Tea Trails & Tastes: : Best Eats in Nuwara Eliya and Ella..

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.

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