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

Our picks in Unawatuna

Breakfast & Coffee

• J J Gallery Cafe — 5.0★: Run by two female chefs, this cafe serves a variety of brunch options. Try the burritos or sandwiches for a satisfying meal.

Local Rice & Curry

• Mettha's Home Cooked Meals — 4.8★: Known for kindness and a rotating menu, you might not get the same dish twice. Check the menu daily for different options.

Seafood & Cocktails

• Red Snapper — 4.8★: Enjoy good seafood and cocktails at beachside tables. It's a nice spot for a relaxed meal with a view.
• Grandgers Unawatuna — 4.8★: This family-run spot offers a variety of dishes and has a happy hour special. Don't miss their unique fruit smoothie.
• Shiprock Cafe — 4.7★: Highly recommended dishes like calamari and delicious pizza make this a great spot for a casual meal.

Family-Friendly

• J J Gallery Cafe — 5.0★: Run by two female chefs, this cafe serves a variety of brunch options. Try the burritos or sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
• Grandgers Unawatuna — 4.8★: This family-run spot offers a variety of dishes and has a happy hour special. Don't miss their unique fruit smoothie.
• Mettha's Home Cooked Meals — 4.8★: Known for kindness and a rotating menu, you might not get the same dish twice. Check the menu daily for different options.

All restaurants & cafes in Unawatuna

• J J Gallery Cafe — 5.0★ (101): J J Gallery Cafe in Unawatuna offers a cozy escape in the jungle with stylish decor and a relaxed vibe. The friendly service, delicious brunch options, and goo…
• My Mind — 4.9★ (234): My Mind in Unawatuna is a cozy, no-frills restaurant famous for its fresh seafood, especially grilled prawns and fish. Ideal for anyone craving a genuine local…
• Roy Beach Cafe — 4.8★ (148): Discover Roy Beach Cafe in Unawatuna, a cozy spot right on the sand with a friendly atmosphere. With fresh seafood, affordable drinks, and the charming family …
• Grandgers unawatuna — 4.8★ (587): Grandgers in Unawatuna is a cozy, family-run restaurant known for its fresh, flavorful dishes and attentive service. Enjoy local seafood like grilled Red Snapp…
• Rafaella Giovanni By Giovanni's — 4.8★ (244): Discover Rafaella Giovanni by Giovanni's, tucked away in Galle, Sri Lanka. This charming spot offers delicious Italian fare in a romantic garden setting, makin…
• The Garden House — 4.8★ (227): Discover The Garden House in Unawatuna, a tranquil spot perfect for those needing a break. With beautiful tropical surroundings, it's ideal for leisurely break…
• Seagulls Una Restaurant & Bar — 4.8★ (260): Seagulls Una in Unawatuna offers a mix of Western, seafood, and Sri Lankan dishes. Busy with tourists, but service can be slow, with reports of waits up to 40 …
• Coffee Beans Ceylon Restaurant & Cafe — 4.8★ (199): Coffee Beans Ceylon Restaurant & Café in Unawatuna is a cozy spot that’s ideal for a relaxed meal or a coffee break. With its welcoming atmosphere, it suits an…
• Red Snapper — 4.8★ (476): Red Snapper, located in Unawatuna, offers a cozy beachside dining experience with a variety of seafood dishes and fusion cocktails. It's a great spot for coupl…
• Mettha's Home Cooked Meals — 4.8★ (303): Discover Mettha's Home Cooked Meals in Unawatuna for an authentic taste of Sri Lankan cuisine. With a rotating menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients, i…
• Kaiju Japanese Restaurant & Izakaya Unawatuna — 4.7★ (101): Kaiju Japanese Restaurant & Izakaya in Unawatuna offers a variety of sushi, ramen, and fresh oysters. It's a chill spot just a minute from the beach, making it…
• Sky Breeze | breakfast | brunch | dinner | gastrobar — 4.7★ (1124): Sky Breeze in Unawatuna offers a beachfront dining experience with a menu featuring breakfast, brunch, and dinner options. The coastal view enhances the experi…
• Cormarant beach club — 4.7★ (1410): Cormarant Beach Club in Unawatuna offers a relaxed beachside dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and vegetarian options. Expect to pay for meals, w…
• Shiprock Cafe — 4.7★ (395): Nestled by the beach in Sri Lanka, Shiprock Cafe offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. With delicious seafood, tandoori chic…
• Sonne surf bar — 4.6★ (21): Sonne Surf Bar in Unawatuna offers a beachside dining experience with cold beers and cocktails. It's a popular spot for families and groups looking to relax on…
• CASA LANKA — 4.6★ (57): Discover CASA LANKA in Galle, a charming café known for its excellent cappuccino and delicious food. With friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it's perfe…
• King and Queen Cantina — 4.6★ (226): Discover King and Queen Cantina in Thalpe, a peaceful retreat featuring a beautiful garden and a clean pool. It’s a great spot for groups seeking a laid-back l…
• ANCHOR Unawatuna — 4.5★ (379): Anchor Unawatuna offers a mix of cocktails and fresh seafood right on the beach. The atmosphere is relaxed, but service can be hit or miss, especially during b…
• THE BAR — 4.5★ (74): The Bar in Unawatuna offers a casual dining experience with a beachside vibe. The setting features indoor and outdoor seating, and you can even play your own m…
• Indian Twist — 4.5★ (148): Indian Twist in Sri Lanka offers a relaxed atmosphere with traditional seating and lively sounds from the street. The menu is focused but delivers authentic In…
• The Hideout — 4.5★ (1630): The Hideout in Unawatuna is a cozy spot perfect for those looking to unwind with good music and delicious vegetarian and Mexican dishes. With a relaxed beach v…
• Barista Unawatuna — 4.5★ (546): Barista Unawatuna is a cozy cafe located just a short walk from Unawatuna beach. Known for its warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and a range of tasty meals—incl…
• Buona Vista Lounge — 4.5★ (11): Buona Vista Lounge in Unawatuna offers a luxurious setting with stunning views stretching to Jungle Beach. Enjoy cocktails and fresh juices while watching the …
• A Bar in Una — 4.3★ (146): A Bar in Una offers a laid-back beachside dining experience with friendly staff and a lovely view of the waves. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy generou…

Local knowledge

Where do locals eat in Unawatuna?

Locals often go to small roti shops on the main Matara Road for affordable meals. Mettha's Garden offers local prices for high-quality curry.

Is Unawatuna suitable for families with young children?

Yes, Unawatuna is family-friendly with a calm bay protected by a reef, making it safe for kids to wade in the water year-round.

What is the nightlife like in Unawatuna?

Unawatuna has a relaxed nightlife with regular beach parties. Kohua and Pink Elephant are popular spots, especially on Friday nights.