Best Places To Dine This Season.

One thing we constantly get asked during the Christmas season is where to dine. This is actually harder to answer than you’d think because there’s a lot of deals and offers floating around. So, we put together a curated list of spots for different dining occasions, whether it be for a family sit down, dinner date, or even for larger groups.


Rare

Since first opening up two years ago, Rare at the Uga Residence has been one of our top picks for fine dining in Colombo. They’ve got a sophisticated menu that they consistently execute well, making them a great choice this season for couples looking to celebrate something special, as well as for anyone looking to entertain family and friends visiting during the holidays to something a bit special.

20% off at Rare for Sampath Credit Cards until 20th December

OneUp All Day Breakfast

OneUp is a top contender for our ‘favourite new restaurant of the year’ title. So their addition to this list is no surprise. They’ve been excellent on each of our visits with impeccable service to boot. If you’re looking for a casual spot to meet some friends, grab a cup of coffee, or just have a really good brunch, OneUp is a must-try. They’re also sure to introduce some Christmas inspired dishes and drinks in December for those looking for something festive.

Asylum

A lot has changed since the time we first reviewed Asylum three years ago. They’ve really stepped their game up over the last year, introducing a bunch of new dishes along with breakfast and brunch. Their seasonal card deals combined with their daily happy hour from 5 pm – 8 pm make for some significant savings for those looking to grab a drink. Asylum has also become quite popular for their weekly salsa/bailando night and regular themed events, making them one to keep an eye during Christmas and NYE.

25% off at Asylum for Sampath Credit Cards until 31st December

OZO

Christmas is one of the best times of the year to check out hotel restaurants since most of them will either have their seasonal buffets, deals or both. OZO’s rooftop bar ON14 still offers one of the best views in the city and they’re sure to have a seasonal buffet at EAT. If you’re more of a brunch person, they recently began serving brunch at the rooftop as well and the best part is that you can order à la carte (unlike most other hotels) and you get pool access, which is usually only for guests.

20% off at EAT (Colombo) for Sampath Credit Cards until 20th December
20% off at ON14 (Colombo) for Sampath Credit Cards until 20th December
20% off at  EAT (Kandy) for Sampath Credit Cards until 20th December
20% off at Bommu (Kandy) for Sampath Credit Cards until 20th December

TGI Fridays

Friday’s hasn’t tried to change too much since their launch four years ago, and it’s a decision we support. That’s not to say they haven’t changed at all. Over the years they’ve made progressive improvements to their dishes and added a few welcomed budget options as well. One of our favourite new additions is the bacon topped ribs which is a pork lover’s dream. It’s also got this really cozy vibe which would make it perfect for a family dinner during Christmas.

Colombo Courtyard

Unlike the larger hotels in the city, Colombo Courtyard generally takes a more low-key approach to most of their seasonal offerings. So you’re not going to find a massive buffet here. However, if you’re more on the lookout for something a bit more private, CC is just the place for you. Whether it be lunch at Amber Poolside, dinner at Scarlet Room or drinks at Cloud Cafe, Courtyard has something for anyone looking to avoid a large crowd.

25% off at Scarlet Room  for Sampath Credit Cards until 31st December
25% off at Cloud Cafe for Sampath Credit Cards until 31st December
25% off at Loft Lounge for Sampath Credit Cards until 31st December
25% off at  Amber Poolside for Sampath Credit Cards until 31st December

Kingsbury

Few hotels in Colombo do F&B as well as Kingsbury does. Although it’s not the biggest property, Kingsbury has managed to cater to pretty much every palette between Harbour Court, The Ocean, The Grill, Sky Lounge, Honey Beach Club and Yue Chuan. They usually have their seasonal menus out around early December so it’s definitely worth dropping in, especially if you have nothing too specific in mind, since you’ll likely find something that fits.

Tea Avenue

With their most recent cafe opening up on Marine Drive, Tea Avenue has been slowly expanding both their reach and offerings. While they still have their signature drinks like the Ferrero Lavish, what we’re excited about are their seasonal tea blends which should be available soon. Their Barnes Place cafe is also just a really great place to chill and enjoy a cup of tea.

