Best Restaurants & Cafes in Kandy, Sri Lanka (2026)
Kandy's dining scene offers a mix of local flavors and international cuisine. From traditional rice and curry to trendy cafes, there's something for everyone. Just be mindful of tourist traps and seek out local favorites for the best experience.
Our picks in Kandy
Local rice & curry
- Mandiya — 4.9★: Mandiya has a variety of options for everyone, but it's closed on Sundays. Extra rice is free, which is a nice touch.
- Nagaligam's Bhavan — 4.8★: The restaurant serves seven types of vegetable curries. The thali includes beetroot and jackfruit curries.
- Rice & Curry Corporation — 4.4★: They serve traditional Sri Lankan food and have multiple floors for dining.
- Balaji Dosai — 4.1★: The Ulundu Vada and Gee Dosa are popular, but hygiene issues are a concern.
Breakfast & coffee
- Soul Food — 4.8★: Soul Food has a nice outdoor seating area. They add a 10% service charge to your bill, so keep that in mind.
- Cafe Kandyan Dish — 4.8★: The restaurant serves Nasi Goreng and chicken massala kottu.
Casual dining
- Yalla Bhai — 4.7★: Yalla Bhai serves Nasi Goreng and highly recommended mix rice.
- Mandiya — 4.9★: Mandiya has a variety of options for everyone, but it's closed on Sundays. Extra rice is free, which is a nice touch.
- Balaji Dosai — 4.1★: The Ulundu Vada and Gee Dosa are popular, but hygiene issues are a concern.
All restaurants & cafes in Kandy
- Hot Bowl — 4.9★ (208): Hot Bowl is located in Kandy, known for its highland city vibe. They offer Korean dishes like fried ramen and tuna kimbap. The restaurant is halal-certified, a…
- Mandiya — 4.9★ (597)
- Bommu Rooftop Bar at Radisson Hotel Kandy — 4.8★ (331): Bommu Rooftop Bar at Radisson Hotel Kandy offers a variety of cocktails and mocktails with stunning views of Kandy Lake and the Knuckles Mountain range. Prices…
- Soul Food — 4.8★ (3365)
- Meetup — 4.8★ (38): Meet Up Restaurant in Colombo is a cozy new spot that’s quickly capturing the hearts of locals. With a welcoming atmosphere and well-prepared dishes, it’s perf…
- Nagaligam's Bhavan — 4.8★ (1232): Nagaligam's Bhavan in Kandy is a cozy spot known for its homely vibe and affordable Sri Lankan dishes, especially the vegetable curries. It’s a great place for…
- Cafe Kandyan Dish — 4.8★ (297): At Cafe Kandyan Dish in Kandy, you can enjoy a range of flavorful meals, including the recommended chicken massala kottu. The relaxed atmosphere and balcony vi…
- Old Trinitian's Sports Club — 4.7★ (236): Old Trinitian's Sports Club in Kandy is a historic members-only venue primarily for Trinity College alumni, with visitor access for a small fee. Enjoy billiard…
- Yaka Lounge — 4.7★ (696): Yaka Lounge in Kandy offers a range of wood-fired pizzas. The restaurant is alcohol-free and perfect for casual dining with stunning city views. Expect some se…
- Yalla Bhai — 4.7★ (82): Yalla Bhai in Sri Lanka offers a delightful mix of flavors, especially known for their Nasi Goreng and mix rice. It's a cozy spot for those who appreciate rich…
- Java Lounge — 4.6★ (2388): Discover Java Lounge in Kandy, a cozy café perfect for coffee lovers seeking a relaxed atmosphere. With friendly service, a menu of tasty brunch options, and b…
- Cafe Nuwara — 4.6★ (6268)
- Terrace Bar — 4.6★ (66): Terrace Bar in Kandy offers a rooftop experience with views over Bogambara Lake. Enjoy craft cocktails and fresh draught beer at reasonable prices, with bites …
- Yakimaki Japanese BBQ — 4.6★ (1291): Discover Yaki Maki Japanese BBQ in Sri Lanka, where authenticity and flavor meet in a cozy setting. Regulars rave about the fresh sushi and grilled dishes, cou…
- Grand Sky Lounge — 4.5★ (150): Grand Sky Lounge in Kandy offers a rooftop dining experience with stunning views of the city. Enjoy dishes like crab curry and burgers, with cocktails. The atm…
- The Golden Curry Restaurant — 4.5★ (2175): Discover The Golden Curry Restaurant in Kandy, where a calm atmosphere invites you to enjoy a diverse menu of flavorful dishes like mutton curry and Beef Killi…
- Hideout Lounge Kandy — 4.5★ (2962): Restaurant, bar and Kandy's only soundproof after-hours club. Boho dining by day, bands and DJs by night - Western and Sri Lankan menu, strong cocktails.
