Best Restaurants & Cafes in Ella, Sri Lanka (2026)

Ella's dining scene is diverse, with plenty of options for both local and international cuisine. You'll find family-run spots serving traditional Sri Lankan dishes alongside cafes offering great coffee and views. Expect a mix of casual eateries and places with a lively atmosphere.

Our picks in Ella

Local rice & curry

Matey Hut — 4.8★: Offers a jack fruit curry and banana flower curry, with the garlic, cheese, and egg paratha highly recommended.
Bees Honey Cookery & Restaurant — 4.9★: You can take a cooking class to learn traditional Sri Lankan curries here.

Breakfast & coffee

Cafe Eden — 4.9★: Cafe Eden has a nice view and recommended dishes like grilled tuna and mango lassi.
Cafe Samsara — 4.8★: Serves excellent kottu and has a standout roti chicken wrap.

Live music & nightlife

Hiking Bar & Restaurant — 4.8★: Enjoy live music and praised service from Namal while trying the Sri Lankan chicken curry.

All restaurants & cafes in Ella

Herb Haus — 5.0★ (346): Ella is a hill country corridor with cool weather. Herb Haus is a new café offering vegetarian and vegan options, including a breakfast fruit bowl and falafel …
Stargate Coffee — 5.0★ (58): Stargate Coffee, located in Sri Lanka, offers a relaxed space for coffee lovers and travelers alike. With homemade roasted beans, friendly service, and stunnin…
River Face Restaurant — 5.0★ (463): Discover River Face Restaurant in Ella, a hidden gem with a laid-back, reggae vibe. With a menu that offers delicious local dishes like Sri Lankan curry and ve…
The Claypot Ella — 4.9★ (1534): The Claypot Ella, located in the heart of Ella, is a cozy spot known for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and friendly atmosphere. Diners rave about the flavor…
Bees Honey Cookery & Restaurant — 4.9★ (1368): In Ella, Bees Honey Cookery & Restaurant offers a cooking class where you can learn to make five traditional Sri Lankan curries and fresh salad. Prices are bud…
Mom's Kitchen Ella — 4.9★ (344): Mom's Kitchen in Ella offers a taste of authentic Sri Lankan home cooking, featuring dishes like mango salad and flaky parathas. The fresh ingredients and warm…
Cafe Eden — 4.9★ (1125): Cafe Eden in Ella is a cozy spot known for its tasty, affordable food and excellent coffee. With a friendly atmosphere and lovely decor, it's perfect for famil…
Cafe By Serenite — 4.9★ (945): Cafe by Serenite in Ella is a cozy spot with stunning views and a calm atmosphere. It's a great choice for those seeking delicious Sri Lankan dishes like Chick…
Crefals Ella — 4.9★ (535): Crefals Ella, nestled in Ella, Sri Lanka, is an inviting spot for breakfast lovers, especially those seeking gluten-free options. Whether you're after a rich c…
Matey Hut Ella Sri Lanka — 4.8★ (3266): Meta Description: Discover Matey Hut in Ella, Sri Lanka, where authentic local dishes and friendly service create a warm dining experience. Perfect for familie…
Hiking Bar & Restaurant — 4.8★ (3957): Hiking Bar & Restaurant in Ella offers a mix of cocktails and hearty Sri Lankan dishes like chicken curry and fish curry bowl. Prices are budget-friendly, with…
The Barn By Starbeans — 4.8★ (7221): Located in Ella, The Barn By Starbeans offers a spacious and inviting atmosphere, perfect for late breakfasts or hearty meals. Known for its tasty Western dish…
AK Ristoro — 4.8★ (2103): Nestled in Ella, AK Ristoro offers a cozy atmosphere with a diverse menu featuring everything from authentic pizzas to flavorful Asian fusion dishes. It’s a gr…
Rocky Ella Cafe — 4.8★ (4049): Experience Rocky Ella Cafe in Ella, where the welcoming atmosphere complements a menu featuring flavorful dishes like grilled chicken and delicious veggie burg…
