A Taste of Sri Lanka: Exploring the Island Through Its Food

One of the best ways to experience a country is through its cuisine, and Sri Lanka is no exception. Bursting with spices, flavors, and tradition, Sri Lankan food is as diverse as its culture. Whether you’re a foodie or an adventurer, these dishes will take your taste buds on a journey you won’t forget. Here’s a guide to must-try local dishes when visiting the island.

1. Rice and Curry
A staple in every Sri Lankan household—this dish is a vibrant mix of white or red rice served with multiple curries made of vegetables, meat, and lentils.

2. Kottu Roti
Sri Lanka’s street food superstar! Kottu is made by chopping up roti with vegetables, eggs, meat, and spices—grilled together with a rhythmic clanking sound.

3. Pittu
A steamed cylinder of ground rice layered with coconut, often served with curry and coconut milk—a beloved breakfast or dinner option.

4. Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced rice dish wrapped in banana leaf, combining rice, meat curry, ash plantain, sambol, and a boiled egg—flavored to perfection.

5. Hoppers (Appa)
These bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour are crispy on the edges and soft in the middle—best enjoyed with an egg and spicy sambol.

6. Sri Lankan Sweets
Don’t miss treats like Kavum (oil cakes), Kokis (crispy flower cookies), and Wattalappan (spiced coconut custard) for a sweet ending.