- Barista Kandy City — 4.5★ (117): Barista Kandy City, located near the Kandy City Centre, is a cozy café perfect for those needing a quick pick-me-up or a relaxing break. With friendly staff an…
- Siri Ramya Restaurant — 4.4★ (435): Siri Ramya Restaurant in Kandy offers a cozy dining experience with both local and Asian cuisine. It’s a good spot for families and groups looking to enjoy hea…
- Tavern 29 Rooftop Bar — 4.4★ (175): Tavern 29 in Kandy offers a mix of oriental dishes and Korean BBQ. The outdoor seating has river views but is affected by mosquitoes. Managed by Ganga Addara, …
- Rice & Curry Corporation — 4.4★ (188): Rice & Curry Corporation in Colombo offers a genuine taste of Sri Lankan cuisine with a variety of rice and curry dishes. Dine on the terrace for a pleasant at…
- Fab Ceylon — 4.4★ (4671): Fab Ceylon in Kandy is a cozy spot known for its flavorful dishes and refreshing drinks, like the Rainbow Mojito and Shovel Rice. With attentive service from f…
- Sunset Kandy — 4.3★ (371)
- Cocoba — 4.3★ (263): Lively Kandy restaurant and bar with a dance floor on weekend nights - Sri Lankan, Chinese and Italian, cocktails and a BYO option.
- Machan Kandy - මචං කැන්ඩි — 4.3★ (108): Machan Kandy offers a casual dining experience with a focus on beer and local dishes. Prices are slightly higher than average, with good portion sizes. Popular…
- Slightly Chilled Lounge — 4.3★ (2441): Three-storey rooftop bar above central Kandy with lake and temple views. Happy hour 6-8pm, free pool table, music sliding from lounge into house.
- Cafe'Walk KCC — 4.2★ (241): Cafe'Walk KCC, located at the entrance of Kandy City Center, is a cozy spot for a tasty meal or snack. It suits anyone craving flavorful food without breaking …
- THE PUB — 4.1★ (338): THE PUB in Kandy offers average meals like Lebanese kofta and kottu, but service issues are common. The ground floor is cozy but can be smoky, and the balcony …
- Dindigul Thalappakati Restaurant — 4.1★ (1314): Dindigul Thaappakati Restaurant in Kandy is known for its Indian cuisine, especially the flavorful parata and biriyanis that draw food lovers. While many enjoy…
- Balaji Dosai — 4.1★ (4408)
- The Last Drop Restaurant — 4.1★ (451): The Last Drop Restaurant in Kandy offers a wide range of food and drinks. Limited parking can be a hassle, and the dessert selection is just ice cream and frui…
- Stag's Head Pub — 4.0★ (97): Stag's Head Pub is located on the rooftop of the Casamara Hotel in Kandy. Enjoy a beer or cocktail while taking in the views of the city. Prices for drinks are…
- Devon Restaurant — 3.9★ (2309): Devon Restaurant in Kandy offers a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu that appeals to locals and travelers alike. The attentive service complements their well-…
- Devon Bakers Best — 3.8★ (10): Devon Bakers Best in Kandy is a welcoming spot for affordable meals and tasty pastries, perfect for breakfast or a light snack. The atmosphere is pleasant, mak…
- Streets Kitchen Restaurant — 3.5★ (439): Streets Kitchen Restaurant in Sri Lanka offers decent and affordable meals, making it suitable for budget-conscious diners seeking a quick bite. While the food…
Local knowledge
What should I know before visiting the Temple of the Tooth?
Dress code is strict — shoulders and knees covered. Best time is during evening puja when the relic chamber opens.