Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, is a city that offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. While exploring the city’s iconic attractions, such as the Temple of the Tooth and the Royal Botanical Gardens, visitors often find themselves wondering where to eat in Kandy. With a plethora of dining options available, it can be overwhelming to decide on the best places to try. In this guide, we will delve into the top recommendations for where to eat in Kandy, Sri Lanka, covering a range of cuisines and budgets to ensure that every traveler can find the perfect spot to satisfy their cravings.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of Kandy’s Culinary Scene
Kandy’s culinary scene is a reflection of the city’s rich cultural heritage, with a mix of traditional Sri Lankan dishes, Indian and Chinese influences, and modern twists on classic flavors. From spicy curries and fragrant rice dishes to sweet pastries and refreshing beverages, Kandy’s restaurants and cafes offer a diverse range of options to tantalize the taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a romantic dinner, or a family-friendly meal, Kandy has something for everyone.
What to Expect in This Guide
In the following sections, we will explore the top restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls in Kandy, highlighting their signature dishes, ambiance, and prices. We will also provide insider tips and recommendations for the best times to visit, how to get there, and what to expect from each dining experience. Whether you’re a foodie, a budget traveler, or just looking for a convenient meal, this guide will help you navigate Kandy’s culinary landscape and discover the best places to eat in this captivating city.
Where to Eat in Kandy Sri Lanka: A Foodie’s Guide
Kandy, the cultural hub of Sri Lanka, is a city that offers a unique blend of traditional and modern cuisine. From authentic Sri Lankan dishes to international flavors, Kandy has a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best places to eat in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Traditional Sri Lankan Cuisine
When in Kandy, you can’t miss trying the authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and restaurants that serve them:
- Hoppers: Thin, crispy pancakes made from a fermented batter of rice flour and coconut milk. Try them at Kandy City Centre Food Court, a popular spot for local cuisine.
- String Hoppers: Steamed rice noodles served with a variety of curries. Theva Cuisine is a great place to try this traditional dish.
- Lamprais: A Dutch-influenced dish made with a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, served with a side of rice and roti. The Kandy Garden Club offers a delicious Lamprais.
- Pittu: A traditional breakfast dish made from a mixture of rice flour and coconut, steamed in a cylindrical shape. Theva Restaurant serves a delicious Pittu with coconut milk and chutney.
International Cuisine
Kandy also offers a range of international cuisines to cater to diverse tastes. Here are some popular options:
- Italian: Theva Italian Restaurant serves authentic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto in a cozy setting.
- Chinese: Kandy Chinese Restaurant offers a range of Chinese dishes, including Szechuan and Cantonese cuisine.
- Indian: Tandoori Nights is a popular spot for Indian cuisine, serving a range of curries, tandoori dishes, and naan bread.
- Western: The Empire Café serves a range of Western dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, in a colonial-style setting.
Street Food and Markets
Kandy’s street food scene is vibrant and offers a range of affordable and delicious options. Here are some popular spots: (See Also: Where To Eat In Ximending Taipei)
- Kandy Market: This bustling market offers a range of street food stalls selling everything from fresh fruit to fried snacks.
- Wattegama Road: This street is lined with street food stalls selling traditional Sri Lankan snacks like Achcharu (pickled fruits) and Vadai (fried doughnuts).
- Kandy Lake Walk: Take a stroll around the Kandy Lake and try some of the street food stalls selling fresh fruit, corn, and other snacks.
Cafes and Bakeries
Kandy has a range of cafes and bakeries that offer a relaxing atmosphere and a variety of sweet and savory treats. Here are some popular options:
- The Café by Hansa: A cozy café serving a range of coffee, tea, and cakes in a beautiful garden setting.
- Bake House: A popular bakery serving a range of fresh bread, pastries, and cakes.
- The Cake Factory: A bakery specializing in custom cakes and desserts.
- The Coffee Bean: A coffee shop serving a range of coffee drinks and snacks in a modern setting.
Restaurants with a View
Kandy is surrounded by lush hills and scenic views. Here are some restaurants that offer stunning views:
- Theva Restaurant: Offers stunning views of the Kandy Lake and surrounding hills while serving traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
- The Kandy Garden Club: Set amidst a beautiful garden, this restaurant offers views of the surrounding hills and serves a range of international cuisine.
- The Empire Café: Located in a colonial-style building, this café offers views of the Kandy Lake and surrounding hills while serving a range of Western dishes.
Food Tours and Cooking Classes
Want to learn more about Sri Lankan cuisine and cooking techniques? Here are some popular food tours and cooking classes:
- Kandy Food Tour: A guided tour that takes you to various restaurants and street food stalls, offering a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
- Sri Lankan Cooking Class: A cooking class that teaches you how to prepare traditional Sri Lankan dishes like hoppers, string hoppers, and curries.
- Kandy Spice Tour: A guided tour that takes you to spice gardens and markets, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s spice trade and cuisine.
Conclusion
Kandy, Sri Lanka, is a foodie’s paradise, offering a range of traditional and international cuisines to suit every taste and budget. From authentic Sri Lankan dishes to international flavors, street food, and scenic restaurants, Kandy has it all. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, Kandy’s culinary scene has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ve covered the best places to eat in Kandy, from traditional Sri Lankan cuisine to international flavors, street food, and scenic restaurants. We’ve also highlighted popular food tours and cooking classes that offer a deeper insight into Sri Lankan cuisine and cooking techniques. (See Also: Where To Eat In Williamsburg Brooklyn)
So, the next time you’re in Kandy, be sure to try some of these amazing dining options and experience the rich culinary heritage of Sri Lanka.
Recap
In this article, we’ve covered:
- Traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and restaurants that serve them
- International cuisine options in Kandy
- Street food and markets in Kandy
- Cafes and bakeries in Kandy
- Restaurants with a view in Kandy
- Food tours and cooking classes in Kandy
We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your culinary journey through Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Kandy, Sri Lanka
What are the must-try local dishes in Kandy?
Kandy is known for its delicious local cuisine, and some must-try dishes include rice and curry, hoppers, string hoppers, pittu, and kiribath. These dishes are widely available at local restaurants and street food stalls throughout the city.
Are there any good restaurants in Kandy that serve international cuisine?
Yes, Kandy has a range of restaurants that serve international cuisine, including Italian, Chinese, Indian, and Western food. Some popular options include Theva Cuisine, Kandy View 360, and Empire Café. These restaurants often have a mix of local and international dishes on their menus.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Kandy?
Yes, Kandy has a number of restaurants that cater to vegetarians and vegans. Some popular options include Theva Cuisine, which has a separate vegetarian menu, and Shri Krishna, a purely vegetarian restaurant. Many local restaurants are also happy to accommodate special dietary requests, so don’t hesitate to ask. (See Also: Where To Eat In Cagliari Sardinia)
Are there any restaurants in Kandy with a good view?
Yes, Kandy has several restaurants with stunning views of the city and surrounding hills. Some popular options include Kandy View 360, which has panoramic views of the city, and Theva Cuisine, which has a beautiful garden setting with views of the surrounding hills.
Is it safe to eat street food in Kandy?
While it’s always important to take precautions when eating street food, Kandy’s street food scene is generally considered safe. Just make sure to choose stalls that are busy and have a high turnover of food, and avoid eating from stalls that have been sitting out for a long time. Additionally, make sure to wash your hands before eating and avoid eating undercooked or raw meat.