On The Rocks Bar — 4.8★ (28): On The Rocks Bar in Ella offers a selection of cocktails, including a popular Mango Mojito, and smoothies. Prices are budget-friendly, and the bar provides a s…
The Green Door Cafe — 4.8★ (1416): Located in Ella, The Green Door Cafe offers a peaceful escape from the busy town center, just a short walk from Adam’s Peak. With a cozy atmosphere, the cafe s…
Cafe Samsara — 4.8★ (1982): Cafe Samsara in Sri Lanka offers a cozy atmosphere with a focus on authentic Sri Lankan dishes like kottu, lamprais, and delightful vegan options. Its friendly…
Kiri Kopi - Ella — 4.7★ (808): Kiri Kopi in Ella is a unique spot with a chill vibe, featuring sandy seating and cozy bean bags. It's a great choice for those who enjoy tasty breakfast optio…
La Mensa — 4.7★ (2486): La Mensa in Ella offers a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy authentic Sri Lankan flavors at reasonable prices. With options like vegetable curry, Kottu, and …
Tree House Cafe — 4.7★ (284): Tree House Cafe in Ella offers budget-friendly accommodation. The rooftop provides scenic views, and breakfast is included. Dorms are available without bunk be…
Tiki bar coffee shop — 4.6★ (167): Tiki Bar Coffee Shop in Ella serves hearty meals like Veg Rice & Curry and various roti dishes. The café offers a nice view and is a good stop after the train …
360 Ella — 4.6★ (5748): At 360 Ella, located in the heart of Ella, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere, delicious flavors, and attentive service from staff like Daniel and Saman. This …
Cafe UFO Ella — 4.6★ (5050): Cafe UFO Ella, located in the heart of Ella, offers a cozy atmosphere with a diverse menu featuring delicious Sri Lankan dishes like kottu and rice and curry. …
Rozon Bar & Restaurant — 4.6★ (146): Rozon Bar & Restaurant in Ella offers a variety of dishes like sizzling prawns and Thai beef salad. It's a casual spot with quick service and options to watch …
Cafe Chill — 4.5★ (11853): Cafe Chill in Ella is a cozy spot that's perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy fresh, flavorful food in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're there …
Cafe Belle Ella — 4.5★ (426): Cafe Belle Ella in Ella is a cozy spot where you can enjoy great food and expertly crafted cocktails. The relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and unique menu m…
Cafe One Love Ella Restaurant — 4.5★ (3168): Cafe One Love in Ella offers a relaxed dining experience with stunning views. Expect freshly prepared dishes like pizza. Enjoy shisha and live music in a vibra…
Cafe Soul — 4.3★ (370): Ella is known for its cool weather and stunning views, especially of the Nine Arch Bridge. Cafe Soul offers a variety of food and drinks, like fried rice and v…
Cycle Pub Ella — 4.3★ (168): Cycle Pub in Ella offers a mix of local and international dishes like chicken biryani and chicken curry. The terrace provides views, making it a popular spot t…
The Journey — 4.1★ (75): The Journey in Ella offers a nightlife experience with DJ BK Yatra spinning Afro House and Deep House music. Expect a busy atmosphere with a lively dance floor…
Barista — 4.1★ (462): Discover Barista in Ella, a cozy café perfect for coffee lovers and anyone looking to unwind. With a relaxed vibe and outdoor seating, it’s great for casual ca…
The True Food Restaurant Ella
Sree Abhirami Indian Restaurant

Local knowledge

Where should I eat in Ella?

For proper rice and curry, try Matey Hut or Cafe Samsara. For other Sri Lankan dishes, The Claypot Ella is a solid choice.

What food should I avoid in Ella?

Avoid Western food sections of tourist cafe menus, as they tend to be overpriced compared to local dishes.