The GalleFoodie Experience

The culinary scene in Galle has grown immensely in the recent past. It is now one of the few cities in Sri Lanka that offers a truly eclectic culinary experience. Here’s a simple guide to where you should go for the best food and drink experiences in Galle.

Culinary Indulgence in Galle

The Galle Fort is home to a number of cafes and restaurants that serve some great food, ranging from Japanese to Italian to Indian to Sri Lankan. The food ranges from fancy fine dining to cheap, yet delicious home-made fare.

If you feel like a fancy dinner, head over to one of the boutique villas such as Amangalle or Fort Bazaar, which run pretty impressive restaurants. If you want to enjoy more regular café fare such as burgers, sandwiches and pies, head over to the Pedlars Inn Café or to one of the many cafés within the old Dutch Hospital precinct. Sugar Bistro and A Minute by Tuk Tuk, at the old Dutch Hospital, serve some consistently good food, including local favourites such as lamprais and prawn curry with roast paan (bread). There are also a couple of home cooks that sell lunch packs within
the fort, if you would like to try some traditional food.

The Tuna and The Crab, also located at the old Dutch Hospital, is run by Sri Lanka's top chef Dharshan Munidasa and serves mainly Japanese fare. The ingredients are of high quality, and the food is excellent. AQUA Forte, situated within the Galle Fort, is run by three Italians, and pairs authentic Italian food with fine Italian wines. It is definitely a place to visit if you enjoy freshly baked focaccia or handmade pasta.

You can also sample some delicious homemade ice creams and gelatos as you wander the streets within the Galle Fort. Isle of Gelato has become a firm favourite amongst locals and tourists alike.

If you prefer beach dining, the Unawatuna beach comes alive every evening with many bars, seafood restaurants and cafés that cater to both locals and tourists. Some places to visit are Kingfisher and Toddy by Hoppa. Wijeya Beach Restaurant in Talpe does some great pizza, in addition to other local dishes.

There are also a few small cafés run by expats, which serve some delicious cakes and desserts, along with good coffee beverages. Skinny Tom’s and Kat’s Coffee are located in Unawatuna, and are both worth visiting.