Before you chase sunsets in Galle or ride trains through the misty hills of Ella, there’s one essential stop most Sri Lanka tours forget to highlight: dinner. Not just any dinner - The Curry Leaf Restaurant Colombo.
You will see seafood cooked right in front of you, clay pots bubbling with spicy curries, and dishes that taste like they came from someone’s home kitchen. Locals love it. Travelers remember it.
Known for its authentic Sri Lankan buffet and coastal seafood specialities, The Curry Leaf restaurant Colombo is a culinary snapshot of the island itself. So, let’s take a closer look at why The Curry Leaf is a must-visit on your next journey through Sri Lanka.
Why Visit The Curry Leaf Restaurant Colombo?
If you are looking to experience Sri Lanka through its food, there is no better starting point than The Curry Leaf Restaurant Colombo.
Whether you are on a tight itinerary or a laid-back tour, The Curry Leaf offers a rare mix of:
- Traditional recipes
- Live cooking stations
- A coastal-meets-courtyard setting
- An extensive buffer that includes both iconic dishes and regional gems.
- Location: Hilton Colombo, 2 Sir Chittampalam A Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka
- Opening hours of the Curry Leaf Restaurant: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
- Average Cost: INR 2,000 (Approx.)
- Best time to visit the Curry Leaf Restaurant: 7 PM - 9 PM
Signature Dishes to Try At The Curry Leaf Restaurant
When dining at The Curry Leaf Restaurant Colombo, you are not just tasting Sri Lankan food, you are experiencing generations of flavor and tradition.
Here are some must-try dishes in the Curry Leaf restaurant Sri Lanka menu you shouldn’t miss:
1. Crab Curry (Jaffna Style)
Rich, fiery, and full of bold Northern flavours. The crab is fresh, meaty and soaked in a thick, spiced gravy that pair beautifully with rice or hoppers.
2. Pol Sambol (Coconut Relish)
The spicy coconut mix is a staple in every Sri Lankan household, and The Curry Leaf does it right - freshly grated, zesty with lime and perfectly balanced with chili.
A dish, slow-cooked in traditional clay pots for depth and aroma, this lentil curry is hearty, flavorful and full of comfort.
Light, crispy-edged pancakes made from fermented rice flour. Enjoy them plain or with runny egg in the center, perfect with curry or sambol.
A darker, spicier dish loaded with roasted spices and slow-cooked mutton. It’s a true Sri Lankan delicacy that’s bold in flavor and unforgettable in taste.
6. Grilled Seafood Station
Fresh fish, prawns and squid grilled live at the counter, seasoned with Sri Lankan spice blends. A treat for seafood lovers.
7. Watalappan (Jaggery Coconut Custard)
End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert made from jaggery, coconut milk, and cardamom - a classic that’s rich yet light.
Tips to Visit the Curry Leaf Restaurant
1. Reserve a Table in Advance
Especially during weekends or peak tourist season (Dec–Mar), the restaurant in Sri Lanka fills up quickly. Call ahead or reserve through the Hilton Colombo website.
2. Arrive Early for the Buffet
Get there by 7:00 PM to enjoy the full spread while it’s hot and fresh. You'll also avoid the post-8 PM rush.
3. Don’t Skip the Local Specials
It’s one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka! Ask the staff for recommendations, they often rotate unique regional dishes like ambul thiyal (sour fish curry) or wambatu moju (eggplant pickle).
4. Try the Live Seafood Grill
One of the restaurant’s highlights—watch your seafood cooked fresh to order with Sri Lankan spice blends.
5. Sample the Sambols
Pol sambol, katta sambol, and seeni sambol are flavor-packed sides that elevate every dish. Try them with hoppers or rice.
