By Fathima Rukaiya,
Let’s take a flavorful journey through the culinary landscapes of Ella and Nuwara Eliya; from the timeless elegance of colonial tea lounges to the free-spirited, bohemian cafés nestled in the hills. We’ve made a list of the most popular and palate-pleasing spots to satisfy your taste buds. Ready to explore the best eats of Sri Lanka’s hill country? Let’s dig in.
Nuwara Eliya: Colonial Charm Meets Culinary Excellence
Nuwara Eliya, also referred to as “Little England,” boasts a varied eating scene due to its colonial architecture and cool environment.
1.The Hill Club
This members-only club is a time capsule of British colonial elegance, offering guests traditional English cuisine served with vintage etiquette in exquisite wood-paneled dining rooms.
Cuisine: British staples like Yorkshire pudding and roast meat are served at
Ambiance: An elegant yet relaxed colonial setting.
Cost: Around 8,000 LKR per person.
Address: 29 Grand Hotel Road, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Phone: 0522 222 653 | Email: hillclub@thehillclubsrilanka.com | Website: thehillclubsrilanka.com
2. Grand Indian
A favorite among spice lovers, this upscale restaurant inside the Grand Hotel serves rich, flavorful Indian dishes with elegant presentation. Ideal for curry connoisseurs.
Cuisine: Authentic Indian dishes, including flavorful curries.
Ambiance: Luxurious setting within the Grand Hotel.
Price: About LKR 9,200 per person.
Location: Grand Hotel Road, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Phone: 0522 222 881 | Email: reservations@grandhotel.lk | Website: thegrandhotelnuwaraeliya.com
3. High Tea at The Grand
An iconic experience in Nuwara Eliya, this elegant afternoon tea features a spread of pastries, scones, finger sandwiches, and hand-picked Ceylon teas in a Victorian-era setting.
Price: Approximately LKR 7,500 per person.
Location: Grand Hotel Road, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Phone: 0522 222 881| Email: reservations@grandhotel.lk | Website: thegrandhotelnuwaraeliya.com
4. Salmiya
This cozy, family-run pizzeria is renowned for its authentic wood-fired pizzas, blending Italian technique with Sri Lankan hospitality, a hidden gem just outside town.
Cuisine: Italian favorites, especially wood-fired pizzas.
Ambiance: Cozy and simple, ideal for a leisurely dinner.
Price: About LKR 8,000 per person.
Location: 122 Badulla Rd, Nuwara Eliya.
Phone: +94 77 913 5263 | Email: salmiyapizza@yahoo.com
5. Themparadu
Set beside lush Victoria Park, this chic café offers a modern Sri Lankan menu, from kottu to fusion rice bowls, with outdoor seating and a breezy, garden vibe.
Cuisine: Sri Lankan dishes with a modern twist.
Ambiance: Overlooks Victoria Park, offering scenic views.
Price: Around LKR 2,000 per person.
Location: No. 5, Upper Lake Road, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Instagram: @themparaducafe
Ella: A Fusion of Flavors in a Bohemian Setting
Ella’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning landscapes make it a hotspot for travelers and foodies.
1. AK Ristoro
Popular among travelers, AK Ristoro offers a diverse range of cuisines and a cozy, artistic ambiance that is ideal for enjoying wine while indulging in Japanese tapas and wood-fired pizzas
Cuisine: A blend of Italian, Japanese, and Spanish tapas.
Ambiance: Stylish yet cozy, with live music on some evenings.
Price: Approximately LKR 2,000 for a pizza.
Location: No. 37, Grand View, Passara Road, Ella, Sri Lanka
Phone: 0572 050 676 | Email: akristoro@gmail.com | Instagram: @ak_ristoro
2. Matey Hut
Matey Hut is a tiny, modest, yet flavorful spot that is well known for its make-your-own curry platters, in which customers select from a changing menu of homemade foods.
Cuisine: Customizable, authentic Sri Lankan curries.
Ambiance: Rustic and charming, offering a true local experience.
Cost: Around LKR 1,000 per person.
Address: No. 91, Near the Tunnel, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 77 258 3450 | Website: mateyhutellasrilanka.shop
3. Remo’s Restaurant
Remo’s is where you come for a meal and leave with a deeper understanding of Sri Lankan spices and culture.
Cuisine: Lump rice and other traditional Sri Lankan meals.
Ambiance: Authentic and friendly, offering cooking lessons.
The cost of the cooking class and meals is approximately LKR 5,000 per person.
Location: 67 Bandarawela Road, Ella, Sri Lanka
Facebook: Remo’s Restaurant
4. Café UFO
A trendy hotspot in the heart of Ella, Café UFO delivers Western comfort food with flair; think burgers, pastas, and cocktails in a lively, social setting.
Cuisine: Western dishes including pizza and pasta.
Ambiance: A vibrant environment combined with modern design.
Cost: around 2,500 LKR per person.
Location: No. 57, Wellawaya Road, Ella Town, Sri Lanka 90090
Phone: +94 77 774 8168 | Instagram: @cafeufoellasrilanka
5. Cafe Samsara
Set on a scenic rooftop, this peaceful café offers traditional dishes like lamprais and rice & curry, paired with sunset views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Cuisine: Lamprais and other Sri Lankan specialties.
Ambiance: A comfortable rooftop location with stunning views.
Cost: around 1,500 LKR per person.
Location: Police Station Road, Ella, Sri Lanka 90090
Phone: +94 71 292 4507 | Facebook: Cafe Samsara
The hill country of Sri Lanka promises a feast for the senses, whether you’re enjoying hot local curries or a classic high tea. So, bring a massive appetite and allow the flavors of the highlands to lead the way.
