandy, it’s a great place to enjoy delicious butter chicken and tandoori dishes.

Some must-try dishes include Butter Chicken, Garlic Naan, and Hyderabadi Biryani.

Expect to spend around ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per person.

3. Maharaja Palace

Maharaja Palace offers a truly royal dining experience with its elegant decor and delicious traditional Indian food. It’s the perfect spot for a special meal, featuring dishes like kebabs, curries, and decadent desserts.

Some of their must-try dishes include Paneer Tikka, Lamb Rogan Josh, and Gulab Jamun.

Expect to spend around ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per person.

Best Indian Restaurants in Kandy

1. Balaji Dosai

For travelers looking for delicious and budget-friendly Indian food, Balaji Dosai in Kandy is a real find. This vegetarian restaurant focuses on South Indian favorites like dosas, idlis, and uttapams, all served with tasty chutneys and sambar.

Some of their must-try dishes include Masala Dosa, Onion Uttapam, and Veg Thali.

Expect to spend around ₹300 to ₹700 per person.

2. The Sizzler

The Sizzler is a unique dining experience in Kandy, offering a mix of Indian and international flavors. Their Indian menu features a wide range of curries, grilled meats, and biryanis, all served with a dramatic flair on sizzling platters.

Some must-try dishes include the Sizzling Butter Chicken, Prawn Curry, and Mango Lassi.

Expect to spend around ₹800 to ₹1,800 per person.

Top Indian Restaurants in Galle

1. Bombay Brasserie

This charming restaurant in Galle offers delicious North Indian cuisine. Its beautiful coastal location and flavorful dishes make it a popular spot for Indian food enthusiasts visiting the area.

Some must-try dishes include Tandoori Prawns, Chicken Tikka Masala, and Biryani.

Expect to spend around ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per person.

2. Indian Hut

Located near the famous Galle Fort, Indian Hut offers a relaxed dining experience with a great selection of Indian dishes. It’s budget-friendly and a perfect place to enjoy a meal with the family.

Some must-try dishes include Dal Tadka, Mutton Curry, and Tandoori Roti.

Expect to spend around ₹500 to ₹1,200 per person.

Indian Food in Jaffna

1. Mangos

Mangos is a well-liked vegetarian Indian restaurant in Jaffna, known for its delicious and varied menu. The cozy atmosphere and budget-friendly prices make it a top choice for those who enjoy Indian food.

Some must-try dishes include Ghee Roast Dosa, Vegetable Kurma, and Parotta.

Expect to spend around ₹400 to ₹800 per person.

2. Vishnu Bhavan

Vishnu Bhavan is a small but well-known eatery that specializes in delicious South Indian vegetarian dishes. They are famous for their thalis, which are a big hit with both locals and visitors.

Some must-try dishes include the Banana Leaf Thali, Sambar, and Coconut Chutney.

Expect to spend around ₹300 to ₹700 per person.

Tips for Finding Authentic Indian Food in Sri Lanka

• Read Reviews: Platforms like Google, TripAdvisor, and Zomato offer valuable reviews to help you find the top-rated Indian restaurants.
• Explore Vegetarian Options: Many Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka have extensive vegetarian menus, catering well to Indian dietary needs.
• Focus on Tourist Hubs: Cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle boast a wide range of Indian dining options due to the significant number of Indian tourists.
• Try a Thali: For a satisfying and budget-friendly Indian meal, consider restaurants that offer thalis. These platters provide a diverse taste of various dishes in one serving.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka is a haven for Indian food lovers, offering a range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. From fine dining experiences in Colombo to laid-back eateries in Galle and Jaffna, you can savor the familiar flavors of home throughout your trip. Whether you crave fiery curries, sizzling tandoori dishes, or South Indian staples, Sri Lanka’s Indian restaurants promise an authentic desi experience. Explore the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine and plan your culinary adventures using our travel guide at Xplro.com to immerse yourself in this tropical paradise!

FAQs

1. Are Indian restaurants easy to find in Sri Lanka?

• Yes, Indian restaurants are readily available across Sri Lanka, especially in popular cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. Whether you’re looking for North Indian flavors or South Indian specialties, you’ll find numerous options catering to your taste.

2. Do Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka serve vegetarian dishes?

• Yes, most Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka offer extensive vegetarian menus. Restaurants like Balaji Dosai in Kandy and Vishnu Bhavan in Jaffna are especially known for their vegetarian-friendly options, serving dishes like dosas, idlis, and thalis.

3. What kind of Indian cuisine is most popular in Sri Lanka?

• Sri Lankan Indian restaurants serve both North and South Indian cuisines. North Indian dishes like butter chicken and paneer tikka are popular, as are South Indian classics like masala dosa and sambhar. This ensures there’s something for every palate.

4. Are Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka affordable?

• Yes, Indian restaurants cater to various budgets. While places like Balaji Dosai and Indian Hut offer affordable meals starting from ₹300, upscale dining options like Chutneys at Cinnamon Grand are pricier, providing a more luxurious experience.

5. Can I find Indian restaurants near tourist hotspots?

• Certainly! Many Indian restaurants are located close to major tourist attractions. For instance, Indian Hut is near Galle Fort, and several Indian dining spots can be found near Kandy Lake and Colombo city center.

6. Do Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka cater to halal preferences?

• Yes, many Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka serve halal food. To ensure this, it’s always best to confirm with the staff at the restaurant before placing your order.

7. How spicy is Indian food in Sri Lanka?

• Indian dishes served in Sri Lanka generally stay true to their original spice levels. However, you can request the chefs to adjust the spice to suit your preference, whether you want something mild or extra spicy.

8. Do Indian restaurants offer delivery options in Sri Lanka?

• Yes, most Indian restaurants, particularly in cities like Colombo and Kandy, provide delivery services. You can use apps like Uber Eats or PickMe to order your favorite Indian dishes to your location.

9. Are Indian desserts available in Sri Lankan restaurants?

• Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka often include desserts like gulab jamun, rasmalai, and kheer on their menus. These sweet treats are perfect for wrapping up your meal with a taste of India.

10. Can I find Indian restaurants near Sri Lankan airports?

• Yes, there are Indian restaurants near major airports like Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. These restaurants make it convenient for travelers to enjoy Indian food before catching a flight or upon arrival.

11. Are there upscale Indian dining options in Sri Lanka?

• Certainly. Fine-dining establishments like Chutneys at Cinnamon Grand and Maharaja Palace in Colombo provide an elegant ambiance and a curated menu of authentic Indian dishes. These are great choices for a sophisticated dining experience.

12. Is Indian street food available in Sri Lanka?

• While Sri Lankan street food is more common, some Indian restaurants serve popular Indian street food items like samosas, pani puri, and chaats. To enjoy these, check out eateries located in tourist hubs like Colombo or Kandy.