🍛 Top 10 Restaurants in Colombo You Must Try in 2025

Looking for the best restaurants in Colombo to satisfy your cravings? Whether you’re a tourist or a local foodie, this vibrant city offers a diverse mix of culinary gems. From spicy Sri Lankan dishes to world-class seafood and Italian favorites, here’s your ultimate food guide for 2025.

1. Ministry of Crab – Colombo 01

Located in the historic Dutch Hospital, this internationally acclaimed restaurant is a seafood lover’s paradise.

  • Cuisine: Seafood (Sri Lankan + Fusion)

  • Ambience: Upscale, iconic

  • Try: Pepper Crab, Garlic Chili Prawns

2. Upali’s by Nawaloka – Colombo 07

For an authentic taste of Sri Lanka in a refined setting, Upali’s offers flavorful, homestyle dishes with a modern presentation.

  • Cuisine: Sri Lankan

  • Try: Mutton Curry, Pol Roti, Watalappam

3. Café Kumbuk – Colombo 07

A health-conscious spot loved by creatives and digital nomads. Think sustainable, organic, and vibrant.

  • Cuisine: Healthy/Brunch

  • Try: Smoothie Bowls, Avocado Toast, Fresh Juices

4. The Gallery Café – Colombo 03

Once the office of famous architect Geoffrey Bawa, now a stylish fine-dining destination and art gallery.

  • Cuisine: Fusion (Sri Lankan + Continental)

  • Try: Black Pork Curry, Tamarind & Coconut Cake

5. Shang Palace – Shangri-La Colombo

Delight in refined Cantonese and Szechuan flavors with top-tier service in a five-star setting.

  • Cuisine: Chinese

  • Try: Peking Duck, Assorted Dim Sum

6. The Bayleaf – Colombo 07

Set in a colonial-style mansion, The Bayleaf offers romantic alfresco dining and authentic Italian comfort food.

  • Cuisine: Italian

  • Try: Wood-fired Pizza, Lasagna, Tiramisu

7. Curry Leaf – Hilton Colombo

A cultural and culinary experience in one. Enjoy a buffet of traditional Sri Lankan food under the stars.

  • Cuisine: Sri Lankan Buffet

  • Try: Rice & Curry Combo, Fresh Lagoon Crab

8. Nihonbashi – Colombo 03

Authentic Japanese cuisine with an elegant atmosphere. Great for sushi lovers and fine diners.

  • Cuisine: Japanese

  • Try: Sushi & Sashimi Platter, Miso-glazed Cod

9. Giovanni’s Presto Pizza – Colombo 05

A hidden gem serving some of the city’s most loved handmade pizzas with a cozy, rustic vibe.

  • Cuisine: Italian Street Food

  • Try: Spicy Chorizo Pizza, Four Cheese Pizza

10. Rare at Residence – Colombo 02

A high-end fusion restaurant that blends local ingredients with international techniques.

  • Cuisine: Modern Sri Lankan Fusion

  • Try: Lamb Rack, Pol Sambol, Signature Cocktails

Final Thoughts: Where to Eat in Colombo?

Colombo’s food scene is growing rapidly and is as diverse as its culture. Whether you’re into fine dining or street food, these top restaurants in Colombo will give you a taste of the island’s rich culinary heritage—along with some global favorites.