25% off at Tea Avenue for Sampath Credit Cards until 30th November

Park Street Mews Restaurant

PSM is what really put Park Street on the map for most people. Now with four other contemporaries just a stone’s throw away, Park Street in itself is a great option for a seasonal dinner or drink meet-up. What we really love about Park Street Mews Restaurant is just how consistent they’ve been over the years. The space looks great after dark and it’s one of the few places we’ve been able to recommend every year without fear.


This feature is sponsored by SampathCards. These are some of the offers that we really liked, but they've got tons more. Be sure to have a look here.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

Colombo’s best kept secrets – Date night spots 2025

Colombo might be known for its trendy cafes and fancy rooftop spots, but who says

Kamu Yamu Guide

Where Sunday Carvings Meet Sophistication – Kings Steak Bar’s Famous Brunch Buffet

By Vimasha Weerawansha  Nestled in the heart of Colombo, Kings Steak Bar by The Kingsbury

Highlights Kamu

A Luxurious Seafood Experience at Fat Crab Colombo

Fat Crab Colombo offers a wonderful dining experience that combines luxury, live music, and an

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

Radisson Colombo’s Indian Night – Review

By Sahasni Gamage We recently had the pleasure of enjoying a wonderful Indian Night at

Kamu Yamu Guide

Introducing Burger King’s New Premium Burger Range

by Jordain de Mel Burger King's Premium Range offers some of the most flavorful gourmet

Highlights Kamu

NH Collection’s Iftar Buffet: A Feast to Remember

A Warm Welcome: Exceptional Hospitality at NH Collection From the moment you enter NH Collection’s

Kamu

Trending.

Ministry of Crab opens in Melbourne

Sri Lanka’s award-winning crab restaurant, Ministry of Crab founded by chef-restaurateur Dharshan Munidasa together with

Trending

Radisson Blu Resort Galle Welcomes Kedar Dighe as New General Manager

Radisson Blu Resort Galle is pleased to announce the appointment of Kedar Dighe as its

Trending

Excel World Launches First-Ever Ramadan Kareem Iftar Buffet

Excel World Entertainment Park in Colombo recently celebrated the launch of its first-ever Ramadan Kareem

Trending

A Trio of Radisson Hotels Gears Up for Markdown Mania 2025 at The World Trade Center

Radisson Hotel Kandy Radisson Hotel Colombo Radisson Blu Resort Galle Kristofer Quadros – Cluster General

Trending

An Exquisite Iftar Buffet Experience at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo

By Sahasni Gamage  Ramadan is all about reflection, togetherness, and, of course, enjoying some amazing

Highlights Kamu Trending

Embark on a Culinary Journey with Chef Riza Bhatti at Cinnamon Lakeside’s Ithar Promotion

Cinnamon Grand Colombo is thrilled to welcome the celebrated Pakistani chef, Chef Riza Bhatti, for

Trending

Yamu Guide.

8 Gift Ideas to Celebrate Your Mom This Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a special time set aside to honor the amazing women who shape

Yamu Guide

Colombo’s best kept secrets – Date night spots 2025

Colombo might be known for its trendy cafes and fancy rooftop spots, but who says

Kamu Yamu Guide

A Luxurious Seafood Experience at Fat Crab Colombo

Fat Crab Colombo offers a wonderful dining experience that combines luxury, live music, and an

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

Radisson Colombo’s Indian Night – Review

By Sahasni Gamage We recently had the pleasure of enjoying a wonderful Indian Night at

Kamu Yamu Guide

Iftar Deals for Great Value in 2025

By Fathima Rukaiya, Iftar doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious! Whether you’re craving

Highlights Trending Yamu Guide

IFTAR Buffet List – 2025

by Fathima Rukaiya, As Ramadan 2025 approaches, food lovers and families are on the lookout

Highlights Trending Yamu Guide